Michelin supports Leicester to Lands End charity milk float

Michelin has stepped in with new tyres for an electric milk float so it can complete a charity run from Leicester to Lands End. The classic milk float, that still works six days per week, normally runs on solid tyres but heat build up on long distance runs had become a safety concern.

Michelin were able to come up with a simple solution this and have supplied a set of van tyres that can be used on another vehicle after the event. Michelin UK’s Head of communications, Phil Baldock, was intrigued by the request for help, he said: “We have a lot of experience with fuel saving tyres and dealing with electric vehicles through our international Challenge Bibendum events, but I’m not sure we have helped out with a milk float before.”

The milk-float is one of a fleet of 75 built and operated by Leicester based dairy Kirby and West. These unique milk floats are from an original design penned by the grandfather of the current MD Graham Smith. Graham is making the trek in aid of local cancer charities, LOROS and PROSTaid, and is very pleased for the added comfort the new tyres will bring.

The 328 mile route will take five days to complete as the float has a range of only 40 miles before needing a 7 hour recharge. With a top speed of only 13 miles per hour each stint will take nearly 4 hours.

As well as raising funds for the two charities Graham wants to raise awareness of the valuable service provided by milk men (and women) up and down the country Graham is keen to raise funds for the local charities as well as highlighting the valuable service provided by milkmen across the whole country.

He said: “as the original delivery service milkmen have been supporting their local communities for many years. We consider ourselves a part of the community and being able to give something back is always good news.”

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