The free trip to London organised by Andrew Turner, the Island’s MP and supported by Southern Vectis and Red Funnel has been hailed a success that will be repeated, but it is hoped that the next one will take place in the run-up to Christmas later this year.
Over 250 Islanders put their names into the ballot for 50 places, and the majority of those who travelled to the capital also took advantage of the opportunity of a free tour of the Houses of Parliament.
Mr Turner said:
“Everybody seemed to have a great time, despite a very early start – and it was good to see so many Islanders up in Parliament. We have had some lovely thank-you notes, one lady said “I was one of the lucky Islanders who went to London yesterday. What a great day! Informative and enjoyable and we were well looked after throughout.”
“I am very grateful to Southern Vectis and Red Funnel for making this trip possible and they have both said they would be happy to do it again. Depending on what can be organised we may aim to do it before Christmas as some people might like to use it as an opportunity to indulge in some gift shopping. Although places will be awarded by ballot again next time, I will look at ways of giving some preference to those who applied this time, but were unsuccessful, perhaps by putting their names in the hat twice.”
A spokesman for Red Funnel added:
“The Company was delighted to support the London trip which appears to have been a great success”
