Date for Trolley Derby has been set

Anyone who went to last year's Blue Light Trolley Derby in Palmerston North knows it is a thrilling event not to be missed; so put a note firmly in your diary for Sunday 25, April. Blue Light is a nationwide police initiative designed to reduce the chances of young people becoming offenders and to encourage better relations between the police, young people, their families and the community. It does this by organising and running a number of supervised activities in an environment free from alcohol, drugs and violence. Trolley Derbys have been a feature of those activities over recent years around the country with individuals, companies and organisations racing homemade trolleys down a serious gradient - in Palmerston North that is Pork Chop Hill on Cliff Road, Palmerston North. Competition is already hotting up between the emergency services who challenge each other in the final race of the day. Last year the Army complained they only had two days to build their mean machine so expectations will be high when they unveil this year's secret weapon. The Police took 1st and 3rd positions last year with Fire taking 2nd and 4th, so the pressure is also on for St John to secure a podium position. Trolleys can be simple or high-tech but public safety is paramount so there are some strict ground rules and all trolleys will be scrutinized on the day. Trolleys must have brakes and mechanical steering is preferred. Rope steering may be allowed but ONLY on the short course. All competitors will be required to wear full-length clothing including trousers and long sleeves and a minimum of a cycle helmet is required. Elbow and knee pads will be an advantage. Organiser Detective Laurie Howell said: "Last year was the first time the event was held in Palmerston North. It was an absolutely awesome day and I hope it went some way to showing the human side of the emergency services, especially to the youngsters in our community. I'm looking forward to this year being even bigger and better." The event is free for spectators and $20 for anyone wanting to enter and race a trolley. Registration forms and a full list of rules are available from Palmerston North Police Station. For more information contact Laurie Howell on 06 351 3600 or go to www.bluelight.co.nz. Media enquiries should be referred to Communications Manager Kim Perks on 06 351 2546 or 027 234 8256.