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Pontypool Man Launches Independent Welsh Border Toll Booth and Makes £5,000 Before Lunch
SEVERN BRIDGE / SOMEWHERE NEAR THE TOLL SIGNS — Residents across South Wales were left baffled this week after Huw James of Pontypool reportedly set up a folding table near the Welsh side of the Severn Bridge and began charging motorists £5 cash only to enter Wales.
According to witnesses, Huw arrived promptly at 9:00am armed with:
- A camping chair
- A flask of tea
- A handwritten sign saying: “WELCOME TO WALES – £5 PLEASE”
💷 “It Just Made Sense”
When questioned about his authority to collect money, Huw reportedly replied:
“Nobody else was doing it.”
He added:
“You’ve got to pay to get into lots of places. Why should Wales be any different?”
🚗 Motorists Surprisingly Cooperative
Drivers crossing into Wales appeared remarkably willing to hand over their fivers.
One motorist admitted:
“He looked official enough. He had a hi-vis jacket.”
Another said:
“There was a traffic cone. I assumed it was government.”
☕ Business Booming
By 11:30am, Huw had reportedly collected several hundred pounds and upgraded from a flask of tea to a full English breakfast from a nearby café.
Witnesses claimed he was heard saying:
“Best decision I’ve made since buying that patio heater.”
🧠 Government Confusion
Welsh officials only became aware of the situation after receiving dozens of emails asking:
“Can I pay by card next time?”
One civil servant reportedly asked:
“Who exactly is Huw James?”
Another replied:
“Apparently he’s in charge of Wales now.”
💰 Expansion Plans
Buoyed by his success, Huw allegedly began considering additional services:
- Fast-track entry lane (£10)
- Welsh language discount (50p off)
- Unlimited annual crossing pass (£49.99)
🚓 Police Response
When officers eventually arrived, they reportedly found Huw sitting comfortably in his chair counting pound coins.
Asked what he was doing, he simply pointed to the queue and said:
“Customer service.”
🏡 Closing Time
At exactly 5:00pm, Huw packed away his table, folded up his chair and headed home.
Before leaving, he allegedly placed a sign on the barrier stating:
“Back Tomorrow. Cash Only.”
🎤 Final Statement
Speaking from his living room later that evening, Huw reflected on the day:
“It was hard work, mind. Standing up twice and making all that change.”
At press time, rumours were circulating that Huw was considering opening a second booth on the M4, while economists confirmed:
“Technically it’s not a tax. It’s just Huw being Huw.” 😄🚗💷🏴
