Drink driver paid a heavy price

Editorial Department • Published 24 Jun 2010 16:00 0 Comments

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Dear Sir, - May I take the opportunity to commend this newspaper for publishing the article in last week's edition, about Melvyn Bussell and the car accident which occurred, while driving drunk.

Whilst drink driving must never be condoned, nor would I wish to, this young man has paid a heavy price for his actions, but is holding his hands up and apologising in a very public way, and doing his best to do some good following a very traumatic life changing accident, in which he sustained horrendous injuries, to warn others of the dangers.

When one thinks about it, it could be so easy to lock yourself away from the world and feel sorry for yourself and embittered.

Some people in society are quick to judge, ridicule or condemn when incidents like this happen, but Melvyn has shown true grit, courage and guts by telling his story in such detail about the events leading up to that fateful night. I reckon he deserves the support and recognition given, because after all, we all make mistakes, and fast cars and speed are two things which most young fellas (and some older ones!) are hooked on. It is an inbuilt male trait.

This is a hard hitting story with a powerful message, and must surely serve as a stark warning to anyone reading it who may be tempted to drive a car or ride a motorbike whilst under the influence of alcohol or illegal substances to think twice, as it hammers home the potential devastating consequences which are likely to happen.

In my opinion, there could be fewer better deterrents.

I will conclude by concurring with Melvyn when he says it is "indeed" a "tara" what life can bring.

Yours faithfully,

Colin Ferguson

This letter appeared in Impartial Reporter 24 Jun 10

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