UK petrol prices are high, but it doesn't affect me on a personal level as I don't drive.
Here in Manchester public transport is exceptional compared to most places. I live about 5 miles from the heart of Manchester. To get there I can either walk around the corner to get the bus there, or walk 10 mins to get on the Metro Link.
The Metro Link is a great service, it runs on the old train lines from South to North Manchester, loads of get off points. Once you get into Manchester centre it runs on the tram lines through the main shopping area.
The only bad time to get on the Metro is when Manchester United are playing!