The tape runs out

We're slightly dubious about the claims that Currys decision to stop stocking cassettes is the official end of the road for the tape, because Currys do have a bit of form for announcing that it's taking some piece of technology or other off its shelves, so there's a haunting feeling this is just a bit of PR to take advantage of a quiet news period. But even so, with Woolworths apparently having dropped them too (to be honest, it's more surprising to hear that Woolworths is still going than that they're not selling tapes), it does feel like the end of an era. Currys managing director Peter Keenan tries to be gentle at this difficult time:

"I remember the tape with some fondness," said Peter Keenan, the managing director of Currys. "The hours spent putting together compilation tapes and the all-too-familiar experience of finding your deck had chewed your tape, will resonate with many now in their 30s and 40s."

Yes, who wouldn't remember "with fondness" their favourite tape being chewed to death. It's like having a chuckle over scratching your best single.