The idea of banning cars for one day a year - to give the air a bit of breathing space - may work in Italy and France.

But with only two buses a week, the 170-plus villagers who work anywhere other than home would struggle to get to the office.

"Retired people would be all right," said Mollie Woodbine, a local councillor and clerk to Rostherne Parish Council.

"But it wouldn't be possible for anyone going to work - unless they worked at the farm down the road."

Despite the difficulties for some, though, Cheshire County Council may soon begin searching for volunteers - towns and villages to take part in next year's European Car Free Day

"The day is already very successful in Italy and France," said Cty Clr Molly Hale. "It makes sound environmental sense and will allow residents to experience a lack of noise and pollution in a traffic-free environment."

The city of Bath is among the places to have signed up for this year's European Car Free Day on Friday September 22.

"I believe Cheshire could play its part next year," said Clr Hale.

But Knutsford - if chosen - could also have a job trying to make it work.

There are buses and trains but not always when workers want them.

"Sometimes I take the train into Manchester if I have got a long meeting because it saves on the hassle of parking," said 41-year-old Ann Gronback, who runs Solus PR from her home in Grove Park.

"But if it's a quick in-and-out, I'll drive because it takes almost three hours and I haven't got the time."

In the past two weeks business appointments have taken her to England, Wales and Scotland.

"I am all in favour of a car-free day, but I'm not sure of the practicalities of it," she said.

Wilson Hamman, 65, of Lowe Drive, swears by public transport and says a one-day scheme could serve as a reminder of what's needed to help cut down on pollution.

But he blames lorries - not cars - for the bulk of the Knutsford's traffic problems.

He's also aware of the downside to public transport.

"Just trying to figure out train and bus timetables is like learning to read music," he said. "Eventually you get used to it."

Clr Hamman has never learned to drive.

"I tried to learn years ago, but I found it wasn't me at all," he said. "I am better on a horse."

About 200 passengers board the Knutsford train to Manchester every morning.

"The trains aren't absolutely full but they couldn't cope with many more people," said Andrew MacFarlane, 40, chairman of the Mid Cheshire Rail Users' Association.

Molly Hale - the county council enthusiast of the car-free day - believes arrangements could be made with Macclesfield Borough Council, Cheshire and the bus companies to lay on extra services.

"In the past where bus operators have not been able to adjust timetables, collectors of vintage and historic buses have added to the range of public transport available on the day," she said.

But it's Rostherne that undoubtedly would struggle the most.

With two buses a week - on a Tuesday and a Friday - everyone would need to work part-time.

And since the bus doesn't leave until 10.55am on both days, everyone would also need an understanding boss who encourages flexitime.

For after just over two hours at the office, it would be time to catch the last bus home - at 1.40pm.

"Either that or get on your bike," said Mollie.

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