Quote:
Housewives' 'mafia' and the war of the washing lines
By Paul Stokes
(Filed: 09/07/2004)
A dispute over the northern custom of hanging washing out to dry across the street could be aired in the European Court of Human Rights.
The matter is being tested by David Painter, an airline steward, who claims the lines prevent him driving his car up an alley behind his home.
His neighbours, who he calls "a housewives' mafia" are very upset.
Mr Painter, who has lived in Thornton Street, Skipton, for 16 years, has complained to police, councillors and his MP, accusing women of vandalising his vehicle.
After North Yorkshire county council yesterday rejected a suggestion that drying time be restricted to eight hours a week, he said he would not give up.
"There is always the European Court of Human Rights. I am having my rights abused by these people. I shall not stop until they are protected."
After the council's endorsement, Margaret Hicks, 64, said: "I've been putting washing out for 40 years and I'm not stopping now.
"Nobody has any time for Mr Painter and he will never be accepted here."
Diane Green, 44, said: "Mr Painter is taking things too seriously and even sawed the hooks off the wall. He needs to get a life."
