Date published: 01.09.08 - not release date

Silverstone - Taking Noise Levels to the Max

Noise levels at the Grand Prix at Silverstone could reach 130dc – that’s the equivalent of a loud rock concert! Normal conversation levels occur at about 60 decibels - anything above 120 decibels can harm the ears and lead to hearing loss. Murray Walker, the legendary motor racing commentator suffers with noise induced and age related hearing loss as a result of many years being exposed to the extreme noise on the motor racing circuit.

Murray is currently backing a hearing loss campaign on behalf of David Ormerod Hearing Centres and will be attending this year’s Grand Prix taking his DOHC ear defenders to protect him from the roar of the engines. Murray is campaigning for people to look after their ears and have regular hearing tests – and generally break the stigma of hearing loss. Hearing is often taken for granted with people waiting years before doing something about hearing loss.

According to a report published yesterday by the RNID, 90 per cent of young people experience the signs of hearing damage after a night out, yet do nothing to prevent it. The findings suggest that hearing loss does not just affect the older generation – many are putting their hearing at risk by continually exposing themselves to loud noises.

If you are interested in exploring this subject, Murray Walker is available to talk about the following:

· His exciting life so far – from advertising executive on the Mars account (‘an apple a day helps you work rest and play’) to being awarded an OBE for his contribution to sport after years of commentating on everything from motorbike racing to being the voice of motor racing

· His busy schedule and how he’ll never really retire

· His thoughts on the latest motor racing sensation Lewis Hamilton

· How he has overcome his hearing problems and is now working to encourage people to step beyond the stigma of hearing aids and go for regular testing – Murray believes life is about communicating and if you can’t hear properly you are missing out and will inevitably suffer a poorer quality of life

· His experience with hearing aids and how they have changed his life

If you require anymore information at all, contact Holly Bigsby on 01903 821550 or e-mail me on hbigsby@pegasuspr.co.uk