Worst attempt at demographic profiling

British broadcaster Channel Four were forced to issue an apology over an item in property programme Location, Location, Location. The show's assertion that twenty per cent of families in Stoke-on-Trent were officially homeless was down to a "misinterpretation of statistics by programme producers." There were, in fact, a total of thirteen homeless families in the city.

(Source: Metro)

Least successful homage to a local celebrity

In Britain, November 5th is traditionally the day of one of the most spectacular public celebrations in the calendar year. All over the country, bonfires are lit and fireworks set off in remembrance of Guy Fawkes, a man who failed to blow up the King and parliament.

Everywhere, that is, except in Fawkes' home city of York, where a major spectacular was banned on the grounds of health and safety. According to the local council, York City Football Club's stadium, Bootham Crescent, was not large enough to ensure spectator safety.

The Chief Executive of the York Tourism Board was said to be lost for words.

(Source: Reuters)

The worst opening day spectacular

To mark the opening of their new branch in Antrim, the management of fashion retailer Clockwork Orange launched a special offer. Opening at 5am, early-bird shoppers would pay a price per item based on the time of purchase. For example, if the transaction were completed at 5:30am, every item in the store would be priced £5.30.

Demand was somewhat greater than expected. Around two thousand people turned up for the opening, and tempers frayed as some customers tried to jump the queue. "Within half an hour of the store opening the windows had been ransacked," said Product Manager Will McCooke. "They were literally tearing the mannequins apart to get the clothes."

The sale ended when police were called. One man was arrested for disorderly behaviour.

(Source: BBC News)