So tragic - St Annes Square, Manchester

I am a bit ambivalent about all those flowers.  Whilst everyone wants to do something to show solidarity with the families and friends of those who lost loved ones in this dreadful attack. I can't help but think that the money spent on flowers could be more usefully used elsewhere.

A lady from where we live lost her life in this attack, and there is a floral tribute to her in a square in the town.  There are hundreds of flowers, bunches, formal arrangements, vases full, and candles and teddy bears.

I once mentioned my idea for a 'virtual flowers' website, where you could place flowers somewhere, but the money they cost would go to a related charity and they would only actually appear 'on line'.  That way you could zoom in on them, they would be there 'forever' and you would also be able to see, at home, who else was putting flowers in that place forever after.  Others would be able to read your message, on line, and it would be possible for many more people to share in your tribute.

I still feel that if a family member of mine was being commemorated I would prefer that the vast amounts of money spent, was on something more useful than a pile of real flowers which will eventually die, and then cost money and time to remove.  

All well and good, but not everyone has a computer to see these "virtual flowers".

Its how people feel at that time.  Its always been done like this. 

Yes, and I didn't mean it to sound a criticism, it's just my thoughts.  

I know there are charity collections taking place in the square too, and that would be my way of showing my feelings.

By the way ValDa, I do apologise for not mentioning it, but so sorry for the lady who lost her life.  It will be hard for her family. 

Moderator Edit - Political comments removed from post