News

Carrying golf bag around parts of England now considered a crime

February 29, 2016
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Admittedly, I don't see eye to eye on most matters with the United Kingdom. I haven't read a single Harry Potter book, and, for the life of me, I can't understand Gordon Ramsay's appeal.

However, the latest news from across the pond is more than just a head-scratcher.

According to the Guardian, 79 councils in England and Wales have instituted public spaces protection orders (PSPOs) under the Antisocial Behavior, Crime and Policing Act. For background, the PSPO regulations were instituted in 2014 to help improve social life in common areas.

Alas, many small towns have taken the ordinances to a ridiculous level, with some banning such hooligan behavior like "walking one's dog" or "staying out past 11 PM." Real hell-raising activities.

But the most absurd law of the bunch? A North East Derbyshire council prohibited “playing golf, or being in possession of golf equipment, on the open, park areas," enforced by an on-the-spot £100 fine.

It's one thing to crack down on taking divots in the town square, or those smacking lateral shots into old Ms. Sommerkamp as she feeds her eight cats on a park bench. But merely lugging your sticks in public is a crime? That's something we can't abide.

Besides, you'd think the Brits would have bigger concerns, like improving the welfare system or their awful soccer team.