This year marks the 80th anniversary of the D-Day Landings. To commemorate the event, in time for 6th June, the Royal Mint have issued a special 50p coin. Mine arrived today in its limited edition presentation pack (not that it's worth that much LOL). Enjoy.
This image came up this morning from 10 years ago, shortly after this landmark store closed for the final time. Everybody in Reading knew of Jackson's, far fewer I suspect shopped there. Most school children were dragged there during summer holidays to purchase their uniform for the new academic year. These days parents don't need to visit the appointed retailer in any given town but it was certainly the case until the 1990's if not later.
Entering it really was like stepping back in time. Dark wood panelled walls, with clothing displayed on equally dark shelving. Even the pneumatic tube system was still working on closing day, carrying the takings from the shop floor to Accounts and returning with a customer receipt and change.
The iconic frontage, with Jackson's sign remains, behind is or will be apartments. Handy for the town centre but also fast rail links to London.
