An update on my post above.

My car was officially written off, as the estimated cost of repairs (over £1000) was more than the value of the car (£500). Well, a bit of shopping around and calling in a few favours got the car fixed for £600. Less write off value, provided by other driver's insurers, net £100 cost to me. It was worth doing, as the car was in excellent mechanical condition.

After almost a fortnight of dry but very cold weather, it started snowing last Friday (03/03/06). I hastily moved my car off the steep hill and parked it in Tesco's car park, as the street once again became a piste. I was woken up on Saturday morning by the sounds of spinning tyres and crunching metal. A van had just piled into a car nearly outside my house; pushing it downhill into another car; and another still. That's four vehicles with crunched bumpers (fenders), radiators, lights, wings etc. The second car down had the worst damage, as it was shovelled into the rear of one with a prominent towing hook fitted.

I have once again told the local authority we need a gritting bin. I have added a threat that in the event of future damage to my car as a result of similar accidents, they will face legal action for negligence. (Have I a case, or even a leg to stand on ? I have no idea, but I feel a lot better for blowing off steam).