Now you see it, now you don't

Motorist, Alan Clarke, from Chesterfield has been ordered by the DVLA to remove his number plate BO11 LUX from his black Range Rover. In their opinion, the implied word was "causing offence".

Perhaps something of an over-reaction. We can't see how it could possibly upset anyone.

The bizarre twist to this tale is that it is the very same government agency which, just six weeks ago, sold the number to Alan for £399, who are now demanding its withdrawal.

"It's absolutely ludicrous," says a bemused Mr Clarke. "I saw it on the DVLA website last November and thought it would be a bit of fun to put it on my new car."

The DVLA's stance is that the number has 'slipped through the net'. Somewhat alarmingly, under the current arrangements, it would appear that the licensing authorities can decide at any time that a registration purchased in good faith is no longer valid and force the registrant to give it up.

"'This particular registration plate has been withdrawn," said a spokesman, "therefore it is an offence for the driver to still be displaying it. He would receive a refund for the plate."

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