5tan

I'd recommend any of the Thule range. Personally, we have the 'universal' roof bars (so you don't have to buy the whole lot from scratch if you change your car) and the ranger 90 box (so you can stow away easily when not in use).

Just to clarify - by 'abandoned' i meant that the car was parked up safe by the side of the road - causing no obstruction, etc. I simply meant that the wife could not get the car back to our drive (where it's usually parked). Not read the legal stuff but having spoke with Sheffield Council they have an Abandoned Vehicle dept (not parking services or any other) that will remove a seemingly abandoned vehicle. If there is no TAX on the car then they will leave the removal to the DVLA. Eitherway ANY legitimate agency has to contact the local police force - which makes sense as this will be most peoples first port of call. With regards insurance, you'll have to read your individual policy schedule but generally, providing the car is secured (no windows down, doors locked) and you have not left the keys in or around the car you should be OK.

I remember reading this article on MoneySavingExpert; http://www.moneysavingexpert.com/reclaim/private-parking-tickets Best of luck!

Thanks guys for all to the posts. Some further information from a forum member is that the car was seen being 'removed' (nicked) by a recovery vehicle on Wednesday 6th Jan 8-8:30am. This is major commuting road and people would have been travelling slow due to weather so we really are holding out that someone has seen the car being removed by what looked like a legitimate company. Any information greatefully appreciated. Thanks

Thanks - but we have checked the area. Besides it was on Abbey Lane just as you start coming into Ecclesall Woods - so no side streets. Guess this made a prime spot for the opportunist :-(

Hi All, The wife had to abandon her car yesterday due to the weather - on Abbey Lane as you come up towards Whirlow (from Beachief crossroads). Given the fact that she could not drive it i'm guessing that someone has lifted/towed it away (not legitimately as check with council and police). If anyone has seen a Fiat 500 in Ivory White, chrome strip down middle of bonnet and retro chrome around fron grill, Italian flag badge on front wings and registration starting YP08..... then plase let us know. Can't believe someone would look to benefit from misfortune :-( Thanks All, Stan

The hamster should have it's own show - he's Mint!

There's a little shop (no real frontage) behind the Porter Cottage on Sharrowvale (about 10meters down the little side road).

Rising Sun on Abbey Lane (Parkhead) has a new menu - good value and highly recommended.

On a side note... i have 2 tickets up for grabs Block 209. Going for the face value of £29.50 each. They will be appearing in the classifieds today but if anyone is interested then give me a bell on 07717697688.

It's not being snobby.. it's just that they try and do every flavour of dish - as a result none of it is really any good.