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@dancing james
I sometimes find pedestrians infuriating but we should look out for the more vulnerable road users.
If you are in primary position you should have a better perspective of what is happening at the side of the road. Additionally by taking the lane it means you have space in the lance to make emergency manoeuvres either to the left or right.
If you are traveling close to parked vehicles your speed should be reduced to improve your chances of avoiding someone stepping out in front of you.
Speed ought to be moderated according to the conditions, so if it is wet, then travel more slowly.
Baz, from your description it sounds as if you tend to cycle in 2ndary position or even closer to the kerb, for clarification the following has been lifted from http://www.britishcycling.org.uk/cycletraining/article/ct20110110-cycletraining-Bitesize-Bikeability--Part-4--On-Road-Positioning-0
**Understanding Primary Road Position **
The primary road position is that of the general flow of traffic (ie in the centre of the lane). Contrary to what inexperienced cyclists may think, this is where they are often safer, as it is where they can most easily see and be seen. Trainees should be encouraged to think like a driver of a vehicle, and if in doubt position themselves where a vehicle would be.
Riding in the primary position is sometimes called taking the lane as the cyclist takes the position normally taken by the motorist, who is thus prevented from attempting to overtake.
When riding in the primary position, trainees should travel at a reasonable speed, as part of the traffic flow. If, however, traffic is building up behind them and the road ahead is clear, they may wish to move to the secondary position to avoid obstructing other road-users unnecessarily.
Understanding Secondary Road Position
The secondary road position (roughly 1 metre to the left of the traffic flow and not less than 0.5 metres to the edge of the road) may be appropriate if the road is wide enough to allow safe overtaking, and the rider’s safety is not reduced by riding in this position.
The correct choice of road position can be used to help riders affect driver behaviour, in order to help avoid collisions with other road users, or to avoid them having to brake suddenly. The secondary position is a useful position on most minor roads where there are few parked vehicles on the carriageway, and is particularly appealing to beginners as it leaves them closer to the perceived safety of the pavement.