Friday, 08 January 2010

Guy Salmon supports police in Portsmouth during adverse weather!

Police in Portsmouth have been delighted to receive two high powered vehicles to assist in getting around the city in the wintry conditions we have seen this week, thanks to Guy Salmon Land Rover.

PC Alan Hockley was tasked with securing additional vehicles for use in the snow and ice, and after liaising with colleagues in the Ministry of Defence police, Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service and the Navy, he had the idea to approach the Land Rover dealership in North Harbour.

Manager Alex Matschy immediately agreed to lend support with the loan of two four by four show vehicles; a Land Rover Freelander worth £25,000, and a Range Rover Sport worth £52,000.

The company then went one step further and John Haylett, who is professionally trained in handling off road vehicles, gave advice to officers on how to use these cars to their best in the hazardous road conditions.

Since collection of the vehicles, late in the afternoon on January 6, they have been in constant use, helping officers reach those in need, and pulling vehicles out where they have slipped on the ice and left the road.

PC Hockley said, “I was so pleased when we were offered these vehicles, they are of excellent standard and have proved invaluable to us in making sure we can help everyone who has needed emergency assistance. Officers and staff in Portsmouth have been working extremely hard during the last few days, helping people get around the city both on foot and in vehicles. The snow and ice has caused many problems for both residents and visitors in the city, and this just demonstrates how people will go out of their way to help each other is a crisis. It’s been fantastic.”

Alex Matschy said, “We were more than happy to lend a hand, and glad to be able to do something to keep the city moving. We have all been affected by the snow, and if our vehicles can help the police in doing their job and getting to people in trouble, then it’s great. It’s what they are designed for!”