‘Is a hit squad needed for engine idlers?’

• FOR rogue cyclists, the carrot hasn’t worked and we need a hit squad. But is a hit squad needed for engine idlers?

For the past year, whenever I am not in a rush and walking, and I pass an idling car, I smile, knock on the window, apologise for interrupting the occupant(s), and point out the dangers to their own health (apparently the toxins are three times worse inside the car), and to the environment, of idling the engine, when it takes just a second to turn off the ignition.

I also mention the cost implications. Ninety-eight per cent of the people are pleasant, even apologetic, and turn off their engines. Many have even thanked me! Unlike cyclists, no one has become belligerent, although several have excuses for idling (charging phone, aircon etc).

My little speech takes one minute. So far, I think I’ve gotten through to around 400 vehicles. If everyone tried this a few times a week, we’d make much better progress than the Town Hall.

Some drivers have explained to me that the problem is that their vans and trucks are designed to work only with the engines on, such as refrigerator trucks delivering food (in plastic bags and yet more containers) and even the automatic ramps at the rear of lorries. These design limitations can perhaps be altered.

JOYCE GLASSER
Savernake Road, NW3