6

"I am here in the Village of Shangri-La where early today a gas explosion rocked the tranquil existence of…" The reporter's voice died away as he turned to wave an arm at the site in the background only to see a lone figure stalking towards them. His arm fell and he gaped as Walter Harkness-Jones came to stand next to him.

"Hello there Gino" Walter said calmly to the reporter "They got you on this have they?"

"Yes" the reporter was struck dumb by the A Grade movie star standing there talking to him like he knew him, the live feed completely forgotten as he stared at the handsome man.

"Well … it's a bit of a mess I'm afraid. They were getting the old heating system upgraded and a gas fireplace put into the main chambers. That room is central, both the Mayoral office and the library bread in the sandwich that blew apart." Walter explained, turning to give the camera his serious stare "We have injured. We have frightened children and we have displaced. Now … I know I live in a wonderful country where everyone watching wants to help but does not know how. I want to reassure all of you watching at home that we were insured. Those that lost physical property will be recompensed, thank you for the flood of concern already pouring in. In the background you can see my parents walking the scene with my bother Fen and Sissy. Tad is beside himself as he was Mayor for so long and put a lot into the upgrade of things. The local school was damaged so it looks like my house will be a little overrun for a while."

Walter's smile was mega watt now "The children are all wonderfully fine although shaken. Resilient things, kids. Bit … their school. So. Anyone wanting to help, we will be seeking new books and school supplies. The library was Tad's pride and joy, a real hit to his heart so … if you feel you must do something … please … send a book or a school supply item. Not money. We are going to be OK. We have a loving community, and a wonderful county here. I know you will all think about this for some time, please do not dwell, and do not let this frighten you. It was an accident. If you are unsettled, ring your local gas supplier and ask for a line check. It's a small fee for someone to come check the lines in and around your property. Thank you everyone for your love at this time. We shall endure. Welsh ya know."

Walter out.