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Pimp my old 'paddy wagon' says police chief
1 Aug 2008A retired police "paddy wagon", which for more than 15 years has helped protect London from public disorder, is to receive a makeover from a cult MTV show.
Pimp My Ride, presented by Radio1 DJ Tim Westwood, transforms clapped-out cars into revamped versions with added "bling".
The makeover team typically starts by adding alloy wheels, paint works, hydraulics and an interior fit-out and finishes off vehicles with a sound system capable of rivalling the Notting Hill Carnival.
Once "pimped" to perfection, the van will be given to youth charity XLP to help combat youth crime in boroughs including Southwark, Lewisham, Newham, Tower Hamlets and Islington.
Islington police superintendent John Sutherland got in touch with MTV after watching the show. He said: "I regard myself as terminally uncool but I saw one episode and thought it was a fun concept. It's a powerful symbol, taking a vehicle that young people view with mistrust and transforming into a gift for them."
The show will be broadcast on MTV later this year.
Reader views (1)
What a great idea and congratulations to everyone involved.
- Lizzie Crossley, bedale north yorks, 01/08/2008 19:01
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