I also read yesterday about a tragic accident where a boy died after falling 30ft from a wire at a theme park. Police and HSE investigating. I think the moral of the story is that people want health and safety when it may have an a serious impact on them or their loved ones. In the meantime we are portrayed as the kill joys of society. In fact, health and safety generally reflects the choices and values we put on life and wellbeing - it's just that many people do not fully appreciate it partly because the media distorts the truth.

Nothing new on the Butlin's side of the story. Back as far as the early 70's I can personally recall that deliberate "bumping" (or ramming) was seriously frowned upon by Dodgem Car Ride operators and would earn at least a stern rebuke. Note the name (dodge 'em, as opposed to bump them). The whiplash potential is a real one I think, particularly where a stationary car is rammed from behind.

I had a friend at the Kent showground with his children when the cannonball tragedy occured yesterday. Initally (because he's prone to telling them) I thought this was a wind up when he said the air ambulance had been called but as things developed it was not. Needless to say (as I understand the information from my friend) the stuntperson was still alive but with severe injuries when air lifted from the Kent showground. Otherwise I have to agree with RayRapp on this and feel that even if it is down to the insurance company refusing to insure against the risk it will be blamed on the HSE and the wider H&S professional community if there is any hint of these activities being "banned" or curtailed.