Are we being punished for not using our cars during lockdown?

Vincent Page, of Antiques on High, celebrates one year in business. Picture: Antiques on High (Image: Archant)

As the price of fuel continues to rise to a record high, the question is being asked as to why? Is the motorist being punished for a lack of usage during the various lockdowns?

The ever-increasing price of fuel has undoubtedly had an impact on the day visitors we see arriving in Sidmouth which has had serious impact on the day-to-day income of many businesses and whilst many flippant comments are banded around on social media regarding the current situation, many of them may be closer to the truth than first thought.

Whilst the pandemic sadly caused the deaths of millions of people on a global scale could it now start to see the finger of blame being pointed its way for the massive rise in fuel prices which are affecting so many people across the country and without doubt keeping more people at home, where interestingly they are probably using a little more gas and electricity, another commodity which has doubled in price over the last few months with those who have recently purchased electric vehicles surely wondering if it was really such a cost saver.

But can we seriously blame the pandemic for the crippling rise in so many prices in the last six months?

While we find it easy to apportion blame for all these situations, being the victim gets no one anywhere fast, it is what it is and we must battle through it the best we can and success shouldn’t be envied but learnt from.

The opportunity to become a little healthier in ourselves has never presented itself so boldly as avoiding the use of the car and its associated costs is encouraging many to walk or cycle to work and with the weather now firmly on our side, copious amounts of fresh air could be just what we need to inspire or revitalize us and take a more positive approach to our business.