Moving Target,
, Issue #5, Fall 1989
UNION MATTERS?
Covering this issue's centre page spread is a questionnaire from the LBCU (London Bicycle Couriers Union) hopefully you'll be removing it, if only to read what's underneath. This insert has been paid for by the T&GWU (Transport & General Workers Union) who have been instrumental in organising the union so far. Filling this in and returning it 'free post does not mean you have joined but will give some idea of the numbers interested in the idea of a union. Ordinarily M.T. would wholeheartedly support and promote any attempt to unionise the industry (though attempts have failed in the past) despite the pessimism and cynicism aroused whenever the subject is raised. However, as reported in our last issue the DIWU (Dispatch Industry Workers Union), an independent group, already exist, so we're sitting on the fence until the LBCU have had a chance to test the climate of opinion. The DIWU was started in March and has gradually built a base of support amongst cyclists and motorcyclists from a variety of firms. Their immediate aims are to get better, safer working conditions, more pay and to defend members from victimisation and discrimination. As mentioned in issue 4 they genuinely welcome membership from all (motorcyclists, cyclists, van drivers, telephonists, controllers, secretaries) sections of the industry. For more info about regular meetings and their upcoming 'social' write to P.O. Box 574 Brockley SE4 1DL.
The LBCU's objectives are laudable though ambitious and only relevant to cc’s. It's target population is clearly smaller, but this may make organisation more manageable. It would be a pity if after years of apathy and begrudging acceptance of the status quo which leans heavily in favour of the bosses, that cc's failed to grasp one or other of these opportunities to improve their generally appalling conditions of service.
HERE TODAY GONE TOMORROW
It became evident this summer that there are now people out there making a living from stealing bikes. The day of the opportunist bike thief has gone, these days they're organised. They know what to look for, they know how to break D-locks and they are bold. Anyone with a cycle can no longer rely solely on their D-lock to protect their bike, a good dose of paranoia and the MT guide to not getting your bike stolen are now practical.
The MT guide to not getting your bike stolen:
- Buy a good quality lock - Buy another one 'coz two is better than one. - Find something immovable to lock it to. if left overnight try and lock it up indoors. - If you can't secure it get someone to watch it. - Get it insured. - Never get lazy about locking your bike!
ZERO IN FACE RE-MOLD SHOCKER!
Zero, long-time cc now MT contributor and OYB controller has been the victim of a disastrous medical error MT can now reveal. Previously Zero claimed the current vast size of his Schnozz was due to being reversed into by a stationary car. However, MT's special correspondent working from the office in Wood Green, has uncovered the truth - it wasn't a rear windscreen at all it was a plastic surgeons scalpel. The surgeon at the centre of the catastrophe said "I thought he said 'more nose and less brain' it wasn't until afterwards that I realised my dreadful mistake." Cruel but when you're as prominent as zero is now you learn to take the knocks like a person ie. on the end of your...er.. nose.
PROBABLY THE BEST LAGER ON TV
Late one Saturday evening, two o'clock in the morning to be precise, I was watching the TV and was pleasantly surprised to see coverage of the Carlesberg MTB description of the race but also explained some of the techniques and strategies of MTB racing. The highlight must have been Paul Hinton (an ex-cc) explaining how to ride through a river and then falling off in the middle - humour always adds a lot to any sports coverage. My only criticism of the programme would be that if the organisers/sponsors wish to attract a TV audience to further promote this growing sport they need to chose race courses that not only provide a test for the riders but also good television. This event, was a good test of stamina for the riders but I would have liked to see more obstacles and faster descents. Well worth watching though.
SICK PAY
Sick pay for cc’s? Nah, doesn't happen, right? Wrong. Hand and Deliver and MegaCycles both do it. What? MT spoke to Cathy at Security Despatch, H &D's parent company who organised the scheme "as an incentive to attract a better class of rider". Tell us more, we said. "Any cc, full or part-time is automatically insured (ie pays the premium out of their own wedge) for £75 per week e.g. with the 2 weeks excess 9 weeks off work due to sickness or injury equals £525". The scheme does have options for the riders to increase the premium, deductible weekly, up to a maximum pay-out of £250 per week. Better than a poke in the eye with a sharp stick eh, kids and lasses. More info contact Leslie and Godwin on 0252 544000.
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