The Charity Shopping Charter:

A couple of weeks ago something happened in my favourite charity shop that shocked me to the core.

It was one of those things that take a while to simmer under your skin, so that by the time you get home you're in a right old mardy.

So now I have to get it off my chest.

Are you ready to hear about this heinous crime against us hardy, belligerent and dedicated charity shoppers?

Well, then I shall begin.

As I was happily perusing the shelves of (possible) treasure and delight, a young whippersnapper sashayed up to the counter and said, (not even in hushed tones, may I add):

'Have you got any '50's stuff, you know, in the back?'

I am sure that there was a sharp intake of breath throughout the shop.

And needless to say, young Miss Whippersnapper- Cheeky Chops left said counter, treasure- less (yet shamelessly unawares of her insolence).

So I thought that a charter of charity shopping etiquette should be drawn up for the whole land to see.

(May I take this opportunity to apologise in advance, as I know that your thrifting manners will be impeccable, but humour me please, it's all part of my blogging therapy!)

THE CHARITY SHOPPING CHARTER:

1: Always check the window display, many a treasure can be lost in the initial rush of excitement as you walk through the door.

2: Always respect the ladies, (otherwise known as 'the sacred keepers of the treasure').

3: If charity shopping with a friend, never shop together. Continue your conversation from the other sides of the shop. (Yes, I know that shouting across the room may seem a tad impolite, and not befitting my list of right and proper behaviour,but seasoned thrifters will know and understand). There is nothing, I repeat nothing, worse than a simultaneous grab of a most delicious piece of vintage fabric. If you are close friends this will then lead to a never ending 'no, you take it', 'no, no, you' wrangle. This only leads to heart- ache and the 'winner' will forever look upon the treasure with guilt.

4: You have to donate.

5: You have to attend. Regularly.

6: You never give up the search.

7: You cannot ask for things 'from the back room'. That is the inner sanctum. Only the sacred keepers of the treasure can enter, or offer you treasure, from the back room.

Phew! That's better.

Thank you.

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