WE are constantly urged to be more considerate towards cyclists in Oxford. But when are cyclists going to return such consideration?

I refer in particular to those who ignore ‘No cyclists’ signs around the city, signs that make it clear they are not welcome in some areas aboard their machines between 10am and 6pm.

Can’t they read? Are the signs too small?

On Tuesday, Cornmarket Street was packed with visitors, occasionally leaping for safety as cyclists of both sexes bore down. I had a few words with some who hovered rather too close. A couple did dismount while the rest poured scorn or foul words.

Far be it for me to tell the city council or the police how to do their job, but I can foresee a serious accident. That will be too late for someone – or for official sympathy.

End of rant.

THE words on the side of a large van in Broad Street led one senior American visitor to suggest we British were more status-conscious than ever.

He stood, portly and proud, waiting for someone with whom to share the thought. That’s where I came in.

The sign read: ‘Executive Fire Protection’.

“So there are degrees of care, according to rank or position,” he said grinning from ear to ear. “Back home, New York’s finest are always there – for everyone.”

“Can you be certain?” I asked hiding my grin. “Who comes first, Manhattan or the Bronx?”

This brought a change of approach and subject.

Would I suggest where he and his wife could find a good cup of coffee? Would I care to join them? I accepted, recommending the new Weston Library where I knew service was always of an ‘executive’ standard.

Anglo-American relations preserved.

WHILE the great and good of St Mary’s University Church ponder over who shall be the next vicar, its press and education office and talented poet, Penny Boxall, is giving everyone the chance over six weeks to consider the “creative spark” and how is it awakened in us.

Starting next Wednesday with a talk by Liverpool University English lecturer and author Alexandra Harris on how the weather and the seasons have affected famous artists and writers, subjects will include bringing children’s fiction to life, historical acting style and gestures and problems in solving the creative process.

The name of the series? The Muse – what else could it be?

FINALLY, the gent’s Raleigh cycle, covered in thick, green mould and presumably rescued from the depths of the river on West Street, looked complete in every way, even down to the prominent and unyielding anti-theft chain and padlock.

Could this be a veiled warning following my earlier comments?