XBox TV ad banned for reckless driving

The advertising watchdog has banned a TV ad for the XBox 360 console featuring a car chase, following complaints that it encouraged dangerous driving.

The ad, created by McCann Erickson, shows a balaclava-clad man being chased across a rooftop by two men, before jumping off, getting into a car and speeding away. A car chase through a busy city centre ensues, with the car weaving in and out of traffic. Text at the bottom of the screen says: "Dramatisation. Professional Stunt. Do not attempt."

The Advertising Standards Authority has ruled that the ad is irresponsible because it glamorises street -car racing, making it appear exciting, and could be seen to condone dangerous driving.

The ASA has not upheld complaints against Walkers Snack Foods’ TV ad for Comic Relief, showing celebrities dressed as schoolchildren wearing large false ears. Viewers complained that the ad is offensive to people with big ears and those who have been bullied.

The ad was created by Abbott Mead Vickers BBDO and attracted 12 complaints. The ASA ruled it was typical of Comic Relief TV sketches.

The ASA has censured both Sky One and News International’s thelondonpaper for a wrap-around ad feature for the TV series Lost, which featured three men and a woman on their knees, bound and gagged. Text read: "Lost Hostages Fear Captors’ Intentions."

The ASA has ruled that Sky and Thelondonpaper should have made it clear that the wrap-around was advertising rather than editorial content.