As the title says: Independent retailers matter, probably more than most of us realise, so I just wanted to state my gratitude in public to Chris, James, and Brian at the Ambleside branch for their excellent service with one of those small things that makes a big difference. (Just a pity the buyer doesn't seem to believe in boots that aren't Gore-tex lined, otherwise I'd have had a pair of Nepal Extremes off them...)
Cheers, guys! Let the sewing begin!