My neighbour was burgled recently, and within 10 minutes three police cars, and six coppers turned up. The next day, forensics arrived and by the third day, we had posted details of the break-in and advice through our letterboxes. Then nothing, I’m pretty sure this is the usual way police go about ‘reassuring the public’, reactive not proactive, that we once had from the boys in blue.
Tag Archives: Whinging
A level laying field is needed
In London, there are 9,000 buses and 15,000 black taxis. How many were killed and seriously injured by buses, and how many by black cabs? But black cabs continue to be banned from London’s roads by Transport for London. Why?
Election mania
I have just made a disappointing discovery. With all this hoo-ha about forthcoming elections, I thought a quadrennial service might be coming our way. I’m not talking about the forthcoming general election. Nor the London Mayoral vote, as living in the extreme north-east of London, the current, and front runner is unlikely to improve our transport or living standards, as with an elderly population around here there are few votes to be gained for him.
No, this four-year service will arrive in 2 years, in time for the local elections. This ceremony, once performed with a broom, now one of those long-handle pickers will see our streets cleaned. Alas, the leader of our local authority has just announced bankruptcy in weeks, so that might spell the end of this ancient tradition.
English not spoken here
Transport for London has paused the English language test for Private Hire Drivers. This was a licensing requirement, but as a large number of Public Hire drivers were not passing the test, TfL has decided to pause this requirement. Imagine travelling to one of the world’s most popular capitals, and not being able to communicate with the driver in the language of that country. An incredible safety concern!
It is so simple nowadays
When I was young you’d get a bus to the local swimming pool proffer sixpence and the heated water awaited. Not so today: 1. download an app on your smartphone; 2. register yourself on the app; 3. obtain an entry card; 4. link card to your app; 5. choose your preferred pool; 6. book and pay for a swim; 7. gain entry using said card. Simples as they say.
Twice I’ve had only 10 minutes’ notice of the pool’s closure only to receive an email the next day informing me:
You are receiving this e-mail because our records show that you did not attend a Swimming Session which you had booked for yesterday at Central Park…We are asking all customers to please be considerate of others when booking sessions. We have limited spaces available, especially at peak times, so if you are unable to attend your session please cancel at least 4 hours in advance so we can offer the space to others…Thank you for your cooperation in this matter and we look forward to seeing you in-centre soon.
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