Response so far
Re ABP: There was no attempt to ensure that this seat was occupied by a ABP, in fact the seat was scheduled to be occupied by a rather large gentleman, who relocated to 2D, and the chap in 2E moved to 2D. Without the knowledge of the crew.
Re briefing: I 100% agree with the purpose of safety briefing, I am a Captain, and always do the cabin crew the honour !!!! of my full attention.
Is 2C also a ABP seat. ????
I normally request (on line) 10C or 10D, and often get a telephone call asking the revent questions, but I think they know me well enough now.
Out of general interest this flight normally carries at least one extra cabin crew, sometimes two. (Not trainees.)
Lastly: I love the Monarch scheduled service, and am thinking of taking a long haul charter, but dread being in a normal seat. Is it possible with a charter operator to get the seat allocated by Monarch direct, rahter than via the charter. Does my Monarch Gold card have any clout in this area.