Close It

I don’t really know my Mini from my Morris but even I wondered at the impressive metal on display at the St Peter’s Square pit stop on the Three Castles car rally, on Thursday last.

It’s a shame that so few people came to support the event, to see such a marvellous selection of old cars. Those present had invariably stumbled upon it by chance apart, that is, from two people who seemed to be taking it all very seriously by clicking away at any car that moved. Yet, others invariably complained that they knew nothing of it. Well, I knew it was on so it wasn’t that there was no publicity at all. Perhaps it just didn’t get to the right people.

So, once again, St Peter’s Square was closed to general traffic. There were plenty of vintage cars around – 117 I was told, coming and going – but none of the general traffic touring for a parking space or abandoned unlawfully on the roadside while occupants just nip into a shop for two minutes that becomes ten. The Square lends itself to special events such as this.

I do like it when the Square by the church and post office is restricted and closed. I pondered in December whether this could become a more permanent feature. After all, this part of the Square really is the heart of things. It’s the most popular picture postcard view. It’s very special. Why not pedestrianise it and claim it back as public space? Can’t the town manage with six fewer parking spaces?

December’s post received five comments, one against and four in favour of removing cars from the Square.