Life's not like that
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• I am writing about the Channel 4 programme Truckers, screened on 29 December. The programme centred on Howard Law, nickname driving a Leyland Daf 4x2 artic hauling a tilt on a journey to Turkey.
The programme was too sketchy to be considered a good representation although it managed to misrepresent H who came across as a "bit of an old hand" steeped in the traditions of international trucking. Belly to the wheel and mike in hand we saw our hero set out for the Orient with a full complement of xenophobic bullshit: rice pudding Marlborough cigarettes and a camping kettle...
At best the programme was a missed opportunity, it could and should have concentrated on Gary or Meryl who were more representative of the drivers who make their living hauling freight across Europe and the near and middle east. Such a programme would not have generated the criticism that has been directed at Channel 4 and the programme makers about why they chose Mr Law, a relative newcomer to international work and transport in general.
The programme featured a not very experienced trucker on his second trip to Turkey. On his return to the UK he quit his job, ending his threemonths' trial employment.
For his work Law would be paid, with bonus payments for no accidents and shortages, around £330 a week.
Our hero had not taken his own advice to "stay in the cab, keep off the women and away from the bars" to heart or he would be taking more than his claimed £100 home.
I feel the programme should be required viewing for those who are "hot to trot" in a truck! Dan Kinsella Haddenham,Camk