Palmer and Paras back safety initiativeposted in BTCC20 | 08 | 2015
SUPPORT OUR PARAS RACING and Derek Palmer were amongst a select group of teams and drivers from the Britiish Touring Car Championship who today backed an new road safety initiative in Scotland (see more photographs from today's event).
In association with Road Safety Scotland and Knockhill, the new ‘Race on the Track, Stay Safe on the Road’ initiative is aimed at reducing the number of accidents on Scotland roads, and lowering speed.
The event, which saw Palmer — joined by the Honda of former champ Gordon Shedden, and the Audi of Rob Austin — drive across the Forth Road Bridge was deemed a success by all who participated.
“It was great to take part in this event where we were driving at a leisurely pace, but it’ll be a very different story come Sunday," 28-year-old Palmer, from Lesmahagow, said.
"That’s the point of today though: the roads are for safe driving and if you want to race, head for your local track.
"I know all the guys really enjoyed taking part in this brilliant opportunity and I hope we have helped in spreading the word on road safety, not just in Scotland but across the rest of the UK too.”
Palmer's views were also backed by BTCC series director, Alan Gow.
“It was a brilliant event with a very important message behind it," he said. "As the biggest motor sport series in the UK, it’s vital we support such road safety campaigns, and it’s hugely significant to join forces with local and national government initiatives.
Related: Homecoming for Palmer and Paras
"This has also been a fantastic way to start our action-packed weekend in Scotland, where we expect to welcome a great crowd to Knockhill for what I’m sure will be some unforgettable racing.”
And Michael McDonnell, director of Road Safety Scotland, gave details of the initiative and thanked Palmer and the BTCC drivers — including Dalkeith's Aiden Moffat who attended but didn't drive — for their support.
“Spectators and racing enthusiasts travelling to Knockhill this weekend are sure to enjoy the thrill of watching the touring car drivers negotiate the circuit at speed, as some of the world’s best drivers demonstrate their expertise on the race track," McDonnell said. "But that’s where speed must stay.
“While we want the public to enjoy this event to the fullest, they must remember racing is for the track. Travelling too fast for the conditions, or excessive speed, is reported as a factor in too many accidents on our roads, and with higher speeds comes an increase in both the number and severity of accidents.
“That is why we welcome the great support of such vastly experienced drivers and their pledge today. Remember, leave the racing at Knockhill, race on the track, stay safe on the road.”
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Jim McGill
Photo: Copyright of Jakob Ebrey