It’s the 20th anniversary of the death of Princess Diana. Remember her, if you will. Pray for her and her family, if that’s your thing. Whatever you do, though, do it quietly and respectfully. Remember that poor young woman and her untimely death, and the horrific manner in which she died.
But don’t buy the Daily Mail on 31 August.
Recall the pretty young woman who fulfilled every girl’s fantasy, and married a prince. Recall how it must have turned into a nightmare for her, as the press followed her slavishly, day and night, intruding into every corner of her life.
Recall how her new family failed to give her the support she could have done with. Recall how she bravely tried to troll the press, before trolling was really a thing, and lament that she seemed to lack the wit and subtlety to succeed.
But don’t buy the Daily Mail on 31 August.
Imagine, if you can, that all your daily doings are accompanied by a posse of baying photographers. Imagine what it must be like when trivia like scratching your bum or falling over are headline news. Imagine your skills as a parent being dissected in the most unfavourable terms by the red tops.
But don’t buy the Daily Mail on 31 August.
Remember that her death was caused by reckless newspaper men giving chase through Paris.
Remember the crocodile tears after her death.
Remember all the papers demanding that we should grieve for our dead princess, and printing as much material as they possibly could, in order to shift more units. Remember how it was strung out over months and years. Remember how the press showed no respect, no restraint, no dignity, no consideration to those left behind.
So don’t buy the Daily Mail on 31 August.
Boycott the inevitable “20th anniversary specials”. Ignore the hype. Be British, and show a little restraint. More importantly, show dignity and respect.
So don’t buy the Daily Mail on 31 August.
