Eco-friendly Eric is green driving force behind air quality initiative in west end

Apr 26 2012 By Joe McGuire

Eric Kay Image 1

WEST end drivers breaking the law now have more than the police and traffic wardens to worry about.

Local resident Eric Kay has taken to the busy streets of the area to warn drivers sitting with their engines idling that they face a £20 fine, as he fights to improve the air quality in the area.

The 61-year-old property manager started his one-man-campaign last month and has been surprised by the mostly positive response.

And while the moniker vigilante has been jokingly bandied about at his local community council meeting, it's not one Eric is comfortable with.

He said: "I don't like the title vigilante.

"For the most part my campaign is being received very well, and I think it's all down to approach.

"I just speak to people very politely and for the most part find that it's simply ignorance of the law and environmental impact that keeps their engines running."

Eric was inspired by the example of George Pakenham, who undertook a similiar campaign in the Big Apple against idling vehicles.

He said: "At the community council meetings hearing residents woes I was so frustrated I just felt I had to get involved.

"It's far more satisfying rolling up your sleeves and taking direct action than complaining about the failings of the council.

It's this can-do attitude that last year made Eric the overall winner of the Clean Glasgow Awards, thanks to his continuing efforts keeping his community beautiful.

The city council have welcomed Mr Kay's actions and provided him with the leaflets he hands out to law-breakers.

A spokesman said: "Mr Kay is the driving force behind a whole range of environmental projects in his area – and was the overall winner of last year's Clean Glasgow Awards in recognition of his role in building a happier, saferand cleaner community.

"We will continue to carry out enforcement operations, but his positive approach to the problem in his own neighbourhood is a great example of how we can all do something to improve the city’s air quality."