On a serious note

​With almost a week gone since the terrible fire at Grenfell Tower there are a few things that have emerged, and we find that real life is perfectly capable of re-producing and indeed bettering our fictional friends.

What immediately occurs to me is the sense of community and togetherness; a "we're all in this together" mentality amongst the local community.  We've seen immense respect and thanks for the emergency services and the risks that they take - sadly not the only time this has been necessary in recent weeks.

Frustration was evident.

But, most of all...compassion was everywhere to see. 

It also demonstrates once again that the Monarchy has the power to unite, through compassion and a willingness to engage. There's a reason that many people of Derek's age have a print of the Queen on their walls, and that's because they have seen many, many times that the Queen has turned up and demonstrated that she cares.  I can safely say that nothing would make Delboy prouder than recognition from 'er majesty, but not under these circumstances.  The Queen and Prince William's visit can't undo what's happened, but it can help to build bridges between the community and those responsible for their well-being, and our legislators will feel extra pressure to do the right thing.

Nelson Mandela House had spirit in bucket loads, and fortunately the only suspicion of poor maintenance we ever saw was a lift that hadn't broken down, it wasn't even broken, it was just a chance for Del to get Rodney to open up and grieve. There will plenty of grief to come, and this tragedy may mean that the "real" Nelson Mandela House is torn down.  A small price to pay to reduce the chances of a repeat tragedy, but let's hope that the community spirit and compassion that goes with these Community blocks is preserved.