Plane Spotters Part 2 - Would you go back?

[broccoli]

I followed in bemusement the trials and tribulations of these select band of anoraks last year. I thought the sentences that they were given were outrageous - 3 years for attending an airshow is a bit harsh (if fitting for those with odd hobbies)

Now its the beginning of the appeal I recalled my thoughts at the time - I just wouldnt go back. These people are facing tougher sentences and the prospect of 5 years in a foreign clink is not good.

The Greeks claim that they have no concept of plane spotting yet in 1977 they convicted and sentenced a Brit to 10 months for this crime. http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk/2397061.stm

With this in mind - would you go back?

[plotloss]

Never in a million bloody years!

Their health system and driving standards are in the bloody dark ages!

Matt.

[ATG]

I assume we have extradition treaties with Greece, so if you didn't go voluntarily you'd probably wind up in a Greek court anyway and in even more trouble. Must say that the Greek intransigence is quite disgraceful. ALthough it is obvious that the spotters were prats and broke Greek law, it is also equally obvious that they neither caused nor had any intention of undermining Greek national security.

Having recently been to Crete I saw, out of the corner of my eye ... obviously, some of Greece's fine airforce lined up at the edge of an airfield. It sheds some light on their paranoia coz it was the most out dated looking pile of tat I've ever seen. I would rather go into battle on one of their goats.

[AlexH]

Must agree with ATG...don't reckon you'd have much choice unless you fancied doing a Ronnie Biggs to Brazil.

[Fatboy]

I just can't understand why the greeks would think anyone would bother nicking any of their military ideas? I mean, it's not like they're a major military power or hotbed of new technology is it?

[apache]

I did an exchange visit to a Greek Air base when in the Air Force, their sensitivity is probably caused by just that, the antiquated equipment they have. At that time they had ex Vietnam Phantoms with badly repaired shell holes still visible.....but the crews were bloody great though and our best Tornado crews had real problems following them lo level. I do think that the Greeks are being pig headed over this as it is clearly a case of cultural difference and these anoraks would have no reason whatsoever to think they might be breaking the law