27.09.06 Fans fear as Top Gear may be axed

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5950 comments 77524 votes

The BBC have decided to postpone the new series of Top Gear as a result of Richard Hammond's crash.

Should Top Gear be toned down or axed?

Thousands of Top Gear fans have displayed their disappointment in this decision by adding their names to a 'Save Top Gear' petition. Whether fans of the high speed entertainment show or fans specifically of Richard Hammond, support has been high with over 34,000 signatures added in the short time the petition has been online.

Overwhelming support was also been shown personally to Richard by well wishers initially flooding his hospital room with flowers. After a request fom his wife Amanda, these donations were routed to a more worthy cause, with contributions being made to Yorkshire Air Ambulance service. A just giving web page was set up by fans and has received �188,036 to date, a figure which is rising each day.

Since Richard's crash last week various groups of politicians, action groups and members of the public who saw Top Gear as dangerous and a bad example to its viewers have campaigned for the programme to be finally taken off the air. Whilst condemning Top Gear for influencing bad practice on our roads, critics failed to mention that statistically, our roads are actually becoming safer in terms of accidents, despite the fact more people own cars, and indeed watch Top Gear.
Despite this, it does seem that the critics may have been temporarily granted their wishes as the final part of the 'Best of Top Gear' series has been "postponed indefinitely" and new series due to hit our screens next month will be �delayed�.

Richard, who is apparently making "very good progress" in hospital, has strongly expressed his wishes for the show to go back on air. After BBC bosses stated that they would only screen the new series if the presenter was well enough to appear in it, Hammond responded by saying he would even record live from his hospital bed to save the show!

Are you a fan of Top Gear and want to try and keep the programme on our screens? If so, add your names to the petition and air your opinion either way in our vote above.

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Richard Hammond is lucky to be alive, 300mph is one hell of a car crash. However he knew the risks and I bet he was loving driving that car. I think he has suffered enough without then effectively losing his job on top of it all.

I think Top Gear is one of the best programmes on television. Does the BBC think we are all stupid. I am never going to go out and try to drive at 300mph because I've seen someone do it on the telly. And what's more if anyone else was thinking of doing it, they have probably been discouraged.

Get well soon Hamster. And we look forward to seeing you in the next episode of Top Gear!

Posted by Jo Walczak, 27th September 2006 6:54pm

Its gotta stay. Top gear is one of the best loved programs on TV. And i mean all channels.. Both Male and Female love the way the program is but together and the fact that they bring smiles to millions and makes any day better.

Posted by Simon Giles, 27th September 2006 6:54pm

Re Comment 627 by Julian Bennett that TG doesn't speed on public roads.....are we watching the same show?!!!
Didn't JC drive at 155mph+ in a race against plane passengers on his way to Switzerland? And in countless other irrelevant scenarios.

And before it is stated that the speed limits differ by country, you only have to look at road fatalities per capita for these countries to see what the governing factor is.

Posted by Dc, 27th September 2006 6:55pm

I think that the Top Gear presenters are living the dreams of all of the viewers. Just for one hour each week, we can all dream that we are driving those powerful (and expensive) cars and this gets it out of our system. I think far from encouraging people to speed, this provides an outlet which avoids us taking driving risks in the real world.

I don't watch much television but i make a point of watching Top Gear and will be gutted if it is taken off air. I really hope Richard is back in the driving seat soon and will totally understand if he wants to tone down what he does, but it would be completely wrong to stop screening a popular show which does not break the law, takes as many safety precautions as possible and only takes risks which the car providers, advisors and presenters want to take.

Posted by Sarah Bowles, 27th September 2006 6:55pm

well done comment number 2. Couopdnt agree with you more...

From a middle aged bloke that keeps his distance!

Posted by K, 27th September 2006 6:56pm

Don't you dare take Top Gear off the telly, it's without doubt the best programme on the T.V & the only reason I pay my T.V license. I am sick to death of these absolute MORONS who try & make decisions on my behalf on what I can & can't watch. So listen & listen good; I LIKE TOP GEAR no in fact I LOVE TOP GEAR. It's the Best show on T.V & it's about cars, you know those things we all use every day & with out them we'd be screwed, so all you nerds & idiots who don't like Top Gear, which must add up to, well at least a whopping TEN Stop telling me & the other 60 MILLION people in the U.K what we can & can't do, Go & do something useful like the garden you know create some compost or something & leave the rest of us NORMAL people ALONE. Good Luck Top Gear We Love your show Dearly & can't wait to see Richard the hamster Hammond along with Clarkson & May back on our Screens A.S.A.P. Many thanks Tom & Victoria Manchester.

Posted by Tom Turner, 27th September 2006 6:56pm

Top Gear should stay. It is pure entertainment. My late grandmother loved the show and didn't even drive. It didn't turn her into a road hog!

The programme cannot be blamed for the standard of driving on our roads. Every one of us is responsible for acting correctly every time we get behind the wheel. We all have to interact with those around us on the roads as well as adapt to the conditions. This is part of driver training and then experience gained.

Blaming a TV show is not the way to train and educate road users to be safe and courteous to their fellow travellers.

Posted by Nikki, 27th September 2006 6:56pm

Top Gear is an entertaining programme, and there is no doubt that it should remain on our screens. It doesn't advocate dangerous driving on roads - only on racetracks. Richard chose to take part in the stunt, and while it's upsetting that his accident happened, he knew the dangers when he took part.

And as for education, I've heard (only a rumour, might be wrong, but I don;t think so) that a car/train crash has been staged for the next series, to show drivers just what happens if they misbehave at level crossings.

Posted by Stevie D, 27th September 2006 6:56pm

Of course the show shouldn't be axed, theres hunreads of crashs in motorsport. Just because Hammond happens to be part of BBC and is more known to the general public then say a racing driver, everyone starts to say "oh let's ban the program" BBC said they never force anyone to do anything.

If BBC said to Hammond "Right you must drive this and do that" then fair enough, people would have the right to moan, however I strongly believe BBC didn't say this too Hammond, so he done it on his own free will

Posted by Dan, 27th September 2006 6:57pm

I've tried to watch Top Gear several times over the years and am sure that I would find it very entertaining if only I didn't feel the need to vomit when Clarkson comes on. This guy is so full of himself and his "Hey, look at me I'm so controversial" extreme opinions that he detracts from the programme. This is the moron who used his column in 'The Sun' to encourage people to abuse the Royal Mail Freepost service in support of fox hunting. This is illegal, a number of people have been caught and even lost their jobs for doing it. I hope he is prosecuted and loses his job too, then I'll give Top Gear another go.

Posted by Preston Colville, 27th September 2006 6:57pm

Hi. This is another example of hysteria over one mans quest and a television program. The more you take away anyone's right to freedom the freedom we once had, the more we move and come into the cotton wool society. We now dont even have the freedom of speech. Thanks but I dont watch the show either, but it should remain. Brian. A. Caravaner

Posted by Brian Thompson, 27th September 2006 6:57pm

I record the show so I can fast forward the bad bits of the presenters arguing and having a go at each other, taking the p### of each others opinion and generally being stupid IMHO.I think that it has lost the plot a bit about the more common car on the road, maybe boring but thats what most of us drive.Nice to see what I can't afford though being driven!!!But that seems to be most of the programme.So basically I get to watch about 20mins of top gear.All the best to Hammond get better soon.

Posted by Martin Leach, 27th September 2006 6:57pm

Axe the programme.
I really like it: but it is a real blokey show though my girlfriend really likes it. (she's a bit of a bloke)

There is so much football fan entertainment we can do with out this.
I like the hamster but anyone who is going to do that sort of thing with a wife and thwo small kids at home is a selfish idiot.

Posted by Adrian Scott, 27th September 2006 6:57pm

Top Gear should certainly not be axed, but maybe Jeremy should be. He's definitely the sort who prevents any law-abiding driver doing 70 on a dual carriageway from overtaking a queue of artics because he's coming up behind doing 90, thinking he owns the road and tailgating you all the way. Have you ever noticed it's all BMWs, SAABs and white van drivers who do this. What is the point of cars able to do 150 mph? Are they sold in expectation that we are all going to go and live in Germany and drive all day on the autobahns where there are no limits? Come to think of it, what's the point of cars that can do 120, and I've got one - even if it is a diesel and gets over 60 mpg around town.

Posted by Frank Patterson, 27th September 2006 6:58pm

I absolutely love Richard Hammond and was shocked and upset when i heard of his accident however, i think it would be absolutely ridiculous to ban Top Gear. This is a show that the whole family loves to watch and the presenters love to make.

Richard chose to drive the car he did and it if given the chance he and the other presenters probably would again. He lives the dream on that show, i very much doubt he would like it banned as a consequence of his accident. Richard will have alot to cope with these next coming weeks/months. PLEASE DO NOT TAKE AWAY HIS JOB!!

Posted by Elisa Allen, 27th September 2006 6:58pm

I am quite sure Richard Hammond would not wish Top Gear to disappear from our screens. The entertainment value of the show is excellent, giving hints and tips to anyone and everyone who chooses to watch. For those who want it taken off all I can say to them is "turn your telly over to another channel".

Posted by Graham Everard, 27th September 2006 6:58pm

top gear axed no it wa a fluke accdent any can see that hispeed crashes happen all the time in f1 .rally and there no banned

Posted by A Carroll, 27th September 2006 6:58pm

..as usual, the doom-mongering, politically-correct jobsworths are out in force, jumping on the latest passing bandwagon.

Ban a TV programme because Ricahrd Hammond (probably) had a tyre blowout whilst driving (by choice) on private land at high speed?
They'll be banning political parties next for encouraging us to believe every word they say!
Far more dangerous in my opinion!

For as long as this clapped out government dreams up ever more inventive ways to tax us off the road or legislate us into driving 30mph environmentally friendly milk floats, the more popular programmes like TG will become.

It's called fun, Gordon! Ignore it at your peril!

Posted by Steve Baker, 27th September 2006 6:58pm

I am a big fan of TG but by no means does this make me a poor driver or careless or a "speed freak" TG is both entertaining and educational. Had it not been for the unfortunate accident suffered by Richard Hammond (best wishes for a speedy recovery) which incidentally he was well aware of the fact that an accident was a possibility, then this topic/debate wouldn't even have arisen. We all take risks and chances in life every single day, does that mean we should therefore stop going out, going to work, socialising... just in case ??? As for TG enforcing or condonig speeding how many jet powered cars do you see passing you every day ? I think this whole debate is farcical and like many others have said before the show is so popular that IF it is axed by the BBC then you can bet your bottom dollar that by next year it will be aired on another channel. Long live TG :o)

Posted by Lisa Webb, 27th September 2006 6:59pm

It has been mentioned a few times in these messages that the accident that RH was involved in whilst filming for TG did not take place on the open roads. In fact, it took place on a deserted runway. And OK some may still not be satisfied with this information. But also bear in mind the fact that there are events known as 'Track days' on race courses all over the UK, where you can take your car and, provided you've informed your insurance company, go as fast as you like. These events are supported by the government as they feel that it will stop people speeding on main roads, because they get it all out of their system on the track. They support that, but seem to be against Hammonds attempt in that rocket car?? Crazy. Soon TV will be flooded only with programs that are too PC and too boring, brainwashing us all and providing us with no thrills. Leave TG on TV. If you don't like it, stop wasting your time saying so on bulletin boards like this and stop watching it. I don't like Bargain Hunt, with David Dickinson, but you don't see me calling the presenters, demanding it to be axed. Get over it. And get well soon Hammy.

Posted by Andy Mccain, 27th September 2006 6:59pm

TOP GEAR is excellent, the last 3 years have been brill, its not really a car show now, mopre entertainment!!! I see 5th gear oon 5 are trying to copy it but not as good!!!!!!!!
Last series had me in fits of laughter on numerous occasions

In the words of there favourite driving song :-
"DONT STOP ME NOW"

Peter

Posted by Peter Lewis, 27th September 2006 7:00pm

This is the most ridiculous thing I have heard for years.....good look to RIchard and his family ...one of my family suffered the same injuries in a normal car at normal speeds and I sat at their bedside in intensive care for 5 days followed by 6 weeks in ward ...so I've been there unfortunately.

Taking a programme off TV will not improve the nations driving habits. Cars, roads and humans at any speed can be lethal. Top Gear is not lethal. Although it might be worth banning that Clarkson chappie, and whilst your at it the following encourage wreckless driving so take them all off:

Police Camera Action and all equivalents
The News
Spooks
The Simpsons
The Bill
Most Films
Most Soaps
Fifth Gear ( sorry Tiff & VBH)
The Sweeney (repeats)
Noddy
Magic Roundabout ( it must but can't think how yet...)

Posted by John Oh_my_god_they_want_to_ban_top_gear, 27th September 2006 7:00pm

Ban all jet-powered cars from public highways! That's what I say.

Posted by Colin Davey, 27th September 2006 7:01pm

top gear os the best program on cars i ever saw and keeps you informed on new cars , is say all t the pros and cons of all the cars they get in the show i hope they will keep doing it

Posted by Paul Aquilina, 27th September 2006 7:01pm

I was very lucky to go to the filming of Top Gear last year and from what I could see Jeremy, Richard & James Enjoyed the work they did even more than I enjoyed the filming and the TV Program which I watch every week. I think its the best TV program on the BBC, it never fails to make me laugh, Keep up the good work lads and GET WELL SOON RICHARD. Hope to meet him again in the future on TOP GEAR. Yan

Posted by Yan, 27th September 2006 7:02pm

I don't think Top Gear should be banned any more than the Teletubbies, say. It's the same sort of amusing, infantile rubbish, but with the added danger of glorifying speed.

Most of what the first poster says I agree with and it's obvious most of the knee-jerk condemnation heaped on him is not from people who have sat in inquests and seen relatives weep over lives ended by people driving too fast. Having attended dozens, I can speak from experience.

All these critics of the first poster accusing him of being middle-aged or older should consider that Top Gear has itself now morphed into a latter-day Last of the Summer Wine, with Jez and his sidekicks doing ever-more improbable stunts. Let's take a 4WD off-roader up a mountain, make an amphibious vehicle to cross a lake, stick a jet engine on the back of a Reliant Robin.

Before you know it they will be coming down a country lane in a pram and crashing into a drystone wall, or doing silly things on an out-of-control bike.

Hasn't anyone told them Compo, Foggy and Cleggy got there first?

Think the joke in today's Private Eye says it all. "This week of Top Gear we'll be testing. . . a hearse."

Posted by Roger Green, 27th September 2006 7:02pm

It just goes to prove that people are easley led and copy what they see. If a youth or a elderly driver copies what people do to entertain us in the automotive programs, such as top gear or fifth gear, if catched by the police ban them for life. Don't take it off, and spoil it for sensible people like me and millions alike.

Posted by Geoff, 27th September 2006 7:03pm

What do the BBC feel that they will achieve by either postponing or scrapping the next series of Top Gear? Anyone who has the slightest idea about what makes Richard tick would realise that it would be the last thing that he would want to happen. This kind of stunt (that unfortunately went terribly wrong on this occasion) is exactly what both he and the other presenters on the program live for. If he had managed to complete it successfully there would have been none of this 'knee jerk' reaction.

My proposition is that the BBC should let the program run as originally planned!

Posted by Wendy Sampson, 27th September 2006 7:03pm

Top Gear should certainly not be banned!! Richard Hammond knew what he was letting himself in for when he got in the Vampire, it was an unfortunate accident that thankfully did not have a tragic end. If the demand is there and the presenters want to do it, let it be. Top Gear is one of the BBC's most successful shows for a reason - it gives the viewers what they want. I'm glad to hear Hammond is doing well, can't wait for the new series - whenever it will start.

Posted by Gemma Simpson, 27th September 2006 7:03pm

I agree with the majority here. Top Gear DOES NOT make people drive more dangerously or faster !. Top Gear is a fantastic program and very funny, anyone on here who says it prompts dangerous driving are talking a load of $hite !. Richard Hammond is a legend, and thankfully a "living legend" !!. Stop blaming him and the Top Gear crew/producers for "making" people drive more dangerously !. Suppose the writer of comment above thinks they should take the News off the air for fear we wake up and decide to kill someone or cause a war, etc !!!. Andy

Posted by Andrew, 27th September 2006 7:03pm

Iam just lost for words whatever next!!!!! I'm sick of the pc crowd spoiling everybody's enjoyment

Posted by Mr Keith Holmes, 27th September 2006 7:04pm

Come on the lads!
No, we're not gona try it "just cos we saw it on telly" that's stupid!
The reason we watch it is so we don't have to get off our lazy arses and do it outselvs!

Posted by Siouxsie, 27th September 2006 7:04pm

Top Gear is Top Pap! Meaning that rather than looking at new technologies, a balnce between economy and power, promoting efficient design, lightweight bodied vehicles and other common sense ideas for now and the years beyond, they live in an impractical, hedonistic and industrial paradigm where he who wastes most energy wins. Keep Top Gear, focus it on true and relevant innovation, encourage efficiency in design, and have a nostalgic section on the gas guzzling executive hyped up cars for the macho phallus envying children that believe that status can be bought, not earned by good or at least, daring conduct.

Posted by Amar Biswas, 27th September 2006 7:05pm

i think the show must go on. it give moterist an added intrest its the only motoring pogram on tv with guts and stamina ,the cars they drive are beyond our pockets somtimes but its nice to know they are out there, this accident should not be allowed to close the program. best wishes to richard hammond . ps being a woman i can say i love him ,x

Posted by Linda Harvey, 27th September 2006 7:06pm

Top Gear axed - what next can't the BBC axe all the "Flog it", "Try before you buy", "Property Auctions", Numerous cooking programs and all the other rubbish that they broadcast they could spend this on decent entertaining programs rather than crass B O R I N G stuff - No wonder SKY is doing well more choice and no dross - |When can we stop paying for a licence that broadcasts rubbish.

Even news is dumb down - to dangerous for reports in war torn areas?

If its not the PC government that is wrecking this country then a namby pamby BBC - grow up guys your pensions are secure!

Posted by Alan Wern, 27th September 2006 7:06pm

In my opinion the Top Gear programme should still go ahead. It's very unfortunate what happened to Richard Hammond, he's a great presenter - one of my favourites, however he and his co presenters choose to go ahead and do daring stunts of their own choice to make the programme more entertaining for it's viewers and it doesn't mean to say that I'm going to go out in my Forester STi and do 300 mph - hmm perhaps I should ask Clarkeson to try for me instead.

Posted by Karen Crow, 27th September 2006 7:06pm

Guhhh! When will people realise that not everything on TV is to be taken seriously? TG is light entertainment for those of us who cannot be arsed watching Emmerwankdale and Hollyfucks, nor do we want to watch documentaries that make you want to end it all they're so depressing.

Posted by Sarah Harradine, 27th September 2006 7:06pm

Firstly good wishes to the "Hampster" Not only is he entertaining on TG but also his newspaper column is excellent. Yes I would like to see mo re "ordinary" cars tested on TG but then it is good entertainment as a programme. I can't honestly imagine this promotes dangerous driving any more than watching the various speed cop programmes often shown. Probably the type of person who soups up his car and drives very dangerously would not be indoors watching TV anyway. There are lots of magazines which promote that far more than TG. My own car is capable of high speed but I am proud to be a member of the Institute of Advanced Motorists and take a pride in my driving (and no, my car is not a Micra driven at 28mph!!) I am not influenced to drive at ridiculous speeds where it can be a great danger - I have seen too many young people in the mortuary who have died on the road- but I do enjoy watching Top Gear and would be very upset if these small minded people succeeded in getting the programme off air. To quote a young person I spoke to recently "Get a life" and let others have some enjoyment as well. Lastly thanks for the site - good to see fuel going down a bit now.

Posted by Dennis Moor, 27th September 2006 7:06pm

I dont think top gear should be axed, it is a fantastic show and all the presenters know what they are doing.

Does the BBC want to axe other sports shows such as the motorcyles, I hope not because I am a biker myself, but you know where I am coming from, we all know the dangers when we do things

Posted by Chris Tracey, 27th September 2006 7:07pm

I second that!

"Top gear is a great programme - the BBC should remember who pays their large salaries!"

Fab show, myself and all my friends cant wait to watch it on sunday evening. Really finishes off a weekend!

Posted by Knobby, 27th September 2006 7:07pm

I think Top Gear should stay as it is a valuable national motoring asset, campaigning as it does for more realistic speed limits , however I shall be interested to see who was funding this operation as I would not wish for my tv licence money to be used by any employee of the bbc to get high at my expense, (ref Jeremy Clarksons comment re "Richards heroin fix" it will be a very interesting few weeks I think.

Posted by Les Hedaux, 27th September 2006 7:07pm

RICHARD....GOOD BLOKE
TOP GEAR....GOOD SHOW
PRATS THAT WANT IT STOPPED....IDIOTS

THIS IS ONE OF THE ONLY SHOWS WHERE NORMAL EVERYDAY PEOPLE GET TO SEE WHAT CARS THAT ARE USEUALY OUT OF OUR PRICE RANGE CAN DO,AND THE BONUS IS THAT WHEN THOSE THREE BLOKES ARE PUT TOGETHER THERE REALLY FUNNY

KEEP THE SHOW AND GET WELL SOON RICHARD.

Posted by Kevin Venner, 27th September 2006 7:07pm

Top Gear is a great programme BUT it always shows the geeks who want to drive fast and with little care for others. We all know speed kills and we know the national speed limits - BUT whenever these guys are hurtling around country lanes hills mountains etc they are always driving like halfwits!.
Love the programme - lets stop the lunacy factor on ordinary roads.

Posted by Howard Harrison, 27th September 2006 7:07pm

I think that to stop such a great program because of this incident shows that in future we shall never have the sort of people who have made this country great and that are willing to take risks. Everyone, and that includes Richard Hammond knows that racing or driving at that speed can be dangerous, but so does flying in an aircraft, racing a boat and numerous other activities. If the BBC go ahead with this closure they are once again are not listening to those that pay for the BBC but a minority whos pleasure comes from stopping anything thats more risky than opening a carton of milk, Please grow up BBC.

Posted by Stuart Nicol, 27th September 2006 7:07pm

I don't actually watch Top Gear but I think it is somewhat over the top to axe or dumb down a programme because of an accident. No-one was killed and it was only the participant who was injured. Speeddoat racing didn't stop after the Bluebird accident

Posted by John Funnell, 27th September 2006 7:07pm

Top Gear is Excellent, It must be kept going

Posted by James Maxted, 27th September 2006 7:07pm

The modern top gear has lost the plot, too much acting, look back to some of the original programs and see how interesting and factual they were.

Posted by Steve Hudson, 27th September 2006 7:08pm

Wish it was Clarkson, Hate that guy!

Posted by James May, 27th September 2006 7:08pm

So the critics think it's Monkey See, Monkey Do!

I think people have been trying to argue that rather weak theory for some time; about no end of different things. Maybe we should restrict TV to gardening programmes and things about slow, safe forms of transport! I'm sorry to have to break this to you all but slow and safe usually adds up to boring!

Top Gear is ground braking and without doubt, one of the best shows on TV.

There are too many people in this world that want us all to live wrapped in bubble wrap.

What happened to Richard Hammond was a terrible accident, and I wish him well, but none the less it WAS an accident; "an occurence of something by chance". Richard Hammond knew he was taking a risk and I'm sure for him that was part of the appeal!

We live in a very diverse world, why can't everyone just accept that some of us like to live our lives to the full; we take a few calculated chances and remind ourselves what it is to be alive!

Posted by Steven Scott-telford, 27th September 2006 7:08pm

Top Gear is the only program that puts a smile on my face from beginning to end. It never fails to have me laughing while sat on my sofa. In a time where we all seem to be sat in traffic jams doing the usual day to day stuff, it is wonderful on a Sunday to join the Top Gear crew and dream of those lovely cars. Oh what joy to see three people having a true passion for a job they obviously love and we can only aspire to. My living room wouldn't be the same without the boys. Keep doing what you do best with the passion it deserves.
Get well soon hamster. Hope we see you back in the driving seat.

Posted by Andrea Duffin, 27th September 2006 7:08pm

No top gear should not be axed. Its the best motoring programme on tv. It;s hosted by ordinary people who dislike the same things that drive normal motorists to distraction.
They are in a position to do something about it.
Just because Clarkson and co drive at over 100 mph on an airfield track that does not mean that normal motorists wish to copy them.
Attitudes of drivers of all ages need to radically change in thnis counrty to reduce the number if accidents and deaths on the roads.
Stop tailgating, lane hogging, driving at 50 mph on the motorway, trucks overtaking on 2 lanes roads plus educate young drivers better. It's NOT ALL drivers but a few bad apples.

Posted by Paul, 27th September 2006 7:08pm

Ban it!
There is far too much freedom of expression in the media - and look where it's got this sick society!
You can't go out your door without being mugged by a hooded pack of infants. And if you are lucky enough to make it from door to car unscathed, your car is either stolen or there is a boy-racer or sppeding police car waiting to kill you as you move off.
Far from being a nanny state, I say close our frontiers now, bring back corporal and capital punishment, throw away the keys on jail cells and censor everything so we have a society more like we used to before these pinko lefties took control.
It wasn't like this when I was young.

Posted by Caudillo, 27th September 2006 7:09pm

I don't think Top Gear should be axed but I do think that the presenters and producers should have more respect for the dangerous situations that they are placing themselves in. I know the show has a culture of peddling a male no nonsense style of toughness, which is all well and good, but it's not so clever when presenters are getting seriously injured or even killed is it.

Posted by Ian Webster, 27th September 2006 7:09pm

Top Gear is a fun family show, which we look forward to watching. One of the best things the BBC do. If they axe the show, poor Richard will have suffered this horrific injury for no purpose.
I wish Richard a speedy recovery and offer his family my best wishes.

Posted by Ian Roberts, 27th September 2006 7:10pm

Top Gear should not be removed from our TV screens just because of the terrible accident Richard Hammond, if people think that Top Gear should be banned because of his accident, why isn't F1, MotoGP, WSB, BSB, Touring Cars banned when they have an accident? When the space shuttle exploded they continued with space travel!!!

No one forced Richard to get behind the wheel of the car, i know that if i got the chance to drive a vehicle like that i would jump at the chance.

I have been watching Top Gear since it was first broadcast and it hasn't made me a bad driver.

You cant blame Top Gear for people speeding and killing themselves and innocent bystanders, it's the person in control of the vehicle that chooses to speed.
Im sorry to say this but comment number 70 you cant blame TG for your brothers death it was his chose to drive at 150mph in those conditions on a windy country road. Just because a car does 150mph doesn't mean you have to drive at that speed. People how drive at stupid speeds on country roads deserve all they get.

Posted by Simon T, 27th September 2006 7:10pm

Right decision. They should axe all those nasty driving tests

Posted by George Florian Lungu, 27th September 2006 7:10pm

sorry - missed that one! generally, my partner and i watch the show (he's a mechanic, so interested both from personal and business perspective). where should we draw the line? I think that, as adults, we should be able to see the 'real' from the 'dramatic'. On the other hand, i had a blow out on the M25 a few years ago, which needed it being shut off by the police so breakdown truck could rescue us (we were trapped on the fast lane). if i hadn't notched up numerous hours on the PS2, playing 'Gran turismo' - often until 5am and with work a few hours hence! - i really think i wouldnt have had the knowledge, and skills, to keep a calm head and steer into the swerve. My 2 sons and i probably owe our lives to a game! on the other hand, there are those who blame increasing violence/driving mayhem on such games - who is to say who is right?

I just feel - 100% - that for my sons and i, such game mediums and car programs encouraged me to keep a cool head, as it was something familiar, in a way.

on the other hand, as i missed the program/accident/crash you mentioned, am i completely off the track??!!

Posted by Janet Redfern, 27th September 2006 7:11pm

I don't think for one moment that TG should be axed. Perhaps a little more thought into the stunts following the Hamsters resent events, just need to reflect on what has happened. Maybe the STIG should have done the runs as it a little more experienced. But you have to respect the Hamster for giving it a go, if I was in the same position I would have tried it also. I do believe TG should be put on hold until the Hamsters return, as it would not be the same without him, especially as he is making good progress. Perhaps they could let him present the show from a hospital bed in the studio, and leave the driving to JC and JM until he has made a complete recovery.

Posted by Colin Amaral, 27th September 2006 7:12pm

TOP GEAR should be Canceled in it's current format and re formatted as in the 1980s/1990s. Get back to cars as they are today.

Posted by Otis Thompson, 27th September 2006 7:12pm

Eventhough the crash was terrible and Richard almost died, would axing top gear really stop things like this from happening again? Top gear is a fantastic show which is watched by all of my family and by most of our friends. We all hope that Richard makes a full recovery and that he is back on our screens A.S.A.P

Posted by Sue Bourne, 27th September 2006 7:12pm

My main concern about all of the TV Motoring Programmes is that they have become a platform just for the presenters to show off ther driving skills. Watching three presenters hammering cars down an Airfield runway is a typical example of unnecessary risk. Am I really interested in the 0 - 60 time it takes a car I'm never ever likely to own. I don't think so!
From my point of view, they seem to have lost the plot. What they do is very entertaining, and I certainly enjoy the celebrity race track part of the TG show. But, shouldn't they be advising us more on the basics and all the other wider aspects of motoring ?

Posted by Robert J. Longhurst, 27th September 2006 7:13pm

Richard knew exactly what the risks were when he climbed aboard a 300mph rocket car, he did it I beleive, as he has a love of driving and things automotive, everything in life has accompanying risk, but we except those risks as part of being alive and living. Sadly when the worst happens the bibal bashing righteous, the news grabing politition and the saftey campaign lot will call for the end to everything. Fine scrap Top Gear, but I ask all those who petition for its demise, will the roads become any safer with it gone? Will the boy racers drive around at a steady 30mph because they didn't get their Sunday night motoring fix? Will it prevent rival TV companys making car related programs (5th gear) with just as much action? No it won't , it won't make any difference to anything whatsoever! except it will remove a much loved, entertaining and informative programe from those who have a love of cars and driving. Come on BBC dont let Nanny State and the Namby Pambys run the world, I'm sure Richard wouldn't!

Posted by Brian Dawson, 27th September 2006 7:14pm

I am too upset at the thought of another British tradition being taken from us to say more than ..IF YOU DONT LIKE OR AGREE WITH THE CONTENT OR COMMENTS MADE ON 'TOP GEAR'....DONT WATCH IT...YJG7PL

Posted by Mike Souter, 27th September 2006 7:14pm

I think that it would be a real tragedy if Top Gear was removed from the BBC. It gives a great deal of pleasure to a great number of people.
I, like many thousands of people wish the very best to Richard.

Posted by Terry Crouch, 27th September 2006 7:15pm

Top Gear might be dropped by "Auntie Beeb", but don't worry, another channel will pick it up and may even give the boys more cash to entertain on an even biggr scale.
Tankbuster.

Posted by Steve Jones, 27th September 2006 7:15pm

Leave our Top Gear alone.

Unfortunately, the relaunch of 5th Gear is so lamentable that it has left Top Gear even further out in front as simply the best motoring program around.

Posted by Vance Burton, 27th September 2006 7:15pm

I think what has happened here with regard to this health and safety thing is the same as what happened to the unions in the 70's, too much power and no common sense !! Thatcher reigned them in a bit, maybe a bit too much but that's another issue. I think this is the same thing, they have become the health and safety taliban, a load of jobsworths trying to eliminate every single possible thing that could go wrong. A nice idea but it's never going to happen. Accidents happen, people happen, mistakes happen !
There is a need for some sort of health and safety regime, when you look at some of the things that used to go on, it freezes my blood, for instance, ungarded machines in factories etc, whereas now children playing conkers is considered dangerous.

Posted by Stephen Smith, 27th September 2006 7:15pm

Interesting comment in 'Broadcast', a telly industry magazine, that staff, particularly cameramen, have been complaining about the reckless positioning of crew to gain the best/most dangerous shots.

Yon Stig feller seems so confident of his driving abilities that he wants crews set up to within three feet of where he hurtles towards and past them. How soon before there's a repeat of the Noel Edmonds Syndrome?

Poor Hammond, he was the people's speed freak. I suspect there'll be an outporing of braggadaccio from the Clarkson Loyal when he finally returns to his driver seat.

Posted by Ewan Maclachlan, 27th September 2006 7:16pm

Top gear is without doubt one of the best programes on the TV. Even people who are not that interested in cars watch Top Gear because of the entertainment value and the banter between the presenters plus the fact its just fun.
The political correct crowd around today would ban everything to do with fast cars, driving, racing etc etc. Its a pity they did not spend there time making the world a happier place to live in instead of complaining about what others say and do all the time. I for one love cars and motor racing and also dont believe a lot of what is said about motor cars and the effect on global warming.
Richard Hammond drove that car because HE wanted to not because he was forced to so as well as wishing him all the best I for one hope to see him and Clarkson and May back on our screens ASAP and if anybody dosn't like Top Gear its simple turn it off and go ang hug a tree you sad little people.

Posted by Phil Oram, 27th September 2006 7:16pm

I think Top Gear is the best programme to come of BBC, no matter what any numpty with a mind like the idiot who debated with Clarkson on Radio 2 about driving a landrover up a hillside says.

All in all, the overall majority of tests that clarkson, hamster and may do are on a track. And thats where the local constabularies want all people who want to race.

I'm sure the BBC would hate to lose one of their highest rated programmes due to busy bodies who have nothing better to do than moan.

get well soon hamster

Posted by Wayne Heatherill, 27th September 2006 7:16pm

You can't ban top gear because of one accident. It's a great show and I love seeing the latest cars available - even if I can't afford a new Ferrari at £200k plus. It would be like banning F1 or any other motor sport on TV!! . All motorists had to past a driving test and are fully aware of speed limits; otherwise they wouldn't have a license! Its nanny state extreme. The vast majority of people have common sense, but you can't blame top gear for the tiny minority of people that want to break the rules of the road.

I hope Hammond gets well soon - he's a great TV presenter. Top gear rules!

If you don't like it - CHANGE THE CHANNEL and stop complaining. Do-gooders

Posted by Craig J, 27th September 2006 7:16pm

i watch top gear. I watch the fast cars in awe and i enjoy every minute of it, the stupidly fast stunts and danger etc...

but i know that getting to work in my car is a whole idffierent affair.

Keep TG and the real world separate...and it'll be ok

Long live TG!

Posted by Andrew Brown, 27th September 2006 7:16pm

Top Gear encourages bad driving, like cartoons encourage children to smoke.

Once again the "do-gooders" have gone over the top using Richard Hammond's unfortunate accident to voice their unwnated opinions.

If people never took risks, no transport would ever have been invented, becuase at some point they all cost life. But that doesn't stop people from using them.

At Richard Hammond had had taken precuations, removed any danger from the general public, and was prepared to drive the car himself.

Posted by Simon Smillie, 27th September 2006 7:16pm

Keep it on. T G is my favourite programme on TV. It is funny and entertaining. IT is the nearest I will ever get to most of the cars they show and test. Get well soon Hamsterwe need you back.
P.S. Hope the teeth did not get damaged !

Posted by Robert Barker, 27th September 2006 7:16pm

Top gear always was just a cunning stunts programme.
It was never about driving to the shops or the daily commute.

How often did you see them driving on city roads?

Pity they were not all in that car when it crashed / tipped over or whatever.

Posted by Jeremy Boden, 27th September 2006 7:17pm

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