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Brexit Conference will prepare East Midlands businesses for new EU trading relationship

Businesses can find out how to prepare for a new trading relationship with the EU by attending a free online event hosted by East Midlands Chamber.

This year’s Brexit Conference, which takes place over the course of a morning on Thursday 26 November and is held in partnership with the Derbyshire Economic Partnership and Nottinghamshire County Council, will review the sweeping changes that 1 January 2021 will bring for exporters and importers.

Titled Business Preparedness: Where Are We Now?, it will offer guidance on the measures that can be taken to prepare for these changes and delve into what future trading conditions might look like.
East Midlands Chamber chief executive Scott Knowles, who will deliver the opening address, said: “There are huge changes coming for businesses on 1 January, regardless of whether or not a trade deal is forthcoming, and now is the time to prepare.

“With all the latest updates, tips and takeaways, this year’s conference is a must for all those looking to continue, or prepare, trading overseas.”

The virtual conference involves a series of live streamed webinar sessions, keynote speakers and case studies.

It is aimed at businesses that trade internationally, customs agents, employees in businesses who are responsible for completing export documentation, and personnel who administer the documentation, sales, purchasing, logistics, dispatch and freight forwarders embarking into the export world.

Confirmed sessions include an overview of the future changes to trading conditions, HMRC update, routes to export markets, standards certification and the CE mark, effective supplier collaboration, HR implications and the ChamberCustoms offer.

Speakers include Keith Robe, managing director of customs solutions firm Cusdec; Simon Hart, lead international partner at RSM UK; Paragon Law managing director Thalej Vasishta; Nottingham University Business School professor of operations management Bart MacCarthy; and East Midlands Chamber’s director of partnerships David Pearson.

The Brexit Conference will take place on 26 November from 9am to 11.40am. To book a place, visit bit.ly/34D1jgJ.

Find out more about the range of support on offer for Chesterfield businesses, or to discover more business event happening locally, click here 

 

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Corrugated Case Company featured in Britain’s Got Talent semi-final

Chesterfield-based packaging manufacturer, Corrugated Case Company were taken by surprise recently, when they found out their products had been featured in an episode of ITV’s Britain’s Got Talent.

The company’s boxes featured in a death-defying stunt during a semi-final episode, which was carried out by The Magic Marine (aka James Stott). The stunt saw the brave magician put his life in the hands of BGT judges David Walliams, Alesha Dixon, Amanda Holden and Ashley Banjo.

Concealed in one of five giant boxes, The Magic Marine asked each of the four judges to release a ton of explosives dangling precariously overhead at random.

You can see the dramatic action in the video below:

Founded in 1996, The Corrugated Case Company is recognised today as one of the UK’s leading specialists in the design and manufacture of corrugated packaging products, establishing a firm reputation for quality, innovation and delivering value to customers. However, the team believes this is the first time their products have featured in front of a national television audience!

Melissa Wilcockson, Technical Sales Manager for the Corrugated Case Company said: “We had no idea our boxes were going to be featured in the act. It wasn’t until a few weeks after the programme aired that we learned the order was shipped to a commercial provider of magical props, which is how they ended up in the hands of The Magic Marine.

“As you can imagine, it was a huge surprise for everybody. Our boxes and packaging have been used in all manner of industries, but this is the first time — as far as we know — they’ve been used for something like this!”

The company also joked in a statement on its website: “We can throw a few shapes here and there on the dance floor, but not much beyond the classic Big Fish / Little Fish / Cardboard Box routine. And as for comedy, well, we think it’s fair to say that joke just now is a prime example to suggest we wouldn’t make it past the front door — let alone the auditions round!”

The Corrugated Case Company supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 180 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

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Export Growth Plan launched to boost Chesterfield and Derbyshire businesses in overseas trading

The Department for International Trade (DIT) has launched its ‘Export Growth Plan,’ which will provide additional financial support and expertise to help boost overseas activity for businesses.

Some of the plan is targeted towards companies based in Chesterfield and Derbyshire, including:

The Export Academy

Launched on 16 October 2020, The Export Academy is designed for owners and senior managers of businesses with a turnover of up to £500,000 to help build capabilities and confidence to trade internationally; and to overcome the challenges that businesses may face when they start to export.

Businesses can pick and mix which modules they would like to attend to find out how to understand customs procedures, export controls and documentation, getting paid, how to research international markets, pricing and distribution, export procedures, exporting products and services and Inco terms.

Structured around free one hour webinars, round tables and mentoring sessions, the Academy will give small and micro-businesses the opportunity to complete an export action plan, enabling you to take your business direct to international customers.

Internationalisation Fund

DIT is soon to release grants to help companies that have significant potential to grow their international sales. Match-funded grants of between £1,000 and £9,000 will be available for future activity for Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire businesses (subject to eligibility and availability).

They are now accepting expressions of interest so that as soon as the fund is made available they can include you. The grants could cover the following areas – internationalising a website, procuring translation services, international consultancy, international legal advice, international IP advice, independent market visits or attendance at non TAP trade fairs.

1:1 consultations with an International Trade Adviser

DIT is offering a 30 minute 1:1 video or telephone consultation with an International Trade Adviser. If a business is experiencing issues in relation to international trade we are here to help.

Ian Harrison, Department for International Trade’s Head of Exports for Midlands said: “The Department’s recently launched Export Growth Plan will have a big impact across our region. Importantly, it will allow businesses in Chesterfield to grow their overseas trade and help them recover from the economic impact of coronavirus. This package of measures will ensure Midlands companies are supported from the start, with more funding, more Trade Advisers and the establishment of the Export Academy to help businesses build back better.”

You can find out more about what’s available here.

 

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Support for Chesterfield SMEs looking to take on talented graduates

Small-to-medium sized enterprises in Chesterfield are being invited to find out more about support available in adding talented graduates to their teams.

RISE is a unique business support initiative focussed on enabling small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to grow through the employment of graduate talent. Businesses can receive access to free, tailored recruitment, talent matching, training and funding support.

It has been effective in helping SMEs overcome the barriers faced in graduate recruitment and equipping them with the tools and know-how to become successful graduate employers.

Since 2013, RISE has supported more than 350 regionally based SMEs successfully recruit over 450 graduates. Many of those businesses have gone on to report increases in turnover, productivity, innovation and growth as a result.

The enhanced RISE project now provides even more comprehensive business support and business benefits. RISE is delivered through a well-established collaboration of the region’s local authorities, universities and a specialist private sector delivery partner working together to provide the tailored support your business needs.

Sarah Stanley, SME Engagement Manager said: “We currently have an amazing talent pool of 250+ high quality graduates ready and wanting to work for SMEs in Sheffield City Region, including Chesterfield. Our support is fully funded and we help you to scope and advertise your graduate level role, match suitable candidates from our talent pool and provide you with a shortlist for you to interview.

“As well as helping you to find a great graduate(s) we help you make the most of your graduate hire and provide ongoing support at 3 and 6 months into your graduate’s employment. Our RISE Talent Pool is now live!”

RISE has already helped to match businesses in our region with graduate talent. North East Derbyshire-based urban drainage and environmental consultancy, RES Environmental recently employed Keele University graduate James England, after being matched with him through the scheme.

Alan Ayris, Managing Director at RES Environmental said: “Recruitment can be difficult in this sector and there are additional challenges to interviewing and sourcing new graduates because we can’t dig into their past projects and technical skills in the same way that we would with an established engineer. This is where RISE came in and made a huge impact. The RISE team are skilled at matching people to roles and identifying the additional support a business needs.

“RISE helped us pinpoint the wider traits and knowledge-base we’re seeking and supported us to explore these qualities with candidates during interviews. The traditional recruitment methods we employ can feel like a lottery, but the support offered through RISE significantly reduced the risk for us. We now feel better placed to progress our plans to create more graduate roles in the business.”

RISE is delivered in partnership with Sheffield City Council, Sheffield Hallam University and the University of Sheffield and is part-funded by the European Regional Development Fund as part of the European Structural and Investment Funds Growth Programme 2014-2020.

You can find out more by visiting the RISE website, or by contacting Sarah Stanley via email: sarah@risescr.co.uk 

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Destination Chesterfield, Development, Featured, Home, Made in Chesterfield, UncategorisedTagged in , , , , , ,

Spireites Trust visit local schools during Black History Month

Chesterfield FC Community Trust arranged a series of school visits in October as part of Black History Month.

The Trust has continued to work with the African Caribbean Community Association of Chesterfield (ACCAC), delivering a series of workshops across Chesterfield and North-East Derbyshire about Black History, BAME role models, the Windrush generation and equality.

Lud Ramsey, chair of Chesterfield ACCAC, said: “I believe the most important equality work we deliver must start at school level.

“This is to ensure the future adult work force of our country will have a better knowledge of people in their community.

“Having a better understanding of seeing equality and diversity is a strength and not a weakness.”

Working alongside the ACCAC, visits were made to Ridgeway Primary School, William Rhodes Primary School, Woodthorpe C of E Primary School, Eckington Junior School and St Joseph’s Catholic & Church of England Primary School.

Lud shared his personal story, which included footage of his appearances on Gladiators and Ninja Warrior! Here are a few quotes from teachers, participants and Chesterfield FC Community Trust staff:

Jayne Jackson, assistant headteacher at William Rhodes Primary & Nursery School, said: “Thank you so much for the inspiring visit from Lud. Please pass on our thanks and admiration.

“His visit has left an inspirational and lasting impact on our children and the class teachers.”

Maisie (Year 6), who was a part of the workshop at William Rhodes Primary School, said: “Lud told us about Rosa Parks being arrested because she wouldn’t give up her seat to a white person and how Muhammad Ali wasn’t allowed into a restaurant because he was black, even though he was a World Champion boxer.

“I think Lud is an amazing person who has worked hard to get where he is. I would definitely recommend him to other schools.”

Esme (Year 5), who was a part of the workshop at Ridgeway Primary School, commented: “We learnt that back in the day, black people were treated unfairly. They were used as slaves and had to be segregated from white people, which we now know is completely unfair!”

Robert Stevenson, Premier League co-ordinator at the Community Trust, said: “It has been great to visit schools and have Lud talk about Black History.

“He is really inspirational in his own right from what he has done in his career as a firefighter, as well as having his own battles against equality and diversity.

“At the Trust, we feel that this it is important for children to understand the importance of equality and implement it into their everyday lives.”

Chesterfield Football Club supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 180 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

 

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Ultra Refrigeration take on daring skydive for Chesterfield charity

Chesterfield-based refrigeration and air-conditioning company, Ultra Refrigeration recently took to the skies in order to raise funds for local children and young people’s disability charity Fairplay.

Ultra Refrigeration manager Steve Shipp is a qualified skydiver, with the company supporting Fairplay since 2018. Previously Steve raised £2,000 for them when he completed the Marathon Des Sables in the Sahara desert, widely regarded as one of the toughest foot races on earth.

Steve described how the rest if the Ultra Refrigeration team wanted to get involved with their most recent charity effort: “I’m a qualified skydiver and will talk about skydiving whenever given the opportunity. A number of our staff had approached me asking how much it would cost to do a tandem skydive.

“All the staff were given the option as their Christmas bonus 2019 to have a tandem skydive voucher or the cash equivalent. 12 staff opted for the voucher. The move to raise money for Fairplay was a simple and obvious next step.”

Steve also explained why he continues to support the charity: “Seeing first hand the fantastic work that Heather and her team at Fairplay do for these children and young adults is very humbling.”

The skydives were done at Skydive Hibaldstow  in North Lincolnshire. They were completed on 9th August, 29th September and 2nd October. The team managed to raise a total of £415 for taking the plunge. Team members described the skydive as “terrifying but exhilarating,” “insane” and “life changing.”

Fairplay will be using the money raised towards the expense of the trips they arrange for the children.

Steve says: “This is where they have the opportunity to experience a whole range of activities that we might simply take for granted. After the skydives were completed I visited the children and young adults at Fairplay. Some of them now want to experience skydiving too. Heather has left that mission with me!”

Ultra Refrigeration supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 180 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

 

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Terminally ill patient marries the love of her life at Ashgate Hospicecare

Lindsay, a terminally ill patient at Ashgate Hospicecare who lives with pancreatic cancer, chose to tie the knot with her – now – husband, Simon, last week in Ashgate Hospicecare’s boardroom.

The ceremony, which was put on with the support of the hospice staff and a number of kind donations from local businesses, was incredibly moving despite social distancing rules. It was attended by a small group of the couple’s family and friends, as well as their 19-month-old son Isaac.

Lindsay, who can now also be referred to as Mrs Birley, told us: “We had such a special day thanks to Ashgate. We had hoped I would be well enough to get married in Chesterfield, but it wasn’t possible so I can’t thank the hospice enough for everything they have done. We’ve been going through some tough times but it was a really lovely day.

“I’d class Ashgate as my second home. My family can’t believe how well I’ve looked since I’ve been here but it’s because my medication got switched around so I’ve been sleeping so much better and shows how comfortable I am.”

Anne-Marie Carey, a Consultant in Palliative Medicine as part of the hospice’s In-Patient Unit, regularly looks after Lindsay. She added: “I’m so happy that this special day was able to go ahead and Lindsay, Simon and Isaac were able to have the special day they had hoped for and we all wanted for them.”

Unfortunately due to COVID-19 guidelines, no reception could take place so instead the hospice’s Head Chef, Mark Taylor, created a special takeaway wedding breakfast box for each of the guests.

Other local businesses that pulled out all the stops for Ashgate’s happy couple included: Blanc & Blanc Occasions which provided shoes, Fresh Ideas Florists which provided all the flower arrangements, Natalie Reynolds MUA who provided hair and makeup services, Weddings by Dragonfly which decorated the room and Tom Hodgson who photographed the whole event and captured a memory which the family will keep forever.

And finally, Lambs Cupcakes of Chesterfield made the spectacular wedding cake which was colour coordinated with Lindsay’s dress for a fraction of its usual price.

Ashgate Hospicecare supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 180 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

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Chesterfield Borough Council named among Top 100 Apprenticeship Employers

Chesterfield Borough Council is celebrating after being named as one of the Top 100 Apprenticeship Employers in England.

The council placed 82nd in the Top 100 Apprenticeship Employers which ranks the very best of England’s large apprenticeship employers, with employers recognised for providing some of the most successful apprenticeship programmes over the previous 12 months.

Chesterfield Borough Council currently employs more than 40 apprentices and has done a lot of work to promote apprenticeships throughout the borough by demonstrating the value of apprenticeships and through its pioneering ‘Apprentice Town’ project.

Councillor Jean Innes, cabinet member for business transformation and customers, said: “I’m delighted that we have been recognised in this way for the work we do with apprentices. We were the first town in the UK to declare itself an ‘Apprentice Town’ and we are committed to ensuring that young people in Chesterfield can build the skills and careers they want because this is key to ensuring that we are a thriving borough.

“We want Chesterfield to be a town where young people, businesses and parents think apprenticeship first and the council has to lead by example. That is why we have more than 40 apprentices working across the organisation in a wide range of disciplines including project management, legal services and commercial services.”

The council has apprentices working in almost every service area and they are helping ensure that the council has skilled individuals for the future.

Paul Davis, who is taking part in an apprenticeship programme with the council working towards a CIPFA Professional Qualification (Level 7), said: “I wanted to do the an apprenticeship with Chesterfield Borough Council because it allowed me to study further and to progress within my area of work. The apprenticeship gave me a greater understanding of the authority’s finances and management which I could apply directly to my everyday work for the council and enhance my future prospects with a globally recognised qualification.

“I would definitely recommend apprenticeships to other people as they are great way to learn and it provides you the opportunity to progress further in your career with the added benefit of not being left with a heavy burden of student debt at the end.”

Rachel O’Neil, assistant director for customers, commissioning and change, said: “I’m delighted that we have been recognised with this award for the work we do employing apprentices. Our apprenticeship programme provides the council with highly skilled individuals and in return help ensure they can build a career and a future they are proud of with the council.”

Miles Thirnwell, who recently completed a Housing/Property Management Level two apprenticeship with distinction whilst working for the council, said: “After leaving University this was a difficult time in terms of deciding on an alternative career path. However looking back, I am incredibly pleased with my decision of applying for an apprenticeship and despite the fact that they are often overlooked, they can provide an endless amount of opportunities and the provision of skills you need to develop in your desired career.

“My knowledge and skills were constantly progressing as I was always learning something new, whether this was in the office or whilst carrying out practical tasks throughout the borough. With Chesterfield Borough Council being eager to progress young employees and apprentices, this allowed my knowledge and experiences to develop even further as I was given access to training along with key college courses.”

Chesterfield Borough Council is just one of nine Local Government organisations to feature in the top 100.

Chesterfield Borough Council launched ‘Apprentice Town’ in 2017. It is run in partnership by Chesterfield Borough Council, Destination Chesterfield, the local business community, apprenticeship providers and The Apprentice Town steering group in order to raise awareness of apprenticeship activities and promote all aspects of apprenticeship provision.

2020 is the first year a ranking of the top 100 apprenticeship providers has been compiled. Find out more about ‘Apprentice Town’ here

apprentice town steering group

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Chesterfield’s Avant Homes becomes 1st UK housebuilder to introduce Honda E vehicle fleet

Chesterfield-based housebuilder Avant Homes has become the first UK housebuilder to introduce a fleet of 30 Honda e electric vehicles for its regional sales teams to use.

With 60 live developments across the Midlands, Yorkshire, north east England and Scotland, the new fleet will enable Avant Homes to provide prospective homebuyers with a more mobile and accessible sales service.

Supplied by motor retailer Stoneacre Chesterfield, the leasing deal is the biggest transaction the Tapton Lock dealership has ever brokered with a corporate client. The leasing agreement for the fleet was handled by Lex Autolease.

The cars have been introduced as part of a new commitment by the homebuilder to meet prospective buyers by appointment only at their preferred location, whether that is at a development, their home or the workplace.

Commenting on the new fleet, Avant Homes chief executive officer, Colin Lewis, said: “We learnt a lot during lockdown about how best to continue to provide our customers with exceptional service that is tailored to their needs.

“We identified that our customers need greater flexibility due to the changing circumstances they face and that we needed to evolve our sales function. We wanted to be able to meet our customers wherever was most convenient for them, so our idea was to be able to take Avant Homes to them on demand, and this led us to securing and introducing our new fleet of Honda e cars.

“We chose the Honda e so that we could not only provide our people with a state-of-the-art vehicle, but also minimise the environmental impact of the increased travel our sales team will be undertaking. The car’s contemporary and exciting design also appealed to us due to our desire to be a housebuilder that is different from the competition. So, like Avant Homes, the Honda e embodies an excellent combination of innovation, practicality and fun.

“We were clear from the outset that we wanted to support a local business to help deliver this initiative, so we are very pleased to have been able to partner with Stoneacre Chesterfield to acquire the new fleet. The service provided by the team there has been outstanding, and we can’t wait to get the cars delivered to our team across our five regional offices.”

Avant Homes is one of the UK’s leading private residential property developers. The business currently builds approximately 2,000 homes each year, has a turnover of circa £500m and employs around 780 people.

The Honda e, which was launched earlier this year, is the first electric Honda vehicle to be sold in Europe. At the beginning of October, it won the City Car of the Year category in the Sunday Times Motor Awards 2020 due to its unique combination of dynamic performance, refined comfort and futuristic technology. Inside, the modern minimalist passenger cabin utilises contemporary materials and is spacious and uncluttered to creates a comfortable lounge-like feel.

The Honda e features a water-cooled 35.5kWh lithium-ion battery that can be charged using either Type 2 AC connection or a CCS2 DC rapid charge. The car is capable of travelling up to 137 miles before drivers need to recharge the battery which can be charged to 80 per cent capacity in only 30 minutes.

Regional manager for Stoneacre Chesterfield , David Harding, said: “The popularity of hybrid and e-vehicles is rapidly increasing, so we were delighted to see Avant Homes select the Honda e as the vehicle of choice for their sales fleet. We’re thrilled to be able to provide an affordable, efficient and stylish option, and help Avant Homes to optimise their customer experience.”

The fleet was officially handed over to Avant Homes at a special event at Chesterfield FC where the cars were revealed to Avant staff for the first time.

Avant Homes are also currently involved in building part of the residential area at Chesterfield Waterside. Find out more here.

Avant Homes supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 180 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

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Derbyshire County Council offers free careers advice for those who need it

Derbyshire County Council says it is offering free careers advice to anyone who is aged over 19, or anyone who is 18 and not working or in education. They can ask for free advice on:

  • Training courses – including how to get funding
  • Career planning – including help to understand the current labour market, identifying skills, looking at new career paths and routes into employment
  • How to write a CV or update an existing one
  • How to write covering letters that will gain the attention of prospective employers
  • Helpful tips on finding new employment such as making the most of ‘Find a Job’, using social media and exploring the hidden labour market guidance on how to write an application form and relating it to a possible interview

Appointments are either offered on the phone, or by video call. Advice is also available by email or text.

Cabinet Member for Young People, Councillor Alex Dale said: “We can offer advice to those who may have been affected by the changes to the economy due to the coronavirus pandemic.

“If you have been made redundant and need help then please get in touch and our friendly and knowledgeable team can help you with your CV, offer advice on training, or suggest a change of career.
“There is government funding earmarked for training and job creation, and our team of career coaches can help you to find out more.”

The team can also offer advice on interview skills, including video interviews and advice on volunteering and work experience opportunities on offer across the county.

You can find out more by visiting the County Council’s website. Find out more about working in Chesterfield here. 

Chesterfield is the first town in the UK to declare itself an Apprentice Town – demonstrating its commitment to growing the future and careers of young people alongside business and the economy by retaining and developing young talent in the town in order to attract more employers to invest here. Find out more about apprenticeships in Chesterfield

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Young Chesterfield rally driver claims second place in Italian rally event

21-year-old Chesterfield racing sensation Seb Perez claimed an impressive second place at the Modena Cento Ore historic rally earlier this month (October 11 – 15)), having tackled a challenging four days across idyllic Italian terrain alongside team-mate and car owner Andrew Siddall.

After taking some time out due to the Coronavirus lockdown since March and after his European GT4 Championship debut was quashed he showed that none of his motorsport talent had been lost.

The prestigious rally featured eleven special stages and three circuit races that started in the City of Rome before moving across Italy, taking in iconic race tracks on the way finishing in Modena, the home town of Enzo Ferrari.

The Derbyshire race and rally driver currently took to the passenger seat as co-driver for the second time on the event alongside Andrew in the Ford Escort RS1800 MK2 LAR 800P, the historic rally car that was driven to second place in the 1975 Lombard RAC Rally in the hands of the master of rallying himself rally legend Roger Clark.

The start in the historic City of Rome followed a parade the day before of the fantastic rally machinery that was to be thrashed over the picturesque Italian countryside.

Day one saw Andrew at the wheel to tackle the first two stages at Terminillo, the historic hillclimb site that’s used in the European Rally Championship. The pair got off to a good start finishing fourth fastest after the two stages and by the time they got to the end of the day in Perugia were 1 minute 24 seconds off the top spot but dropping to fifth.

A great start to the second day saw Siddall get the Escort back into fourth spot with Perez’s map reading skills keeping the car on the road by the end of SS3 at Colonnetta. The time had come as they arrived at Autodromo di Magione for Perez to get the gloves on and show his rival what he could do. Perez was like wildfire as the lights went out showing he hadn’t lost any of his past two years of championship Porsche Carrera Cup GB racing skills apart from racing in a 45 year old rally car on a race circuit. As usual Perez became the master at work and reworked the car to his needs that saw him take the chequered flag for a podium third place.

An ecstatic Perez sat back in the co driver’s seat and back on the maps as Siddall took to the fast twisty stage of SS4 Portole and ploughed back to take second place and just over one minute behind the leader. Next up was SS5 La Rossinata, the stage was taken a little slower but consistency ruled and second spot was not defeated.

An overnight halt in Florence for the duo was in hand and a well earned rest before Wednesdays leg of the rally.

Perez was in the seat again first thing for leg three, it took them to the delights of Autodromo del Mugello Circuit, Perez was straight into it with a practice session that saw him make good pace and up at the top. The race proved just the same with again lightning speed and precision that would have made the late Clark very proud of his Works Escort.

Fighting side by side on the curbs with the 27 cars on track Perez took the flag after the statutory 7 lap race finishing in 2nd place behind the Dansport prepared Porsche Carrera RS of Brits Philip Lawrance Kadoorie and Dan Wells.

Four stages followed, two at Passo del Giogo and the same at Cornacchiaia that saw them keep on track and consistent through and through keeping the car in second place and some fastest times thrown in as a bonus. After it was back to Florence again for another night’s sleep.

Leg 4 and last day saw two stages and another circuit race on the cards, special stage 10 was at Monte Faggiola that saw Perez and Siddall retain second slot and move onto SS11 Sambuca where again they held onto second pulling out every stop to get closer to the number one car.

Final trial of the race was down to Perez and his circuit skills, he lined up on the tarmac at Autodromo Enzo e Dino Ferrari in Imola. Perez had another great start and for 7 laps he tried to take the car to number one but had to settle for third, 37 seconds behind the Dansport Porsche again but three podium spots out of three races was good enough to end on a high for the demanding but exciting 4 day adventure and to take second place only 1minute 58 seconds behind the winner.

The Perez and Siddall duo took honours in the final ranking at the event finish in Modena taking second overall, first on the race circuit sections, third fastest on the special stages, They also were awarded a class winner’s trophy.

Dansport from Walton Chesterfield came third in the Team Award, they prepared and made sure both the Escort of Perez and Siddall and Porsche RS of Kadoorie and Wells were in ship shape order throughout the rally.

Perez said after the Italian adventure “It was an fantastic week out in Italy. This was only my second event this year and was great working with Andrew for the second year on the rally and being able to drive in the races, Driving the car again was such a honour, it was very different to drive and there was very little we could change on the car that meant I had to drive around a lot of the cars traits to get the best out of it. I gained even more experience in the co-driving world, I have to give a big thanks to both Andrew and DANSPORT for giving me this amazing opportunity in such an historic car.”

Image Credit to Modena Cento Ore

Editorial by Paul Horton

 

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