New Year’s Eve turned out to be a mainly rainy day but a lull in the afternoon allowed me to cycle in the Ta’ Qali area.

Alas, a stretch of the road opposite the Petting Farm was flooded and completely under water on both sides for about a 200-metre stretch.

I had no option but to walk with the bike on the pavement, a narrow gangway made up of intermittent cement slabs, some of which were broken. I hoped and prayed that the frequent passing traffic would drive slowly enough not to splash and shower me.

I was about to start my balancing act, when an Arriva bus came slowly from behind and stopped by my side. The driver immediately opened the door, and another staff member on board invited me to come inside with my bike in order to avoid drenching. I was then dropped off after the bus meandered its way through this artificial lake.

I could hardly believe this act of courtesy by these Arriva staff on bus number 171 on the 203 Sliema-Rabat route. While many people frequently complain about Arriva, one should also publicise such unusual, generous acts.

It may well have been the last official day of the company in Malta, but hopefully, such courtesy will be carried over and continued by the new transport service, whatever form or shape this will take.