As writers for a trade mag, we sometimes get tip-offs from people in the industry. Often it is when dealers or the like are struggling, something we are seeing a lot of in recent times.

Such hearsay is really helpful for AM, in our wish to get to the bottom of a story first, but definitely needs to be backed up with fact.

So next thing is to ring around – ring the dealer in question, check what exactly our source is claiming, talk to the manufacturers for comment.

On this occasion, I have hit one big brick wall. Plenty of people on holiday, lots of no comments and some outright lies.

A DP has told me that the relevant franchise’s parts department is going brilliantly, when I’m more or less certain that it’s not receiving any parts from the manufacturer. Brilliantly? Sounds more like a disaster to me.

This means I have been quite blatantly lied to.

It’s a difficult situation – we understand people will try and keep the bad stuff quiet. Equally it’s our job to investigate it.

Eventually, I will get to the bottom of this latest tip-off – look out for a scoop in AM!

In the meantime, say no comment, be evasive, but please please don’t lie to me!