Charging Around: Exploring the Edges of England by Electric Car

Clive Wilkinson and his wife Joan set out on a new expedition to tour the edges of England by electric car, but the trip is overshadowed by apprehension about the country's charge-point infrastructure. Despite this, they make new friends with every mile and explore the reality of life on England's periphery.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 304 pages
Publication date: 06 April 2023
Publisher: Eye Books

Clive Wilkinson, a seasoned traveler who has traversed continents by train and circumnavigated the globe by container ship, has a penchant for slow travel. As his eightieth birthday approaches, he and his wife Joan embark on a new expedition: to tour the edges of England by electric car. Initially, they may have thought it a relatively easy task, considering the state of the country's charge-point infrastructure back in 2018. However, their 1,900-mile odyssey through fading seaside towns, rain-swept hilltop passes, and England's only desert quickly reveals the challenges they will face.

Every day's driving for these unlikely pioneers is overshadowed by a cloud of apprehension. Will they make it to the next charge point? Will it be in working order? Will someone else be using it? Such a trip requires a calm temperament and a robust sense of humor, and Clive possesses both. With a relentless curiosity for history, geography, and people, he and Joan explore the reality of life on England's periphery—the areas that, by voting for Brexit, changed the course of British history—making new friends with every mile.

As they journey through the countryside, Clive and Joan encounter a diverse range of people and places. They visit historic towns and villages, witness the changing landscape, and learn about the unique cultures and traditions that thrive in the less-visited regions. They also meet individuals who have chosen to live outside the mainstream, whether due to their political beliefs, lifestyle preferences, or simply a desire for a more rural existence.

Through their experiences, Clive and Joan gain a deeper understanding of the complexities and challenges faced by those living on the fringes of society. They witness the impact of economic downturns, political polarization, and environmental issues on the communities they encounter. They also recognize the resilience and determination of the people they meet, who have found ways to adapt and thrive in the face of adversity.

As their electric car journey comes to an end, Clive and Joan reflect on the lessons they have learned and the connections they have made. They are grateful for the opportunity to explore the less-traveled paths of England and to meet the people who call these areas home. They are also aware that their journey has raised awareness about the importance of slow travel, sustainable living, and the value of connecting with diverse communities.

In conclusion, Clive Wilkinson's electric car journey through the edges of England is a testament to his passion for slow travel and his commitment to exploring the world in a way that promotes sustainability and cultural understanding. Through their journey, Clive and Joan have demonstrated that even in the face of challenges, it is possible to connect with people from different backgrounds and learn from their experiences. They have shown that slow travel can be a powerful tool for promoting empathy, compassion, and a deeper appreciation for the world around us.

Weight: 248g
Dimension: 128 x 199 x 22 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781785633454