The Island’s MP, Andrew Turner, is inviting Islanders to enter a ballot for his third annual coach trip to London on Tuesday 8th December, which includes a tour of the Houses of Parliament.
Island residents can enter the ballot for one or two tickets.
Mr Turner said:
“I am very grateful once again this year to Matt Kitchin, General Manager of Southern Vectis, and to Kevin George, Chief Executive of Red Funnel Ferries, for making it possible for me to offer Islanders a trip to London, including a guided tour of the House of Commons and an opportunity to do some last-minute Christmas shopping.
“Many people have written to say how much they enjoyed the previous trips so I am pleased to offer this opportunity again to more Islanders.
The trip, including coach travel and ferry crossings is free, however, as a number of people simply didn’t turn up last year, leaving no time to offer the places to other people, I have decided to ask for £10 per person in advance to secure their place. The money will be donated to Independent Lifeboat services based on the Isle of Wight; Freshwater Bay and Sandown & Shanklin Independent Lifeboats and Ryde Inshore Rescue Service”.
There will be two pick-up points, Newport and Ryde for those successful in the ballot, with an early start at around 06:00 in the morning. Alternatively you can meet the coach in East Cowes for the crossing to Southampton, arriving in London late morning. The party will leave London late afternoon in time to catch the 18:00 ferry back to the Island, and passengers will be dropped off in Newport or Ryde.
To apply for up to two tickets in the ballot, email [email protected] or write to Andrew Turner MP, The Riverside Centre, The Quay, Newport, Isle of Wight, PO30 2QR giving the name, address, telephone number and email address of each person wishing to travel.
Those who have applied unsuccessfully in previous years will have two entries in the ballot if they apply again this year. The closing date for ballot applications is Friday 20th November. Successful applicants will be notified on Tuesday 24th November.
For more information, telephone Denise Dorley-Brown in Andrew Turner’s office on 01983 530808.
