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Motoring news

Spate of 4x4 'environmental' attacks continues

26/05/2009

A recent spate of moonlight attacks on four-wheel drive cars has now affected more than 100 vehicles in the quiet suburbs of southern Manchester.

An anonymous environmental group has claimed responsibility for letting down the tyres on the so-called Chelsea tractors, claiming that the vehicles are "unnecessary status symbols".

But while 80 off-roaders have been left with deflated tyres, police are also investigating another 20 instances of cars having had their tyres slashed - which the group denies any part in.

Large 4x4 vehicles have been widely criticised by environmentalists for their relatively high fuel consumption, and sometimes for their sheer size.

And owners of the vehicles attacked in Manchester have received messages, highlighting the culprits' objections.

The notes claim that the action has become essential due to climate change and what the group believes is a lack of action by the Government. It also highlights safety concerns: research has shown that pedestrians are more likely to die from impact with a higher, flatter SUV bonnet, than from contact with a smaller, lower vehicle.

The message adds: "This is not an attack on you as a person, nor is it an attack on your right to own a car.

"This is an attack on your choice of car, given the above concerns."

However, Greater Manchester Police has criticised the protest, and reiterated that the attacks constitute criminal behaviour.

Detective Inspector Damian Moran said: "It is mindless vandalism with no regard for the distress and nuisance caused to decent members of our community and will not be tolerated."