I thought the National Grid weren't too keen on these 'let's all turn our lights off at the same time' gimmicks, but presumably this one has got the go ahead form the powers that be, because Mayor Ken is backing it, and one would hope he'd check no dangerous power surges are likely before supporting it. Anyway, the Wembley Arena complex has said it will turn off all of its lights at 9pm on Thursday night as part of a campaign being staged by Capital Radio, that aims to raise awareness of global warming, and to give some of the capital's more incompetent burglars a head start, presumably.
The 'Lights Out Campaign' is urging London households and businesses to join in a massive energy-saving initiative, and the lights on numerous London landmarks, including Buckingham Palace, the Houses Of Parliament and the BT Tower, will be turned off as part of it. Owners of the Wembley complex have said they will also participate in the scheme, turning off all but emergency lighting around the Arena and conference halls on the site, including on the complex's Square Of Fame in front of the main Arena.
Confirming their involvement in the scheme, Nick Shattock, Deputy CEO of Quintain, the company who own the site, told reporters yesterday: "We look forward to playing a part in creating awareness of a low carbon footprint for all. We aim to create a sustainable, zero-carbon Wembley and this campaign gives us the opportunity to show our commitment to that aim".
We here at CMU HQ will also be shutting down all our power supplies at 9pm on Thursday night. Oh, hang on, there's a 'Doc Martin' repeat on ITV3 at 9 - scratch that, I mean global warming is important and all, but I'm not going to miss some classic Clunes.