January 12

Not so bad 

Looking back just a few weeks it was all gloom. An army of glum researchers and analysts were reporting massive problems caused by widespread inflation including some the most brutal for decades. that would engulf the country. It would be a disastrous winter  for millions, they firmly predicted.

And the media lapped it up, causing a shock wave of worry and despair.

But, as so often is the case of bold headlines and dire warnings, now in midwinter the situation  is not as dire as predicted. 

Of course there are millions struggling to manage on shrinking budgets and across the board inflation, and the latest problem, wide ranging strike action, but life is not desperate for a large proportion of the public.

The winter, wet and windy is milder than expected, saving heating and other costs while the lifestyle of millions is improving. 

Since Christmas the media is reporting an astonishing revival in fortune and opportunity for so many.

What was to be a disastrous Christmas has proved astonishingly successful  for a wide range of businesses, from supermarkets to travel.

The headlines tell a happier story : One after another they have been surprised by the revival in shopping, entertainment, and travel, announcing substantial profits.

Many have proved to be resilient and positive, outward looking.

D Staycation seems to have given way to travel, worldwide holidays booming, many at all in cost. 

Despite  what was expected to be a stranglehold of inflation, shoppers have been out in force not just for food, and essentials ibut across the board with luxuries selling well.

There is a downside, of course. Too many people, especially families are finding it going, penny pinching, still not managing to make ends, food banks busier than ever, but the overall picture is so much brighter, certainly from those gloom laden weeks of autumn.