Recently, my local pub received a two-star review from a disappointed customer who arrived to find it closed. The customer had relied on outdated information from the pub’s previous owner, who had created a website but never maintained it properly. Without verifying the information or contacting the pub, the customer left a negative review. This unfair criticism affected the current landlord, who is working hard to make the pub successful. Despite hundreds of satisfied customers, even if five more visitors were to leave five-star ratings, the average rating would only increase to 4.5. This situation reminds me of the saying, “no good deed goes unpunished.”

Now, let’s talk about the Goodwood Festival of Speed. This event is one of the most significant and successful gatherings in the motoring world. It’s essentially the British motor show and is enjoyed by all participants. However, The Sun newspaper recently managed to find a few individuals in Chichester who are unhappy with the festival due to the temporary traffic congestion it causes. The oldest complainant, who is 66 years old, was born several years after the motor circuit held its first race. Even during times when competitive racing wasn’t taking place, there were always regular motorsport activities at Goodwood. I personally have attended track days and experienced a Formula Ford event at Goodwood back in the early 1990s.

One of the complainants mentioned that they are “not into cars,” which is like living in Wembley (known for football) and complaining about football. Goodwood has been hosting motor racing since 1948 and has been attracting crowds since horse racing began there in 1802. In fact, the largest one-day crowd at Goodwood was recorded in 1955, with 55,000 attendees. I understand that traffic can be challenging during the festival, especially on the A27, which is already busy. However, it’s only a few days a year. Additionally, suggesting major road construction on the south coast would undoubtedly cause even more disruption.

Another complaint was that the festival should take place elsewhere. This argument is often made by people who live near busy roads, which I can sympathize with. Personally, I believe that public roads are best enjoyed when they are less crowded. Recently, I read Steve Cropley’s column in which he mentioned discovering new roads near his home that he didn’t know existed. I had a similar experience when I test rode some Ducati motorcycles a few miles from my house. I was directed to roads that I didn’t even realize were there, and I believe it’s better to keep their location undisclosed for my own enjoyment.