WE all know York cyclists are a timorous bunch who don't like to impose. Except this one.

He was in no mood to wait around for a group of be-suited bigwigs to declare the £11 million Bilbrough Top flyover open. So he simply cycled past Selby MP John Grogan, roads minister Dr Stephen Ladyman, and assorted dignitaries and workers to claim the title of first vehicle over the bridge on the A64. At least he wasn't riding on the pavement.

The first car across was driven by Evening Press photographer Paul Baker and reporter Rosslyn Snow, and they were photographed undertaking the historic journey by various of those assembled. Admirably keeping her excitement in check, Ros told us: "It was like being at the Berlin Wall coming down."

JUDGING by the speeches at that flyover opening, John Grogan is still haunted by his nail-biting experience at the General Election last month. Those tense re-counts remain vivid in his mind.

Mr Grogan told the crowd that he was thrilled to be there - and not just because he had backed the campaign for the potentially life-saving road scheme.

He said: "I'm just happy to be here really. When you get a majority of 467 you can't take anything for granted."

Dr Ladyman, who did the ribbon snipping, was quick to exorcise his own election demons when he took over the microphone.

"I'm always delighted to visit the constituencies of colleagues," he said. "In particular, those who get a majority of about 460.

"My 640 starts to look safe by comparison."

SO is the Conservative Party for or against the reform in the licensing laws? According to Shadow Home Secretary and York boy David Davis, definitely against.

"Why are the Government ignoring expert advice and pressing ahead with 24-hour drinking before they have found a proven solution to the problem?" he asked in March - the problem being anti-social drunken behaviour.

Perhaps someone ought to let local Tories know. They seem to be embracing the new act.

Bootham and Monk Wards Conservative Club is taking full advantage by trying to extend its opening hours. If the council approves the Clarence Street club's application, it will open to midnight Monday to Thursday, and to 1am on Fridays and Saturdays.

That would allow members to grumble about the rise in late night drunkenness over a few G&Ts into the small hours.

A YORKIE just back from New Zealand reports spotting these signs...

A fine is a tax for doing wrong, a tax is a fine for doing well.

Please don't steal from this shop, the Government does not like competition.

The perfect garden is a well kept wilderness.

ANYONE know the date of the next race meeting in York?

Updated: 09:14 Monday, June 13, 2005