Date Published: 22nd January 2025

Earlier this month Alexander joined a very special group of readers for a one-of-a-kind afternoon tea at Bertie’s favourite deli, Valvona & Crolla.

The group of readers had helped to crowdfund the relocation of The Edinburgh Bookshop, one of Alexander’s favourite independent Edinburgh book shops. Alexander, together with bookshop owner Marie Moser, thanked the readers for their support and enjoyed a delicious spread of miniature Italian delicacies.

Valvona & Crolla do not usually offer afternoon tea, but kindly agreed to do so for this special occasion. We’re told that they could be persuaded do it again if Bertie were to put in a special request (as long as Irene was not on the guest list).