The end of an era

A lot of people have blipped their Docs, and it's my turn now, whilst I still have a pair. The news this week that Rushden and Diamonds have been thrown out of The Conference, which footy fans will understand even if I don't, draws a line under the connection of Max Griggs, one of the family who make Dr Martens, and that neck of Northamptonshire. The company sold up shop in the county years ago, and shipped production to China.
These must have been one of the last pairs made in England. Being able to go to the factory and buy cheap seconds meant the children all had assorted Doc boots and shoes, but all grew out of them long ago.
I've never been that keen, actually. I've worn out quite a few pairs, whilst boots from other local companies last me decades. The leather splits, the soles come away, and I can't believe they are charging well over 100 quid for a pair. According to Wiki they are now making some again in Wollaston, but I shan't rush over to buy any.
Still, I have had some fun in these.