English republicans? Yes please - include me in.
Being a mere 'subject' has always grated. Somehow the appelation 'citizen' is more satisfying.
And being a republic doesn't mean ditching the pomp, frills and flummery - look at what France manages to put together for the Bastille Day parade in Paris every July; not half bad, I'd say.
However, arguing with monarchists is, in my experience, a futile exercise. Like devout Christians, their devotion seems based more on faith than reason and is thus as unassailable.
Better, perhaps, merely to erode the role of the monarcy by degrees - gradually removing political influence and patronage, disestablishing the church and ending up with a simple figurehead as head of state. Then, when the day dawns when we have the opportunity to elect a head of state, the prospect won't frighten the horses.
It does seem bit unfair to take a pop at Charles though - he may be an adulterous, tree-hugging Mr Pooter, but his heart seems to be in the right place (unlike his rather racist, right-wing and reactionary grandmother - but don't get me started...) and initiatives like the Prince's Trust and the Prince's Youth Business Trust have been a genuine force for good for many thousands of disadvantaged young people in the UK.
Meanwhile, here's to you Mrs Robinson...