Less than two months until Prince William and Kate, sorry Catherine, Middleton stroll down the aisle and the hawks are already out in force. Not just the cynics, although there are plenty of those, but the hordes looking to make a quick buck on the back of the general revelry.
From the commemorative tea towels, to the mugs (as well as the mugs splashing the cash), to dolls, china, t-shirts and key-rings, every kind of tat conceivable is hitting the market. It is therefore little surprise that ordinary Londoners are looking to capitalise on their prime asset in the city’s inflated property market by letting their homes.
It’ something for which the good citizens of Islington and their fellow Londoners have a peculiar knack. The moment the temperature struggles over the 30°C mark, any number of Del Boy wannabes crop up around tourist hotspots flogging bottled water at £5 a bottle. When rationing started to come into force in 1940, black marketeers declared a field day. Even a barrel of sausage skins could cost £500.
We are frequently told how the royals are important in attracting tourists and international interest to Britain, so good luck to those looking to earn some extra dosh: let’s hope those breaking the bank to be there are able to enjoy the party.
