X-FACTOR JUDGE IS NATIONAL WINTER BREAKDOWN HERO

A survey has revealed that motorists would choose Cheryl Cole as their winter breakdown hero.

Goodyear teamed up with Mountain Rescue England and Wales to commission the research to reveal how motorists prepare and drive during the cold weather.

Results showed that 36% of drivers questioned would like Cheryl Cole to come to their rescue in the event of a breakdown with Robbie Williams polling as the top male celebrity choice.

However, Goodyear’s brand manager, Michelle Fisher, said that the results also showed a lack of awareness when it came to driving safely throughout the winter: “While our national survey in partnership with Mountain Rescue produced some fun results, it also shows areas of great concern.

“From those drivers questioned over 80% said they didn’t fit cold weather tyres, 11% said they carried out no basic vehicle safety checks and 47% didn’t carry a winter car kit containing essential items such as a snow shovel and fleece blanket.”

Michelle added: “It’s important that drivers know how best to prepare for the difficult driving conditions, as a little basic preparation can prevent incidents that require the help of breakdown and emergency services .”

Goodyear recommends motorists switch to cold weather tyres when temperatures drop below 7oC to improve car handling and braking performance. Goodyear’s award winning UltraGrip 7+ cold weather tyre delivers unparalleled control in hazardous winter conditions. Voted best cold weather tyre by a leading weekly car magazine, the tyre was tested and proven to stop six car lengths shorter than a conventional tyre on snow.

For more information on cold weather tyres and winter driving tips visit www.goodyear.co.uk.

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News release issued on behalf of Goodyear by Connect PR

For further information call Lee Southen on 01902 714 957 or email lee@connect-group.com

'HERO HECTOR' RECEIVES NATIONAL SAFETY ACCOLADE

An Aberdeen lollipop man has made the shortlist in Goodyear’s national search for the best unsung school safety hero.

Hector McKenzie, affectionately known as Hero Hector, was nominated by colleagues, pupils and parents from Ferryhill Primary School due to his extraordinary commitment to school safety.

Christine Dunhill, chairperson of Ferryhill Primary School’s parent council, said: “We nominated Hector because he has been tirelessly teaching road safety for nearly ten years outside our school in the rain, sleet, snow and sunshine.

“He participates in road safety activities with children from nursery and upwards. He brings his own warmth to the role, which is reflected in the wee presents he receives from the children and parents at this time of year. In addition, Hector has been pro-active in reminding impatient drivers around the school to be mindful of children at the beginning and end of school days.”

On making the national shortlist Hector said: “I’m thrilled to have made the shortlist. I’ve been the school’s lollipop man for about 20 years, so it’s lovely for the community to recognise my work in this way.”

Hector is now in with a chance of winning a set of Goodyear OptiGrip tyres for his car. Tyres that provide shorter braking distances in the wet by revealing new tread as it wears. For being shortlisted, he has already won high visibility jackets and a brightly coloured walking rope for the children at Ferryhill Primary School.

Michelle Fisher, brand manager at Goodyear, commented: “To hear about Hector’s work is simply an inspiration to us all. Road safety is an important message that needs to be communicated to children, especially when they are travelling to and from school. It’s encouraging to see so many individuals being recognised for their outstanding efforts and safety initiatives.”

For more information about Goodyear visit www.goodyear.co.uk .

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News release issued on behalf of Goodyear by Connect PR

For further information call Lee Southen on 01902 714 957 or email lee@connect-group.com

TYRE-LESS PAM RECEIVES NATIONAL SAFETY ACCOLADE

A Basildon financial officer has made the shortlist in Goodyear’s national search for the best unsung school safety hero.

Pam Slingsby, affectionately known as tyre-less Pam, was nominated by colleagues, pupils and parents at Basildon Church of England Primary School due to her extraordinary commitment to school safety.

Paul Field, headmaster at Basildon Church of England Primary School, said: “We’ve nominated Pam because she has worked to create a safe environment for our children through her knowledge and application of health and safety procedures.

“She is meticulous in her organisation and constantly aware of the need to consider the correct safety provisions for school events and developments.”

Speaking of her nomination, Pam said: “A lot of the health and safety work devolved to me from our headmaster when I joined the school in 2004. It has become one of my favourite aspects of the job – so I’m delighted that the school has nominated me for this award.”

Pam is now in with a chance of winning a set of Goodyear OptiGrip tyres for her car. Tyres that provide shorter braking distances in the wet by revealing new tread as it wears. For being shortlisted, she has already won high visibility jackets and a brightly coloured walking rope for the children at Basildon Church of England Primary School.

Michelle Fisher, brand manager at Goodyear, commented: “To hear about Pam’s work is simply an inspiration to us all. Road safety is an important message that needs to be communicated to children, especially when they are travelling to and from school. It’s encouraging to see so many individuals being recognised for their outstanding efforts and safety initiatives.”

For more information about Goodyear visit www.goodyear.co.uk .

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News release issued on behalf of Goodyear by Connect PR

For further information call Lee Southen on 01902 714 957 or email lee@connect-group.com

SUPER STEVE RECEIVES NATIONAL SAFETY ACCOLADE

A Portsmouth school site manager has made the shortlist in Goodyear’s national search for the best unsung school safety hero.

Steve Culver, affectionately known as super Steve, was nominated by colleagues, pupils and parents at Medina Primary School due to his extraordinary commitment to school safety.

Howard Payne, headmaster at Medina Primary School, said: “We’ve nominated Steve because of the superb dedication he’s displayed in a short space of time. During the winter he arrives early to ensure the pathways, which are very long, are safe and clear for pupils.

“He also ensures that the community events and activities held at the school premises after hours do not have an adverse effect on the safety of pupils. In the short time Steve’s been here, he’s made a real impact.”

Speaking of his nomination, Steve said: “I’m really pleased to have been nominated for this award as I get a lot of fulfilment from helping people, so it’s good to know other people get that feeling from the work I do.”

Steve is now in with a chance of winning a set of Goodyear OptiGrip tyres for his car. Tyres that provide shorter braking distances in the wet by revealing new tread as it wears. For being shortlisted, he has already won high visibility jackets and a brightly coloured walking rope for the children at Medina Primary School.

Michelle Fisher, brand manager at Goodyear, commented: “To hear about Steve’s work is simply an inspiration to us all. Road safety is an important message that needs to be communicated to children, especially when they are travelling to and from school. It’s encouraging to see so many individuals being recognised for their outstanding efforts and safety initiatives.”

For more information about Goodyear visit www.goodyear.co.uk.

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News release issued on behalf of Goodyear by Connect PR

For further information call Lee Southen on 01902 714 957 or email lee@connect-group.com

HORSHAM ANNOUNCED AS SECOND LOCATION FOR GOODYEAR PETROL GIVEAWAY

Tyre giant announces Horsham as second location for its EfficientGrip fuel campaign.

A nationwide campaign by tyre leader Goodyear to promote its environmentally friendly EfficientGrip tyres will come to Horsham on Saturday.

Goodyear is teaming up with Texaco on Brighton Road in Mannings Heath, Horsham, to give motorists a £20 fill up on Saturday 6 November. The free £20 top up of unleaded or diesel fuel will be available from 10am to 2pm or until stocks run out.

The campaign launched this week in Gateshead where over 700 motorists benefitted from £20 of free fuel.

Michelle Fisher, Goodyear’s brand manager, said: “The campaign is designed to educate motorists on the benefits of fitting EfficientGrip tyres to their car. They can save financially as well as helping the environment.

“Once fitted, our EfficientGrip tyres could be saving motorists as much as 1 litre of fuel in every tank – this is because the tyre uses a new generation of tread compound, which reduces the amount of energy needed to make the tyre roll. This lower rolling resistance causes a lower rate of fuel consumption, reducing the C02 emissions a car emits.”

Goodyear’s generosity does not end at the pump in Horsham. A £10 Sainsbury’s fuel voucher will also be given to customers for every EfficientGrip tyre they purchase at a participating HiQ outlet in the region or via www.hiqonline.co.uk.

Along with improving fuel efficiency, the tyre offers high-mileage, good wet braking performance, resistance to aquaplaning and a noticeably quiet ride.

Horsham is one of five petrol giveaway locations across England. The final three will be announced in the coming days with plenty of opportunity for the whole of the country to benefit from the free fuel giveaway.

For further information about the campaign visit www.goodyear.co.uk

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Notes to journalists

News release issued on behalf of Goodyear by Connect PR. For further information call Lee Southen on 01902 714 959/07971 465739 or email lee@connect-group.com.

A senior team of Goodyear personnel will be available on the day. Press are invited to the Texaco station on Saturday 6 November. Please call Lee on 07974 230690 if you would like to attend or would like to send a photographer/crew.

Goodyear announces petrol giveaway

Tyre giant announces Gateshead as first location for its EfficientGrip fuel campaign with four more locations to follow

A nationwide campaign by tyre leader Goodyear to promote its environmentally friendly EfficientGrip tyres will be launched on Tuesday 2 November in Gateshead.

Goodyear is teaming up with five petrol stations across England to give motorists free petrol. The free £20 top up of unleaded or diesel fuel will be available for four hours each day or until stocks run out with an estimated 600 motorists expected to benefit at each location.

Michelle Fisher, Goodyear’s brand manager, said: “The campaign is designed to educate motorists on the benefits of fitting EfficientGrip tyres to their car. They can save financially as well as helping the environment.

“Once fitted, our EfficientGrip tyres could be saving motorists as much as 1 litre of fuel in every tank – this is because the tyre uses a new generation of tread compound, which reduces the amount of energy needed to make the tyre roll. This lower rolling resistance causes a lower rate of fuel consumption, reducing the C02 emissions a car emits.”

Goodyear’s generosity does not end at the pump. A £10 Sainsbury’s fuel voucher will also be given to customers for every EfficientGrip tyre they purchase at a participating HiQ outlet in the region or via www.hiqonline.co.uk.

Along with improving fuel efficiency, the tyre offers high-mileage, good wet braking performance, resistance to aquaplaning and a noticeably quiet ride.

Gateshead is one of five petrol giveaway locations across England. The next four will be announced during November with plenty of opportunity for people to benefit from the free fuel giveaway.

For further information about the campaign visit www.goodyear.co.uk.

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Notes to journalists

News release issued on behalf of Goodyear by Connect PR. For further information call Hazel Crawford-Upton on 01902 714 959/07974 230690 or email hazel@connect-group.com.

MOTORISTS GRIPPED BY CHARITABLE SUPPORT

The Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) is set to receive a boost to its fundraising efforts thanks to global tyre giant Goodyear.

Throughout September any motorist purchasing a set of four OptiGrip tyres will see £10 go to the lifesaving charity. For every individual tyre sold a £2.50 payment will be made. The money raised will go towards the RNLI Beach Safety Programme, of which Goodyear is the main sponsor.

Michelle Fisher, Goodyear’s brand manager, said: “As experts in safety and innovation, we are committed to supporting lifesaving organisations to help maintain their already high standards, and the RNLI is of no exception.

“For over three years, we have been championing the work of the charity by contributing over £130,000. Our focus has always been on safety through innovation and the OptiGrip tyre certainly exemplifies this statement.”

Becky Higgin, RNLI corporate partnership manager, added: “The donation made through the sale of OptiGrip tyres will go towards the RNLI Beach Safety Programme – providing important beach safety advice to help keep people safe at the seaside. We thank Goodyear for this initiative and look forward to extending our relationship with them.”

The OptiGrip tyre, with Smartwear Technology, reveals new tread as it wears to ensure high levels of performance are delivered throughout its life. Even after 18,000 miles, it gives a 20%, or 11 metres, shorter braking distance in the wet than other leading tyres.

For more information on Goodyear and its safety partnership with the RNLI, visit www.goodyear.co.uk.

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News release issued on behalf of Goodyear by Connect PR

For further information call Lee Southen on 01902 714 957 or email lee@connect-group.com

YOUNG EXPLORERS SET TO STAR IN CHARITY CALENDAR

Goodyear is giving young explorers the chance to win a special place in a charity calendar by sending in their best outdoor snaps.

The global tyre giant has commissioned the competition to celebrate its safety partnership with Mountain Rescue England and Wales. The calendar will help increase awareness of the lifesaving organisation and raise much needed funds.

Michelle Fisher, Goodyear’s brand manager, said: “Whether you are digging around in the back garden, walking a nature trail or simply exploring your local park, we want to hear of your adventures.

“By pledging our support to Mountain Rescue England and Wales we have further underlined our commitment to safety. By providing the latest innovations to make motoring even safer, we firmly believe that by supporting this life saving service we can find new ways to protect people across the country.”

Competition winners will each receive an explorers pack featuring a pair of binoculars, mini first aid kit, compass and torch as well as a copy of the 2011 calendar. One overall winner will win a family (two adults) National Trust annual membership package.

Entries should be emailed to explorer@connect-group.com no later than Friday 17th September 2010. For further information visit www.goodyear.co.uk or become a fan of Goodyear_uk on facebook.

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News release issued on behalf of Goodyear by Connect PR

For further information call Lee Southen on 01902 714 957 or email lee@connect-group.com

SURF'S UP FOR CHILDREN

Goodyear is offering young beach-goers the opportunity to hit the surf in style this summer.

The global tyre giant, in partnership with the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI), is asking children from across the region to design their own bodyboard. The competition is being run to draw attention to the importance of beach safety.

One lucky winner will receive a bodyboard complete with stylish carry bag and four runners-up will win a Goodyear / RNLI goodie bag filled with a cap, t-shirt, sun cream and leash string as well as other summer safety related prizes.

Michelle Fisher, brand manager for Goodyear, said: “This is a great opportunity for one lucky person to be at the forefront of bodyboard fashion this summer.

“As people head to the region’s fantastic beaches we want to equip them with all the safety advice they need to have a great day out. It’s especially important to remind people to make sure their vehicles are in good condition before they embark on a long journey. For example, avoid potentially dangerous situations by checking the pressure and tread depth of your tyres.”

Goodyear has continued its support for the RNLI by becoming the official sponsor of the charity’s Beach Safety Roadshow. Reaching over 15,000 people during a planned summer schedule of events, the RNLI’s mobile beach safety roadshow will look to communicate key messages of safety to beach-goers across the UK. The charity’s key beach safety advice is to always swim at a lifeguarded beach, between the red and yellow flags.

To enter the competition, send an email to safety@connect-group.com to request an entry form or download the competition template by becoming a fan of Goodyear_uk on facebook.

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Photo caption: Goodyear’s brand manager Michelle Fisher with children from Beechcroft St Pauls Primary School in Weymouth.

News release issued on behalf of Goodyear by Connect PR

For further information call Lee Southen on 01902 714 957 or email lee@connect-group.com

GOODYEAR GIVES TOP MARKS TO SCHOOL SAFETY

School safety is to be rewarded in a national campaign to find the UK’s unsung safety heroes.

Global tyre giant Goodyear is calling on pupils, parents and teachers to make the nominations in a bid to recognise those who make schools a safer environment to teach, learn and play.

Lollipop ladies who turn out rain or shine to cross children safely or school governors who work tirelessly to introduce playground safety equipment; whoever the person, Goodyear wants to know your reason to award them this prestigious accolade.

Schools will win high visibility jackets and a brightly coloured walking rope from the best twenty nominations received and a set of OptiGrip tyres will be awarded to the winning safety hero to thank them for their contribution to society.

Michelle Fisher, Goodyear’s brand manager, said: “Most communities across the UK know somebody who goes above and beyond their normal call of duty to help others. Goodyear wants to acknowledge these individuals and thank the schools for nominating them.

“Safety is an important message that needs to be communicated to children, especially when they are travelling to and from school. The message of be safe, be seen is still relevant today especially when drivers do not allow themselves enough stopping distance when braking. This can be countered by fitting Goodyear OptiGrip tyres, which provide shorter braking distances in the wet by revealing new tread as it wears.”

People are encouraged to send in their nominations to safety@connect-group.com or via the Goodyear Tyres fan page on Facebook.

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News release issued on behalf of Goodyear by Connect PR

For further information call Lee Southen on 01902 714 957 or email lee@connect-group.com

GETTING TO GRIPS WITH BEACH SAFETY

Goodyear has announced it will become the official sponsor of the RNLI’s Beach Safety Roadshow this summer in a deal worth £50,000.

The partnership with the charity will see the global tyre giant, renowned for its safety and innovation, raise awareness on tyre maintenance and communicate key messages of safety to beach-goers across the UK.

The RNLI’s mobile beach safety roadshow will reach over 15,000 people during a planned summer schedule of events, which will educate families and young children about beach safety, including the importance of swimming at a lifeguarded beach, the meaning of beach safety flags and safety information for specific beach hazards and activities.

Michelle Fisher, Goodyear’s brand manager, said: “Safety is important, but it doesn’t mean that family days out to the beach have to be less fun. By working in partnership with the RNLI, we are aiming to provide beach-goers with all the safety advice they need to have a great day out that will be remembered for all the right reasons.

“We should also remind families to check that their tyres are in good condition before making a journey to the beach this summer. Driving long distances without checking the condition of your tyres can be dangerous. This is why drivers should be prepared by equipping their car with the right tyres and making sure their vehicle is in good working condition.”

Becky Higgin, RNLI corporate partnerships manager, said: “This news further extends our relationship with Goodyear as one of our key safety partners. To date, the firm has supported the charity with over £130,000.”

The RNLI advises beach-goers, particularly those planning to use the water, to choose a lifeguarded beach and swim between the red and yellow flags. The RNLI’s guide to beach safety, On The Beach, is packed full of top safety tips. It is available free-of-charge by emailing beachsafety@rnli.org.uk or calling 0800 328 0600.

For more information about Goodyear visit www.goodyear.co.uk or visit www.rnli.org.uk/beachsafety for more beach safety information.

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News release issued on behalf of Goodyear by Connect PR

For further information call Lee Southen on 01902 714 957 or email lee@connect-group.com

TRYING TIME CONVERTS INTO AUSTRALIAN RUGBY PRIZE

A tireless Exeter automotive manager is swapping Sowton for Sydney after years of hard work were converted into a trip of a lifetime down under.

Stuart Martin from Mid Devon Tyres on Apple Lane will travel to Australia to watch England take on the Wallabies after the centre scooped the top prize in Goodyear’s spring rugby promotion.

The prize was donated to Stuart by managing director Jamie Potter in recognition for his dedication to the job, despite a year of personal hardship. “When I heard we had won, I instantly knew what to do with the prize,” said Jamie. “Having three young children made it very difficult for me to accept the prize, so I gave the holiday to Stuart. It’s my way of saying thank you for his hard work last year, even though he experienced a terrible run of bad luck what with family illness and bereavement to contend with.”

Michelle Fisher, Goodyear’s brand manager, added: “We have all been inspired by Jamie’s generosity and hope that Stuart enjoys this prize. The rugby promotion has proved hugely popular and we hope that the England rugby team can display the same superb handling and performance qualities that our tyres deliver to motorists.”

Goodyear’s rugby promotion was held across the firm’s national network of tyre dealers to celebrate its support of the IRB Rugby Ready programme. A programme which helps train aspiring rugby coaches to ensure the highest standards of safety are maintained. The promotion coincided with the RBS Six Nations Rugby Championship and rewarded customers with free rugby balls and shirts for Goodyear tyres fitted to their vehicle.

For more information visit www.goodyear.co.uk

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Photo caption: from left to right, Jamie Potter, Stuart Martin (Mid Devon Tyres) and Michelle Fisher (Goodyear brand manager)

News release issued on behalf of Goodyear by Connect PR

For further information call Lee Southen on 01902 714 957 or email lee@connect-group.com

BOBBY CONVERTS TYRES INTO AUSTRALIAN RUGBY PRIZE

A police officer from Wakefield is celebrating having won a trip of a lifetime down under.

Pete Judd and his partner Toni Braithwaite will travel to Australia to watch England take on the Wallabies having scooped the top prize in Goodyear’s spring rugby promotion.

As a lifelong rugby fan and seasoned player, Peter nearly missed out on his sporting dream thanks to the volcanic ash cloud delaying his return from America. “I couldn’t quite believe the news that we had won,” said a jubilant Pete. “Even though we were amongst the unfortunate holidaymakers to have been caught up in the travel chaos, we were lucky enough to accept the prize just in time. I nearly fainted with shock when I opened the letter and realised the cut off date had been that day.”

Michelle Fisher, Goodyear’s brand manager, said: “We are delighted to award this prize to Pete having purchased a set of Goodyear tyres from his local tyre retailer HiQ Wakefield. Our tyres provide motorists with superb handling and performance; the same qualities that we hope the England rugby team will display during the RFU Summer Tour.”

Goodyear’s rugby promotion was held across the firm’s national network of tyre dealers to celebrate its support of the IRB Rugby Ready programme. A programme which helps train aspiring rugby coaches to ensure the highest standards of safety are maintained. The promotion coincided with the RBS Six Nations Rugby Championship and rewarded customers with free rugby balls and shirts for Goodyear tyres fitted to their vehicle.

For more information visit www.goodyear.co.uk

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Photo caption: from left to right, Gary Dixon (HiQ retail area manager), Pete Judd, Toni Braithwaite and Michelle Fisher (Goodyear brand manager).

News release issued on behalf of Goodyear by Connect PR

For further information call Lee Southen on 01902 714 957 or email lee@connect-group.com