AT the risk of sounding like the late King George V – he was known for prefixing personal notes and letters with a weather report – Tuesday was cold and exceptionally windy with occasional showers.

The decorative chandeliers in Cornmarket Street were swinging like GIs at a Glenn Miller concert, much to the alarm of octogenarian Emily who refused to walk any further than Boswell’s. Husband Kenneth didn’t argue. He was not enjoying their Christmas shopping expedition.

“They were swinging like that on the Titanic,” said Emily, pursing her lips. Kenneth gave a puzzled look.

“When were you on the Titanic?” he asked sarcastically.

“You know I wasn’t,” she replied frostily, “But we both saw the film.”

For some reason she failed to appreciate his laughter.

* I DECIDED to brave the chandeliers. Giving an alfresco mini-concert were a dozen members of Out Of The Blue, the talented a cappella group drawn from Oxford and Brookes Universities students.

They were publicising their concert to be held the following evening at The Oxford Union.

The Carfax end of the street ground to a halt as musical director Nick Barstow put his crew through their paces, with soloist Domhnall Talbot leading the singing.

No wonder they were such a sensation at the Edinburgh Fringe and on Britain’s Got Talent.

I looked no further for a critique of the performance than to two pre-school girls who were giving their own interpretation of the quirky dancing display – much to the frustration of their mothers who wanted to get on with the shopping.

* HOW could I have called myself a gentleman had I left the two young shop assistants to the mercy of the elements in a freezing and windy Broad Street?

Each was attempting to seduce the passing public into sampling food for which the shop/café is famous. Sliced on trays were generous portions of chicken or cheese accompanied by tasty dressings and bread. This drew me in – I’m always game for a free sample.

However, as Michelle’s fingers turned blue it was clear she needed help. The frustrated market trader that is in many of us sprung into action, pulling in those who would have preferred to pass on the other side – as the Good Book reported on the Road-to-Jericho incident.

Next it was Sophia’s turn and I felt obliged to stick around. The result? The girls were soon back behind the warm counter dealing with customers who were flocking in as a result of the girls’ efforts. What a gent, do I hear you say? Save your praise. I enjoyed every minute.