Glastonbury 2014: BBC accidentally tells viewers to 'prepare for rape' at music festival
The weather report's subtitles should have read 'prepare for rain'
Your support helps us to tell the story
In my reporting on women's reproductive rights, I've witnessed the critical role that independent journalism plays in protecting freedoms and informing the public.
Your support allows us to keep these vital issues in the spotlight. Without your help, we wouldn't be able to fight for truth and justice.
Every contribution ensures that we can continue to report on the stories that impact lives
Kelly Rissman
US News Reporter
Glastonbury revellers have been told to pack their wellies and waterproofs - and to "prepare for rape".
Festival-goers may have been slightly miffed to see the "advice" appear during the weather report on BBC News at Ten on Tuesday night - but they can rest easy that the ominous warning was the result of a subtitles blunder.
But few mistakes go unnoticed in the age of Twitter and numerous users took to the social media platform to express their surprise.
User @SamMorganSmith tweeted: "BBC tell Glastonbury goers to prepare for rape. Cloudy with a chance of not proof reading."
And @CarrieGibson said: "Be prepared. Whatever the weather!"
A BBC spokesperson apologised for the gaffe, saying that it was an "unfortunate typo".
"We try to ensure subtitling is as accurate as possible, but there are times when mistakes inevitably occur," they said.
It is not the first time the BBC have aired inappropriate subtitles. Ringing in the Chinese New Year in February, the broadcaster declared 2014 the "year of the whores", instead of the year of the horse.
John Griffiths, a forecaster with Meteogroup, said: “If it was just a few showers the hard ground would make it drain off. But after three days’ worth of rain it will probably get quite muddy, I suspect.”
This year's event will see Metallica, Kasabian and Arcade Fire headlining the world-famous musical extravaganza, with other major acts on the bill including The Black Keys, Massive Attack and Pixies.
Subscribe to Independent Premium to bookmark this article
Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Premium subscription today.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments