MOT

Pat O'Brien's butcher shop mannequin at Banner Cross

"I am not going for an MOT. I don't want an MOT and it's just not necessary!"

That was Clint at nine o'clock this morning. For those who do not dwell upon the sun-bathed British Isles, let me explain that MOT stands for Ministry of Transport. Any motor vehicle that is over three years old must be tested every year for road worthiness and safety.

"I am taking you to KwikFit at Townhead and you are going to have your annual test whether you like it or not! Also - I am having you serviced."

"Serviced? You never told me that. You mean they are going to change my oil and my filters. All that kind of stuff?"

"Yes."

"It's not fair. How come you don't get serviced and tested every year?

"That's because I am a human being. Not a moaning lump of South Korean metal with an attitude problem!"

St George's Church reflected in the facade of  The Diamond  -

The University of Sheffield's Engineering Department building

By now my voice was raised. Honestly, I am getting fed up with Clint. It's always the same when he has to go into a garage. Complaining and moaning like a spoilt brat. Maybe I should have called him Barron or Eric or Donald Jr instead.

Having left Clint with the fellows at KwikFit, I walked a mile and a half before catching the 82 bus back up Ecclesall Road to wait for the dreaded phone call from KwikFit..."Your car is terminally ill" or "He needs a new engine and a new chassis and new body work". Many times in the past I have had the distinct impression that the main purpose of a commercial garage is to fleece customers.

The very first time I came to Sheffield I stayed in that first

 floor room of The Harley Hotel. It was October 29th 1971

It is a delightful, warm spring day here in South Yorkshire. I had my camera with me as I walked back and gathered a variety of images along the way. These I happily share with you as I sit here hoping that Clint doesn't kick off at KwikFit and that I do not have to sell this house in order to pay his garage bill.

The Glass House - Sheffield Botanical Gardens

The pub on the right is called "The Doctor's Orders" but it used to be called "The West End". 

That's where Shirley and I had our first proper date together in December 1979. Behind 

you can see The Hallamshire Hospital where she worked rising above the old church.

from Yorkshire Pudding https://ift.tt/31xWEus