Errant SCP pole – manufacturer responds

Last week’s story about a driver who escaped prosecution on a technicality after ‘driving through’ a school crossing patrol in Northumberland has drawn a response from the company that supplied the offending pole. The driver escaped prosecution because there were tiny errors on the colour bandings on the pole.

Bristol Oilskin & Overall Co. Ltd has asked us to publish the following statement:

"Since commencing the manufacture of SCP uniforms in 1953 we have always endeavoured, without compromise, to ensure that all standards and regulations are meet in full. This is reflected in the fact that all garments are officially tested by an approved British Testing house and therefore carry full certification. We also had the old specification signs officially dimension tested by the BSI. As you would expect our new sign will shortly be tested to the latest regulations.

"We cannot explain why the bands on this old pole have varied and can only suggest that this was a rogue batch supplied to Northumberland. In addition since the introduction of the new regulations we have been doubly vigilant in checking all bands on signs.

"Coincidentally, there was a prosecution last year involving a driver who fatally injured a SCP. On this occasion the driver escaped conviction because the sun was in his eyes - worrying given that our sign, hat and coat all fully conformed and the SCP was working with advanced warning signs and on a Pelican crossing.

"We are concerned by this - and that millimetres should make such a difference. For example, how many signs in use have either been cut down or have wear on the top of the sign face?"

Should anyone require further information or have any questions please contact either Tony Rosser or Andrew Fox at Bristol Oilskin & Overall Co. Ltd, 01934 414142 or af@foxwear.co.uk