Knowing the Risks

According to the latest news this lunchtime, Richard Hammond remains seriously ill at a Leeds Hospital although his condition is now described to be stable. The BBC news reported that Top Gear co-hosts Jeremy Clarkson and James May have been at his bedside.

The three presenters have become a global success after steering the show from a bland BBC consumer programme to the unmissable entertainment extravaganza it has become. I know from a personal Level that the first thing I usually say in the pub on a Monday night is “Did you see Top Gear last night?”

However the show has become increasingly a target for certain bands of the political spectrum. Lobbyists call for the programme to be cancelled for “Glamorising Speed” and it has been Openly criticised by MPs.

Recent events, and the investigation which is sure to follow, are sure to be the catalyst for a charge of the Cotton Wool brigade.

“Motor Racing is Dangerous” reads the bold text on the back of every ticket, and the recent Death of Peter Brock is surely testament to that fact.

But in a world were Kids can only play conkers if wearing goggles, and sunbathers are encouraged to tan through a radiation suit, there are still people who are prepared to fight against the monotony and take these risks. All necessary precautions are taken but ultimately nothing can prevent the unexpected.

Like Steve Irwin, Richard knew the risks of what he was doing, but chose to do it anyway because that’s what he loved. This incident should not be allowed to let critics of Top Gear tear it apart. Now is not the time to use his name to fight against what he believed in.

We all wish “Hamster” the best and our thoughts remain with his family.