Green Lane Association
Press Release
5th December 2004 For Immediate Release
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Green Lane Association Condemns Channel 5's Motoring Program
Following the recent Channel 5, Fifth Gear program featuring a review of the Discovery 3, GLASS has undertaken a campaign to get Channel 5, Fifth Gear and the presenter, Mr T Ford, to publicly apologise for the behavior, attitude and sentiments demonstrated therein. GLASS is seeking a retraction of the feature in question and a further article to demonstrate more appropriate laning attitudes.
The aim of the Discovery 3 review was to demonstrate the competency of the vehicle, whilst highlighting the pleasures of green laning to the 4x4 buying public. It is clear that the activities undertaken during the review were very much contrary with how we wish to have our chosen hobby portrayed in the media.
GLASS has a 16 point Code of Conduct that outlines what GLASS considers to be responsible laning behavior. During the aforementioned review, Mr Ford breached at least four points of the Code of Conduct. Whether Mr Ford was guilty of breaching any laws however, is a matter of much debate and conjecture. Certainly, Mr Ford demonstrated a high degree of irresponsibility, both for his actions directly and for encouraging others to copy him. GLASS considers that due to the subjective nature of his behavior, it cannot support any legal action against the producers of Fifth Gear or Mr Ford.
GLASS has a remit to promote sensible driving in the countryside. Our aim is to secure and support the long-term future of green laning. The Directors and Executive Committee considers that any legal action brought against the program producers and Mr Ford would set a legal precedent that may prematurely and effectively end our freedom to drive green lanes. The Directors and Executive Committee of GLASS consider that we must foster an attitude of education before criminalisation.
GLASS will pursue Channel 5, Fifth Gear and Mr Ford for an apology and for a retraction of the Discovery 3 review most vehemently.
Nic Blundell, Chairman, Green Lane Association. PO Box 48 Huntingdon PE26 2XR
Fax: 01354 677476 E Mail: snipped-for-privacy@glass-uk.org