The project will see the town - popular with tourists and intravenous drug users - plunged into darkness due to a Council electricity bill that runs into millions.

 

“We’ve tried everything,” explained Councillor Ed Bundle. “Monthly direct debit, swapping providers through uswitch.com, even an ‘O.A.Pre-pay’*. We even considered erecting a wind turbine but realised that future generations would never forgive us for ruining Goole’s stunning panorama.”

 

“At this stage it is purely a trial. Street lights in an as yet unidentified locale will be switched off for a fixed period.”

 

He went on to explain that should the project prove a success it would be expanded to the wider area. “I myself live in the vicinity and I am quite prepared to test this new method of working on my own street. As a local Councillor I applaud any initiative that allows closer contact with the electorate and a chance to forge important links with the community.”

 

“It will also give me and the lads at the Council a chance to mooch around unnoticed, and with a bit of luck teach that stuck-up Tory bitch at number fifteen a thing or two.”

 

* Coin operated gas or electric meter often forced on pensioners by obliging utility companies.