The BOL 1100,1150 and 1050 lights are designed by PE Pizzey in collaboration with HG Davies, and manufactured by Frederick Thomas & Co Ltd. of London NW1.

This light is the first of its kind to be designed for the functional illumination of pedestrian areas as well as for the largely decorative purposes to which low-level outdoor lights have been restricted previously. It is unique in its use of a lens to place light accurately where it is required, projecting it at between 5ø and 15ø below the horizontal to give a symmetrical pool of light on the ground. This cut-off prevents glare in the eyes of pedestrians and ends the nuisance of street lights shining into bedroom windows. The bollard is eminently suited to replace conventional lighting columns in pedestrian areas and has the added advantage that its initial price is cheaper and that installation and maintenance are simpler and less costly.

The manufacturer has followed up these basic advantages by careful consideration of detailing and by introducing alternative light sources. For example, the problem of vandalism was considered from the start and experiments were made with plastics and glass lenses, the half-inch glass lens being chosen because it was relatively cheap, less prone to scratching, and tough enough to withstand all but the most determined assault. The top of the bollard light lifts off to give access for lamp-changing or any other necessary maintenance, a neat lock providing protection at all other times. A special version of the post, with a flush, lockable door, can house extra equipment, such as a time switch.

Among the improvements made since the light was first introduced two years ago are two alternative light sources to the original standard 100-watt pearl bulb: a 50-watt MBF/U lamp gives a brighter light and has a life of 5000 hours but costs more and, because it is not a point source, gives more upward light distribution; or a standard 150-watt pearl lamp can be used down-rated with a transformer to provide the same controllable point-source as the 100-watt lamp combined with the advantage of a 4000-5000-hour life.

Founded in 1888 and now employing some 50 people, Frederick Thomas & Co have until recently been manufacturers of light fittings for special requirements. But under its young managing director, FB Thomas, the company has changed its policy and is now concentrating on designing and tooling up for mass production. Altogether some 2500 bollard lights have been sold since the launching two years ago, and the contribution which this award winner can make to better standards of lighting in rapidly growing pedestrian-only areas should ensure continued success.

The bollard - 34 in high, 52 in diameter, and with an 18 in root - has an aluminium diecast body stove-enamelled grey and mounted on a steel tube. The 2 in glass lens has diffused upper prisms. BOL 1100 (loop tungsten lamp) costs £22 Is 10d; 1150 (150w tungsten lamp down-rated) costs £24 13s Ed, and 1050 (50w MBF/U co/our-corrected lamp) £26 16s 4d.