You know that moment in the comic books where Captain America pushes the button that sends out the call for The Avengers to assemble? Possibly not, but that's kind of what we're dealing with here. No, not Earth's mightiest heroes (and Hawkeye, who, let's face it, is a bit wet...), but some of Ireland's best and most widely read motoring journalists and broadcasters.
It is they who have come together to form the Association of Professional Motoring Press, the APMP, whose stated aim is to be a champion for the consumer when it comes to buying cars in Ireland. Formed yesterday (May 26), the Association's mission is to "deliver the very best advice on motoring matters through all forms of media - print, radio, television and online to consumers." That will be backed up by a new national award for the best cars in various categories as well as a focus on education, both of the next generation of drivers and the next generation of aspiring journalists.
The APMP's membership is drawn from motoring writers and broadcasters from the national daily newspapers, broadcasters and magazines as well as websites, including this one - CompleteCar.ie's Shane O' Donoghue, Paul Healy, Dave Humphreys and Neil Briscoe are all members of the Association.
Indeed, Shane himself said yesterday in an official release that "APMP's annual awards will be of great value to motorists as our judging standards will be exacting and transparent."
Chairperson of the association, Michael Sheridan added: "The APMP will serve consumers and the motoring community by channelling its members' extensive professional know-how, across all aspects of motoring. APMP members value integrity, have strong ethical principles and a clear passion for all things motoring."
Anything else?
The last line of the press release announcing the formation of the APMP simply says "happy motoring." Which kind of says it all, really.