The singular case of the Buggy the police didn't like
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Around the time of the Senior Service Hill-Rally we heard about a home-built VW Buggy which the police stopped because one of its lamp bulbs was out of action or for some such insignificant reason. They told the young owner that they intended to “throw the book at him” as they were determined to get all such vehicles off the road. He was duly charged and was represented in Court by a QC. His Council explained that he was not a long-haired student layabout but a (long-haired) engineer with degrees, employed by a very big Motor Manufacturer. The Magistrates asked if the offending vehicle was outside and, told that it was, adjourned to go out and look at it. They seemed surprised at its immaculate condition, congratulated the builder on his handicraft, and returned to the bench to chide the police for bringing the charge. A small fine was imposed for the temporary illegal defects which had been admitted and the case was closed.
Some police, especially those who like motor-cars, treat us very reasonably but there are some who should be urged to display more goodwill towards drivers. Suppose it had been you who had been charged and you couldn’t afford Queen’s Counsel?