Hitch hiking

Hitch hikers were a common sight in the 50s and 60s (and even into the 70s) and most people did not seem to worry about what we all see as risks nowadays. If I had a long trip, I used to look for a hitch hiker to help keep me awake on the journey. People used to go off on hitch hiking holidays across Europe. The London end of the M1 always had a good number of people with their thumb and a cheerful smile on display; some couples used to put the attractive girl our on show and the boyfriend, complete with mountains of luggage would reveal himself once the motorist was snared!  Can't remember the last time I saw one - although I do occasionally see a car delivery person with their trade plates showing.