ELECTRIC cars will surround Newton Abbot Clock Tower as part of the nationwide campaign.

Newton Abbot will host its first electric vehicle roadshow on Saturday, September 25, as part of the Great Big Green Week.

This is a nationwide campaign to highlight the need for urgent action on climate and nature ahead of COP26, the United Nations climate talks, later this year in Glasgow.

Taking place between September 18 to 26, the Great Big Green Week campaign will see thousands of people across the UK organising local festivals and events.

The campaign aims to draw attention to climate change and the destruction of the natural world, while also making a connection with these issues in communities like Newton Abbot, at the same time as showcasing actions to tackle climate change.

The electric vehicle event, organised by Action on Climate in Teignbridge (ACT), in associa- tion with ChargeWorks, a local electric vehicle consultancy, runs from 10am until 4pm by the clock tower in Newton Abbot.

Throughout the day visitors will be able to drop in and quiz local peo- ple and electric vehicle experts on what it is like to own and drive an electric car.

They will get the chance to chat to car owners and ask crucial questions like: How long does it take to charge an electric car? How far can it go? How is it to drive? Where do you charge it? How is it better for the environment?

There will be a range of cars to suit all tastes and budgets.

Kate Benham, chair of ACT says: ‘If you are thinking of switching to an electric vehicle next time you buy a car, the roadshow is a great opportunity to find out if it’s the right choice for you as well as the environment.

‘Transport makes up nearly one fifth of total carbon emissions for Newton Abbot residents so making the switch will help cut your emissions and reduce pollution.’

Emma Fancett of ChargeWorks is excited to join ACT for this community event to showcase how local people are making electric transport work for them.

‘In a time of such rapid change in the automotive industry, it’s no surprise people are left with questions about the practicalities of switching to an electric car,’ says Emma.

The event will also be an opportunity to find out more about what you can do to reduce your carbon footprint and help wildlife.

Bring the kids along to enjoy the interactive activi- ties on offer and check out the Wildlife Warden stall to find out about wildlife gardening and test your wildlife ID skills. Quiz Teignbridge District Council on what they are doing to tackle to climate and ecological emergencies.

There is plenty going on elsewhere in Teignbridge for the Great Big Green Week, starting with ‘The Great Big Green Dawlish Lawn Event’ on September 18.

This is a green themed musical event coordinated by Sustainable Dawlish, Transition with a variety of information stands, including ACT’s, to help understand how to protect the environment and live a greener life.

For more information visit: actionclimateteignbridge.org or dawlishtransition.org.uk and greatbiggreenweek.com