Online voices

STORY:

From today a number of new rules, regulations and laws will come into effect that will impact the lives of road users across the country. Most of the confirmed and proposed changes relate in some way to making driving more environmentally friendly, whether that be by increasing the cost of maintaining an inefficient vehicle or discouraging car journeys in urban spaces.

Margaret Grady: Wheelchair users, mobility restricted, visually impaired and parents with prams to name a few would at last be able to go safely down a pavement instead of having to meander onto the road to go round inconsiderately parked vehicles taking up the whole path.

Nick Thompson: I'd like to see them put the pavement parking in place up here. if you did that in our street you'd not get another vehicle down the street never mind an emergency vehicle.

STORY:

Washington woman Rebecca Welch has spoken of her delight after becoming the first female referee to be appointed to take charge of an English Football League game.

Ian Ross: If Rebecca has come up through the ranks to get to this level then fair play. I have no objection to women refereeing men's football. Women are already refereeing rugby union and probably other sports too. The only requirement needed is that they are good enough. Good for her.

Michelle Gregory: Well done Rebecca years of hard work and determination finally pays off. Proud!

Bryony Jade Fucile: Well done to her! I hope it's the beginning of something wonderful getting women into the men's game like Sian Massey.

Maurice Alderson: Have watched her quite a few times over the years.

She is a quality official. I like how she talks and encourages players throughout the game explaining decisions. Some may disagree but there again the ref is no one’s favourite at the best of times. Good luck Rebecca you have earned this on merit.

Andrew Farnie: Hope she has a good game and proves the doubters wrong.