Even seasoned campaigners like Yours Truly get caught out from time to time.

 

I’d set off at 8 for the bus into Cas

(These days it costs nowt with my Pensioner’s Pass)

And when the bus stops the driver’s a lass

Who says in a tone brusque and surly

“Your pass is no good; you’re a twerlie”.

 

I wasn’t quite sure as to what she’s just said

But the bus pulled away and I scratched my head;

No matter, I’d catch the next one instead

Which landed at quarter to nine;

No problem. I’d still be on time.

 

But, yet again, my pass wouldn’t work

(You’ll gather I’m starting to feel quite a berk)

And subsequent drivers all said with a smirk

Whether old bloke or some girly

“Your pass is no good; you’re a twerlie”.

 

Initial confusion then passed to dismay

I’d started to think I should call it a day

Or, horrors of horrors, I might have to pay!

But epiphany came in the end

As the 42 rounded the bend.

 

I boarded the bus and I offered my pass

Expecting the driver through crazed toughened glass

To say I’m a twerlie; but rather this lass

Said “You’re not too early, you’re fine;

It works now it’s gone half past nine”.