Trick or Treat?

It’s April 1^st. Traditionally, we can play jokes on each other until noon – when the joke is on us.

So I need a pump, and I’m doing my internet research and find one that will suitably do the job and fit into my new Carradice Rack Bag. The Zefal Z Cross Aluminium. Yes, I know: it is a bit over the top for Betty, but I think she’s worth it.

I check online, and Evans do them at the best price. Great! There’s an Evans I can detour on the way to work. Which I do.

I get to the door with Betty and a kindly shop assistant opens the door to let us both in. I park her with the kick-stand and is politely asked how I might be helped.

“Well. I need a pump.”

“Oh. No trouble.” And the kindly assistant proceeds to go to a box to lend me a pump.

“No. Sorry. I need one to fit in my bag” and I point to the new Carradice. “I’ve seen a Zefal one that I like.”

“Ah. We only stock these Zefal ones.” (It’s clearly too long for the bag).

He searches the computer for the one I want. Whilst doing this, he notices Betty (and the brand).

“How long have you had your bike?” he asked.

“Just over two weeks.” I respond.

“Do you like it?” (Being familiar with the Bickerton brand).

“I think it’s great, and it’s good to have the brand rebooted.”

He finds the pump.

“We do it online, but it’s a manufacturer’s order. It’ll take two weeks.”

“That’s ok.” I agree.

We move towards the cash till and there are few details that we need to go through. (Methinks I’m going to enjoy this...)

“Can I have your postcode, please?”

I give him my postcode.

“Can I have your address?”
I give him my address.

“Can I have your name, please?”

And here it is. I pause for effect, then say with a big smile on my face “Bickerton”.

He pauses. He looks at me. Then looks at Betty. Then laughs and laughs. Then I laugh and laugh.

This didn’t happen on 1^st April, but I think it should have.