Sponsor Honda receives 'Big Fat Gypsy Weddings' campaign complaints

Channel 4 documentaries sponsor Honda has revealed that it has received complaints about the broadcaster's advertising campaign for Big Fat Gypsy Weddings.

The programme has faced controversy recently after members of the public and the London Gypsy and Traveller Unit complained about the "Bigger. Fatter. Gypsier" advertisements used to promote the programme.

The criticism intensified after 17-year-old blogger Pipopotamus, a member of the Romany community, wrote an open letter complaining about the programme.

Honda, which sponsors all of Channel 4's documentary programming, has now revealed that it has received around 35 complaints about its association with Big Fat Gypsy Weddings.

"We have had concerned members of the public ringing us thinking we have some control over editorial content," Honda's Paul Ormond told The Guardian.

However, Honda issued a statement praising the way Channel 4 documentaries "bring public interest issues to the fore whether they be one person's life challenge or ethical questions on health research", adding: "In fact, we would challenge anyone who watches a Channel 4 documentary on any subject not to come away better informed."



The company clarified that "both Honda and C4 approved the poster campaign which uses the word 'Gypsier'" and said: "The word 'Gypsier' refers to the fact that the series provides greater insight into the communities featured - it was never intended to be offensive."

Honda also vowed to continue sponsoring Channel 4 documentaries, saying that they get "under the skin of contemporary Britain [and offer] a platform to voices not heard elsewhere".

Channel 4, which recently defended the series, said that it has an "excellent relationship" with Honda and is in "regular contact" with them.

"We have had a small number of complaints about the poster campaign and are confident that all aspects of it fully comply with ASA guidelines," a spokesperson added. "We also are in regular contact with the Gypsy and Traveller communities featured in the programme and have had very positive feedback."

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