• MONDAY morning, May 4, I was journeying from the Poundstretcher Kentish Town to Archway on the 134 bus.

All along the route passengers were subjected to objectionable hectoring Transport for London broadcasts, berating those who need to use public transport other than solely commuting to and from places of work.

I happen to be a medical secretary, having worked for 25 years around London’s main NHS hospital trusts, working for consultants and their teams.

Until an accident some three years ago on the then newly opened and disastrous Archway gyratory. A speeding BMW almost ripped off my left foot and I am now left part-crippled.

There are, actually, other necessities, travel-wise, apart from work commutes; nor do all Londoners live conveniently near shops or have access to the internet; let alone be able to afford it.

Public transport is just that: for public use and for those who cannot afford cars, or may not wish to abuse crowded public roads further by swanning around in private vehicles.

Bicycles are not an option for overall public use. They are already a point of contention in our major cities, with many cycling hazards for both cyclists and pedestrians.

And from my own observations, cyclists’ many antics are a nightmare for our bus drivers who are sorely pressed and must have the forbearance of Job.

The most offensive and stupid hectoring announcement is by a man who sounds as if he is maniacally high on some drug or drink. A little dog on the bus was equally disturbed by the fracas as the few passengers on the lower deck.

All in all, TfL does not have much about which to hector Londoners who fund its wages and costs with our various public money contributions.

Respect our passengers. He who pays the piper calls the tune. Sack the creators and voiceovers forthwith of the would-be Stalins, Hitlers, Napoleons. Inadequates.

Or if you push the underpinning public too far, we might well erect a gibbet in the empty space of Archway Square and hang the offensive blighters!

As for Covid-19, the only way to overcome it is to face up to it with a robust immune system – as with all other such ailments.

That means living and eating responsibly, keeping fit, slim and trim. All the drugs in creation will not stop a virus mutating.

MARGARET MILNER
N6