A pensioner who borrowed a book on driving after being involved in an accident has returned it 58 years late, avoiding a £42,340 fine.
In 1964, after being involved in an automobile accident in Dudley, West Midlands, David Hickman, then 17 years old, borrowed The Law for Motorists to study.
While waving to a group of Dudley High School for Girls students, he collided with the mayor’s automobile.
The Dudley Magistrates Court fined him £7, which is almost $175 in current currency.
Mr. Hickman neglected to return the book after losing the lawsuit and took it with him to London in 1970.
This week, 76-year-old Mr. Hickman returned the book in person.
The librarians might have fined him £42,340 for penalties of 20p each day, but they dropped the costs after hearing his fascinating story.
Mr. Hickman said, ‘I used to come across it now and then and think “I must pop that back next time I’m in Dudley.” Fortunately, they saw the funny side.’
Sharon Whitehouse, the librarian of Dudley, said, ‘I’m thrilled to have the book returned, complete with its pre-computerisation cardboard tickets, and to hear the story behind it.’
We’re hoping to donate it to The Black Country Museum.’
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