Crossing’s not a job for the faint-hearted

Have you ever been a pedestrian looking to cross from Widcombe Co-op to Widcombe Parade? A short but epic journey, let me offer this guide:

First, clear your mind of any expectation of rational driving from the relentless traffic.

Now, approach kerb and simultaneously consider the four different streams of traffic that are all looking to turn you into roadkill: 1. Drivers filtered off from Pulteney going up Widcombe Hill looking to avoid excessive brake use. 2.Manic drivers from Claverton Street now released from a queue looking to sweep majestically without pause up Widcombe Hill. 3.Cunning rat-run drivers from Prior Park Road contemptuously swinging round and looping up Widcombe Hill. 4.Drivers going down Widcombe Hill at two or three times the speed of sound not expecting the hill to ever end.

Made it across to the White Hart? Good, but you’re only halfway.

Four more streams of traffic now to consider, two from behind and one from the left and one from the right. Don’t presume on any level of human decency here.

I should also warn you about the disdainful, demonic upright scooter hirers. They have no concept of road safety. They self-righteously follow anarchic traffic rules from another galaxy.

The return trip, following some remedial English ale from the Ring’o Bells somehow seems more carefree.

Ian Neal

Bath