At this time of year, my pedestrian route to and from work is frequently blocked by flooded footpaths. Luckily, I’m able to nip onto the grass verge and ‘borrow’ the better-drained cycle path for a bit, the only consequence being muddy shoes. Not everyone can do that.

Compared with roads and cycle paths, the lack of maintenance afforded to pedestrian facilities is attributable to weird, politically driven funding incentives. It gives the unfortunate impression that walking is less important than riding or driving.