...For whom the toll smells
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I International driver Frank aylor has vowed never to use he Humber Bridge again after he bridge operator snubbed its suggestion of accepting :redit card payments for tolls.
The row started when Taylor, vho does a lot of European vork, arrived at the bridge with to cash "thinking that being an expensive crossing they would accept plastic".
When he discovered that it vas cash only and credit card iayments were outlawed, Taylor was forced to wait until the offices opened in order to pay by debit card.
He was further annoyed by the fact that he had to buy a book of tickets priced £18—the smallest quantity available—for a £9.80 crossing.
Taylor filled in a "suggestions" questionnaire, arguing that it would be a good idea to introduce credit card payments as cards are processed more quickly at toll-booths on the Continent and companies offer a discount for their use. He also suggested putting up "cash only" warning signs for unsuspecting foreign drivers and UK international operators.
But Humber Bridge Board argues that, as far as it is aware, none of the 12 UK toll organisations accept credit cards.
The board's bridgemaster, engineer Roger Evans says: "In common with the rest of the toll industry we have steered clear of using cards because we wish to avoid the associated administration and agency costs and the effect on traffic flows past the toll booths."
But Taylor is not impressed with the firm's response. "I intend to do my utmost to avoid using the bridge in future," he insists.