DURING the spell of icy weather in the week before Christmas, the most slippery place I found was in front of the Lloyds Bank cashpoint in St Mary s Street. It was impossible to stand and use the machine without one s feet slithering about. Being a public

DURING the spell of icy weather in the week before Christmas, the most slippery place I found was in front of the Lloyds Bank cashpoint in St Mary's Street. It was impossible to stand and use the machine without one's feet slithering about.

Being a public spirited sort of fellow, I went into the bank and suggested that they might put down some salt or grit, just at that spot, only to be told: "We are not allowed to. All we can do is notify the council".

Being an awkward cuss, as well as public spirited, I persisted. Was this not a situation where rules were made for the guidance of wise men and the obedience of fools? Was it not once common practice for traders and householders to clear the pavement in front of their own premises?

Christmas is supposed to be the season of goodwill, not the season of pettyfoggery.

STEPHEN J FRANKLIN

Pilgrims Way

Ely