WITH the country in a climate emergency, green transport is regarded as one of the best ways to reduce your carbon footprint.

Now, to get more people thinking greener, Salisbury’s civic chiefs are looking to lead by example to help reduce the city’s emissions.

One of those is new city mayor Councillor John Walsh, who ventures around the city using pedal power, rather than horse.

“I really got into cycling some ten years ago, when my hip, knee, and ankle started to tell me that the years I spent in the infantry were catching up with me,” he said.

“I needed to find an activity that would give me some much-needed exercise, without pounding my body to bits; Cycling proved the perfect antidote, as I am now in my early 70s and thankfully enjoying good health.

“It is by far the best way to get into the city and move round it. I strongly recommend it for all ages ; particularly for older citizens who might be tempted to stop taking exercise. Heaven forbid!”

Another is council leader Jeremy Nettle who has opted for a fully-electric Renault Zoe.

“We have had the car for nearly four years,” he said.

“What my wife and I love about it is we get over 80 miles to the charge, which costs us only about £2.50.

“There are lots of charging points in Wiltshire and Dorset car parks, so a drive to the coast and return is do-able on one charge. Also, there is no road tax to pay on electric cars.”

But its not just councillors who are taking a stand.

Former elected member Margaret Willmot, who is also a greener transport campaigner, gets around the city on both an electric bicycle as well as a conventional bike.

She has been active on the committee of the Cycling Opportunities Group Salisbury (COGS) for more than 20 years.

Margaret said: “After a period of ill health last year, I found that an electric bike has been the perfect solution as I regain fitness. It’s ideal for coping with the hills around Salisbury, while allowing me to get into the city and park conveniently, and for free, near my destination.”

Jeremy and Margaret are involved in Wiltshire Council’s Air Quality Management Group (AGMG), actively promoting a ‘modal shift’ – a change from cars to active travel modes such as walking and cycling, to reduce air pollution. Pedestrianisation and more cycle and walking routes are high on their agenda.

The AQMG supports park and ride, which remains free at all five sites that serve the city. It also strongly encourages the uptake of ‘clean, green’ vehicles, including electric cars, electric bicycles and mobility scooters.