We are talking about parking on corners. Not only is it un-neighbourly and inconsiderate, it is also illegal.

From a motorist's point of view (literally) it is extremely dangerous as it greatly reduces the visibility for emerging traffic. For pedestrians it can be lethal!!

Most corners in the area have "dropped kerbs" which allow wheelchairs, pushchairs, partially sighted or elderly people to cross the road. If these are blocked by parked vehicles, pedestrian safety is put at risk.

Not long ago I witnessed a near accident when a mother with pushchair was forced out onto Melrose Avenue due to a car parked diagonally across the corner. She stepped into the path of an oncoming vehicle obscured by the parked car. Fortunately, the moving vehicle stopped in time.

Likewise it makes it difficult for large vehicles to negotiate the corners, e.g. fire engines (it could be coming to your house). Recently I saw a removal van having to reverse the whole length of Stuart Road due to illegally parked vehicles on both corners of the junction with Melrose Avenue.

It is not always our "beloved" commuters who are to blame. Some of the worst examples can be witnessed at weekends.

Whilst 99% of residents park sensibly it only takes one thoughtless person to cause a serious accident. Our local constabulary have the power to issue tickets and even have vehicles removed.

But don't let it come to that. Please THINK OF OTHERS before you park.

Stephen Saul  Neighbourhood Watch Co-ordinator.