A WHILE ago, over a few drinks in the summer, a travelling salesman friend recounted his experiences driving around the UK. He described some of the more precarious parts of the country, but what surprised me was the town he thought the most hazardous: Ilkley.

Surprising indeed, or is it? Recently I’m inclined to agree. Navigating through Leeds is a delight by comparison. Most of Ilkley’s drivers trundle along aimlessly, seemingly in their own dormant, dopey bubble. Roads are frequently clogged, root canal treatment is more preferable to finding a parking space, and the general ability by drivers to grasp the concept of a roundabout non-existent.

Driving licences may be essential, but as far as I’m aware the prerequisites for ownership are not being ignorant and moronic. Leave the car at home and walk.

J Varley Ben Rhydding