The problem with TV programmes like this is that the producers often feel that they have to introduce a story line along with tricks like "false jeopardy" to keep the viewers' interest. Essentially you only get to see the side of someone that the producers wish to portray so as to tell "the story". This programme didn't seem too bad - though there is no way of telling what the actual characters are/were like unless you have personal knowledge of the individuals involved, at which point you have your own bias anyway.

Mark Weir did come across as very "driven" and the FOTL as somewhat naive and idealistic which I have to admit does reinforce my personal views about both parties. Natural England were also portrayed as being somewhat myopic in their view of the damage to the areas surrounding the VF. Slightly more worryingly the LDSPB (or at least the planning officers) were cast as intent on promoting the "Disneyification" of the Lake District, or as it was described: "Making it the adventure capital of the UK".

I've no doubt that Mark Weir reinvigorated the Honister mine and made it a success but making the zipwire application sound as if the business depended on it being passed didn't seem to ring true, it may not expand to the same extent but it doesn't mean automatic failure. Of course if the mine now closes, the blame can be laid at the door of the LDSPB for refusing the application. I realise that tourism is the basis of the economy in the Lakes but it shouldn't mean that it should get its way all the time.

I get the feeling (not from the programme) that this application was being supported by those who didn't necessarily like Mr Weir as they had similar plans for "adventure tourism" but didn't want to be the first to poke their heads above the parapet.

Finally, the BBC seem to have a thing about Honister Mines - they went their for a lump of slate for James May's man-lab programme and they often film there.