Good Santa, bad Santa

Motorists who fall foul of the law, however, will be handed a bound bunch of sticks-the traditional Polish token for children who have misbehaved during the year. Officers will hand out the bundles to motorists caught flouting the law during the festive season. The 'beating sticks' were used in the past to discipline youngsters who didn't deserve Christmas presents. 'Operation Santa' is being rolled out in Gorzów Wielkopolski and Zielona Góra throughout December. Police spokesman Slawomir Konieczny says: "We have prepared 200 sticks for the drivers who don't obey the rules. Through our action we would like to not only create a special atmosphere before Christmas but promote safe driving as well." Drivers committing more serious offences can expect a fine as well.
(J.T.)