Tuesday 9th March 2010
Meeke takes record IRC win in Brazil

After failing to show a result on the recent Monte Carlo rally, Kris Meeke led from start to finish to secure a second consecutive win on the Rally Internacional de Curitiba, round two of the 2010 Intercontinental Rally Challenge last weekend. Co-driven by Paul Nagle, Meeke beat fellow Briton Guy Wilks to victory in Brazil by 46.7 seconds following a faultless performance in his Peugeot 207 Super 2000. It was Meeke’s fifth win from 12 IRC starts making him the most successful driver in the short history of the series.

Behind Škoda UK driver Wilks, Juho Hänninen claimed six fastest stage times on his way to the final podium spot in third. The result means the Finn now tops the drivers’ standings with 14 points to the 11 Wilks has accumulated during the opening two rounds of the 12-event IRC season.

Each year brings its own specific challenges, and this year’s visit to Brazil delivered a stark contrast in weather terms compared with the conditions encountered on the same event twelve months ago. In 2009, the first Rally Internacional de Curitiba to count towards the IRC was run in bright, hot weather. This time round, crews were greeted by heavy cloud cover, torrential rain and even flooding, which led to the cancellation of three stages.

There was one constant, however, and that was the name of the winner, since Kris Meeke was in dominating form once again in his Peugeot UK-entered, Kronos Racing-tended 207 Super 2000. The Ulsterman emerged in front from the outset and his lead was never seriously threatened after that. Meeke’s first win of 2010 has taken him to third place in the provisional IRC standings.

"Friday morning’s stages were tough", Meeke observed, although his smile and composure seemed to belie his words. "The rain and mud meant that grip kept changing all the time, and there were quite a lot of tricky places. My Peugeot handled very nicely and was perfectly balanced, though, and that enabled me to take it all in my stride."

Heavy rain during rally week forced organisers to cancel the two Rio Pesqueiro stages when the river of the same name running adjacent to it burst its banks. The event-closing Super Prime Pinhais stage was also lost because of the weather.

On the Monday after the finish (March 8), the cars of the IRC regulars were trucked 2.200 km to the venue of the next round which is due to take place in Cordoba province, central Argentina, on March 19-21.

"Unlike certain other drivers, I have never contested the Rally Argentina before", points out Meeke. "But that won’t stop me from trying to win…"

The combination of Meeke’s victory in Brazil and Bruno Magalhaès’ fifth place has taken Peugeot one place up the order into second place in the IRC’s Manufacturers’ standings.

Rallye de Curitiba Results:

1. Meeke-Nagle, Peugeot 207 Super 2000
2. Wilks, Skoda Fabia Super 2000 at 46.7
3. Hanninen, Skoda Fabia Super 2000 at 1’20.2
4. Kopecky, Skoda Fabia Super 2000 at 1’49.3
5. Magalhaès, Peugeot 207 Super 2000 at 3’55.1

Drivers standing :

1. Hanninen 14 points
2. Wilks 11 points
3. Hirvonen 10 points
4. Meeke 10 points
5. Kopecky 9 points
6. Magalhaès 6 points

Manufacturers standing :

1. Skoda 28 points
2. Peugeot 21 points
3. Ford 10 points
4. Mitsubishi 3 points

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Tuesday 9th March 2010
Luxury Commuter Anyone?

The Aston Martin Cygnet Concept is a bold step towards a new form of transportation; the luxury commuter car, a form of personal transportation that sees the company's core values engage with a new environment.

The Cygnet Concept enhances the marque, pointing to a future of ongoing innovation, design and technology; allowing Aston Martin customers a greater degree of freedom without compromising the levels of design, quality and innovation that embody the brand.

An Aston Martin delivers the pleasure and exhilaration of driving combined with an appreciation of craftsmanship, design and technology. But Aston Martin is also about innovation, forging new links and associations; and bringing the brand's qualities to new sectors of the market.

“Many of our customers have a need for a small car for urban and city use,” says Aston Martin Chief Executive, Dr Ulrich Bez, “The Cygnet Concept brings intelligence, innovation and artistry to the small car market. The Cygnet Concept represents the natural choice for those customers looking for a premium commuter car.”

“Our past, our future and our backbone will always remain sports cars, but the Cygnet Concept will support this by offering our customers a greater degree of freedom in the urban context.”

The Cygnet Concept is the result of a unique and intelligent collaboration, the coming together of two companies that are leaders in their respective fields. The project has required a close intellectual and engineering partnership, resulting in an inventive solution that unites volume and niche automotive engineering.

Aston Martin has always understood the importance of an emotional engagement with its products. As the company continues to innovate and diversify its product portfolio, emotional design will remain at the heart of its strategy, be it through the exhilarating sound of a V12 engine, the unmistakeable silhouette of an Aston Martin sports car or the quality, craftsmanship and skill that is evident in an Aston Martin interior. The Cygnet Concept exemplifies this latter attribute, demonstrating the high levels of detail design and craft that are integral to every Aston Martin, presented within a compact and highly advanced technological package.

The Cygnet Concept is a demonstration of Aston Martin's unrivalled skill at creating hand-crafted interiors. The rich blend of hand-stitched leather, Alcantara and aluminium is shared with Aston Martin's sports cars. The company's extensive experience of traditional processes and richly detailed craftsmanship gives each Aston Martin a unique feel, bringing together detailed design work, high technology and exquisitely tactile materials.

As a luxury commuter car that can slip easily and unobtrusively into the city, the Cygnet Concept is a highly intelligent solution to urban mobility. Using tried and tested technology, together with Aston Martin's acclaimed levels of personalisation and customisation, material quality, craft skill and tactile delight, the Cygnet Concept is innovative and forward-thinking, a genuine solution for future mobility and a natural partner for Aston Martin's line-up of acclaimed luxury sports cars.

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Monday 8th March 2010
Autosport International Raises Funds To Make Wishes Come True

Europe's largest motorsport show, Autosport International, has helped raise almost £4,000 for its 2010 nominated charity, Make-A-Wish Foundation® UK, which grants magical wishes to children and young people fighting life-threatening illnesses.

Over 85,000 visitors attended Autosport International, which took place at the NEC in Birmingham on 14-17 January 2010.

Current Formula One World Champion and Patron of Make-A-Wish, Jenson Button was in attendance, signing autographs for fans along with BBC F1 commentator Martin Brundle and motorsport legend Sir Stirling Moss.

Autosport International commissioned innovative artist Ian Cook, who developed an original piece of artwork for the charity.

The picture - created with remote control cars and Dunlop tyres dipped in paint - depicted nine championship-winning cars from the 2009 season, including the Brawn GP001 driven by Button, Sebastien Loeb's Citroen World Rally Championship winner and the BMW of British Touring Car Champion Colin Turkington.

Throughout the event, motorsport personalities signed the artwork, including Jenson Button, Martin Brundle, David Brabham, Allan McNish, Colin Turkington, Jason Plato, Matt Neal and Tiff Needell, to name but a few.

The painting, auctioned on the Coys stand, raised an outstanding £2,150 for the charity, which - combined with the on-stand donations - took the Make-A-Wish funding to almost £4,000 over the weekend.

"The show was a huge success," said Chief Executive of Make-A-Wish, Neil Jones.

"The stand attracted a lot of positive interest, with visitors making direct debit pledges in addition to the donations we received at the show. Thank you to Autosport International and its visitors, as well as Ian Cook, for helping us raise this money, which will go towards making the wishes of many special young people come true."

Autosport International Show Director, Ian France, said: "Make-A-Wish is an incredible charity, and we're thrilled to have been able to raise this money, as well as increase awareness of the outstanding work that it does."
 

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Monday 8th March 2010
Two Or Four Wheels, The Countdown to Race Retro 2010 Begins

The final countdown to this year's Race Retro has begun, with just over a week until the doors open at Stoneleigh Park, Coventry - and whether you like your historic motor sport on two wheels or four - there's something for every motoring enthusiast.

Starting on Friday 12 March and lasting three days, the exhibition halls and rally stage will bring historic motor sport to life through the cars, bikes and competitors who made their names in the past, but are still highly regarded today.

Race Retro is celebrating 100 years of Alfa Romeo, and a delectable line-up of competition models down the decades will demonstrate just why this highly- successful manufacturer's cars are still competing today, despite their age.

Outside, there's an action-packed tribute to a later classic model - Audi's all-conquering quattro - with numerous models being put through their paces in the hands of the real Stig - acclaimed driver Stig Blomqvist.

Meanwhile, fans of 1970s and 1980s rallying are in for a treat, as Russell Brookes gets behind the wheel of the "Andrews Heat for Hire"-sponsored cars, including the Talbot Sunbeam.

The rally stage is always a big draw at Race Retro and - while many people will be waiting to see several Group B cars - for those who like their cars from an earlier period, Brian Culcheth is back behind the wheel of a Triumph 2.5PI, proving that four-door saloons can be just as much fun as any two- door.

Bringing the action right up to date is reigning British Rally Champion Keith Cronin, who will be at the wheel of the mighty Aston Martin V8 Rally GT, trying to beat the legends at their own game!

But for enthusiasts who like their motorsport in quarter- mile, straight-line style, Race Retro welcomes the UK's first dragster, which was constructed by Sydney Allard. Built to run in its home country, but mimicking Stateside dragsters, the Chrysler Hemi-engined car is currently being fully restored to its former glory.

There's more 1970s V8 action, courtesy of the Super Saloon Association, which will have a Chevrolet V8- powered VW Beetle and a Buick V8-powered DAF55 Coupe on its stand.

Meanwhile, a record-breaking Austin-Healey 100 will be showing Race Retro visitors that records can still be broken, even if it takes around 50 years! The Dennis Welch Motorsport Healey covered 612 miles in just over four hours - an average speed of 148.22mph, and on the way posted an outright speed of 153.44mph.

Reunited with the cars which bore his name is Brian Lister, the Cambridge-based builder of beautiful yet functional big-banger sports models. Brian is on hand to mark the publication of a new book covering his car company's history, right up to the 1990s Jaguar- powered model which ran at Le Mans.

Race Retro isn't just about cars - there are plenty of motorcycles to keep two-wheeler enthusiasts happy There's a replica of the bike which George Formby rode in the film "No Limit" and - like the one used in the film - it is based on an Ariel.

This year is also the 60th anniversary of the Norton Featherbed Manx frame's introduction; several Manx models will be shown on the Norton Owners' Club stand, alongside some John Player Commando Twins.

Look out also for the Jim Lee Racing Collection - a selection of bikes built by master framemaker Jim back in the 1960s and 1970s. Among them is the JL Yamaha ridden by Mick Grant, which posted 15 consecutive victories.

And there's plenty of motorcycle action, old-school style. The Ken Fox Troupe's mighty Wall of Death is back at Race Retro, with Indian and early Honda twins literally climbing the wall!

Adult ticket prices start from just £20 for Friday and £15 for Saturday and Sunday when booking in advance, or upgrade to a VIP ticket with fantastic hospitality and a chance to meet our special guests. Children's tickets are £5 on Friday or Saturday and free on Sunday. Parking is free throughout.

The show is open from 9.30am each day and closes at 5.30pm on Friday and Saturday and 4.30pm on Sunday.

To book tickets and for the latest updates, please visit http://www.raceretro.com.

For further information, images or media enquiries, please contact:
Andrea Seed,
PR Director, Poppyseed Media Ltd
Tel: +44 (0)121 224 7455
Mobile: +44(0)7812 010 765
Email: andrea@poppyseedmedia.co.uk
 

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Friday 5th March 2010
Colin McRae Trophy To Form Part Of Chatsworth History

In 1995 Colin McRae was watched by over 20,000 people in the grounds of Chatsworth. The internationally famous special stage formed a memorable part of Colin's journey towards winning the 1995 World Rally Championship.

It is fitting then that Chatsworth will play host to the perpetual memorial of what Colin brought to motorsport.  McRae Vision, the charity set up in the aftermath of Colin’s tragic accident in 2007, will be attending The “Kick Energy” sponsored Rally Show at Chatsworth over the weekend of 5th/6th June.  Amongst its objectives, the Charity supports causes and runs initiatives particularly for the benefit of underprivileged children and the education of young persons involved in motor sport.  They have recently presented a cheque for £35,000 to purchase specialist medical equipment for a new paediatric intensive care ambulance for which further funds are being raised by the Yorkhill Children’s Foundation.

Rally Show Ltd. are delighted to announce that McRae Vision are presenting the ‘Colin McRae Driver of the Rally Show’ perpetual trophy for the first time this year. It will be presented to the driver-and-car combination that gives most enjoyment to the spectators at Chatsworth over the weekend. The recipient will be decided by representatives from both Colin McRae Vision and The Rally Show Ltd.

Entries for the popular stage sessions are filling up and, with three months still to go, over 40% of the available places have already been allocated. Amongst cars already entered are two Audi Quattros (the originals of which celebrate their 30th anniversary in 2010), a Nissan 200 S13, the Greenwood Motorsport Vauxhall Chevette HS and Charley Blaney’s MG Metro 6R4.

Entries are now open for the competitive events and regulations are available to download from www.therallyshow.org. There will be five events each running over the two days of the show, including the popular “All-Comers” event, an Historic Challenge catering for all four categories of the HRCR and the GT event for sports and GT cars which will be split into three date categories. Last year this event was famously won by Mark Higgins in the Aston Martin Rally GT, beating off the challenge of the German Porsches!

There is also an event for FIA-homologated cars and a new departure this time, the “Baja Chatsworth” for “Off Road” cars. This will be split into two categories, one for the astonishing XR 150 single-seater buggies and the other caters for the super-powerful traditional high-powered off road cars. An early entry has already been received from the Milner R5 which was built in nearby Matlock and will be driven by Steve Lloyd.

Spectators who purchase their tickets in March and April will automatically go into a draw for two rides in a rally car at Chatsworth. The winners in the December one are from Hereford and Ashbourne while those successful in January are both from Chesterfield.

Thursday 4th March 2010
Car News From Club Members

De Lacy members Steve and Andy Walshaw are currently
re-building their Rear Wheel Drive Fiesta Mk II after a long awaited comeback. Steve has not driven the car in anger since 2004 at Swinderby having had some very competitive results up to then.

It has long been an ambition of Steve and Andy to restore the car having had to cease competing for a while when Andy's son Harry was stricken with a form of cancer, from which he has since recovered. The car, currently at RDR Motorsport is being rebuilt by the pair to go on and do some events in the near future.

Andy said "We still have a bit to go but we are pretty certain we can have the work completed pretty soon and are trying to have the car ready for the John Overend rally at Melbourne in May where Steve will be taking the wheel and may need a co-driver too if anybody is interested".

The car currently is being tidied up ready for a 1300 cross-flow engine to go in.  Steve and Andy will keep us updated as to what's happening regards rebuild and rallies in the pipeline.
 

Thursday 4th March 2010
Clubnight Social Dates

We are grateful to Andy Walshaw for organising the following Clubhouse Social Dates:

Andy  has promised to organise more of these events depending on interest.
 

Wednesday 3rd March 2010
Marshals needed - Pirelli International Rally

 MARSHALLING APPEAL

The Pirelli International Rally, the second round of the MSA British Rally Championship, is experiencing an extreme shortage of  marshals and we are asking clubs if they, or any of their members, can assist us with this prestigious event. The rally takes place over 23rd/24th April and runs in conjunction with a number of other events :-

• The Pirelli Historic Rally
  ( Dunlop/ Wonago MSA British Historic Championship )

• Pirelli Challenge Rally  ( BRC Challenge/ Ford Fiesta/ Citroen Sporting Cup/ Suzuki

• Pirelli Tour of Cumbria ( MSA Gravel Rally Championship )

• Pirelli Land Rover Rally 

The action takes place in the legendary Kielder Forest, scene of many a battle on past Lombard RAC Rallies and features a number of stages from those halcyon days.

All marshals receive a souvenir T shirt, metal rally badge and a bag of Pirelli goodies.

We will be enormously grateful for any assistance you can offer and would ask that if you are able to assist us you contact our Chief Marshal, Barry Armstrong

Barmstro55@btinternet.com

Thank You

Ed Graham
Media Manager
Pirelli International Rally

Wednesday 3rd March 2010
The end of the world…

…as we know it?  Perhaps the end really is nigh if two of the world’s top supercar makers have decided that petrol power alone will not carry them into the next decade.  Makers Porche and Ferrari have both unveiled petrol-electric hybrids at the Geneva motor show so how long before we see these types of cars supplanting conventional engine cars in competition and what is the future for historic motor sport?  Are the days of fossil-fuelled racing and rallying now well and truly numbered?

To the surprise of many (including me) Porsche unveiled not one, but three hybrid cars at the Geneva show.  Firstly the 918 Spyder.  This is a plug-in hybrid, that Porsche say can run for 16 miles on electric power alone.  Powered by a 3.4-litre V8 producing over 500hp that revs to 9,200rpm, coupled to twin electric motors - one at the front, one at the rear - adding a further 218hp., there is total of more than 718hp on tap which has proven itself on a sub 7min 30sec laps of the Nurburgring – and the car will do 94mpg while emitting just 70g/km of CO2.  If that is not enough, the 918 Spyder is rated at is 0-62mph in 'under' 3.2 seconds, with a top speed in excess of 198mph.  The engine drives the car via Porsche's seven-speed Doppelkupplungsgetrieb (yes really!) twin-clutch transmission.  This is the PDK transmission we have already seen on other cars in the Porsche stable.

Not only did Porsche show the 918 hybrid but also a restyled Cayenne available as a hybrid option and also a 911 hybrid.  What, a 911 hybrid, surely not I hear you cry.  Unfortunately it’s true.  The 911 GT3 R Hybrid uses KERS technology developed by the Williams F1 team, so instead of heavy batteries it simply relies on a 'flywheel generator'.

Once this is fully charged two 81hp electric motors boost the 480hp already available from the flat-six in the boot, giving a total power output of 642hp for bursts of 6-8 seconds. It'll be tested this year in the Nurburgring 24-hour race.

Over at Ferrari, the boys from Maranello also displayed their green credentials – literally, in the shape of the shocking green 599 GTB Fiorano hybrid prototype.  This future-Ferrari utilises the controversial KERs technology seen in last year's F1 cars to provide for the most fuel-efficient car that Ferrari have ever made.  Ferrari's solution is to fit an electric motor into the rear-mounted dual-clutch gearbox and slim lithium-ion batteries just 20mm thick placed in the aerodynamically tuned flat underside of the 599.  These keep the extra weight of the batteries as low as possible for improved weight distribution and means there's no need for heavy cooling systems, the airflow alone keeping the batteries at a safe               Images © MagicCarPics/Microsoft
temperature.

The system can power the 599 on electrical power alone but Ferrari says this isn't the point.  What the HY-KERS system does is help future Ferraris meet stringent new CO2 and fuel efficiency targets.

It also makes it 0.6 of a second faster going from 0-125mph than the standard 599, the electric motor fully integrated into the gearbox and working with sophisticated traction control systems developed from F1.

The system is still some way from production reality but will work in both front and mid-engined cars. In the meantime the California will gain start-stop tech in the first of several steps to a new, greener future for the prancing horse.

Tuesday 2nd March 2010
Drivers Fall Foul Of Pothole Threat

Councils have been urged to fill in the nation's potholes after half of UK drivers reported having an accident or a near miss after swerving to avoid a hole in the road.

Despite the high percentage of drivers citing potholes as the main cause of an accident or near miss, nearly 70% said they had not bothered to report the problem to their local council which is responsible for road maintenance.

The problem of cratered streets has been worsened of late by the freezing weather which has seen existing potholes widened and new ones emerge on the nation's roads.

A survey by the Guild of Experienced Motorists (GEM) found that the majority of drivers (90%) thought their council was not doing enough to fill in potholes, while only 5% of accident victims in which a pothole was a factor have made a claim against their local council.

A general lack of understanding of the claims procedure has been blamed for the low number of claims, with 88% of drivers saying they had no idea how the system worked.

GEM chief executive David Williams said: "Often motorists will not spot a pothole until it is too late and, as the survey worryingly reveals, either swerve out of the way, which could result in a crash, or cause damage to their car.

"Local councils need to take swift action in alleviating this nationwide problem but it is also important for motorists to play their part in reporting potholes to local councils."

Tuesday 2nd March 2010
Yellow Bird Box Slows Down Drivers

A fluorescent yellow bird box has helped slow down motorists on a village road in Durham, it emerged.

Retired police officer Bill Angus erected the bird box at the front of his home on Sunderland Road, near Houghton-le-Spring. But he says its purpose was to just attract birds and was not intentionally meant to resemble a speed camera.

The 64-year-old, who has raised concerns to the council about motorists flouting the 30mph speed restriction, said: "If people want to think it is a speed camera and if it slows them down, then that's fantastic, but for all intents and purposes it is a bird box.

"We have got a lot of residents who have cars on driveways at the front of their homes so they have to reverse out onto the main Sunderland Road and you can look left and right and think it's clear but then in a split second someone is flying down at 60 or 70mph. There have been quite a few near misses."

Bird lover Mr Angus has called for the council to put a speed camera on the road. He said he designed the bird box to attract finches and blue tits that are drawn to bright colours.

Tuesday 2nd March 2010
Motorists Still Flouting Mobile Law

Three years on from the introduction of tougher in-car mobile phone rules, many motorists are still flouting the law, according to a new survey.

Drivers are illegally using hands-held mobiles not just for making and receiving calls but for texting, calling up the internet and even checking messages on Facebook and Twitter, the YouGov poll for car parts company Halfords found.

The survey of 2,100 adults revealed 31% of drivers admitted taking a call while at the wheel and 22% said they had made a call.

As many as 28% of motorists confessed to reading a text while driving and 18% had sent a text. This is despite the risk of invalidating their car insurance policy by using a phone while on the road.

The survey also showed that 5% of drivers had read a post on Facebook, Twitter or another social website, with 2% even admitting posting on Facebook or sending an email while at the wheel.

Also, 3% read their emails while still in charge of a car, with 2% saying they had used the internet while driving to check traffic reports and find directions.

Some tried to justify in-car internet usage by claiming they only did it when in stationary traffic or at traffic lights, though this is still illegal.

Monday 1st March 2010
Autoclassique.tv

For more information, please contact Paul Hargreaves
Email: paul@autoclassique.tv
Website: http://www.autoclassique.tv
 

Tuesday 16th February 2010
DeLacy duo to attend Boucles De Spa

After braving the snow and ice in Roppa last weekend to marshal on the Riponian Rally, club members Steve and Malcolm Higgins are taking a slightly longer run out this coming weekend, 20th February, to take a look at the biggest historic rally on the Belgian calendar.

The Boucles de Spa annually attracts a superb field of famous names from rallying's recent history and this year is going to be no exception.

Looking at the entry for this weekend's event you'll see such names as Stig Blomqvist, Bjorn Waldegard, Freddy Loix and Francois Duval as well as our own Richard Lepley making an appearance on the 320 strong list, we can't help but be excited at the prospect of a great weekend's rallying. 

Also, I have heard today that the event has enlisted the help of 1981 World Rally Champion Ari Vatanen to drive one of their course cars.  Ari, who contested the presidency of the FIA last year but was beaten by Jen Todt will co-driven by his youngest son Max, aged 19, in an Opel Ascona of the type that he first rallied on his debut in 1974.

In 2009, the event ran in very snowy conditions as it took in challenging sections around the town of Spa-Francorchamps and as of last week there was still almost two feet of snow and the weather forecast promises a daytime high of minus five so we'll be wrapping up warm!

Watch this space and we'll bring you news and pictures from the event on our return.

Monday 15th February 2010
Race Retro 2010 Celebrates Motorsport with Race & Rally Legends

Race Retro, the international historic motorsport show, will bring together racing and rally legends to celebrate all aspects of motorsport. Modern-day heroes will line up alongside classic icons, to pay tribute to some of the most magnificent marques ever to grace the starting line.

Held at Stoneleigh Park, Coventry, from 12 to 14 March 2010, Race Retro, in association with Footman James, will be celebrating all things Alfa Romeo, with a stunning display of vehicles and some leading Alfa drivers appearing, including Italian Bruno Giacomelli. Bruno participated in over 80 Grands Prix from 1977 through to 1990 and spent many years at the wheel of the Alfa Romeo 179/182 F1 car.

As part of the celebration, organisers have invited Alfa Romeo clubs and owners to exhibit their marque in a dedicated hall, as well as having specialist Alfa restorers, race teams and engineers on hand to answer all your questions.

Outside, visitors can enjoy high-octane action on the Live Rally Stage over the weekend, where old and new will collide. One of the most popular features of the show, this year's course has been redesigned and moved closer to the action inside the show to make sure that visitors don't miss any aspect of the event.

With a special tribute to the Audi quattro, one of the most iconic cars of the 1980s and the first rally car to take advantage of the change in rules which allowed the use of four-wheel drive in competition, Stig Blomqvist will drive a selection of ex-works quattros from the beginning of the 'big-wing' S1 evolution. Bringing the Rally Stage bang up-to-date is reigning British Rally Champion Keith Cronin, who will be at the wheel of the Aston Martin V8 Rally GT, owned by Jeremy Bailey and prepped by David Appleby Engineering. The ex-Prodrive car has competed in the Italian Tarmac Rally Championship and will take part in a number of Aston Martin Owners Club events.

Race Retro will also celebrate 25 years since Russell Brookes won his last BRC title, with a reunion of all the Andrews Heat for Hire cars, including Ford Escort Mk2, Talbot Sunbeam, Ford Sierra Cosworth, and two versions of the Opel Manta 400 which he used from 1973 until 1994. Russell said: "It will be a really exciting trip down memory lane. I have fond memories of the Monte Carlo Ford Escort, as it was one of the most expensive rally cars I ever drove! I won the Welsh International in the Manta in 1987, the car's last international win."

A first for Race Retro, a Lancia Delta Integrale Evo in Repsol livery as previously driven by Carlos Sainz, will be in action on the rally stage, as will Brian Culcheth in his 1972 East African Safari Triumph 2.5PI. Another of Brian's cars, the Triumph used in the World Rally Cup, will be on display in the Rally hall.

There will also be a reunion of cars and drivers from the 1970 London-Mexico World Cup Rally, which covered approximately 16,000 miles (25,750 km) through Europe and South America and was won by Hannu Mikkola and Gunnar Palm in a Ford Escort. The winning Escort will be on display, courtesy of the Ford Heritage Collection.

For those who prefer two-wheeled racers, there will be a tribute to 60 years of Norton, with racers on hand to talk about the bikes' finest hour. Expect to be rubbing shoulders with Peter Williams, Phil Read MBE, John 'Mooneyes' Cooper, Trevor Nation and Steve Plater, who will be talking with Race Retro motorcycle MC Steve Parrish.

The best retro and cafe racers will compete in the show's annual concours competition, supported by Ace Cafe London and Meguiars. Around 50 bikes will be judged over the three days and awarded prizes on the Sunday.

If all this inspires you to invest in a competition car or motorcycle of your own, then visit the H&H Classic & Historic Motorsport Auction, which will have on offer an amazing range of rare and desirable cars, bikes and memorabilia. Add to this hundreds of trade stands, the popular Ken Fox Wall of Death and a host of other names yet to be announced, and it looks like it's going to be a winner...

Adult ticket prices start from just £20 for Friday and £15 for Saturday and Sunday when booking in advance, or upgrade to a VIP ticket with fantastic hospitality and a chance to meet our special guests. Children's tickets are £5 on Friday or Saturday and free on Sunday. Parking is free throughout.

The show is open from 9.30am each day and closes at 5.30pm on Friday and Saturday and 4.30pm on Sunday.

To book tickets and for the latest updates, please visit http://www.raceretro.com.

For further information, images or media enquiries, please contact: Andrea Seed,
PR Director, Poppyseed Media Ltd
Tel: +44 (0)121 224 7455
Mobile: +44(0)7812 010 765
Email: andrea@poppyseedmedia.co.uk

Saturday 13th February 2010
Do You Want To Try Drifting On Ice?

White snowdrifts surrounding ice tracks in the sun will highlight your experience, as you climb into a real racecar in Tahkovuori, Finland. Forget your fear as you send ice flakes flying and the stopwatch is ticking in the fight to become the King of Lake Syväri. Driving sensation just doesn't get better than this!

The Aaltonen Motorsport team invites you to feel the beauty of controlling a racecar on our ice-track. You will spend most of the time behind the wheel learning expert techniques and enjoying the possibilities of long rally-spiked cars and professional training.

There is no better way to finish off an exciting day of intense driving than the great local cuisine and relaxation in a nice, hot Finnish sauna. We will ensure that your party stays entertained all night long.

Read more about our events at

http://www.postituspalvelu.net/lists/lt.php? id=ZRoJD1MAAh0HBk5UVQE%3D

We can't wait to see you ice-driving in Tahko!


Aaltonen Motorsport offers intensive driving events in Tahkovuori, Finland. Former professional racecar driver Tino Aaltonen trains and directs events with two decades of experience, sharing the knowledge of his father, the legendary 'Flying Finn' Rauno Aaltonen. The internationally-acknowledged Aaltonen Motorsport provides you with an untouchable arsenal of cars, and a great deal of time behind the wheel!

For more information, please email Rauno Aaltonen at raunaalt@netti.fi

Saturday 13th February 2010
Nice Work If You Can Get It!

I had a press release from our friend Joris Erard this morning.  For those of you who don't know, Joris co-drives for Belgian ace Stefaan Stouf in historic Escorts and the pair have competed on our own Roger Albert Clark Rally, putting up some pretty decent stage times in 2009 before becoming closely acquainted with a log pile in Kielder.  Well, it seems that Joris now has another string to his bow, that of co-driver tutor...

"The Belgian Beauty from Ostend, Barbara Gandolfi will be the co-driver of top Belgian driver Freddy Loix in the Boucles De Spa legend 2010 on 20 February.  Barbara wants to be well prepared for her first time as co-driver and her manager asked to Joris Erard (co-driver for Stefaan Stouf) to give her some lessons on co-driving!

Joris said, 'For me it is a big honour to work with Barbara and give her advice. I hope that she will do a good job in Spa. On the Friday before the rally we'll go together to all the controls and I'll help her as much as possible but on Saturday I'll be co-driving Stefaan Stouf in the SMS-team..."

Freddy Loix and Barbara Gandolfi will start with number 10 in a Fiat Abarth! Stefaan Stouf and Joris Erard has got number 25 (Escort RS1800)."

I hope that Joris has set aside enough time to properly brief (!) Ms Gandolfi  as she seems a pretty busy lady.  Barbara was Miss Belgian Beauty in 1999, VT-Babe in 2000 and Miss Reef 2001 as well as being a cover girl for Playboy magazine in September 2003.  According to her biography, Ms Gandolfi, also owns a carwash business in Ostend which might be worth a visit.  Evidently she intended just to open an ordinary carwash, but on a hot summer's day some of her female staff stripped down to bikinis and 'short shorties' to wash cars 'with much foam and water as in the American films'.  I don't know Ostend, but I presume it gets very hot and washing cars is very warm work, so I suppose the casual dress is entirely justified!  Oh, and in the tradition of Miss World,  Ms Gandolfi loves animals, owning many animals including hamsters, guinea pigs, ponies, donkeys, cats and dogs. And if you're interested, lives in Zwevegem!

Good luck Joris, it looks like you may have your hands full!

Monday 8th February 2010
Motorsport Back At The Palace!

It's been a long time coming, but Crystal Palace will once again play host to a national motorsport event. Motorsport at the Palace, sponsored by the Ancaster Group, have confirmed that a two-day sprint event will be run over the May Bank Holiday weekend (30-31 May 2010), reigniting the spirit of racing at the Park.

Crystal Palace is the oldest  circuit in the world, being first used for motor racing in 1899. Races were originally run around the perimeter of the venue, until a purpose-built track was created in 1937. After the Second World War, racing returned to Crystal Palace and the circuit hosted an important international fixture until 1972, when modern safety standards, combined with a lack of funds, brought an end to racing at the venue. Between 1997 and 2000, Sevenoaks DMC ran a series of successful sprints, which ended when work began on a Millennium project in the park. Motorsport at the Palace will see vehicles from all ages reacquainted with this iconic and historic circuit.

Organised by Sevenoaks and District Motor Club (Sevenoaks DMC), with the support of the London Borough of Bromley, the two-day event will allow visitors to enjoy the sights, sounds and smells of the legendary machines which powered the likes of Jim Clark, Jackie Stewart and Stirling Moss to victory.

Celebrating the rich history of motorsport at Crystal Palace, a host of modern and vintage cars will be competing for the accolade of fastest car at the Park. Many of these vehicles raced at the Palace decades ago, and spectators will have a unique opportunity to see these classic machines reacquainted with Britain's oldest purpose-built race track. There will also be a new category for electric and alternative-powered cars, providing visitors with a glimpse of things to come, both on the race track and the road.

Competitors will race along a section of the old track, incorporating Pond Hairpin, the Big Tree Bend part of the Terrace Straight and the infamous North Tower Crescent - in a bid to set the fastest time of the day.

Visitors seeking a break from the action will be able to stroll around the numerous display vehicles and open paddock, watching mechanics at work, chatting to the drivers and generally soaking up the racing atmosphere.

Competitors will each donate a minimum £10 in support of St. Christopher's Hospice and the Royal London Society for the Blind; exhibitors will also contribute, ensuring that Motorsport at the Palace provides a lasting benefit to the community.

Tickets are priced at £10 per day and advance tickets will be available at a discount, from the website at http://www.motorsportatthepalace.co.uk

For further details, please contact:
Colin Billings
Mob: 07770 301675
Tel: 01732 847440
Email: info@motorsportatthepalace.co.uk

Thursday 21st January 2010
Roger Albert Clark Rally Dates Confirmed For 2010

Colin Heppenstall, Rally Manager of the Roger Albert Clark Rally, confirmed today at the Autosport show that the MSA have granted a date change of the event and that it will now definitely run on the weekend of the 26- 29th November 2010.

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Thursday 21st January 2010
Mini For WRC Campaign?

If you’ve always wanted a MINI, but wished you could have four proper doors and a proper tailgate, then this could be the car for you! After much speculation, the BMW owned brand has finally confirmed that the fourth model in its range will be called the Countryman and it will be available from September this year priced from £17,000.

The Countryman is the much rumoured MINI crossover SUV and at launch will feature three petrol engines and two diesels, ranging from the 90hp One D to the 184hp 1.6-litre turbo in the Cooper S version. That engine has been given a twin-scroll turbocharger, direct fuel injection, and a valve management system to improve efficiency. Standard will be the six-speed manual box or if you are lazy, a six-speed automatic box.  As is also fast becoming the norm, the new MINI will also have all the green options with brake energy regeneration and start/stop.

So, why should we be interested?  Well, it's strongly rumoured that this machine will form the basis of the new WRC assault from Prodrive, the firm previously behind the works Subaru team.  Motorsport News reports this week that a deal for MINI to mount an attack with a Prodrive prepared version of the MINI crossover model has already been signed off.  Currently Prodrive are not commenting on the speculation but have confirmed that they intend to re-enter the WRC                                              Images © Mini from the start of the 2011 season.  An official announcement could be made before the end of February and I for one look forward to seeing what a modern MINI rally machine could be capable of.

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Monday 4th January 2010
Harewood Speed Hillclimb – Where Beauty Meets The Beasts!

Harewood Speed Hillclimb occupies a stunning setting overlooking the beautiful Wharfe valley, between Leeds & Harrogate.

For 2010 there’s a full calendar of events planned, with competitors driving everything from tuned hatchbacks to screaming, F1-engined single seaters – real beasts that demand exceptional driving skills as they blast up the UK’s longest permanent hillclimb course at speeds approaching 120mph.

Eleven events make up the 2010 season, running from April to September, including 2 MSA British Championship rounds when the cream of British hillclimbers visit this scenic Yorkshire venue.

Classes include vintage, classic, MG, Ferrari, Porsche, TVR, Scimitar, Austin Healey, Lotus , Ginetta etc, plus a wide selection of open wheeled specialist race cars.

Harewood’s viewing areas are fantastic, enabling spectators to get close to the trackside, look round the cars and talk to the drivers. It’s a great place to spread a blanket, relax and enjoy a picnic whilst watching the action, but catering is provided at every meeting and some events include attractions for the kids too.

The full 2010 schedule of events is:

DeLacy members can take advantage of a special
pre-booking discount of 20%, making individual entrance costs for spectating just £8.00 per person, or a Season Ticket for all eleven events is available for only £35.00!!

There’s full information, including details for potential competitors, plus some great hillclimbing action videos at www.harewoodhill.com

Further Information: Tony Cooper
Tel: 01422 844145  Mobile: 07946 711587
Email: anthonylcooper@tiscali.co.uk  

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Saturday 2nd January 2010
Motorway Roadtrains To Be Tested

Tests will start next year on cars that "drive themselves" in an initiative which could become a reality within 10 years.

Co-ordinated by a UK company, the EU project is called Sartre (Safe Road Trains for the Environment) and involves a "carpooling" roadtrain theory for use on motorways.  The roadtrain would consist of six to eight vehicles whose occupants would be able to relax, read the paper or chat on mobile phones while travelling.  This would be possible because their vehicles would be equipped with a navigation system and a transmitter/receiver unit which communicates with a lead vehicle.  This lead vehicle - possibly a taxi, bus or truck - will drive "normally" and effectively "do the motoring" for the rest of the roadtrain.  Drivers approaching their destination will take over control of their own vehicle, leave the convoy by exiting off to the side and then continue on their own to their destination. The other vehicles in the road train close the gap and continue on their way until the convoy splits up.

The road trains increase safety and reduce environmental impact thanks to lower fuel consumption compared with cars being driven individually.  The reason is that the cars in the train are close to each other, exploiting the resultant lower air drag. The energy saving is expected to be in the region of 20%. Road capacity will also be able to be utilised more efficiently.

The Sartre project will be conducted for three years starting in 2011 on test tracks in the UK, Spain and Sweden and eventually on public roads in Spain.

"The Sartre project brings together a unique mix of technologies, skills and expertise from European industry and academia," said co-ordinator Tom Robinson, of automotive engineering company Ricardo UK, which is based at Shoreham-by-Sea, Sussex.

pa.press.net

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Monday 7th December 2009
We get to drive Vauxhall's new Astra

Never ones to turn down an opportunity to drive around the Millbrook circuit, John and I recently took up an invitation from Vauxhall to test drive the soon-to-be-released new Astra.  The Vauxhall Astra, arguably Britain’s best-loved and longest running  compact car was originally launched in 1979 and has always been built at Vauxhall’s Elsmere Port plant in Cheshire.

The original Astra was designed to set new standards of comfort, handling, build quality, performance and refinement in its class and went on to sell over half a million models.  Now the latest Mark 6 incarnation of the Astra is set to do the same as it is released onto the nation’s roads set head to head against the likes of the evergreen VW Golf and the UK’s best selling car for the last ten years, the Ford Focus.  Would the new Astra really be the class leader that Vauxhall and its beleaguered UK workers hope?  Well we really hoped so and were looking forward to putting the car through its paces.

Before being allowed behind the wheel, we were given a preview of the TV advertising which will air for the first time on Boxing Day which uses a movie premiere theme to showcase the new car.  We were also given a short presentation by Vauxhall’s product and marketing team on the key points of the new car and left in no doubt that this GCV, or Global Compact Vehicle is immensely important to the future of the Elsmere Port facility, chosen as the global launch plant, as well as to the General Motors parent company world wide.

Following the recent uncertainty surrounding the future of Vauxhall in the UK, it is refreshing to see Elsmere Port figure so strongly in the Astra story, being described as .a 'world class' plant with the capacity to build 4,000 new Astras per week.

Once able to see the car in the metal for the first time, the initial impression is that it looks a little like a scaled down Insignia, with its blade side sculpting and hockey-stick lamp style and those ‘eagle eye’ light clusters give it a unique frontal aspect.  We were also impressed with the self-healing front bumpers which have helped with a five star NCAP rating.  Under the skin the Astra also inherits more Insignia features as the MacPherson-strut front suspension and rear torsion-beam suspension are lifted straight from the larger car.  The Astra however has that stalwart of competition car componentry, a Watt’s Linkage on the rear axle to reduce the rear-steer effect of side loadings when cornering.

Inside, the cabin has a high quality feel with a multi-surfaced style that looks borrowed from a bigger car – in some cases that’s because it is!  The Astra uses the Insignia’s steering wheel, gear lever and instrument binnacle to great effect but we felt is was a bit button-heavy particularly when we didn’t have long to find our way around the interior before heading out onto the road.

Compared to the outgoing car the dashboard has been lowered and moved forward away from the driver, which improves the visibility and driving position as well as giving a feeling of spaciousness. The storage space has been heavily revised to make it more useful and the rear-seat accommodation is large enough for three large adults for a long journey.

But enough of the marketing stuff.  What was it like to drive on the legendary Millbrook circuit, well known from Top Gear, Fifth Gear and many films and TV shows?  We were excited when we realised that our first drive was to be in a sleek red SRi model.  The Vauxhall SRi badge has a lot of history behind it, as far back as the Mk II Cavalier SRi, and was once synonymous with lively, powerful engines and a sporting ride.  Not this one unfortunately.  Ours was a 1.6i 16v VVT-engined machine and although the handling was as we expected, the motor wasn’t exactly ‘sporting’.  The 1.6i naturally-aspirated engine produces 115bhp and 114lb/ft of pulling power - which equates to a 0-60mph time of 10.9 seconds while returning 44.8mpg on the combined cycle and whilst refined it needed to be worked hard to make any real progress, something that was evident on Millbrook’s hill circuit where it felt quick enough to get where you need to go, but not quick enough to be satisfying.

On the high-speed bowl however, once wound up the car seemed to come into its own.  The ride was supple, without feeling too soft and planted without being too hard. The steering was pleasantly weighted without being too heavy and the overall ride quality felt superb.   Evidently Vauxhall's engineers honed the Astra specifically for UK roads through endless testing at the Millbrook Proving Ground so the car truly was on its home ground!

Next up was a diesel.  Specifically, an up market ‘Elite’ 2.0 diesel automatic.  Much more grown up, in this model we were treated to leather and climate control and maybe I’m just getting old but I liked the urge that the extra torque brought and enjoyed the extra comfort of this up-spec model.  At a ‘steady’ 100MPH around the bowl, this car felt like it could run all day at this speed without any difficulty.

For extra interest, Vauxhall had also brought along cars which they felt were direct competitors for the Astra, including the VW Golf, Ford Focus, Honda Civic and Audi A3.  A brave move we thought and jumped into the Golf, back to back with the Astra.  Straight away the interior trim was more sombre and angular compares to the sweepy Astra but the plastics generally felt better quality and my Golf-loving son declared it the best car of the day as far as he was concerned but don’t tell Vauxhall as we were enjoying their hospitality and would like to be invited back!

So, 48 hours on what are the lasting impressions of a car which do doubt will soon become a familiar sight on our roads?  Well, we liked the wider, more purposeful stance of the new car.  We were impressed by the storage flexibility provide by the split level boot floor and soothed by the new ambient lighting feature but to quote John, “Well, it’s not a Golf, is it?” and there you have it.  A good car that tries hard to be aspirational but the Golf still retains the kudos and therefore the high residuals that it has always had.

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Friday 4th December 2009
Land Rover unveils LRX Concept

The word ‘hybrid’ has fast become synonymous with small cars that are little more than an urban run-around for environmentalists and green conscious celebrities. But no longer; as the Land Rover LRX enters the fray.

This is a huge step away from Land Rover’s pedigree as a producer of reliable, high-performance off-road vehicles – though it’s a development first hinted at with the Range Rover Sport. The LRX hybrid is definitely a bit different. But can it really compete as a hybrid?

While many concept vehicles end up as showy design exercises, the innovations evident here are likely to be incorporated in future Land Rovers. The LRX is visually striking, the cross-coupe a stark departure from the conservative design traits of earlier cars. Even the much anticipated Range Rover Sport failed to push the boundaries of conceptual design. But the LRX is a completely different animal.

Although built upon the Freelander chassis, the LRX is both shorter and lighter, giving it a more responsive, sportier feel. The bodywork slopes far more aesthetically, the designers incorporating coupe elements into the appearance. Neatly, an interior LED changes colour with suspension modes: green for eco, red for sport and blue for off-road, eschewing the necessity for distracting glances at the gearstick. But does it work? The design has a certain appeal, but it’s an acquired taste. The cat-like glare of the headlights and the intimidating front bumper might dissuade some, but the sporty overtones might attract a younger generation of driver.

It seems the LRX is trying to crack the image-savvy crowd with its modern appearance and innovative hybrid technology.

Land Rover claims that it has been optimised for both off and on-road usage, with five drive modes, including the Eco-mode, which maximises the fuel economy during on-road driving. Unfortunately, its off-road credentials are untested, though it is unlikely to be in the league of the Freelander or the Defender.

Environmentally friendly? Environmentalism and fuel efficiency are not frequently used to describe a 4x4, but the LRX sets out to change all that. Land Rover has confirmed that it is working on a 2.0 litre turbodiesel/electric version, capable of running on bio-diesel with a fuel economy of up to 60 miles per gallon.

In an effort to make the LRX as economical as possible, the designers have shed weight from every conceivable part of the car. The removable roof panel is made from a carbon composite, and the majority of the trim is sculpted from a light-weight aluminium alloy.

Importantly, Land Rover is working hard to lower its carbon footprint of its cars, with this engine offering the level you would typically expect from a supermini.

The LRX incorporates an Electric Drive Rear Axle Drive (ERAD), which lets the car run purely on electric at lower speeds, with the mechanical engine kicking in when required.

Written by Gary Chambers and reproduced from Exec Digital UK

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Friday 4th December 2009
Which Classic Would You Own?

Lamborghini Miura

We all love Italian supercars, and for our hedonistic pleasure 764 Lamborghini Miuras were built between 1966 and 1972. The Miura set the trend for mid-engined layout among two-seater high performance sports cars. The 1965 Turin Motor Show revealed only the chassis, but multiple orders were placed despite lack of an actual body. There was no doubt that when brought into existence, this honey’s body would be very fine indeed. Future Lambo stalwart Marcello Gandini ensured the Miura’s resultant physique was a sensation at the 1966 Geneva Motor Show.

If you want to get hold of one of these today, you can be assured that, visually, nothing has gone saggy over the decades; it’s a vintage icon for sure. There is no free love here though – after some brief research, we have found you can get a 1968 Miura P400 for around 295,000 euros, or if you fancy the stunning P400S from 1970 this vintage car aristocracy will set you back a mere 412,665 euros.

Bugatti Type 57S

A rare 1937 Bugatti Type 57S Atalante, Coupe, abandoned in a garage in Britain for half a century, was the main attraction of the Bonhams Retromobile auction in Paris where it sold for an incredible 3.4 million euros ($4.4 million). Originally owned by British race car driver Earl Howe Way, the rare supercar (only 17 were produced) had all its original equipment intact including the high-performance engine that could take it up to 130 mph (209 km/h). Bought by a European car collector, the coupe will look stunning after it has been restored.

Ten years ago the buyer probably would have sent this Bugatti in for a megabuck restoration. According to Rob Sass, a vintage-car expert whose writing has appeared in the New York Times and Sports Car Market magazine, a sympathetic mechanicals-only restoration is where it’s at today. “Under the circumstances, restoring the car might well be cause for regret,” notes Sass. It is worth noting that, for the money, the buyer could have bought three Veyrons, or, if he had no use for owning a trifecta of grand touring monstrosities, some sort of small aircraft. Probably.

Aston Martin DB5

Perhaps the definitive vintage car, the Aston Martin DB5 is to James Bond as the Parker 51 is to Basildon Bond. Ian Fleming had placed 007 in a DB Mark III in the novel of Goldfinger, but the DB5, the company’s newest model, was decided on for the film, and we should be thankful. Archive imagery of this suave machine isn’t quite the same without Sean Connery leaning on the famed model, armed with Walther PPK and a critical smile. But he’s surely not critical of the car, despite his trademark indifference when faced with Q’s briefing.

While most DB5’s will be devoid of an actual ejector seat, torpedoes, smokescreen etc in their arsenal, presumably this won’t stop vintage car enthusiasts pretending they are present and fully functional. However, some may find there aren’t many more chances to wage war on Gert Frobe, with the DB5 surely set to continue accelerating in price where available. The car used in Goldfinger was the original DB5 prototype, with another standard car used in stunts. Two more modified cars were built for publicity tours after the film’s release. In January 2006, one of those cars was auctioned in Arizona for $2,090,000. Later Bond cars would fail to capture the imagination in quite the same way.

Written by Ben Lobel and reproduced from Exec Digital UK

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Friday 4th December
Gwyndaf Evans & John Millington Win Roger Albert Clark Rally 2009

Gwyndaf Evans and John Millington took the winners laurels in Carlisle. At the end of a cold, wet and gruelling Roger Albert Clark Rally the Viking Motorsport crew came home four minutes and two seconds ahead of  Jeremy Easson and Alun Cook.  For the second year running John Millington has become the winning co-driver after reading the maps for 2008 winner Malcolm Wilson.

In the Roger Albert Clark Open Rally, Marcus Noble and Brian Hodgson came home in first place, four minutes and three seconds ahead of second placed crew Nigel Barber and Stuart Popplewell.

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Friday 29th August 2008
Is driving the only thing you think about - when driving?

Even if it is, you probably need to know about some recent changes in the penalties for motorists who kill someone while avoidably distracted at the wheel.

From 18th August 2008, the penalties for such motorists, will include terms of imprisonment under new ‘careless driving’ laws. The new offences will, for the first time, allow courts to imprison drivers who cause deaths by not paying due care to the road, or to other road users. They are designed to plug the gap in current legislation and so prevent drivers who kill, from just walking away from a court with a fine. This can include prosecution of drivers for using their mobile phones as they constitute an avoidable distraction.

Avoidable distractions which courts will consider when sentencing motorists who have killed include:
 

• using a mobile phone (calling or texting)

• drinking and eating

• applying make-up

• anything else which takes their attention away from the road and which a court judges to have been an avoidable distraction

(e.g. reading or adjusting the controls of electronic equipment such as a radio, hands-free mobile phone or satellite navigation equipment.) 

Prior to the introduction of these new laws, the maximum sentence for those convicted of causing death by careless, uninsured or unlicensed driving was a maximum £5,000 fine and penalty license points. However the new offences will carry custodial sentences of:

• up to five years for causing death by careless driving

• up to two years for causing death by driving while unlicensed, disqualified or uninsured.

Road Safety Minister Jim Fitzpatrick recently said:

'The government is committed to continually improving safety on Britain's roads. Under the Road Safety Act we have already brought in tougher penalties for drivers who use hand-held mobile phones at the wheel and the introduction of these new offences today is the latest step to tackle bad driving and further improve safety on our roads. 'Last year the number of people killed fell below 3,000 for the first time since records began in 1926 but eight people are still dying on the roads each day. Where carelessness – or an uninsured, disqualified or unlicensed driver – causes a death it is right that the driver should face tough penalties.'

So, the penalty is the same for those people who are unlicensed, disqualified or uninsured.... Does this make sense?  And what about those who light cigarettes and smoke whilst driving?  why is that not on the list - Discuss...

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Thursday 31st July 2008
Aston Martin N400 Vantage Roadster: The future in orange...

Aston Martin has now introduced the competitive element by producing only 240 of its new Vantage N400. Gentlemen (and ladies), choose your weapons...

HOW DO you improve on something that’s already special? Simple really – as long as you don’t settle for second best there’s always a way to improve. That’s the kind of attitude that puts you on the front row of the grid, which is fitting, because this particular car has been bred on the race track. The Vantage N400 is a very special edition that pays homage to the N24 race car, a machine that earned its stripes in the most demanding race on the world’s most demanding track – the Nurburgring.

So the N400 is an automotive trophy, and one that has numerous details that will delight the enthusiast. The first is instantly noticeable – the N400 comes in three unique colours, the most striking of which is the vivid Karusell Orange, and is as eye-widening as the corner that gave it the name. The exterior is visually toughened too, with gorgeous diamond and graphite turned alloy wheels, redesigned sills and mesh silver grills. The effect is subtle, but notable: this is a step above the standard car.

Deep down redesign

This is no cosmetic makeover however: this is an Aston Martin, and a sharpened driving experience comes as standard. Under the muscle-bound bonnet lies an enhanced version of the 4.3-litre that does such great service under the bonnet of the standard Vantage. Revised electronics and the air intake system borrowed from the DBS liberates and extra 20bhp, taking the total to a rippling 400bhp. Torque is also up to 310lb/ft, promising rampant acceleration. That’s not all however, as the N400 benefits from revised suspension settings, with stiffer springs by 40 percent up front and 30 percent at the rear, as well as revised damper settings. A comprehensive revision by any standards, and a mouth-watering prospect when the open road lies ahead.

Especially with the roof down, as should always be the case when driving the Roadster. Not only does having the folding electric roof make the most of the glorious styling, it allows as much of the scintillating exhaust note to filter through to your ears. Slide into the sumptuous cabin and fire it up, and it’s hard not to notice the neck hairs standing to attention.
 

At first, the N400 unsurprisingly feels much like its standard brethren. The same sharp responses, the same accurate steering and the same hard-edged V8 engine. But it only takes a few miles to realise that, despite the suspension being stiffer, it rides with even more composure and resolve than the regular Vantage. Bumps and disruptions are noted but nothing more, and the N400 remains unshaken by road imperfections.

That translates to even better handling when pressing on. The lack of body roll and fine feedback from the steering inspires huge confidence, and it soon becomes apparent that there is stacks of grip and a remarkably solid feeling coming through the chassis. Push harder and the N400 pushes back, willing you on and coping easily with anything you can throw at it.

Which is plenty, especially when you exploit the performance on offer. The 20bhp increase may not sound huge, but the difference in the way the engine responds is far greater. Up to 4,000 rpm it remains tractable and responsive, but pass through that magic barrier and it soars upwards, roaring with glee through the exhausts and powering fiercely to the red line. Slip in the next gear and the N400 does it all again, singing ever louder the harder the accelerator is pressed. The heady combination of noise and speed is highly addictive – try it through a long tunnel for the maximum sensory overload.

This is what the N400 is all about. There’s no question that the Vantage is a magnificent car, and that it has the charisma and ability that would make any owner feel like a hero. Yet the N400 takes it up another level, adding yet more performance and also pulling off the seemingly impossible feat of being sharper and more comfortable out on the road.

There is a downside of course. Even if you have the required £102,000 for the Roadster, only 240 examples have been made, with another 240 in Coupe form. That may seem like a significant premium over the regular car, but it comes packed with optional equipment that more than makes up the difference. This is a very special special edition – you’ll need to be quick to catch it.

Written by Paul Pearce-Couch  and reproduced from Exec Digital UK

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Monday 28th July 2008
Speeding Loophole Myths


 

Jeanette Miller, a leading expert in motoring law and author of Lawpack's 'Fight a Motoring Ticket', separates fact from fiction:

• "I can drive fast enough to beat a speed camera."
  
  You would need to be driving at 171 mph or above for you to get through a 'Gatso' speed camera without it recording you on film.
• "The ticket isn't valid because the traffic officer wasn't in plain view and he wasn't wearing a high visibility jacket."
  
  The guidelines state that the traffic officer (police officer, traffic warden, safety camera officer or community support officer) should be in plain view, but if he isn't, this still doesn't invalidate the ticket.
• "There were no camera warning signs so the ticket cannot be valid."
  
  Speed checks can be carried out even when there are no warning signs.
• "The back of the camera wasn't painted yellow."
  
  The back of Gatso cameras don't have to be painted yellow for the ticket to be valid. This is only needed if all the proceeds from tickets from that camera are to be used just for the building of more cameras.
• "The police officer wasn't wearing his hat/jacket when he booked me for a traffic offence."
  
  A police officer only has to be recognisable as a police officer.
• "I can't get points for speeding because I was in a hire car/company car."
  
  The lease company must still identify you as the driver.
• "Speed cameras can't take photos of special reflective coating/honeycomb number plates."
  
  These plates could only possibly work on cameras with a flash (e.g. Gatso) and many have been shown not to work even with cameras that do. Honeycomb number plates are illegal and you can be fined for using them.
• "Speed cameras can only catch cars in the inside lane."
  
  Speed cameras take shots across all of the lanes.
• "My speedometer/cruise control wasn't working, so it wasn't my fault."
  
  The court will still say that it's your fault and that you're guilty.
• "I was over the limit, but not to the extent that the police say."
  
  If you admit in court to any amount of speed, even 1mph over the limit, you're guilty of the offence.
• "Red cars are more likely to receive a fine or prosecution than others because officers play 'speed snooker'."
  
  Officers target vehicles that appear to be travelling over the speed limit. Statistically, black and silver cars are most likely to be caught speeding (because they are the most common).
• "I don't have to provide the driver's details because I've not been cautioned."
  
  The police don't have to caution you in these circumstances.
• "The officer refused to show me the reading on the laser/radar gun. There's no proof of me speeding so I can't be convicted."
  
  By law, the officer doesn't have to show you the reading on the laser/radar.
• "The officer didn't make me sign the ticket at the roadside. If I don't show up at court, the ticket will be dismissed."
  
  Officers don't have to give you a ticket at the roadside at all. If you don't appear at court, you will still be found guilty in your absence and your driver's licence can be suspended until you produce it to be endorsed. If you were then caught driving, you would be 'driving otherwise than in accordance with a valid licence', which carries points or a discretionary disqualification and a fine.

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Wednesday 5th March 2008
New DeLacy Team...

This year there is a new team entering rallies under the Delacy banner. Dick Lebeter and Steve Walshaw have known each other for a few years but never competed together although their association goes back to when they were both members of Leeds Motor Club. So finally they have got together this year and have decided to give the ANCC road championship a go.

Brief history of the car they will be using is; A Dom Buckley built Group N Evo 3 – One of a pair of cars built for Middle East Championship, then returned to Europe, owned for a number of years by Terry Harryman, then sold to and rebuilt by Phil Cherry Motorsport in Ireland. Used on Irish events until 2007 by some of the top Irish drivers. Then sold, car went to Scotland.

Although Dick and Steve  have rallied for some years this is the first time either of them have done any forest rallies and it will be the first time using route notes. The first event was the Riponion in February but look out for them in the forests on selected events during the year.

Steve says "If you are out there thanks, I may not see you as my head will be in the route book. I will try to keep the club up to date on results and events".

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