ON SATURDAY, when travelling to Cherhill Cricket Club for the Calne v Wanborough Match, my Austin 7 Countryman Mark 1 Mini estate (55 years old on August 11) developed fuel pump problems. As result the last eight miles of the journey took three with Woodie (as she is known) creeping along in first gear at about three mph.

I have nothing but praise and thanks for the police patrol vehicle drivers who gave Woodie and myself support and encouragement over and above the call of duty. They take a lot of criticism at times from the motoring fraternity so the above incident shows they will be there for the motorist when the motorist needs them, so please be considerate to them.

Incidentally, the result of the cricket match was a win for Wanborough with 176 to Calne’s 132 (which lifted my spirits even more) — thanks lads!

Woodie was carried back by Greenbridge Garage with my three passengers, so my thanks to the breakdown team also. Hopefully Woodie will be back on the road very soon after Ean Campbel at Swindon Classic Autos in Marshgate has replaced the faulty fuel pump — and strutting her stuff at the local classic car shows again this year.

Thank you again to everyone who helped Woodie and her slave on Saturday!

GERRY TAYLOR Newcastle Street Swindon