MERSEYSIDE TRANSPORT PARTNERSHIP LEADS THE WAY WITH FUNDING APPLICATION FOR ELECTRIC CAR CHARGING POINTS

HUNDREDS of charging points for electric vehicles could be introduced across the area, following an application for funding submitted by Merseyside Transport Partnership (MTP) on behalf of Liverpool City Region (LCR) and Cheshire West & Chester.

As part of the Government’s Plugged-In Places sustainable transport scheme, MTP has already successfully submitted an expression of interest to be part of the second phase of the initiative. Further success would mean a network of electric vehicle charging points could be provided in car parks as well as in workplaces, commercial, retail and domestic properties.

Neil Scales, Chair of MTP said:- “Electric and low emission vehicles could have a big impact on the quality of air across the region and will help Merseyside achieve its targets for carbon reduction, as well as support jobs and help create a low carbon economy. If successful, we will be a leading force in the future development of a national charging infrastructure and the next generation of low emission vehicles.”

Organisations interested in the initiative have been attending free information sessions to learn more about electric vehicles and the scheme’s plans. General Motors has been involved in developing the application and may choose its Ellesmere Port plant to manufacture the Ampera, a range extended electric car. If successful, the bid will complement trials of the Smart Grid concept, which Scottish Power Energy Networks is running in the South of Liverpool. Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service will be looking at providing safety advice to those intending to charge electric vehicles at their homes.

Neil adds:- “We’ve had some of the area’s leading organisations express a real enthusiasm for this initiative. We’ve been overwhelmed at the support we’ve had and so far, we’ve had requests from companies to install more than 200 charging points. Several car parks are on board as well as tourist attractions, leisure and retail facilities, and workplaces. The Liverpool City Region local authorities are supporting the bid and working together to decide where charging points could be located. The full application has now been submitted and we look forward to hearing whether we have been successful in December 2010 or January 2010.”

Happiness is a bed next door

FANS booked to see the legendary Ken Dodd in action can enjoy every second of humour without worrying about missing a good night’s sleep, thanks to one of Merseyside’s leading hotels.

The comic king’s special Happiness Tour at Southport Theatre on 20 November 2010, celebrates his 50 years in show business and is scheduled to last at least five and a half hours.

With this in mind, the four star Ramada Plaza Hotel which adjoins the theatre has put together a special package for Ken Dodd devotees.

Explained General Manager Enda Rylands:- “Ken Dodd is famous for his lengthy performances – he even holds the world record for telling the longest ever joke. As we are next door to the theatre we decided to put a special package together for fans which will mean once the performance is over a comfortable bed is waiting for them. They can pre-book their rooms immediately and enjoy one of our delicious breakfasts in the morning.”

The Ramada Plaza boasts 133 stylish rooms including eight with floor to ceiling windows offering panoramic views of the coastline. Other facilities include a fitness suite, four meeting rooms and a brasserie.

Added Enda:- “Ken Dodd is one of our greatest living performers and every minute watching him is priceless. The show lasts for at least five hours but will no doubt over-run. We hope this special offer will enable fans to enjoy the show without worrying about missing too much sleep or getting home.”

LETTERS TO EDITOR:- "A New Children's Flower Show for 2011?"

"The Veterans Fund are considering holding an annual Children's Flower Show to be held in Southport next year. You may ask what do war Veterans and Horticulture have in common and the answer is nothing. The funds main aim is to raise awareness to our Armed Forces and Veterans and we see this as an opportunity for our veterans to go into schools and interact with the children. Many of our older veterans have a keen interest in gardening and have much to offer and at the show we will have displays and recruitment teams from the armed forces.We will also have the usual contests and classes as a normal flower show with trade stalls and entertainment. At the moment we are just testing the water to see what support we can expect from the education departments, schools, societies and traders before our committee makes the final decision and starts making plans and booking the park etc. We have had a meeting with Sefton Children's Services and they are very keen. We are also looking for sponsorship and funding if this is something you are interested in. I look forward to hearing from you with any thoughts or ideas. If you can help please email us to Louxandxsteve@aol.com with your contact information." Steve Hawkshaw, The Veterans Fund