Valentines is here again and it does seem to be a day that divides and splits opinions more than most! A celebration of romance and love or a shameless excuse on behalf of card companies to make extra profit?

Perhaps a look at the history of Valentine’s will reveal something? Well, back in the days of Antiquity there was a Roman festival called Lupercalia celebrated at this time of year. It was something of a debauched, often drunken love fest. Later two seperate chaps, both named Valentine were executed on the 14th February and then by the 5th century, Pope Gelasius I made is a Saint’s day and the celebration became a bit of a mix of honouring the sainted Valentines, but continuing the old pagan celebrations along with it. The Norman’s also had a festival at this time, celebrating Galatin “the lover of women”, which maybe got added to the pot along the way.

The giving of cards and gifts on Valentine’s Day has actually been happening since the Middle Ages and medieval poets John Gower and Geoffrey Chaucer both associated the celebration as the time of years that birds looked for a mate. The oldest Valentine found in Britain actually dates from the 15th century but it’s likely that many were exchanged before that date.

Whether you mark the occasion or not, here at Strathclyde Windscreens we hope you have a bonnie day either way. And should your day be scuppered by a crack or chip on your windscreen and you find yourself in need of a trustworthy repair or replacement, our team of mobile fitters will be happy to help. Not so really a romantic gesture, but we can turn a bad day in to a good one just the same.

For all your windscreen and auto glass needs call us: 01698 286428 or email:  info@strathclydewindscreens.com