Anger at CarFest’s bad press (From Basingstoke Gazette)

Anger at CarFest’s bad press

10:20am Saturday 8th September 2012 in News

Sir.–Having read the negative coverage of CarFest in some national newspapers last week, I have to wonder if their reporters actually attended the event, let alone spoke to anyone in Overton.

The clear view from the residents I have spoken to, even those expecting chaos, is that the event caused no problems in the village.

My wife and I were fortunate enough to work as volunteers on the Sunday and saw first-hand how family orientated the event was. While we were there we met many local families, all were full of praise for the event. Music from the main stage was barely audible on the far side of the site, let alone outside the event. There was no ‘traffic chaos’ on surrounding roads.

Having been involved in the planning for this event since March, I have been impressed by the competent way the organisers, the council and the blue light services dealt with the real issues. Their detailed planning undoubtedly played a large part in ensuring the smooth running of the event.

Unfortunately, both the organisers and myself have had to devote a considerable amount of time and effort to deal with a small minority whose stated aim from the outset was to stop the event taking place.

While I can sympathise with those who would prefer it was held elsewhere, this cannot justify their campaign of misinformation claiming there would be increases in crime, litter everywhere and intolerable noise levels.

Not only has the event raised around £500,000 for the BBC’s Children in Need charity, it’s also given a muchneeded boost to both the wider and local economies and there is a real sense of pride in Overton that we were able to help host such a wonderful event.

–Cllr Ian Tilbury , Overton, Laverstoke & Steventon Ward.

Sir.–I was appalled by the articles that appeared in the national press recently, trashing the success of the CarFest weekend. (Daily Mail, Daily Telegraph). What rubbish these stories reported.

I am an Overton resident and my family and many others thoroughly enjoyed CarFest. Yes, there were a few hiccups regarding early consultation and ticket sales to residents, but these were addressed with meetings in the village. The event was well run and the road provisions worked, there was no disruption that was unbearable, and as far as everyone I have spoken to was concerned, it was an excellent way to put Overton on the map.

Let’s hope the views of the many outweigh the few and Overton can continue to support this BBC Children in Need event for many years to come.

–Marion Jones, Overton.