Publicity.

[jwo]

Discuss/Ideas,

Whilst the Pistonhead website has been brought into mild disrepute due to the mis quoting and 'out of context' comments over the last few days, it has, never the less, raised awareness about the rapid increase in speed camera numbers/fund raising. Surely now is the time for all anti 'speed cameras in purely money raising locations' groups to pool together and aim to get good, well structed arguments into the public domain? Any ideas on how to do this in a calculated well thought out way. What we don't want is for lots of us to go off ranting (this could maybe back fire!!) Also we don't want the site closed!!

Let it be known that I believe that speed cameras do have a place in residential areas and at accident blackspots, but not as revenue raisers. The road death figures show no major reduction over the last 5/6 years, although speed camera numbers have increase dramatically.

Your thoughts, ideas, comments would be appreciated.

John

[Godfrey H]

John, Paul Smith has already done this, and after a tremendous amount of effort is now being listened to. It doesn't make sense to start another group and dilute resources. Paul could really use some more funds right now. If you would like to make a donation the page on his site is:

www.safespeed.org.uk/join.html

[safespeed]

Godfrey H said:

John, Paul Smith has already done this, and after a tremendous amount of effort is now being listened to. It doesn't make sense to start another group and dilute resources.

I do think it's true that I have already done it - but it isn't a job that will ever be complete. I would welcome the following kinds of support:

1) Publicty - tell your friends about Safe Speed.

2) Information and analysis for publication. If anyone wants to write anything analytical about UK road Safet, "Speed and safety" or speed cameras I would be delighted to consider it for publication.

3) Complain, complain, complain. When something is wrong, one of the best things we can do is complain. You can complain to your MP, local council, the press and the media.

4) Lend your name and experience. If you have skills, special knowledge, qualifications or involvement in UK road safety and you agree with Safe Speed views, then send us a short email of support for publication on the "opinions" page.

www.safespeed.org.uk/opinions.html

5) Funds. I'd be delighted to hand out a franchise for Safe Speed merchandising. I'm far too busy to do it myself. Safe Speed would get some sort of profit share. Or carry out fundraising activities. Collect a few quid each from interested mates and send it along. Or join or donate.

6) Sponsorship. I'd be interested in talking with any business that may wish to provide formal or long term support. If sufficient funding can be obtained I'll take the whole thing on the road next summer to shows and fairs. (estimate 40,000 pounds - including building a mobile exhibition)

7) Any other ideas. I'd be delighted to listen to any other ideas that you might have.

Best Regards,
Paul Smith
Safe Speed
www.safespeed.org.uk

[deltaf]

Talk to Brakes financial supporters, they seem to be open to suggestion right now...