Last updated 21:58, Wednesday, 06 August 2008

AS the last echoes of the 2008 Common Riding slip away and the sounds of Common Riding airs being belted out of pub windows dwindle, I feel compelled to write a short letter regarding the road closures.

It would appear that, yet again, we are to be charged a ridiculously high sum of money for a service which should to all intents and purposes be covered by the population of Langholm’s taxes. Surely, a police officer in uniform at both ends of the town, with their hands up in the appropriate “stop” gesture would be enough to halt the traffic for the allotted time required and, with the aid of their radios, they could then allow it to move on when the way is clear. However, the powers that be have once again issued a bill to the Common Riding committee. They erected hi-tech flashing signs at the A7 north turn-off at the roundabout to the north of Carlisle, as well as metal signs at the border which proclaimed the A7 to be closed at Langholm on Friday, July25 at 07.30 – 12.15 and again from 19.30 – 22.00. I would therefore like to clarify with other readers that at about 10.15 on Common Riding morning (within the alleged “closed road” times), did I or did I not witness four cars having to pick their way through the Toon Band, Banna, Croon & Thistle parties and supporters as they were getting ready to play from the Townfoot, up the straits and Kirk Wynd, to meet the Cornet. Not only that but also “an ash cairt”. Be dempt!

Now I feel I do need clarification of this, as it was a blisteringly hot day and it may well have been a mirage but, surely, if the town is paying good money to someone to close the road entirely, the very least we can ask for is our money’s worth.

Doogie The Dog