Man Chreche

Last night I went to Westfield shopping centre in Sheppard's Bush in a desperate attempt to obtain a mother's day present before the weekend.

I succeeded but boy was the experience stressful. Piped music was EVERYWHERE and at a sufficient volume to be obtrusive. Certainly normal, quiet conversation was impossible (as was rational thought). Harshly lit objects shone from all directions and orange people dispensed squirts of gooey, smelly stuff. There also seemed to be an highly prevalent native species who inhabited the area in great numbers and appeared to relish it. They had a distinctive cry. Schoolgirls I believe the technical term is.

This got me to thinking. It is possible to leave one's car securely and safely in the car park. A lot of shopping centres also have a creche where one can leave one's children in a safe environment where they can have fun. Why not have a similar environment for men?

My vision involves a place of quiet where men can sit and relax. Perhaps a telly playing a topical sports match or good film. A plentiful supply of good books and newspapers. Possibly a dog here or there. Somewhere for chaps to relax and think. Somewhere they can have a beer and as much or as little company as they feel like.

Unfortunately this concept already exists. It's called the pub! Next time I need to go shopping, you'll find me there.

JR