It goes without saying what my views are on cyclists who use the pavements as I have made those views very publicly in my blogs. Living as we do here in Sussex we often see well known personalities, mainly those appearing in theatre, who are for one reason or another visiting our city.
Today, while taking our usual “yomp” into town we were confronted by Jeremy Paxman! Yes, he of the TV. He who famously asked Michael Howard the same question 14 times! He of the often razor like put down! Yes, the man himself, on a bike….. a bike…. I still can’t quite believe it. Sadly, Mr Paxman was riding on the pavement and sadder still he was heading directly towards us and showed now sign of giving way to us mere mortal pedestrians from such a rural or provincial town such as ours. We were peasants no doubt, blocking his path, standing in his way.
He cycled past us as if we didn’t exist, brushing so close to me that I could swear I smelt his cologne. Not a word to say, excuse me, sorry or whatever platitude he could offer that would compensate for my having to step sharply aside from his frantic pedalling.
Mr Paxman, pavements are for people, roads are for cyclists!
Next time on Newsnight or University Challenge please try to remember that ordinary mortals always remember famous faces, especially when they are rude and inconsiderate.
PS: Why were you not wearing a safety helmet, reflective vest and goggles for your epic cycle ride around Chichester?
For more on Mr Paxman and Cycling please click here
