Main content

Automatic car insurance renewal, and recovering from locked-in syndrome

The risks of relying on automatic car insurance renewal, what happened the last time a 'Boris Island' airport was tried on the Thames, and recovering from locked-in syndrome.

First Group has been chosen by the government to take over running trains on the West Coast mainline. We look at why their plans are being welcomed in four towns in the west Midlands and the north-west.

Also - the government hasn't made up its mind yet about new runways in the south of England, but one of the ideas being mooted is the so-called "Boris Island" airport in the Thames Estuary. But it's an idea that's been floated before. So what happened last time this was suggested and what lessons can be learned for today?

How relying on automatic car insurance renewal from your credit card, could land you in court.

And - we'll hear from a victim of locked-in syndrome. That's when every muscle in the body is paralysed except your eyelids. It's unusual to survive and very rare indeed to make a full recovery from the condition. We'll be hearing from a man who did.

Presented by Julian Worricker
Produced by Paul Waters.

Available now

41 minutes

Chapters

  • New direct rail links between London and the West Midlands and North West of England

    As part of its winning bid to take over the West Coast mainline rail franchise from Virgin, First Group is promising new direct routes between London and Shrewsbury, Telford, Bolton and Blackpool.

    Duration: 08:36

  • Car insurance

    A car owner tells how credit card renewal blocked his automatic car insurance renewal and led to prosecution.

    Duration: 07:00

  • Locked-In Syndrome

    Most people who suffer locked-in syndrome die. Nearly all the survivors remain locked-in or severely impaired. Rich Marsh tells his rare story of recovery from the condition.

    Duration: 09:50

  • Maplin Airport

    As the government considers options for new runways, the so-called "Boris Island" in the Thames Estuary is under consideration. But we've been here before with Maplin Sands airport in the 70s.

    Duration: 14:03

Broadcasts

  • Wed 15 Aug 2012 12:00
  • Wed 15 Aug 2012 12:04

Health

Health

A selection of the best health advice and discussions from You & Yours.

Lifestyle

Lifestyle

From hanging wallpaper to takeaway apps, some of our favourite features about lifestyle.