Axegrinder firmly believes that a story is not old until it’s told, so is happy to pass on the curious tale of a gun crime incident which mistakenly featured in a press release sent out by Joanna Burns PR to promote a film about, er, street violence.
The original press release was sent out on 18 March following the premiere of a film about gang warfare set in the near future called Shank. It appeared under the subject line: ‘FILM PREMIERE DRAMA – STAR’S EARLY EXIT (GUN AT VENUE IN BRIXTON)”.
It stated:
…upon arrival Grime music star Bashy was seriously threatened by a gun by another party reveller, prompting the actor/musician to leave the party.
Curiously, the next day the following release was sent out by the same agency:
Following the press release (18th March 2010) “Skins Star Kaya Scodelario bravely parties on….” we have investigated this story further. It transpires that this has been a case of Chinese whispers leading from misinformation.
The evening itself was very successful and apart from a minor altercation outside the after party venue, the evening was trouble free, receiving praise from both the Metropolitan Police and the venues used.
We understand that it is our responsibility to control media and public perceptions of the talent, the film and all related events. We have worked very hard to ensure both the film and it’s moral message are not lost or misrepresented. It is on that note that we would like to retract any statement or release surrounding the Shank premiere that may imply any negative connotation and apologise to all involved for any inconvenience.
I’ll let you draw your own conclusions!
Email pged@pressgazette.co.uk to point out mistakes, provide story tips or send in a letter for publication on our "Letters Page" blog
