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.

ENDS

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.

ENDS

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