WITH a bit of luck, the worst of the winter is over and we’ll be able to get out and about more.

You may have noticed the roads are decidedly busier, although there is an air of rustiness in the driving skills of some fellow drivers. Driving less frequently may have resulted in a few misjudgments, a bit of speeding and, not to mention the increased volume of lorries, the need for fast reactions. Unexpected potholes and even stones hitting the underbelly of the car have given me a few sharp intakes of breath.

The New Highway Code legislation coming into force giving more preference to cyclists and pedestrians should be carefully considered as spring approaches. Our narrow country roads can become unnervingly congested. 

Driving is not my preferred mode of transport. I really enjoy walking for my everyday shopping, exercise and chores in one. It should surely be the most pleasant way of getting around, but it is not without its challenges.

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Many of our pavements go unrepaired, with uneven surfaces and often a plethora of obstacles and hazards scattered along the way.

A lot of necessary building repair work results in scaffolding and diversions, which, coupled with street furniture, wonderful shop-front floral displays plus the occasional quirky piece of street art, means you need to keep your wits about you whilst out shopping, especially with a mask on.

Moving hazards are also an increasing problem – youngsters on skateboards and electric scooters, bikes, dodging on and off pavements to avoid traffic and even more pedestrians. The disability scooters, such a great improvement to the lives of many elderly or disabled people, also need adequate space to move freely. 

READ MORE: Mary Contini column: Spare a thought for young people

Increased dogs on long leashes need to be avoided, as well as the disappointing dog mess smeared across the ground which seems to have increased over the winter.

All in all, travelling by foot is becoming hazardous as well. I’m looking forward to mask wearing becoming less necessary but, if things don’t calm down, I’ll be swapping my mask for a helmet!