No ta Ma
Page 25
If you've noticed an error in this article please click here to report it so we can fix it.
ahe Hawk is aware that many readers retain an affection for buses and public transport so I was pleased to receive a copy of Midbus by David Gladwin, a pictorial history of Midlands bus and coach operations For lovers of operational details and trivia alike, the book includes everything from vehicle history to the changing design of tickets There are also postcards, Christmas cards and poems Just the job for lingering over on along 1 bus journey My fancy was tickled by an imperious diktat from the Birmingham Corporation Tramway and Omnibus Department instructing its conductors to speak the Queen's English: "The use of the words "Ma", "Ta", and similar expressions by conductors has become very prevalent," it warns. Whilst conductors may not consider this objectionable, it is deemed an impertinence by passengers and the use of these terms must therefore cease at once." Try telling that to taxi drivers The Hawk has three copies to give away Just tell me which Midlands town is the reputed birthplace of William Shakespeare Answers on a postcard by 2 April Alternatively you can order a copy from Brewin Books on (052785) 4228.