Ignition Magazine Spring 2015 by GROUPAUTO IGNITION MAGAZINE

The lifestyle Magazine for independent garages

SPRING 2015

GAME ON

MAGAZINE MAG MAGA AZINE AZINE NE

10 PLAYERS • 16 VENUES • 1.2million viewers • 1 WINNER

BTCC 2015 ROUND-UP • FESTIVAL SURVIVAL GUIDE • FIFA WOMEN’S WORLD CUP

EXCLUSIVE Q&A WITH ENGLAND WOMEN’S CAPTAIN STEPH HOUGHTON

FREE SACHET SHOULD BE ATTACHED HERE:

CHECK OUT OUR BTCC RACE TEAM AT WWW.POWERMAXEDRACING.COM

POWER MAXED ADDITIVES

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WE ARE THAT CONFIDENT IN THE QUALITY OF OUR PRODUCTS WE ARE HAPPY TO GIVE YOU A SAMPLE FOR FREE. WE ALSO OFFER A MONEY BACK GUARANTEE WHEN PURCHASED. WE ARE CONVINCED THAT ONCE YOU HAVE USED OUR PRODUCTS YOU WILL NEVER USE ANYTHING ELSE!

CALL 0871 288 7125 WWW.POWERMAXED.COM

Editor’s letter we love the darts as much as car parts

BLOODHOUND SSC

The Top 10

We take a look at the Castrol backed Super Sonic Car set to break the land speed record

IGNITION scores interviews with all of the 2015 Betway Premier League Darts players

Game on! The Betway Premier League Darts is in full flight and the garage network from GROUPAUTO, approvedgarages.co.uk has seen serious spikes in web traffic thanks to their sponsor partnership with the darts event. We interview all ten players battling it out to take the trophy from last year’s winner Raymond Van Barneveld. We recommend any independent garage looking for support in generating new customers to their business to join the Approved Garages network. What else do we have for you in this latest edition of IGNITION? Well, it’s all about ‘How-To’ this edition; how to survive Glastonbury, how to bleed an ABS system, how to pick a Grand National winner, and last but not least - how to find your local GROUPAUTO motor factor for genuine quality parts (nice plug!).

Perculiar Pets

From praying mantis to pot-bellied pigs we look at some ‘out of the ordinary’ pets

Captain Fantastic

We chat with England Captain Steph Houghton ahead of the 2015 Women’s World Cup in Canada

50 Spring into Action

Products available from your local GROUPAUTO motor factor

We would like to take this opportunity to thank England Women’s Football skipper, Steph Houghton, for her time out to answer questions for IGNITION and to wish the England team all the success at the World Cup in Canada in June. Chris Chaplin GROUPAUTO

BTCC 2015

We focus on the GROUPAUTO approved suppliers involved in BTCC this season

The truth is that here at GROUPAUTO we produce this lifestyle magazine for independent garages simply to bring you interesting and varied stories from the world of cars, sport and entertainment but also to ensure that you keep your local GROUPAUTO motor factor in mind when ordering your car parts and accessories.

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Get in touch: @GarageIgnition www.groupauto.co.uk/ignition marketing@groupauto.co.uk Advertising and editorial:

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weekly news

Oz has Talent

We talk to the amazing artist Paul Oz about the Queen, Jenson Button and Mr Men - random!

Garage Marketing

01274 654600 chris.chaplin@groupauto.co.uk

Top marketing tips to help your garage attract and retain customers

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PIMP MY WORKPLACE We all spend more time in the workplace than at home during our life time so the various spaces around our business should reflect our personality and company brand. Major brands like Apple, Red Bull, Nokia, Lego and Google have created fun and inspiring spaces that include such things as;

helter-skelter slides to get between floors, ski lifts as meeting pods and internal skate parks for lunch breaks. We have taken a look at ways people in the motor industry have taken old car parts and converted them into innovative furniture pieces to liven up their working environments.

MUSTANG POOL TABLE This has got to be the best pool table in the world! The 1965 Ford Mustang with classic paint, alloy wheels and real working lights accommodates the top quality slate and felt pool table top that makes this a truly magnificent masterpiece.

RECEPTION DESKS The right car can make a stand out office or reception desk. Take this classic Mini for an example; the small compact nature of this car makes for a stunning office desk. Bradford-based car customisation company, EnKahnz, produced a striking office desk using the recognisable front-end of a canary yellow Lamborghini.

MINI BBQ Not able to get his classic Mini back on the road this guy took the front half of the car and placed a grill under the bonnet to create an amazing garden barbeque. He even spent time making it look as though the Mini had smashed through is fence - we love this!

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Try these at home... The bespoke pieces of furniture we have featured opposite are sure to be pricey to commission, so we held a team discussion and came up with a handful of ‘make-it-yourself’ items that wouldn’t break the bank, but could look equally as impressive in your home, office or business reception.

Coffee Table The inspiration for this piece came from watching BBC’s Top Gear when we saw their coffee table which is simply a glass top placed on to an engine block. Instead of the engine why not try using suspension springs or tyres?

Reading Lamp Porsche or Mini headlamps are just a couple of iconic examples that could be used to make excellent feature lamps for a reading corner of a living room or a shorter lamp for an office desk.

Stool or Footrest Place three tyres on top of each other fixing them together with bolts. Cut a piece of MDF in to a circle that will fit in to the hole of the top tyre, cover with upholstery foam and your choice of material to match the décor of your room. You now have a stool or foot rest you will never ‘tyre’ of.

Office Chair Get your hands on a retro car seat, or as illustrated here a Recaro racing seat, and fix to a standard set of office chair wheels to create a seriously unique and impressive place to rest your derriere (bum)!

Coat Rail Take a handful of spark plugs, old or new, a plank of wood or metal and drill holes in the material to attach the innovative coat hooks. A simple but effective item that is sure to spark many a conversation with your guests.

Send us your Ideas

We would love to see your furniture designs and creations. Send your photographs in to us at marketing@groupauto.co.uk and we will feature them in the next edition of IGNITION.

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team up with 10 TIME

BRITISH TRUCK

RACING CHAMPION

SARAH LEEMING, MARKETING ASSISTANT FOR JURATEK ‘RELUCTANTLY’ ATTENDED A SPECIAL TRUCK RACING WEEKEND AT BRANDS HATCH INDY CIRCUIT IN KENT, WHICH WAS HOSTED BY THE COMPANY FOR THE TOP STAGECOACH UK APPRENTICE. So here’s the scenario, a weekend of truck racing, was I filled with excitement? No. And if you have a wife or girlfriend then you don’t need to think about that one! Now I’m never ever wrong, as my husband will tell you, but on this occasion I have to back down and say that I really was!! We were joined by top apprentice Stuart McMaster and his manager John Thomson for an exciting few days working alongside the Team Oliver Racing pit crew. We met with driver and ten times British Truck Racing champion Stuart Oliver, whose race team is sponsored by Juratek – one of Europe’s leading aftermarket automotive component suppliers – to find out how he prepares for a race, pre-race jitters and his appearances on BBC’s Top Gear. So Stuart can you tell us about your background please? Yes, no problem. I was born in 1963 and my father was an agricultural contractor but 06

when times were quiet he bought a truck to transport hay and straw. As I was growing up I always had a great interest in the trucks he bought. A month before I was 16, my father decided to concentrate on the transport side of the business. At the time we had four trucks, I trained with RTITB and then acquired my heavy goods mechanical engineering license. A few years later I was left in charge of the business for a couple of months while my parents visited Australia, I soon realised that I had little interest in being office bound, but that the potential for the business to grow was great – I set about increasing our fleet so that by early in 2000 we had 100 trucks, 300 trailers and had constructed a large warehousing complex on our family small holding. How did you become involved in truck racing? I watched my first truck race at Donington Park in 1984 and was immediately fascinated with the thought of how a truck could be improved to increase its performance, sadly however time and funding didn’t allow me to pursue my interest in the way I wanted. I continued to follow the sport and in 1998 I thankfully got the opportunity to purchase an old ERF race truck, with this I achieved 3rd place in the championship and Rookie of the Year. In my

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2nd year I built a MAN race truck from an accident damaged fleet truck – with this I won my first 10 British Championship titles. How much training is involved before you can enter your first race? I took my ARDS (Association of Racing Drivers Schools) and this was the first time I had ever driven on a racing track. I successfully acquired my license and immediately travelled to West Yorkshire to collect the ERF truck that I previously mentioned. With the help of friends I set about modifying the truck, two weeks later I was racing at the Pembrey circuit in my very first race. How did you feel before and during that very first race? The feeling before a race is still the same as it was back in 1998, I just want to get out and race. The buzz is fantastic, doing something with a vehicle that it’s not meant to do is a great feeling. During the race I don’t want it to finish unless I’m at the front!!

JURATEK CV BRAKE PADS AND DISCS

If someone would like to get into Truck Racing how would they go about it? They should come to a race event, talk to the teams and the drivers. They will find everyone to be helpful and will do what they can to assist them to get started. I’ve heard you have a new truck for this season, can you tell us about it? It’s still a secret but I can tell you it’s a lot faster than the one I had last year! On the topic of secrets are you allowed to tell us about your connection with Top Gear? I was approached a few years ago for advice relating to some stunts they wanted to do with trucks, since then I have appeared on the show in various different ways in truck related shoots!!! I was also in the crew that kept the 3 trucks on the road for the Top Gear Burma special last year. We’ve joined you in the paddock and your family and friends obviously play a big part in your truck racing, how do they affect your success? Our team is made up from family and friends most of whom have been involved in the team for many years, it’s very helpful

and important to have a strong and supportive network to allow success on and off the track. How has using Juratek brake discs and pads helped your racing performance? During a number of years truck racing prior to our involvement / association with JURATEK we had used various different manufactures to supply both brake discs and pads during this time we had many problems including major brake discs failures along with poor brake performance problems. We have found using JURATEK brake discs and pads they work together to give a very positive and effective braking performance beyond any brands previously tried and very importantly under the high temperatures and application demand encountered during a truck race, the performance remain constant and reliable. Since the introduction of JURATEK brake products to our team unlike many of our competitors we have had no disc or pad failures problems, because of this along with the excellent brake performance we strongly believe I have a brake performance advantage to put me ahead of my competitors in the braking zone!

If someone has never seen Truck Racing why do you think they should? Truck racing is very much a sport that anyone who has an interest in motorsport or involvement in Trucks etc. will enjoy, it’s close racing with a very friendly, get up close paddock atmosphere.

For more information about Juratek products contact your local GROUPAUTO motor factor. > Scan here

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GEORGE BEST George Best, arguably one of the best players of an era was able to glide past players with ease yet cope with the fact that as part of the other team’s strategy and the leniency on tackling in those days, opponents were aiming to take him out of the game. George Best was a hard man and not afraid to keep taking on defenders regardless of this. Ronaldo would no doubt struggle to deal with the types of tackling, pitch conditions, footwear and footballs players like George had to put up with. George Best was the first player to be made Footballer of Year for England and for Europe in one season.

NORMAN ‘BITES YER LEGS’ HUNTER Footballers of yesteryear came up against real hard men, men who lived to defend and loved to hit hard. None more so than Norman ‘Bites yer Legs’ Hunter, the Leeds United legend who took pride in taking everything... man and ball. Strikers were brave; staying on their feet and riding challenges was part and parcel of being a professional footballer. They’d get kicked up in the air ten times a game, and still bounce up and keep going... how we miss that.

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BOOTS George endorsed the Stylo Matchmakers boots in advertising aimed at the thousands of kids that idolized the legend. The Matchmakers were cutting edge at the time with side lacing aimed at enhancing comfort, ball control and power. Still, tame looking by the standards of modern day boots.

CRISTIANO RONALDO Cristiano Ronaldo will be defined in history as a player we all were grateful to have witnessed and remembered for decades. Ronaldo is one of the true athletes in the game; he’s one of the fastest players in the world, six foot one with incredible power and technique in all areas of his game. He drives forward with speed and skill, scores with both feet, out leaps defenders to score headers and produces audacious strikes and free kicks. There are very few players, if any, that can do everything – Ronaldo is unique.

DAVID ‘SIDESHOW BOB’ LUIZ In stark contrast to the defenders of time gone by, modern day defenders are more concerned with the prospect of getting their knees dirty, or a bloody nose (with the obvious exceptions i.e Kompany, Vidic and JT). Football nowadays is played from the back, and the big hard men are slowly being replaced with a new breed of centre half, that is comfortable on the ball and with the flair to match. Entertainment is key, and the likes of David Luiz are certainly entertaining... But I doubt they strike fear into the hearts of attackers in the same way old Norman did.

BOOTS The advancement in technology has had a major hand in the improvement of football boots. These Nike Magista Obra worn by Ronaldo are designed to bring the foot closer to the ball and feature a seamless sock-like finish. Boots have not only evolved to become lighter for agility and speed but also wilder in design!

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For Him Retro Ellesse T-shirt £20 Topman

Light nights and warmer days; it’s not quite beer garden weather but you won’t need your winter coat. Have your mac & wellies on standby though as the ‘Great British Summertime’ isn’t always that great! Put a spring in your step with these super cool fashion finds…

Straw hat £12 www.asos.co.uk Mauna short sleeved shirt £78 www.allsaints.com Hype iPhone case £20 Topman Green slim chinos £25 River Island Deck shoes £24.99 H&M

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For Her Chambray rolled cuff shirt £25 River Island Rose gold earrings £3.99 H&M Off-white ripped jeans £40 Topshop Black peep toe ankle boots £40 River Island iPad case £15 Warehouse Wool hat £14.99 H&M

Women’s Khaki Short Buckle Strap Wellies £19.99 New Look Men’s Original Tour Wellington Boots £90 Hunter

Women’s Seafolly Jacket £89.95 Seasalt Cornwall

Men’s Kellington Rain Jacket £59.50 Jack Wills

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1,227.986: this is the number that reaped Andy Green, Richard Noble and GROUPAUTO approved supplier - Castrol another world record on 15 October 1997 that still stands today. It’s the world land speed record in kilometres per hour and it was set by Andy Green behind the wheel of the Thrust SSC, a vehicle developed under the auspices of Richard Noble. Castrol had an important part to play on that day in October 1997 in the Black Rock Desert in the US state of Nevada. It will play another important role in summer 2015 when Andy Green will squeeze behind the wheel of the BLOODHOUND SSC currently being created under Richard Noble’s leadership, with a view to breaking their own record on the Hakskeen Pan in South Africa. Green, Noble and Castrol actually have two goals in mind. In addition to attempting to break their own world record in summer 2015, they are jointly tackling the enormous challenge of hitting the almost unbelievable speed of 1,000 miles per hour (1,609 km/h) a year later, in summer 2016. They hope to do this using something that’s a cross between a racing car and a plane: the BLOODHOUND SSC.

The letters SSC stand for ‘supersonic car’ – and that’s precisely what the BLOODHOUND SSC is, as this designated world record-breaking vehicle is powered by an incredible 135,000hp. This is more than six times the total power output of the entire field of starters in Formula 1! To achieve this immense power output and the target speed, the project team led by Richard Noble is placing its trust in a jet engine, rocket propulsion and, not least, the high-performance lubricants from Castrol: Castrol 5000/BP Turbo oil 2380 for the jet engine, Castrol Hyspin AWH-M46 for the hydraulics, Castrol React SRF for the brakes system, Castrol Alphasyn T32 as wheel bearing oil and Castrol Inertox Medium 150 as HTP Rocket fuel coupling grease. Not to mention Castrol EDGE of course, which will be used in the Jaguar engine. “Castrol’s basically responsible for all the lubricants side of the project and of course is introducing very superior technology in the new titanium products”, says Noble. “That fits very nicely with BLOODHOUND, because we’re a land speed record car. We’ve got to get the highest power to weight ratio as we possibly can. We’ve got to get the car as light as we can and yet maintain its strength. It’s a great relationship. Castrol goes back a long, long

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way – it’s got a terrific heritage which goes back to record breaking in the 1920s at that incredible time when there was enormous innovation and creativity.” As one of the world’s leading lubricant manufacturers, Castrol has a long history of powering the dreams of trailblazers, so to speak, and has no less than 21 world land speed records to its name, all achieved since the early 1920s. Castrol’s list of records is peppered with the names of legendary drivers such as Malcolm Campbell, Henry Segrave and George Eyston, together with legendary vehicles like the Sunbeam, the Bluebird and the Thunderbolt. The most recent chapters in Castrol’s long history of world land speed records were written by Richard Noble in 1983 with the Thrust 2 and, 14 years later, by Andy Green in the Thrust SSC. And they now intend to add another successful chapter in summer 2015 with the BLOODHOUND SSC powered by Castrol EDGE. “We are delighted to support the BLOODHOUND project. This partnership gives us the chance to showcase how our high-performance products set new standards and push boundaries,” says Paul Waterman, Global Chief Executive of Castrol.

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HITTING THE TOP SP T! IGNITION MAGAZINE HAD AN EXCLUSIVE CHAT WITH TEAM ENGLAND SQUASH STAR LAURA MASSARO Laura Massaro is one of England’s top female athletes; the squash star has won almost every title in the game including the World Championship, British Open and US Open. The 31 year old was also part of Team England’s success in Glasgow last summer winning two Commonwealth Games silver medals. We wanted to find out more about Preston’s girl next door, how she copes with having her husband as one of her coaches and, how her family motto has inspired her to success. 1) What do you love most about squash? I love that each day is different. Training is different every session; from weights and gym work to working on court technically and playing matches. It works every system of the body including speed, strength, anaerobic, aerobic and mentally. I also love that I get to play my hobby as my job and travel the world doing so. 2) What's your career highlight? Winning the World Open and holding that title at the same time as the British Open in 2013. I was the first British woman in history to win both of those titles so that was pretty special. When I became World Champion it was crazy, the media were great in covering my story from BBC Breakfast to Blue Peter I had a pretty hectic schedule over those few months.

You get out of life what you put in Laura’s family motTo

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3) Your husband is also one of your coaches, a lot of people would find it tricky working with their husband or wife, how do you both manage it? It’s taken a long time to perfect our squash/private relationship and earlier in my career we struggled more. It has taken time, understanding and maturity as the years have gone on. We have good role clarification when we are away at events and I try to think of him as being away on holiday enjoying the trip while we are at events. That way it takes some pressure off the squash side for me.

4) What do you love most about being a professional squash player? That I get to travel the world playing squash and play in some of the best locations. Such as the court set up in Grand Central Station, New York.

Nick Matthew is one of England’s greatest players with three World Championship titles, three British Open titles and seven National Championship wins to his name. 2014 has proved to be huge year for Nick winning a record seventh British National Championship in February before winning on home soil once more at the Canary Wharf Classic in London. After winning the Grand Slam Cup in May, Nick headed home once more to reach the British Open finals for the fourth time in his career, ending the tournament as runner-up to his long-time rival Gregg Gaultier.

5) Who are your favourite sportsmen and women?

Nick represented England in the 2014 Glasgow Commonwealth Games, and was named as official flag bearer for Team England at the opening ceremony.

I love watching tennis so Serena Williams, Roger Federer and Maria Sharapova are amongst my favourites. I also really enjoy athletics and loved learning David Rushida’s story.

Nick took Gold in singles with a memorable win in an all-England final against James Willstrop, before teaming up with Adrian Grant to bring England a Silver medal in doubles.

6) What would be the best advice you've ever been given? Our family motto when I was young was ‘you get out of life what you put in’. It’s helped drive me on and work hard over the years.

Top tips on getting started Squash is an easy and inexpensive sport to get started in. Plus it’s a great cardio workout that will have you sweating off those extra pounds in no time.

Know the Basics The ball is played below the top line and above the bottom line, also known as the tin. You can return the ball on the bounce or as a volley. After every shot, try to get back to the middle of the court. To score a point against your opponent, either make the ball impossible to get back or force them into an error. Remember, the ball can only bounce once.

The ‘Wimbledon’ of Squash The Allam British Open is the longest standing squash event in the world, with the top players from across the globe competing for the prestigious title. Taking place in Hull between 11th-17th May England’s Nick Matthew and Laura Massaro will both be in action hoping to win the title on home soil.

The Right Gear None marking trainers and comfortable sports kit is usually your best bet. Most leisure centres and clubs can provide rackets and balls or if you want to buy your own then check out this website for affordable kit www.isportstore.com

Practice makes perfect Most leisure centres or clubs have turn up and play nights where you’re welcome to do just that! Booking a court privately can cost anywhere from £5-£12. You can also visit www.thebighit.net and find someone who is a similar level to you to play against.

To be in with a chance of winning two tickets for Saturday’s semi-finals (16th May 2015) on the amazing all glass show court just answer this question: In what year did Laura Massaro become England’s first British women to hold the World and British Open titles at the same time? A) 2014 B) 2013 C) 2009 Email your answer to: marketing@groupauto.co.uk

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MOTORSPORT CHAMPIONS MILLIONS OF DRIVERS ON THE UK’S ROADS DEPEND ON IGNITION SPECIALIST NGK’S PRODUCTS IN THEIR DAY-TO-DAY LIVES, BUT THE COMPANY ALSO HELPS SPARK THE WORLD’S LEADING MOTORSPORT TEAMS. NGK Spark Plugs (UK) Ltd – which is celebrating its 40th anniversary in the UK in 2015 – supplies many of the biggest names competing in both two and four-wheel motorsport with its products being put to the test in this demanding racing environment on and off-track. Its products are used in such diverse racing disciplines as Formula One, the World Rally Championship, drag racing and MotoGP. Marko Wowczyna, Automotive Director, NGK Spark Plugs (UK) Ltd, said: “Our parts are used by many of the top motorsport teams because of their technical excellence and reliability; attributes that are also shared by the parts that are fitted to millions of vehicles that are driven on the UK’s roads. ”The leading motorsport teams and riders and drivers demand the very best components that can work in extremely demanding racing conditions which is why they choose NGK. 16

“We have enjoyed a lot of success in the field of motorsport over the past and we look forward to continuing to add to that success during 2015 and beyond.” The effectiveness of NGK technology to flourish in the racing arena was borne out last year by the company helping to spark world championship victories in two contrasting disciplines; F1 and Speedway. Last year it helped the MERCEDES AMG PETRONAS Formula One Team win the 2014 FIA Formula One World Constructors’ Championship and its driver Lewis Hamilton claim his second Formula One World Drivers’ Championship. The company supplied the MERCEDES AMG PETRONAS Formula One Team with its racing spark plugs for the 2014 season and was delighted when the Briton powered his way to the championship with 11 F1 victories. Hamilton took the championship with 384 points and the MERCEDES AMG PETRONAS Formula One Team ended the season on 701 points, having achieved a record 16 wins, 18 pole positions, 12 fastest laps and 31 podium finishes. The team achieved 11 one-two wins to beat the record set by McLaren in 1988.

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This year marks the 50th anniversary of NGK’s first F1 success with Honda’s victory in the Mexico Grand Prix in 1965 and the companies’ relationship continues to this day with Honda’s return to F1 for the 2015 season. F1 highlights have included Mario Andretti winning the F1 championship in a Lotus Ford in 1978, Ayrton Senna and Alain Prost taking four consecutive titles in the 1980s with the McLaren Honda; Mika Hakkinen winning the title in a McLaren Mercedes in 1998 and 1999 and Michael Schumacher achieving four successive titles for Ferrari, all sparked by NGK. This was followed by successes for Kimi Raikkonen in 2007 in a Ferrari, Lewis Hamilton for McLaren Mercedes the following year, and Jenson Button in the Brawn-Mercedes in 2009.

Ferrari Sponsorship NGK SPARK PLUGS (UK) LTD HAS ANNOUNCED IT IS CONTINUING ITS 20-YEAR PARTNERSHIP WITH THE SCUDERIA FERRARI TEAM FOR THE 2015 F1 SEASON. The world’s leading ignition company – which this year celebrates its 40th anniversary in the UK – says its strong co-operation with the legendary Italian race team is growing year by year. NGK says only a few brands can prove the uncompromising ability of their technologies to perform in the most innovative of sectors. More than 300 wins in Formula One races and a total of 32 World Driver and Constructors’ Championships have been achieved with the aid of NGK spark plugs.

NGK SPARK PLUGS (UK) LTD ALSO ACHIEVED SUCCESS IN THE IN THE TWO-WHEEL ARENA IN 2014 WHEN IT HELPED 44-YEAR-OLD AMERICAN GREG HANCOCK BECOME THE 2014 FIM SPEEDWAY WORLD CHAMPION. He became the oldest rider to win the championship, winning for a third time having previously triumphed in 1997 and 2011. NGK Spark Plugs (UK) Ltd has sponsored Greg for a number of years, supplying the company’s specialist Iridium racing plugs which he uses on his 500cc bikes. He said: “Teaming up with NGK has given me the opportunity to work with a great product and some great people and the knowledge that I have obtained has certainly helped me and my team prepare our engines for the various track and weather conditions that we encounter over a season. “This season I will do what I always do which is to try and be the best that I can as a Speedway rider and

if I do that then I will hopefully have the chance of winning a fourth world title.” Marko Wowczyna added: “Many of our customers are motorsport enthusiasts and follow many different forms of two and four-wheel racing where our products continue to prove their effectiveness in operating in the toughest conditions. This proven technology also features in the vehicles and on the motorcycles that they use for work and recreation.” NGK Spark Plugs (UK) Ltd is a supplier of original equipment (OE) spark plugs, glow plugs and NTK sensors to many of the world’s leading vehicle manufacturers with those same parts being available in the UK independent aftermarket. It recently launched a new range of OE NTK exhaust gas temperature sensors (EGTS) and announced major additions to its ignition coils range.

This partnership with the Maranello team dates back to 1996, when NGK began supplying the team with spark plugs, and has since delivered successful results for both companies; six World Driver and eight Constructors’ Championships in the most exciting episodes of the long history of the ‘Cavallino Rampante’, where NGK’s hi-tech quality played a special role. Results like these can only be achieved with high-quality and reliable products made by NGK both for motorsport and the business. The renewed partnership between the two brands is now even stronger: NGK will develop ad-hoc products for the vehicles driven by Sebastian Vettel and Kimi Räikkönen and this technological momentum will be reflected by the NGK brand on Maranello’s cars. Marko Wowczyna, Automotive Director, NGK Spark Plugs (UK) Ltd, said: “The NGK sticker on Scuderia Ferrari’s Formula One cars is the seal of many years of close collaboration with Maranello’s engineers: results and success which are second-to-none. “We are proud to continue our work with Scuderia Ferrari and display our brand on the most prestigious cars in motorsports that will be running for victory again this year.” For more information about any NGK products contact your local GROUPAUTO distributor. > Scan here to find yours www.groupauto.co.uk/ignition

MARKETYOURSELFGreat! We spoke to some of our AutoCare and Approved Garages network members about successful marketing techniques they have introduced to become a top independent garage.

Advertise on GROUPON

Why not take inspiration from these ideas and implement them in your business?

1 in 3 people now use GROUPON. It’s a great way to attract new customers with no upfront costs!

{2-4-11}} {2-4Keeping up with the Jones’

Be active on social media

Look at what other businesses are doing well.

Imagine talking to your customers every day…that’s social media! • • • • •

Create a profile on the main social networks such as Facebook and Twitter Keep your profiles up to date with fresh information Post / tweet at least 3 to 4 times per week (everyday if you can) Engage with users - follow, share, retweet, like content of other users Share content that is of value to your customer (don’t just share content from your website)

Don’t be afraid to try new things. Feedback is your friend – find out what you are doing well and recognise what you could improve .

JONES’ garage g BE Interestin 18

Your garage

Build an Email Database

keep your website up to date... YOU UR WEBSITE

Don’t lose contact

yo r weu bsi

Taking an email address when a customer visits your garage is your key to keeping in touch.

weekly news

Give customers a good first impression • •

•

Give your customers a reason to come back… • • • •

Send regular offers by email Communicate good news Set up MOT & Service reminders Host an event for your customers to attend

Idea

This is your shop window on the World Wide Web. Make it easy for them to get in touch - have a clear call to action like a phone number or email address. Make sure your website is accessible from a mobile device.

BECOME AN AUTOCARE GARAGE… Join the successful international network of 6000 garages and take advantage of the comprehensive package. Branding - AutoCare branding includes building painting, signage and more.

take a customer’s D.O.B. and send a ‘Happy Birthday’ offer!

LEAD GENERATION – Free subscription to the work provision network approvedgarages.co.uk. TRAINING - Free technical training courses keep mechanics up to speed with the ever changing market place. NATIONAL PROMOTIONS - Free major prize draw competitions in Summer & Winter.

The Good Old … s y a W d e n io h s a F directories. on popular local ss ne to si bu ur yo List siness and a link ription of your bu Local n so om Th , es Give a good desc ac com, Google Pl ll. Ye . e.g . ite bs your we

WEB PAGE - Dedicated web page for every garage. Feedback Forms - Free customer feedback cards.

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and local/co local newspaper Advertise in your . ar t once a ye magazines at leas read these!) ill st do le (Yes, peop This will help your local area. Leaflet drops in customers.

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The Way To a Man’s Heart They say the way to a man’s heart is via his stomach, so why not impress your man or seduce the man of your dreams with these temptingly tasty meals.

BEEF & BEER PIE Every man loves beer, so give him exactly what he wants. Thick chunks of beef soaked in man’s favourite drink, wrapped-up in suet pastry and swimming in rich dark gravy. Lush and heartwarming.

Rib-eye steaks with chilli butter & homemade chips The ultimate fail-safe, if there’s two foods men love its meat and chips. Splash out on the Rib-eye steak and make your own chunky chips, he’ll be putty in your hand.

Sticky fig lamb cutlets with warm bean & couscous salad

Warm lobster & potato salad with truffled mayonnaise

Lipsmackingly tender cutlets of lamb drizzled in sticky fig marinade; if this won’t secure you a place in his heart, move on!

The king of the crustaceans is a delicacy that commands a very high price. Why not enjoy fine dining at home and cook him this sweet and succulent treat.

All recipes are online at www.bbcgoodfood.com

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recipes for

So you want instant results… these ingredients are guaranteed to spark romance!

Oysters Oysters have been a favourite aphrodisiac food since the time of Aphrodite during the Greek age. They are also high in protein and very nutritious. Serve the old-fashioned way - raw on a bed of ice.

RUDE FOOD! Forget the art of being subtle and serve him some seriously rude food instead. Check out these cheeky vegetables that we found frolicking in the supermarket…

Derrière

Red Hot Chillies

Capsaicin, a chemical that stimulates our nerve endings and raises our pulse, is responsible for the “heat” in chilli peppers.

THE HEROIC NUDE

Waste no time, serve him spicy stuffed chillies and get his pulse racing.

Chocolate The king of natural aphrodisiacs and the perfect way to end to a meal. Feed him juicy chocolate dipped strawberries, simple but effective.

MANET’S OLYMPIA

Alcohol Lowers inhibitions, increases confidence, what else do you need?!* *always drink responsibly

www.groupauto.co.uk/ignition

In each edition of IGNITION we aim to provide you with ‘how-to’ guides in association with a GROUPAUTO approved supplier.

How to bleed an ABS system without breaking a sweat. We’re now going to show you how to bleed an ABS system using DS diagnostics. For older vehicles the brake bleeding procedure is normally a manual process, however many newer vehicles have a requirement to connect a diagnostic tool and run the brake bleeding procedure electronically. Before starting it’s important to clean the reservoir of the master cylinder. Small particles of dirt will cause damage to master cylinders and ABS actuators-modulators. Failure to keep hydraulic systems completely clean will always shorten their service life. Connect the pressure bleeder to the master cylinder reservoir, after checking that it is filled with the correct brake fluid as per the vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations. Turn the ignition on and connect the DS diagnostic tool. Select the automatic bleed procedure. Refer to the help file to understand the procedure and follow it carefully as this can differ from vehicle to vehicle. The tool will then energize and cycle the ABS solenoids in the BPMV. After this, the scan tool will instruct you to bleed each corner and specify the correct order for doing this. During this step, the pump runs and the respective release valve cycles. This is repeated for each corner. The bleed nipples will have to be opened and closed in turn. Remember to collect the discharged fluid in a suitable container. Relieve pressure at the bleed tool and remove it from the master cylinder. Then check the brake pedal to make sure all the air has been removed, there is no excess travel and the pedal is firm. The brake bleeding tool should keep the fluid level topped up. The brake fluid level must then be checked to see if any additional top-up is necessary. Watch our how-to bleed an ABS system video on delphiautoparts.com 22

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Did you know? Our joint venture friction partner supplies applications for the leading vehicle manufacturers including Ford, General Motors, Jaguar, Land Rover, Suzuki, Tata, Volkswagen and Volvo.

Replacing brake pads? Remember that electric handbrake systems, which have been standard on an increasing number of cars, must have their electronic control units engaged while winding back the calipers so the pad position is indexed. This is essential when replacing brake pads, as the control unit needs to know the thickness of the pads in order to engage correctly.

Did you know? That when you replace either brake pads or shoes it is advisable to replace the fitting kit as well, as these are subjected to the same temperature variations as the brakes.

Delphi

How-to videos

We’ve got tech tips, step-by-step instructions, best practices and installation guides all waiting for you on our website.

Technical Training G-Xpert is GROUPAUTO’s brand for technical training. It provides garages with the necessary technical expertise to confidently approach repair tasks. In 2014 over 1400 technicians attended courses held by GROUPAUTO training partners.

Our Training Partners The courses are run by industry leading technical training providers. Independent garages up and down the country take advantage of the quality courses available at venues across the UK.

eXponentia provides training courses for independent garage mechanics to ensure they have the technical expertise required to repair all vehicles, including the most recent, in order to strengthen their sales and profitability for the future. With 34 years in the automotive repair industry, ADS (Automotive Diagnostic Solutions) offers a wealth of technical training experience to garage mechanics. The training courses are led by Frank Massey, a globally respected expert in diagnostic systems and test equipment.

Accreditations All modules from eXponentia and ADS are ATA relevant and CPD approved.

Watch our latest how-to videos at delphiautoparts.com Here’s an example of just a few of the How-to videos available to you: How to Fit Brake Pads and Discs How to Fit a Brake Shoe Kit How to Remove and Replace a Wishbone

How to Book? For more information on the courses available and to book your place call 01274 654605 today.

Steering & Suspension Money Saving How Tos How to Replace a Front Control Arm www.groupauto.co.uk/ignition

10 OF THE BEST

10 PLAYERS AT THE TOP OF THEIR GAME THE BETWAY PREMIER LEAGUE DARTS 2015 IS WELL UNDERWAY, PULLING IN THE BIGGEST AUDIENCE FIGURES EVER. WE JOIN PARTNER SPONSOR APPROVEDGARAGES.CO.UK AT THE LAUNCH OF THE EVENT TO CHAT WITH THE 10 PREMIER LEAGUE PLAYERS IN THIS YEAR’S COMPETITION. The growth of professional darts in the last 10 years has been incredible. The standard is at an unbelievable high and the prize money has increased dramatically. The PDC (Professional Darts Corporation) is now the leading professional body in the sport with over £6million in prize money being paid out on its global circuit of tournaments. The Betway Premier League Darts winner this year will pick up a cheque for a record £200,000. Raymond Van Barnevald lifted the 2014 Premier League trophy in front of over 10,000 fans in May 2014 at London’s 02 Arena and dreams of winning it again this year, although his poor start to the 2015 Betway Premier League may make that difficult.

RAYMOND VAN BARNEVELD How’s your form in 2015? My form at the moment is good this year so far obviously the runner-up spot in the Worlds and my finishing has improved. Who would you say is the favourite? To be honest the Premier League format gives all 10 players the chance of winning. Although Taylor isn’t in the best form you can’t underestimate him. How do you find playing in front of huge crowds? The crowd can make you or break you. You always want them on your side but with darts they can switch from supporting you in a game to suddenly backing the underdog. What would you do if you weren’t a darts player? If I wasn’t a professional darts player I’d still be a postman – maybe a high ranking one! I was a postman for 9 years and now a professional darts player for 17 years.

Watch the live darts on SkySports every Thursday until the Final at 02 Arena on 21st May 2015.

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Reigning Premier League Champion & five-time World Champion

2013 Premier League champion & 2014 World Champion

PHIL ‘THE POWER’ TAYLOR Hi Phil, how’s your form? I’m tinkering with my game to try and improve. Changing little things like my darts and grip its part and parcel of keeping at the top of my game. What car are you driving at the moment? The car I’m currently driving is a Mercedes S-Class but the Rolls Royce would be the dream. You need comfort and plenty of space when on tour. We’ve also got one of those Citroen Grand Picassos now for the road. It’s got loads of room. I like to take my mattress cover and my own pillows so I get the same sleep every night. I take a juicer with me too, and a blender!

Six-time Premier League Champion & 16-time World Champion

I THINK IT’S BECAUSE WE’RE WORKING CLASS BLOKES, PEOPLE CAN RELATE TO YOU

MICHAEL VAN GERWEN

ADRIAN LEWIS

How do you rate your form? Winning the Worlds the week before starting the Premier League in 2014 has given me great confidence to push on. It’s really important in this tournament to keep your form. You are away from home a lot and this makes it hard to keep focused.

How was your form coming in to the Premier League? The form this year is good and hopefully improves round by round in the Premier League. Looking through the players in the competition I can see Gary and MVG being up there. Phil is getting his game back and Barney is good in this format as he showed last year winning the title.

Have you always been in to darts? No, I wasn’t really in to watching darts growing up. I’m a big PSV Eindhoven fan so watching them live was my passion. Where do you most enjoy playing? The 02 Arena is my favourite place to play and to win the Premier League there was amazing. What would be your favourite car to own? I drive a BMW X5 at the moment but a Rolls Royce Ghost would be the car to own.

2011 Premier League Champion & 2015 World Champion

Why is darts so popular? I think it’s because we’re working class blokes, people can relate to you. And it’s an easy game to follow. I’ve been watching rugby since I was eight years old and I still don’t know the bloody rules!

Two-time World Champion & 2014 UK Open Champion

Do you get any nerves before games? I get slightly nervous when going in to games. The fans can be boisterous and sometimes rooting more for the other player so trying to block that out is important. How much has the standard improved in darts during your career? I joined the Premier League in 2007 and the standard back then was nowhere near what it is now. The players coming through are better which means you need to raise your game. There is more money in the game which means players are putting even more work in to stay on top of their game to win majors.

GARY ANDERSON You had a great 2014 how’s 2015 started for you? Since the World Championship it’s been a bit crazy. In January we turned up at the Unibet Masters and the darts hadn’t been out of their case for weeks. Before that I went 26 or 27 days without even throwing a dart. I almost wish I’d come runner up!

on the board over the years. But to be honest I think it’s a pick-out-of-the-hat job this year. It’s more competitive now for sure; the TV we’re getting, the crowds we’re getting, if you’d have said we’d be getting 11,000 plus to a Premier League match on a Thursday night five years ago, people would have laughed at you. But we are.

Apart from yourself who do you see winning this event? In the Premier League you have your favourites like Phil Taylor. I can never see past Phil. If Phil turns up – well, he’s shown me a lesson or two

What’s your favourite car? Cars are my downfall. The best on the road right now? I think it’s a Nissan GTR.

www.groupauto.co.uk/ignition

2009 Premier League Champion & 2014 Masters Champion

DAVE CHISNALL 2014 Grand Slam of Darts finalist

Who do you think is the favourite to win this year’s Premier League? Van Gerwen and Anderson for me are the favourites for the Premier League title. Which is your favourite city to play in? I think Glasgow because of the loud atmosphere, it’s a real adrenaline rush that helps you play. Who do you dread playing against? My least favourite player to play is Phil Taylor. Mainly because he is a top player, but also because he slows his play down and I prefer a quicker tempo. He’s always tough to play against. Have you always loved the darts? I was always into football until about 17 when I realised I was good at darts.

JAMES WADE What’s been your best game ever? One of the best games I have ever played in is the one against Taylor, I lost but hit two 9 darters in the game. What would you have been if not a darts player? I would have loved to have been a rally driver. I trained as a mechanic so I reckon I would be working on cars. I have always had aspirations to become a pro darts player - I started at just 7 years old!

Two-time televised finalist & Premier League debutant

STEPHEN BUNTING

2014 World Championship & Dubai Masters finalist

PETER WRIGHT How do you cope with big crowds and TV viewers? The big stage crowd is something you need to embrace, I love having the banter with the fans. There’s nothing better than playing at major venues all over the UK and the world. The Premier League crowds are intense. Who do you fancy for the Premier League? The good thing with the Premier League format is that you can recover. Players could be struggling but still have a few good games and make it to the final. What has been your best game ever? The best game I’ve played in is the Premier League game last season in Belfast against Phil Taylor. I managed to beat him for the first time.

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How does it feel to be part of the Premier League for the first time? It means so much to be part of the Premier League it’s a real honour. It’s an opportunity for me to learn on the tour and experience the biggest crowds I have ever played in front of. The standard is ridiculously high at the moment. What’s been your greatest game in your career so far? I would say the game in the Grand Slam against Michael Van Gerwen when I beat him. I also had a 9 darter in that game and a 104 average. That has to be my best game ever.

What was your first car and what would you like to own? My first car was a Vauxhall Cavalier but the car I’m after now is a good quality Ford RS2000!

KIM HUYBRECHTS

How does it feel to be part of the Premier League for the first time? It’s amazing to be part of the Premier League for the first time. I will be nervous as its new to me but obviously excited too. My form is really good and I’m confident of winning games. Stepping up from the BDO to the PDC has been a big jump. I’m now playing the best players in the world like Taylor, Van Gerwen and Anderson. Which city are you looking forward to playing in? The city I can’t wait to play is obviously Liverpool but I would also say Ireland. Former Lakeside Champion & Premier League debutant

r e iv r d d e r o s n o p s s a Luc

s in o j n a d r o J w e r d An

Works MG Squad Lucas Electrical sponsored driver Andrew Jordan will mount a bold new bid for BTCC success in 2015 after securing a lead place in the works MG team with Triple Eight Racing.

Jordan, the 2013 BTCC champion, and his sponsors Pirtek, Lucas Electrical and Revive will move to the car and team that took the 2014 manufacturers’ title in a major new phase of his British Touring Car Championship career and Andrew says he is excited about his prospects for the coming season. “We looked at a lot of different options for 2015 and it came down to deciding on the package that gave us the best chance of winning the championship,” said Jordan. “It is a complete change for all of us and I’m really positive about it.”

“This is a fabulous opportunity for me and my loyal sponsors to race a manufacturer-backed car from an iconic brand.” Triple Eight is the most successful team in the BTCC field and the MG6 GT is a proven racewinning package. The 2015 season will be Triple Eight’s 19th year in the BTCC, while MG is the fastest-growing automotive brand in the UK. Andrew raced for the Triple Eight team in his second season in the BTCC back in 2009.

“Now I’m going back with a lot more experience to try and lead the team to the championship,” he said.

“This is a fabulous opportunity for me and my loyal sponsors” 28

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For the 25-year-old racer from Lichfield, who has already taken 14 BTCC wins and 41 podiums, the move away from a familyrun team is a major step.

with Andrew Jordan since joining forces in the amazing 2013 British Touring Car Championship that saw Andrew take the title as an independent driver.

“I’m really looking forward to the challenge of moving to a different team and I’m very open to learn as much as possible from their NGTC (the technical regulations used for production based cars) knowledge. I believe, with what Triple Eight has learnt over the last three years of NGTC and what I have learnt, we will be able to make gains through our winter testing programme.”

“It is great to have such an iconic brand as a team partner. Lucas has a long and successful history in the sport and I’m pleased that we will be continuing our partnership this year especially, for what is certain to be an exciting championship.”

2015 will be the third successive year that Lucas Electrical have partnered

“On first meeting Andrew before the 2013 BTCC season, we were instantly won over by his dedication and commitment” said Tim Brotherton, Marketing Manager for Lucas Electrical, “He certainly delivered

on all of his promises and we are extremely proud to have played a small part in his success story” The move to the MG team will certainly mark a new chapter for Andrew but MG are no stranger to the Lucas brand. Historically Lucas provided many components for MG vehicles, from relays to complete ignition systems. In fact, the much-loved MG Metro 6R4 rally car boasted a Lucas Micos electronic ignition system as far back as 1985.

About the Car: MG6 GT

Since the MG6 made its BTCC debut at Brands Hatch in 2012 it has been the class of the field. In three years of racing the MG6 scored more wins and pole-positions than any other car on the track, and was a level above the other front-wheel-drive competition. By the nature of the road-car chassis that forms the basis of the race car, the MG is a low-downforce, lowdrag racer. This has obvious straight-line benefits, but can cause challenges in traffic with front-end grip and brake cooling.

Contact your local GROUPAUTO distributor for information and prices on all Lucas products.

Live in a small flat? Allergic to fur? or simply don’t have the time to invest in a dog? We’ve found a selection of unusual creatures that could make your perfect pet. They’re definitely a conversation starter...

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The praying mantis is a very spiritual, mysterious and menacing looking insect with a short expected life span. Life Span: 6 - 12 Months Diet: Live insects Housing: A tall tank at least 3 x its length with bark or sand at the bottom and plenty of twigs to climb

The giant African land snails are good ‘unusual’ pets as they are relatively low maintenance but beware of keeping them in pairs as they breed like rabbits! Life Span: 5 - 10 Years Diet: Lettuce, cucumber, cuttlefish Housing: A simple tank with compost and bark, needs to be kept moist and cleaned weekly

Royal Pythons are calm, gentle and curious, making them an ideal beginners snake. Be aware of their adult size that reaches up to 5 foot in length. Life Span: 20-30 Years Diet: Defrosted mice and rats Housing: A glass tank with heating mat, humidity box, bark, hiding place and a branch for climbing. The tank should not be too big for the python as it will cause stress to the pet.

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The tarantula is a unique and quiet pet that requires little space. They are inexpensive and easy to care for and a surprisingly popular peculiar pet. Life Span: 10 - 25 Years Diet: Live crickets, locusts, occasionally raw meat and mice Housing: A small glass tank and heating mat, plenty of peat and pieces of wood to make a burrow

The blue poison dart frog is one of the most colorful and intriguing pets in the amphibian world. They grow to a size of around 4-5cm and care is relatively simple. Life Span: 4-8 Years Diet: Flightless fruit flies and crickets Housing: A tropical terraria with good hiding spaces using plants, dried leaves, cork-bark and patches of moss

Pot-bellied pigs are best kept in pairs for company. They also like structure so exercise and mealtimes should be at the same times every day. Life Span: 10-15 Years Diet: Pig chow and fruit and veg as treats Housing: Fenced space in a medium sized garden with shelter for the pig to nest. The garden will take some stick so donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t expect perfect kept lawns and flower beds!

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BLAST FROM THE PAST Iconic TV adverts WE TAKE A LOOK BACK AT SOME OF THE MOST MEMORABLE TV ADVERTS OF ALL TIME. SEE IF YOU AGREE WITH OUR CHOICES. FOLLOW US ON TWITTER AND SUGGEST YOUR FAVOURITES @GARAGEIGNITION

John west SALMON bear fight

John smith’s peter kay

YEAR: 2000

YEAR: 2002-05

One of the funniest adverts ever aired. A John West fisherman comes to blows with a surprisngly agile bear over a fresh salmon. The duel ends with a swift kick in the bear’s ‘necessitites’, and the fisherman wheeling away in victory with the salmon in hand.

John Smith’s ‘no nonsense’ campaign is truly one of the most memorable series of adverts ever. Peter Kay brought the campaign to life with his northern approach. It’s still hard to see a football launched into row-Z without uttering the immortal catchphrase... “Ave it!”

levi’s laundrette

cadbury gorilla

YEAR: 1985

YEAR: 2007

For many, Marvin Gaye’s hit ‘I Heard It Through The Grapevine’ conjours up images of Nick Kamen walking into a launderette, soon to be undressing infront of a gaggle of giggling women and disapproving men. Levi’s attempt to give their jeans more sex appeal certainly worked.

Who would have thought that this iconic advert is 8 years old? Rumours that Phil Collins was infact the drummer in the Gorilla suit circulated the internet, but Phil finally quashed the rumours, saying “Not only is he a better drummer than me, he also has more hair. Can he sing too?”.

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Nestle milkybar milkybar kid

YEAR: 1961

ready brek Central heating

YEARS: 1970s - 80s

“The Milkybar kid is strong and tough, only the best is good enough...” How many other advert campaigns have lived as long in the memory as these? “The Milkybars are on me!”

Central heating for kids...pretty much sums up the feeling of waking up to a warm bowl of Ready Brek on a winter’s morning.

guinness surferS

honda cog

YEAR: 1999

YEAR: 2003

This award winning advert was, and still is, remarkable. Guinness adverts tend to be powerful, but this one depicting the surfers riding the crashing white horses, is utterly brilliant.

How could we not feature this incredible feat of engineering? The full 120 second advert was only aired a handful of times due to the astonomical cost of TV advertising. A must watch for car fanatics.

PG TIPS Mr Shifter

Boddingtons melanie sykes

YEars: 1956 - 2002

YEAR: 1997

"Dad, do you know the piano's on my foot?" “You hum it son, I'll play it!”The most iconic family in TV advertisement history. The Tipps family skyrocketed the sales of PG Tips with a series of playful adverts. ‘Mr Shifter’ was just one of the well known and well loved family members.

Melanie Sykes is now and will forever be the Boddingtons’ girl. “Would you like a flake in that love?”...Yes please Melanie, yes please!

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Sponsored by Comma and driving

for the DAMS team, Jolyon Palmer last year became the first British driver since Lewis Hamilton in 2006 to win the prestigious international GP2 Championship. The DAMS team - to which Comma is also Technical Partner – engineered the winning GP2 car for the third time in four years and also carried off the Teams Trophy for the second time in three years. Managing director of DAMS, Francois Sicard, explains just what’s involved in running such a well oiled winning outfit. Can you tell us a little about how the DAMS team was founded, how big it is now and what championships you compete in? DAMS is a professional racing team founded in 1988 by Jean-Paul Driot and former Ferrari F1 driver René Arnoux, initially to contest the FIA International F3000 Championship. The team now competes in the GP2 Series and Formula Renault 3.5 Series single-seater championships. Since the beginning of 2014, DAMS is also 34

involved in the new FIA-Formula E Championship, the world's first fully-electric racing series. In this new racing category we provide the technical and logistical support for "e.dams", a new team founded by four times Formula 1 World Champion Alain Prost and Jean-Paul Driot. Currently the team is composed of 35 full-time staff and is based just a few kilometres from the legendary Le Mans circuit in France. You have secured your third GP2 Series drivers title in four years with Jolyon Palmer. How do you feel about the teams performance in GP2 this year? This year has been an incredible season, we managed to win not only the GP2 Series Drivers’ and Teams’ Titles but also the Formula Renault 3.5 Drivers’ and Teams’ Titles with Carlos Sainz Jr. It is something that has never been done before. This incredible achievement is the result of hard work, dedication and motivation of all our staff and off course the great talents of our drivers. It is always important to have the right people in the right place! From the team’s perspective, can you name one important factor that has been key to your impressive ongoing success? One of the key factors is the people working with us, from the engineers, mechanics to

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the drivers and the way they are all working together. Without them nothing would have been possible. What do you think was Jolyon’s main advantage during the 2014 championship. Experience? His approach? Your team strategy and organisation? Jolyon has been extremely impressive this year. One of his biggest strengths is his capacity to "deliver”, to perform when it matters. For example he managed to get 8 front row grid positions out of 11 in Qualifying sessions, this is something no one in the past managed to do. He has also been very strong all season long to fight and overtake during races. These are key points that built his successful season.

DAMS has also had success this season in other championships such as FR 3.5 – does each race series require a unique approach? It’s not exactly the same, the two categories are similar but there is still some differences. The format of the racing weekend is different, tyres are different.... Technically it requires a differrent approach. In fact what is really similar is the way we operate, the way we prepare the race meeting and the way we work with the drivers. And still the main point is the way our people are working together! What is your opinon on the introduction of DRS to GP2 next year? DRS will bring more overtaking and therefore even more fun for the racing. Although Jolyon demonstrates all along this year that overtaking is possible, it will bring even more show and it will train the drivers for F1. What is the last check you perform on the GP2 car before a race start? The last checks on the grid before the start of the race are the engine temperature, and the tightening of the wheels. Is there a desire to one day step up to Formula 1 with a DAMS Grand Prix team? DAMS already built a Formula 1 car, it was in 1995. The car is currently hanging on the workshop wall. In fact it never raced because the budget was too small to step up to F1.

Today the budget is still too high for a small company like DAMS. But if, the FIA implement in the future a very strong cost reduction, we might be interested to study again such a project. Comma is your GP2 Series Technical Partner. What does this support mean to you? At this level of competition success comes with the quality of the people around you but also thanks to the quality of the suppliers you have selected and you are working with. Comma has been very supportive of the DAMS team. They have taken the time to discuss with us and take into account our requirements. All through the season they managed to deliver products with the right level of quality we were expecting to help us deliver the best performances. If you could sign one driver – from past or present – who would that be and why? Jolyon really deserves a drive in Formula 1 for 2015, but if he would be still available, I would like to sign him again. He has an impressive pace but also an incredible willingness and determination to win. Comma’s successful Technical Partnership with the DAMS team continues in 2015. In January it was confirmed that Jolyon will be involved with the Lotus F1 Team in 2015.

EXPAND YOUR KNOWLEDGE WITH COMMA’S FREE ONLINE TRAINING Comma's online Technical Training Academy is specially designed to help service technicians provide their customers with advice, information and superior service in the areas of engine lubricants and coolants. It’s a quick and easy way to stay on top of everything you need to know about the fluids that go in an engine…and why.

Training modules Training modules are available on coolants and engine oil. This interactive training is simple and straightforward. Prompted by click-through ‘info’ buttons, you progress logically through the various elements to conclude with a quiz to test the knowledge you’ve gleaned from the training. Score 100% and you are rewarded with a personalised Comma Training Certificate of Excellence which can be printed directly from the site. Each module should take no longer than 20 minutes to complete.

For more information about Comma Oil products contact your local GROUPAUTO motor factor. > Scan here

Access to the training modules is via free personal password login. For immediate access, click on the ‘training’ tab on the Passenger Vehicles page of the Comma website, or go directly to the registration page at

www.CommaOil.com/training www.groupauto.co.uk/ignition

S R E O D

shafte sbury tow n ha ll

TO THE

caen

D E S E RT HA G N LLE

le mans

F R A NC E

A 2000 mile car rally from Shaftesbury Town Hall in Dorset to M’Hamid in Southern Morocco; a small oasis village which marks the beginning of the Sahara Desert.

BORDEAUX

AutoCare network member Motcombe Garage in Shaftesbury have been preparing for this epic trip for some months. Chris Rose and his niece Sally Hull are one of three teams who will travel land and sea to Morrocco to raise money for cancer charities; Cancer Research UK and Maggie’s Cancer Centres.

san sebastian

S PA I N

£10,000 target Fundraising began last summer to help reach the ambitious £10,000 team target. Every single penny raised by the three teams goes directly to the charities. All costs throughout the challenge such as cars, equipment, fuel, food, accommodation, etc, are covered by the teams themselves.

seville gibraltar

c co mor ro marrakesh

m’hamid

The end of the road

a lger i a SAHARA D E S E RT 36

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team chris & sally AutoCare have supported Chris’ team with vehicle graphics and a wheel cover that are sure to turn heads as they cross Europe and head down into African terrain.

D OT ORTSH EE

D E S E RT HA LLENG www.justgiving.com Search ‘dorset to the desert’

Team Chris and Sally joined the Dorset to the Desert challenge in memory of family members Olive Hull (Chris’ sister) and Frank Adams (Chris’ father-in-law) who sadly lost their battles with cancer. The teams set themselves a modest budget of only £700 per team for the car they felt would get them to Morocco safely, comfortably and economically. Chris purchased a sturdy Land Rover Discovery as his car of choice, to take on the Top Gear-esque challenge in true off-roader style. The challenge begins on 28th March; over 12 gruelling, but worthwhile days the teams will cross boarders, passing through numerous French and Spanish cities, undertaking various challenges along the way, before reaching the ‘end of the road’ in Southern Morocco.

“

The plan is to get to Morocco as quick as we can, so we can take our time coming home and spend more time fundraising to reach our £10k target. We will be filming the challenges along the way and streaming via Facebook so fans can follow our journey. Sally and I are taking on this challenge in memory of two very close relatives; thank you to the team at AutoCare and all who have donated for getting us this far, it has been a really big help.

“

Chris Rose, Motcombe Garage

Follow Chris and Sally’s journey at www.facebook.com/dorsettothedesert

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. It’s the most efficient way to donate – saving time and cutting costs for the charity. To make a donation and help the teams to reach their target visit: www.justgiving.com/Chris-Rose15

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PAUL OZ IS BASED IN CHELTENHAM WHERE HE WORKS AS A FULL TIME ARTIST. HIS PAINTING STYLE IS BOLD AND POWERFUL CREATING A 3D EFFECT THAT HAS BECOME HIS TRADE MARK STYLE. HE HAS PERFECTED OVER THE LAST 10 YEARS. Paul is commissioned for character licenses, corporate and sports events, fundraising foundations and by the likes of F1 Teams, Theo Paphitis, Sir Bradley Wiggins, Rugby Players Association, James Hunt’s family and Muhammad Ali to name just a few. His specialty is explosive 3D portraits in oils as well as sculpture work with a twist. Although Paul has worked on officially licensed character projects such as Mr Men and Little Miss, Ali, Bruce Lee Enterprises, Star Trek and Thunderbirds, almost half of his work is currently in Formula 1 with his actual party trick performing live paintings at parties. Ignition spoke to Paul about his incredible journey as a recognised painter...

WHAT HAVE BEEN YOUR HIGHLIGHTS SO FAR? Live painting on a yacht in Monaco was pretty special. Monster Energy Drinks purchased a painting as a gift to Lewis Hamilton for winning the F1 Title and Jenson Button bought the Pink Button helmet piece to use as an image on his Christmas card. WE LOVE A BIT OF NAME DROPPING, WHO ELSE HAVE YOU COMMISSIONED FOR? Some of the big names include Jake Humphrey, Sir Dave Brailsford, Pirellis Paul Hembery, three times for Sir Bradley Wiggins, Sir Alex Ferguson, Chris Ramsey, Wretch32, Playboy, JLS, Marussia, Red Bull, Max Chilton and as mentioned Monster Energy and Jenson Button. WHO WOULD YOU MOST LIKE TO RECEIVE A COMMISSION PROJECT FROM? Top of my list would for sure be to paint the Queen! The crazy thing is that most of my sporting idols have their own portrait now… I guess cracking Hollywood would be the next target!

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HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO PAINT SOMETHING LIKE THE PORTRAIT OF JENSON BUTTON? Typically about one week… that’s the target I set myself at least, to try and keep focused. It’s all too easy to relax too much and not spend enough time in the studio if I don’t set myself a target. WHAT’S THE LARGEST SCALE PAINTING YOU HAVE DONE? Gino the Elephant from the ROAR! Show was 6x4ft board size and the frame we chose for him was 8ft by 6ft…it took a while to find someone with a wall big enough for him! WHAT WAS THE MOST CHALLENGING COMMISSION AND WHY? I had one late last year which really pushed me… I don’t typically paint women, children, nor zoomed out – I had the combination of all three in one piece – a Christmas present for my biggest client’s wife. With my style being what it is… I struggle with smooth/beauty… which is too featureless for me. But never shying from a challenge for sure as that’s what I learn most from!

ARE YOU A FAN OF A PARTICULAR SPORT AND IF SO, WHO DO YOU SUPPORT? Formula 1 ticks just about all the boxes for me with the combination of technology and sport. I have also competed in cycling most of my life. This makes it all the more nuts for me for the likes of Wiggo and Jenson to commission me for work! I guess it’s almost happened naturally that way as I’ve painted what I’m passionate about and then become known for it. I’ll always get behind our British competitors. Especially with my work in F1 it wouldn’t work so well if I had a flag with one team as such. I’ll watch and try to get to events our national sports teams are involved with.

Paul was commissioned by Lloyd Begley from Cargo Motor Factors, a GROUPAUTO motor factor based in Newcastle-Under-Lyme, to paint the ‘Bane’ character from Batman (left). View Paul’s gallery at www.pauloz.co.uk and maybe get in touch for your own masterpiece?

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MAHLE Aftermarket

Take a peek into the future... A great many professionals in the motor trade respect the MAHLE brand for premium quality filters and engine components, and thanks to its vital role underpinning the Audi Sport team’s string of successes at Le Mans, so do thousands of motorsport fans around the world.

Volkswagen Passat estate in place of the standard car’s 1.8-litre engine. The turbocharged MAHLE motor features the latest Start-Stop technology and has a 120 kW power output, with 286 Nm maximum torque between 1,600 – 3,500rpm. In old money, that’s around 160bhp!

However, not so many yet know much about another cutting edge role the German parts supplier is taking in the drive towards the every day use of less polluting and more fuel-efficient cars. MAHLE Powertrain engineers have been busily working on future concepts over the last decade and have had a full-scale engine downsizing prototype on long term test over a wide variety of normal road conditions, for more than three years.

Fuel economy of 49mpg for the New European Driving Cycle and CO2 emissions of just 135 g/km are equally impressive for a full size family estate with such a small engine. Developed by MAHLE to provide a platform for future petrol engine R&D technology, no other engine component manufacturer has a downsizing engine programme like this.

At the heart of this project lies a frugal 1.3-litre three cylinder petrol engine, built entirely from the ground up by the company’s engineers, using many parts supplied as original equipment to vehicle manufacturers. This engine powers a

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By moving R&D out of simulation in the laboratory and into practical driving situations on the open road, new technologies for future generations of engines can be fully tested, giving MAHLE the ability to provide car manufacturers with already proven powertrain solutions to meet future market demands.

Electric Range Anxiety - The MAHLE Solution In day-to-day driving, purely electric cars cannot manage much more than 60 miles. This is quite sufficient for the daily commute to work or for travelling short distances in city traffic, but those who want to take their car for a longer spin often live in fear of ending up stranded somewhere with a dead battery a long way from the nearest charging station – a new phenomenon known as range anxiety. To solve the problem, vehicle manufacturers are resorting to a small, petrol driven ‘emergency power unit’ that can charge the battery on demand. MAHLE has already developed and tested a compact power unit of this kind and has now come up with two additional performance levels. The compact range extender, which was developed by MAHLE in 2011 and installed in a demonstration vehicle for test purposes, has an output of 30 kW and was designed for a maximum vehicle weight of 1,600 kg. For heavier cars and luxury vehicles or minibuses and vans, a correspondingly higher engine output is necessary. In-vehicle simulation showed that an output of 40 kW is required for vehicle

weights of up to 2,100 kg and for even heavier vehicles, an engine output of 50 kW was ideal. In developing the output-enhanced versions, MAHLE engineers placed particular importance on maintaining the compact dimensions of the original engine and used the highest possible number of identical parts in order to ensure efficient and cost-effective series production. For both the more powerful versions, it was decided that the maximum peak cylinder pressure of 75 bar should be maintained. Flow calculations proved that an output of 40 kW is already feasible with an increase in the rated speed from 4,000 to 5,500 rpm, while further analysis showed that a 50 kW version of the range extender engine could be achieved by increasing the rated speed and in conjunction with turbocharging of up to 0.5 bar. Based on the weight and installation volume of the 30 kW range extender engine, MAHLE engineers were able to calculate, simulate and realise the necessary higher speeds for the 40 kW version by providing additional protection for engine components such as the intake system, valve train and crankshaft.

Compressor boosts compact 50kW engine To minimise changes to the engine, the normal combustion engine of the most powerful MAHLE range extender is charged by an electrically driven compressor without intercooling. Since the position of the electrical compressor is relatively flexible, the relevant installation space requirements can be easily met. In the turbocharged variant, the installation space increases from a box volume of 65 to 85 litres and the weight of the engine generator unit by almost 5 kg to 70 kg. In a series solution, the electric compressor can be controlled directly by the range extender’s engine control unit and the power electronics can be integrated into those of the generator. Current engine tests will show what impact this very compact arrangement without intercooling has on both combustion and knocking behaviour, as well as on the overall efficiency of the 50 kW range extender and therefore, what an optimal series concept for heavy vehicles will look like. So watch this space!

For more information about the quality products available from MAHLE Aftermarket, call the sales team on: 0845 688 5007 or visit: www.mahle-aftermarket.com

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FIFA WOMEN’S WORLD CUP 2015 Best of the Best Held between 6th June and 5th July 2015

THE STANDARD OF FOOTBALL, PLAYER AND TACTICS HAS INCREASED TENFOLD SINCE THE FIRST WOMEN’S WORLD CUP HELD IN CHINA PR IN 1991. THE PLAYERS ARE PHYSICALLY STRONGER, FITTER AND FASTER THAN EVER BEFORE.

Karina LeBlanc Canada - Keeper

The longest serving player in Canadian football history. Karina has represented Canada in three Pan American Games, four FIFA Women’s World Cups and two Olympic Games. She helped lead team Canada to an impressive bronze medal win at the 2012 London Olympic Games. ‘Safe hands’ LeBlanc brings experience to team Canada.

Top coaches are working on club and international level. Major sponsors are helping to raise the profile of the game in the hope that the support and coverage of this year’s FIFA Women’s World Cup in Canada across the globe will elevate the sport to another level altogether. IGNITION identify some of the key players to watch out for – a mixture of experience and youth.

Carli Lloyd USA - Forward

Carli missed a penalty in the 2011 World Cup Final losing to Japan, so she will be keen to redeem herself on the main stage again in Canada this year. The striker has scored over 50 goals for USA and has won two gold medals at the 2008 and 2012 Olympics, scoring in both finals. Power, determination and guaranteed goals.

Marta Brazil - Forward

Marta has typical Brazilian flair and a serious eye for goal. She was the winner of the Adidas Golden Ball at China 2007 and is five-time World Player of the Year. Marta and her strike partner Cristiane have a superb understanding of each other’s play. Both Brazil and Marta are sure to light up the World Cup stage.

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Eniola Aluko England - Forward

Nadine Kessler Germany - Midfield

Eniola was a key player on the road to Canada and during qualifying scored 13 of the 52 goals England scored. The Chelsea forward is on scintillating form for both club and country and is sure to relish playing against the best teams in the world. Eager to add to her 86 caps at the Women’s World Cup in June.

Nadine Kessler is a talented 26 year old midfielder who has been named World Player of the Year for 2014 ahead of Marta from Brazil and USA striker Abby Wambach. All eyes will be on Kessler and team Germany who are sure to start tournament favorites. A gritty midfielder with superb vision.

Aya Miyama Japan - Midfield

Aya Miyama was one of the key players in the team that beat USA to win the 2011 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Frankfurt, Germany. Miyama also captained the side to a silver medal at the 2012 Olympics and helped Japan win their first AFC Asian Cup last year. Aya Miyama is also two-time AFC Women’s Player of the Year. Aiming to retain the World Cup in Canada.

Asisat Oshoala Nigeria - Forward

Liverpool Ladies recently signed the 20 year old striker Asisat Oshoala beating teams from across the globe to her signature. Asisat won the Golden Ball and Golden Boot award last year at the Under 20s World Cup Finals. Asisat and her strike partner Desire Oparanozie are a real goal scoring force for Nigeria. One of the best young players in the world.

Caitlin Foord Australia - Defender

Caitlin became the youngest Australian ever to play at a Women’s World Cup at Germany 2011 at the age of 16. Foord had a good tournament from right back picking up the Best Young Player of the World Cup. Her pace is the key to unlocking defences and protecting at the back.

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THIS IS YOUR

CAPTAIN SPEAKING England women’s football team head to Canada for the World Cup in June, but what chance do they have of winning? Captain Steph Houghton is confident.

FIFA WOMEN’S WORLD CUP 2015 CANADA 6th JUNE - 5th JULY 2015 44

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“It’s up to us to perform for club and country to keep the interest high on and off the field.” When England kick-off their World Cup campaign in Canada this summer, they’ll be lead by one of the most successful and experienced members of the Lionesses squad. Defender and skipper Steph Houghton has been there, done it and has enough experience to open her own t-shirt store, and she’ll be hoping she can guide her team-mates to the latter stages. Houghton was unfortunate to miss out on the 2007 World Cup in China but was a key protagonist when the side made it to the quarter finals four years later. Unfortunately, in true Three Lions fashion, England were defeated on penalties, going out 4-3 against France in Germany. Since then though, Houghton has played – and scored at Wembley – and lifted the FA Women’s Cup and FA WSL Continental Cups. And while the England team continues to improve, making history last November when by playing at Wembley, the quality of the domestic FA WSL is improving all the time. Despite friendly defeats against USA and Germany, both among the favourites to life the title this summer, Houghton remains confident that England can continue their evolution. Germany and USA are both World Cup winners, so what can we learn from the recent defeats against both sides? I think it’s important that we test ourselves against teams like Germany and USA, two teams I consider to be the best in the world at the moment, because we know the standards required. When you look at the German team that beat us, they were fit, physically strong and moved

round the pitch with ease; that’s the level we need to aspire to. Also, playing in front of big crowds in big stadiums, like we did in both games, will help some of the younger squad members who might not have done that before. That experience will definitely come in handy at the World Cup. In terms of our playing ability, I don’t think we’re too far away. We can take heart from our performances. We just need to cut out some of the mistakes and take more of our chances. There were 45,000 at Wembley in November and almost 15,000 at MK Dons in February, there’s a buzz about the women’s game going into this World Cup isn’t there? I think it started at the Olympics [in 2012], when there were big crowds watching the women’s matches in the stadiums and on TV. To then go and play in front of 45,000 at Wembley was a proud moment and really shows how far we’ve come. Hopefully that can continue, but it’s up to us to perform for club and country to keep the interest high on and off the field. How would you assess England’s chances this summer? We have a very strong group including France, Mexico and Colombia, so we know we have a tough journey ahead of us. France recently beat USA and we came up against them four years ago, so we know what threat they carry. They’re likely to be among the major players alongside Germany and USA, but we also know we have a talented squad. We just need to use the next few games and months to work as hard as we can to improve individually and as a team. You’ve played in World Cups, European Championships and Olympic events, so are well versed in football tournaments. What’s the most important element? Recovery is key. You also need to switch off mentally, so we’ll probably try and get out of the hotel and see friends and family. If you think about football all the time it can be tiring.

The squad will be spending a lot of time together during the tournament – do you all get on? You have to because you’re away for such a long time together. We’re always trying to bond to help us on and off the field. We ask a lot of each other in training to try and help us progress and we’ll continue to do that. Has the women’s game in this country changed much since the last World Cup in 2011? It’s changed a lot in the last two or three years in terms of how much training we do and how much of that is dedicated to conditioning. Your fitness has to be spot on, your body movement fine-tuned and that’s why we tend to be in the gym a lot more. Nutrition has become more important too; whether you need to work specifically on strength, muscle mass or fitness. Supplements have become an increasing part of our diets. The domestic league is also getting stronger and we’re now attracting the world’s best players. The more competitive our league, the more prepared we’ll be for competitions like the World Cup.

ENGLAND FIXTURES - GROUP F 9th JUNE 2015 vs FRANCE

13th JUNE 2015 vs MEXICO

17th JUNE 2015 vs COLOMBIA www.groupauto.co.uk/ignition

DENSO celebrates double winning race partnership DENSO, primary partner of Toyota Racing, has been celebrating news of both the drivers’ and manufacturers’ recent World Champion titles triumph in the 2014 FIA World Endurance Championship. Toyota Racing’s win at the Six Hours of Bahrain on the 15th November – the penultimate race of the Championship - was its fifth victory of the season as Anthony Davidson and Sébastien Buemi secured the drivers’ title. A second-place finish behind Porsche at the Six Hours of Interlagos in Brazil on the 30th November was enough for Toyota Racing to seize the manufacturers' title in the FIA World Endurance Championship. Proud sponsor DENSO developed a rear hybrid motor system specifically for the TS040 Hybrid model driven by this year’s winning team, who held an

unassailable lead in the standings throughout the competition. The TS040 Hybrid endurance racing car, featuring Toyota’s ground-breaking four-wheel drive hybrid technology and a DENSO motor-generator unit at the rear, as in 2012-13, had completed over 25,000km of testing in preparation for the season, which started at Silverstone on April 20th 2014. It is not the first time that DENSO has partnered the triumphant manufacturer, whose close relationship with World Endurance Championship racing goes back to the Group C Series

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in the 1980s. Over the years, DENSO and Toyota have closely cooperated in the field of car racing, with DENSO partnering from the get-go of this successful hybrid racing project, being a part of the overall concept of the TS030 Hybrid. Steve Richardson, Director Aftermarket Sales said: “It has been an amazing Championship season for Toyota Racing and this title victory is the icing on the cake. We at DENSO are extremely proud to play a part in Toyota’s triumph and would like to congratulate the whole team on this incredible accomplishment.”

Find out more To find out even more about DENSO Aftermarket Sales UK please call 02476 843410 or email info.amsales@denso-sales.co.uk. Alternatively, log onto www.denso-am.co.uk, to find out the latest company news, as well as viewing e-catalogues, finding products and locating suppliers in your areas. DENSO Aftermarket Sales UK can also be contacted via Twitter @densopartsuk for news and instant answers on any technical questions you may have.

To locate your closest GROUPAUTO motor factor scan the QR code or visit www.groupauto.co.uk

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Each and every one of us works hard in our daily lives and continues to try to fit more and more into our routines; working longer hours, doing more with the family and fitting more and more into our free time. But, we do need to take time to think about our health and the lifestyle we keep. The most common reason given for not prioritising our health is time! We all know that time is very important. Why? Because time can be lost, and once lost, you can never get it back.

Matthew Wood, Ex Yorkshire and Glamorgan Cricketer and Personal Development Manager at the PCA highlights; Time, one of your most precious commodities Stop for a second, take yourself forward and imagine yourself in 6 months’ time. In 26 weeks, 182 days and 4,368 hours what will you be doing and just as important what will you have done with your time, you will never get it back? Time is simply one of our most precious commodities. Money cannot buy it back nor invent more. There is no right or wrong in this article just a message and an insight. The balancing act of using our time has never been more important and here is why. The time continuum is interesting and plays a huge part in our emotional state and wellbeing. At one end of the spectrum you could be saying yes to all sorts of things, people wanting a piece of you and finding yourself short of time, this can result in an anxious state, worry and fear of letting people down or guilt. At the other end of the spectrum is not using your time efficiently; wasting hours can lead to days, days could lead to weeks which can result in low esteem, a loss of confidence, a lack of motivation and feeling drained and tired. Add together dark mornings and longer nights and soon it can be an all too familiar formula. If it only takes 21 days to form a habit, then be mindful of your daily routines.

Plan a Healthy Lifestyle Prioritise a healthy lifestyle

Balance Balance and some short term planning can help you maximise your time efficiently. Knowing what you want to achieve will help you distribute your time accordingly. What you do or do not do with your spare time will have a direct impact on where you arrive in the future. Using your time wisely, every time you say ‘Yes’ to one thing you are saying ‘No’ to something else. There will be a good intention behind all your choices if you look closely enough, but it is important that you align yourself and your time so that what you want to get done gets done. People pleasing can be a trap when you find you are getting short of time, it can be helpful to find a polite sincere way of saying no to some things.

The 6 am club Many leaders in business and sport report that early morning starts give them a pre breakfast window of opportunity. The pre breakfast window can be an investment in you. Fitness, reading, studying, relaxing, a time for you to choose how you attack the day, what you want to achieve and the attitude you run with. We are all allocated the same hours in a day and everybody will be running their own race. Owning your hours and maximising your time is truly your choice.

Remember your hour by hour and day to day choices now will meet with an opportunity one day in the future. How lucky will you get? What if you make the very best of your time this year, how will that feel? What impact will it have on your future and your overall health and wellbeing?

Spring into action now, plan and prioritise your time and achieve a healthy and balanced lifestyle!

Eat Well.

Eating the right foods can help improve your health and also affect the way you feel.

1. Have regular meals – plan regular meals and try to eat at the same time each day. If you need to snack in between meals, choose a healthy option. 2. Eat 5 portions of fruit and vegetables a day – buy fruit and vegetables that are in season as they are normally cheaper. 3. Control your portion sizes – consider your meals throughout the day and the portion size of each, make some meals smaller to compensate for larger meals later in the day. 4. Reduce the saturated fat in your diet – cut down on foods that are high in saturated fat such as chips, chocolate and cakes. 5. Eat less salt – add fresh herbs and spices to your food to give it flavour.

MOVE MORE.

Being more active can improve our physical health and mental wellbeing.

1. Choose an activity you enjoy – you are more likely to stick with it if you enjoy it and it doesn’t have to be a sport, it can be dancing, walking, cycling. 2. Walk whenever possible – walk to work or take a walk at lunchtime. 3. Take up a sport that you once enjoyed or would like to learn – it’s never too late to learn a new skill. 4. Join a team – whatever you enjoy, find a local team and sign up. 5. Get active with the family – encourage your kids to lead an active lifestyle and join in with them, take them swimming, skating, cycling or to the park.

Exercising together as a family is great fun and will encourage everyone to keep going – a fantastic opportunity for you and your family to be active together is coming soon, so why not take a look at the exciting new GoFest 2015! Visit www.gofest.co.uk for more information

24 Minute HIIT Workout You may be looking for something a bit more intense that will give you all the benefits of a long workout, but if time is of the essence, then a HIIT (High intensity interval training) workout is just for you. This HIIT programme will provide you with a whole body workout that will help boost your metabolism, burn fat and build your strength. It can be done in the comfort of your own home or at the gym and will take only 24 minutes of your valuable time.

Jumping jacks

step up chair

Wall sit

squat

push up

tricep dips

abdominal crunch

plank

Perform each exercise for 20 seconds with a 10 seconds rest, 4 times. Don’t forget to warm up before you start the work out and cool down at the end to prevent any injuries!

49 high knees running

lunge

push up rotation

side plank

Spring Car Care Savings

WE’ve PICKED OUT SOME GREAT DEALS AVAILABLE VIA YOUR LOCAL GROUPAUTO MOTOR FACTOR. WHY NOT SPEAK TO THEM TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT THEIR WIDE RANGE OF PARTS AND ACCESSORIES: • braking • Car care & cleaning • clutch kits • electrical • engine management • lubricants & fluids • Steering • Tools • vehicle accessories • wipers • Workshop and MUCH more... Visit the garage area at www.groupauto.co.uk Contact your GROUPAUTO Motor Factor for more information on any products featured in IGNITION. < Scan here to find yours 50

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protection Excellent quality branded products at costs that are hard to beat. WAXOYL BLACK REFILL CAN 5 LTR • Hammerite's Waxoyl provides all-round rustproofing treatment • Its unique formula solves the problem of hidden rust once and for all • Ideal for the insides of doors, behind sills, chassis and anywhere that water is likely to collect

£22.49

HAM5092949

UNDERBODY SEAL SCHUTZ BLACK 1 LTR • Heavy duty protection for high impact areas • Excellent corrosion resistance • Remains flexible, will not crack or peel • Super smooth application and free from gritty particles

£5.99

HAM5092946

STONECHIP SHIELD BLACK 600 ML • Hammerite stone chip shield in black • Protects sills and lower body panels against stone chip damage • Rust Resistant, non-drip formula • Over-paintable • Comes in a 600ml aerosol canister

£5.69

HAM5092832

SIMONIZ SATIN BLACK 500 ML • Easy to apply for super smooth finish • A consistent fast and even spray rate • Quick coverage, quick drying • Small paint particles, no run, no powdery finish • True matt finish from matt paints, deep brilliant shine from gloss paint

£3.05

HOLSIMP16C

cleaning & MAINTeNANCE Everyone likes a sparkling new car feel so stock up on these products whilst the price is right. TURTLE WAX ZIP WAX 500ML + 500ML FREE

SIMONIZ BACK TO BLACK BUMPER AND TRIM 500 ML

• Turtle Wax Zipwax Super Concentrate Wash & Wax is an easy to use car cleaner

• Bumper restorer spray

• Simply add a capful into a bucket of warm water and wash your car as normal • With added wax, it provides a shine as it washes, leaving a brilliant streak-free finish

£2.69

TWXFG5960

FRESH SHINE NEW CAR SCENT 500 ML • Fresh Shine is an advanced aerosol formula which lays down an anti-static shield that repels dust and dirt

WHEELS Be quick oFf the mark to get these top deals on tyre and alloy wheel maintenance products. TYREWELD 400 ML

• Advanced formula for a deep gloss black shine • Regular use protects against weathering • Returns a new look to plastic bumpers and trim in seconds

£3.39

• Seals and inflates punctured tyres instantly

HOLSIM01

• Eliminates the need for immediate tyre change • Approved by National Tyre Distributors Association

MICRO FIBRE CLOTHS 6 PACK

• No tools and no dismantling required

• 2 red, 2 blue and 2 yellow • Measures 30cm x 40cm

£5.99

• Restores all interior plastic, vinyl and rubber surfaces of any colour to their original showroom condition

£2.59

TWXFG6041

HOLHT3YA

SOFT ALLOY WHEEL BRUSH

£3.19

• Specailly designed super soft bristles will not scratch even the most delicate of surfaces

COXMOGG8

• New 4 way loop design

BIG ORANGE WASH 5 LTR • Contains the natural cleaning power of Orange Oil

2.5 SQ FT BEST QUALITY CHAMOIS

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TELESCOPIC WASH BRUSH 3 MTR • Telescopic flow through wash brush • 3m fully extended • On / off water tap control • Super soft bristles • Attaches to standard size hose

£11.39

COXCFB6

• Cleans all hard to reach areas

• Genuine natural chamois leather • Hand picked and graded so only the finest material is used.

• Up to 75 washes per bottle

£3.99

• Safe flexible bristles

£1.29 £4.79

COXMOGG15

COXAP250

COLOR MAGIC PLUS BLACK 500 ML

SWARFEGA ALLOY WHEEL CLEANER 5 LTR

• Colour Magic Plus from Turtle wax is the total solution to restoring your cars paintwork

• Fast acting formula to remove the toughest of baked on brake dust and road soilings

• The colour magic polish is quick and easy to use, gently cleaning the paint surface and masking minor scratches and swirl marks

• Highly Effective Formulation rapidly removes the grimy build-up found on alloy wheels

£5.99

TWXFG6900

£11.49

DEBSAW5LTR

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How to

survive Glastonbury! at our g up take a look in m co n so a se l sure you have en With the festiva to d ee n l il w is ntials you but hopefully th t guide on the esse en er iff d re a festivals a good time! All p you survive! checklist will hel

Wellies/Sturdy boots:

l tiva s e yF ival bur t n Fest o t y e s r k Gla 15asttioc nbu t e 20Gl 15 tick 0 2

5 1 220015

Even though most festivals take place in the British summer we all know what can happen….don’t ruin your brand new pumps and make sure you pack a pair.

Festival ticket:

A must! Keep this safe and make sure it’s the first thing you pack.

Alcohol: Drinking beer

Sleeping bag: You

don’t want to be sleeping on the ground for 4 nights! A sleeping bag and pillow will ensure you don’t wake up in agony.

Maps: A map of your festival site is extremely helpful when you find yourself lost at 4am! 52

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er.

LAger.

This. is. This. is. LA ger. LAg

essential! You don’t want to forget this. Have a quick run through putting your tent up before you leave.

This. is. This. is.. LAger

Tent: Another festival

in a field with your best mates, watching your favourite band takes a lot to beat.

Spare clothes: These are essential if you don’t want to be caked in mud for the whole festival. Make sure you take enough clothes for each day. Waterproof: A must for festivals in Britain, because you never know what’s going to happen! This will keep you dry and happy!

deodarant

Toiletries: Toothbrushes, shampoo & conditioner

dry shampoo and deodorant! Buy travel sized so there’s more room for beer!

s r e d n d a i c s r bee

Money/Cards: Best to take more than enough for each day, you never know how much a burger might cost! Split it up into different bags and pockets for safe keeping.

20 20 20 20 20

to try ER ER ERERER EERR

££2200 £2 0 £22200 ££

£2

Phone: WER R

In the unfortunate situation that you lose your mates your phone will be your saviour! Most festivals have phone charger points now so don’t worry if you’re running low.

Camera: To capture

ignition

those special festival moments make sure you take a disposable camera. Take a few in case you lose them in a crowd!

Toilet roll/Wet wipes:

When nature calls and you’re in the middle of a field, you want to be prepared!

Torch: Trying to

find your tent is hard enough in the daytime nevermind at night. Take a torch so you can find your way home.

Prize Draw

For your free sam Ciders to try ple of our Beers & this season* your chance to win a guid AND ed tour of ATOM Brew marketing@ er y email us at groupauto.co .uk. Must be over 18 to apply! *w hile stocks la

st!

this summer

lly brewed with the best loca the pub, on as se is th d in w Un or in Whether at home ill get your beers and ciders. w s freshing beer we’re sure these reWhile the sun might call for g. tastebuds tinglin s there’s always room by the er golden ales and cid darker beers and lagers. r fo ue barbec

INDIA HELLS LAGER CAMDEN TOWN BREWERY Colour: Pale ABV: 6.1% Tasting notes: With the hop hit of a great IPA and crisp ﬁnish of an awesome lager this beer is perfect for summer. Super drinkable! Where to Find? Honestbrew (£2.80)

KIPLING THORNBRIDGE BREWERY Colour: Pale ABV: 5.2% Tasting notes: South Pacific Pale ale with flavours of passion fruit and kiwi that ends with a nice hoppy finish. Definitely one to enjoy this summer. Where to Find? Waitrose (£2.24)

THIS.IS.LAGER BREWDOG Colour: Golden ABV: 4.7% Tasting notes: In honour of the great German pilsners this beer has a full bodied malt character with added spicy citrus notes to round things oﬀ. Where to Find? www.brewdog.com (£1.70)

DARK ALCHEMY ATOM BEERS Colour: Dark ABV: 4.9% Tasting notes: With a rich spicy aroma this beer oﬀers a smooth drinkable ale that will go hand in hand with all your favourite BBQ foods! Where to Find? Atom Beers

OLD MOUT PASSIONFRUIT & APPLE CIDER OLD MOUT BREWERY Colour: Light Yellow ABV: 4.0% Tasting notes: A wonderfully exotic fruit cider with tropical ﬂavours combined with rich apple notes. Utterly Delicious. Where to Find? Tesco (£2.09)

“I’m absolutely sure we’re in for another titanic battle this year.” Alan Gow, Series Director

2014 was the seventeenth year in-a-row that the championship went down to the final event and as Colin Turkington took the championship in a thrilling finale, he became the eleventh different race winner of the season. With the 2015 season already off to a flyer, the teams take to the track for the first race of the season at Brands Hatch Indy Circuit on 4th & 5th April, for what’s expected to be an another adrenaline-charged season.

Last year’s BTCC saw racing fans in their thousands gather at some of the UK’s best motor sport venues.

The 2015 race calendar hosts an unchanged line-up of venues and every championship race will be televised live and in high-definition on ITV4, as well as the ITV website.

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WIX RACING Driver: Adam Morgan 2015 Wheels: Mercedes A-Class WIX Racing will hope to start the 2015 racing season where it left 2014, on the top step of the winner’s podium. Adam Morgan - who delivered Mercedes their first ever British Touring Car win last season - will remain the team’s No.1 driver for 2015. Adam’s pre-season testing has proved that he is determined, committed and fast, very, very fast! WIX Racing has improved the setup of the A-Class and spent a considerable amount of time in MIRA's wind tunnel improving the car’s aerodynamics and its straight line speed. All the team’s existing sponsors have remained on board for this year’s championship assault.

POWER MAXED RACING Drivers: Dave Newsham & Josh Cook 2015 Wheels: Chevrolet Cruze Saloon After getting their first season under their belt in 2014, Power Maxed Racing have ramped up the ante and appointed 2014 Jack Sears Trophy winner and BTCC race winner Dave Newsham. Newsham was awarded the Jack Sears Trophy in 2014 which recognises the number of overtakes a driver makes in a season, an accolade that Power Maxed are hoping he will retain this season behind the wheel of the number 17 Chevrolet Cruze Saloon. Power Maxed Racing have also announced the signing of Renault Clio Cup UK Vice Champion Josh Cook. Josh will pilot the team’s second Chevrolet Cruze for the 2015 season under the new #RacingforHeroes banner.

YUASA Drivers: Matt Neal & Gordon Shedden Yuasa Battery Sales (UK) Ltd are revving up for another thrilling BTCC season having continued their title sponsorship of Team Dynamics Honda. Yuasa has enjoyed phenomenal success on the track since their association with the team began in 2011. With an impressive four back-to-back team and manufacturer triumphs between 2010 and 2013 they have secured their spot as the series’ top team. Triple champion Matt Neal and 2012 champion ‘Flash’ Gordon Shedden will once again go head to head for Honda in this year’s campaign. Between them, this sensational driver duo has notched up an impressive 46 wins and are confident that the team’s success will continue as they charge to reclaim the 2015 championships.

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MILLERS OILS Driver: Mike Bushell 2015 Wheels: Ford Focus This is Millers Oils’ second year supporting the AmD Tuning team. The car this year is running the full 2015 Ford Focus spec and will be driven by last year’s Clio Cup Winner, Mike Bushell. During pre-season testing Mike is on the pace and has his sights set on some top-end finishes. His bright red and black Focus runs a Mountune BTCC engine and is kept in fine tune using high quality Millers Oils lubricants.

LASER TOOLS RACING Driver: Aiden Moffat 2015 Wheels: Mercedes A-Class The Laser Tools Racing team approaches the 2015 BTCC season in an excited mood after their brand new car for 2015 season was unveiled at the Autosport International Show in January. The new Mercedes A-Class is already a hit with Aiden Moffatt, the 2015 driver who can’t wait to really get to grips with the car and drive it in anger. The young Scot entered the championship two seasons ago as the youngest driver to grace the grid of Britain’s premier saloon car series, under the Laser Tools Racing banner with his Chevrolet Cruze. This season Aiden is confident that with this experience together with the new Merc he can end the year with at least a top-five finish. “I feel very confident in the new car - the Mercedes is giving me more feedback from the chassis right from the very first drive.”

LUCAS ELECTRICAL Driver: Andrew Jordan 2015 Wheels: MG6 GT 2015 will be the third successive year that Lucas Electrical have partnered with Andrew Jordan since joining forces in the amazing 2013 British Touring Car Championship that saw Andrew take the title as an independent driver. This season Jordan will mount a bold new bid for BTCC success after securing a lead place in the works MG team with Triple Eight Racing. Triple Eight is the most successful team in the BTCC field and the MG6 GT is a proven race-winning package.

KEEP TRACK OF ALL OF THE LATEST TEAM UPDATES AT WWW.BTCC.NET

IT'S WHAT'S UNDER THE SKIN THAT MATTERS MOST.

BOSCH Quality products now available from your local GROUPAUTO Motor Factor.

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The game of Footgolf is as it sounds a hybrid of football and golf which has become the fastest growing sport in the US market and the UK is following trend. Footgolf appeals mainly to football-types, younger generations and those looking for a fun activity. The appeal is increased due to the fact there is no need to purchase a full set of golf clubs and replenishing the hundreds of golf balls you inevitably lose during a season of golf rounds.

Attire Footgolf attire is preferably played in traditional golf clothing especially long socks, flat caps and shorts. The only difference to golf is the footwear. Footwear: The rules state you MUST NOT play in football boots whether that is studs, moulded or blades. The main reason is that this footwear damages the playing surface especially the greens. Studs and blades would also restrict your ‘putting’ technique so a flat sole is better suited.

Hat: either an old school flat cap or a golfer’s driver cap. Collared Shirt: The same rules apply to footgolf when it comes to your shirt. A smart collared polo shirt is ideal. Legs: You can either don the golf shorts and Argyle socks (knee high) or long smart trousers. Ball: Use your own size 5 footballs or hire one from the venue. The golf course holes are measured at 52cm in diameter, an exact scale up to that of a golf ball hole.

Suggested footwear:

Best size 5 balls:

1. Adidas Freefootball Crazyquick Classy design with great feel on the ball. Available from prodirectsoccer.com for £65

1. Senda Footgolf Match Ball This football has been specifically designed for FootGolf. Available on ebay from £50

2. Nike Bomba II Black Hyper Turq Comfortable, light design giving accuracy and power. Available from prodirectsoccer.com for only £29

2. Adidas Conext 2015 Competition The Conext will be used in FIFA Women's World Cup Canada 2015 as well as in various league and cup competitions worldwide. Available from prodirectsoccer.com for £40

3. Puma evoPOWER 4.2 TF Great performance from what Puma call GripTex print. Available from prodirectsoccer.com for £45

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3. Nike Technique Hyper Turq Not only do we like the cost but it also pairs well with the Nike Bomba II trainers. Available from prodirectsoccer.com for £14

HOW TO PLAY 1. Kick off (tee off). Kick the ball from behind the tee box markers 2. No running. Walk to your ball, approach the shot and kick 3. Shoot low. It’s scored just like golf with a set ‘par’ score for each hole - lowest score at the end wins

UK Venues Footgolf is an obvious favourite for corporate events. Why not take your technicians to a local venue to enjoy a round this Spring. There are over 40 footgolf courses around the UK and set to be at least double that by the end of 2015. We have highlighted just 12 of the venues but to find your local footgolf course simply visit www.ukfootgolf.com

1. Eagles Golf Centre – King’s Lynn, Norfolk Par 34 – 18 holes – Adults = £8.60 2. Oakmere Park Golf Club – Oxton, Nottinghamshire Par 36 – 18 holes – Adults = £10 3. Penrith Golf Centre – Penrith, Cumbria Par 34 – 18 holes – Adults = £10 4. Abbey Hill Golf Centre – Milton Keynes, Bucks. Par 34 – 9 holes – Adults = £9 5. High Elms Golf Centre – Downe, Kent Par 34 – 18 holes – Adults = £10 6. Sunbury Golf Centre – Shepperton, Middlesex Par 72 - 18 holes – Adults = £14.50 7. Monkton Park Golf Club – Chippenham, Wiltshire Par 27 – 18 holes – Adults = £8.50 8. Shropshire Golf Centre – Telford, Shropshire Par 62 - 18 holes – Adults = £6 9. UK FootGolf Centre of Excellence – Doncaster, Yorks. Par 68 - 18 holes – Adults = £10 10. Leeds Golf Centre – Leeds, Yorks. 12 holes – Adults = £7.50 11. St Mary’s Hotel & Golf Club – Pencoed, Vale of Glamorgan 18 holes – Adults = £12 12. Cowal Golf Club – Argyll, Scotland 18 holes – Adults = £10

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G N I Y F Y R R E T G N I Y F Y R TER national

ible Inter d e r c In e h T – t n a r G y r r Te ty Guinness World Terry Grant has an incredible twen ier than most would craz ts stun for e nam his to Records . mpt dream up never mind atte has achieved was One of the most impressive records Terry he became the first re whe se cour limb hill-c od dwo at the Goo the mile climb of top the to way person to take a car all the pulled off this Juke an on just two wheels. Terry and the Niss t of the fron in ival Fest od dwo amazing stunt at the Goo ers. view TV and rs tato spec of s thousand ed, J-B Weld and Terry Grant is sponsored by Power Max January this year in Show t spor Steel Seal and at the Auto around two of uts don in le Nob l erfu pow the e Terry drov but had to keep ified petr was “I . the Power Maxed grid girls to the audience dent confi ing look st whil ible poss as still as e. – an amazing adrenaline rush!” said Chlo this video Visit Terry Grants’ website to check out .uk nt.co ygra www.terr of major stunts that Terry also wants to achieve a couple barrel jump from the is t stun he is planning for. The first ie, and the second mov Bond ’ Gun en Gold the with ‘The Man done recently been have ts stun h is a back flip in a car. “Bot like to refine ld wou I sy. mes very ed look they k but I thin gy, and make them both tricks in a normal car, not a bug of lucky crashes!” ad inste ts stun oth smo r supe look like Terry Grant expressed.

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S T N U T S STUNTS

Stunt Driver

MOST PEOPLE IN A CAR WHILE ON 2 WHEELS

MOST DONUTS STANDING ON THE ROOF OF A CAR

NARROWEST J-TURN IN A CAR

At the Race of Champions 2014 in Bushy Park, Barbados last December, Terry Grant drove his Nissan Juke on just 2 side wheels with an amazing 15 people in the car to set a new World Record.

In December 2012 at the Race of Champions at Bangkok's Rajamangala Stadium, Terry smashed his own record of 10 consecutive donuts whilst standing on the roof of a car increasing the World Record to an incredible 25 donuts.

At the Autosport International Show in Birmingham in January 2008, Terry achieved the narrowest J-Turn with only 18cm between the 2 barriers and his Renault Twingo. You can watch this stunt at www.terrygrant.co.uk

ABOUT THE PARTNERS Automotive Brands promote a wide range of innovative products in the UK & Europe and are approved suppliers to GROUPAUTO as well as sponsors of stunt driver Terry Grant. Power Maxed is a revolutionary new range of Automotive products designed to bring top quality professional results without the high end price tag. With a wide range of products being designed to suit any vehicle including; motorbikes, motor homes, caravans, mountain bikes and more, you can keep any vehicle looking and working its best with our products. Visit www.powermaxed.com The only product of its kind, that permanently seals blown head gaskets, warped heads and cracked blocks. MONEY BACK GUARANTEE! Visit www.steelseal.co.uk The ‘World’s Strongest Bond’, No matter the problem there is a J-B Weld solution. Check out the range of adhesives, putties, epoxy resins and thread lockers at www.jbweld.co.uk

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This summer Frank Massey, from Automotive Diagnostic Solutions Ltd (ADS) - ONE OF AutoCare’s technical training providerS- will be taking on London to Paris 24 in aid of the automotive industry charity BEN. London to Paris 24 will start in the UK capital on June 5th 2015 and will be a round the clock adrenaline-fuelled cycle challenge that will push Frank to the limit. Cycling non-stop through the night, this is the ultimate endurance challenge that’s not for the faint hearted. Frank has always been a keen cyclist, but this will be his first ever charity bike ride. In 2011 Frank cycled from the Blackpool Tower in Lancashire to the Eiffel Tower in Paris (pictured right), but although he is familiar with what it takes to cycle to France, he has never done it under time constraints.

Be part of the BEN family too! EVERYONE AT BEN WOULD LIKE TO WISH FRANK MASSEY ‘GOOD LUCK’ AS HE TAKES ON THE LONDON TO PARIS 24 CYCLE RIDE AND THANK HIM FOR SUPPORTING HIS INDUSTRY CHARITY. The fantastic efforts of people like Frank play an important role in enabling BEN to offer advice, support and care to thousands who work, or have worked in the industry, year after year.

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I am very fortunate to be in good health and appreciate those who are not need our help and support. My aim is to raise support from all my friends and contacts within the independent sector to reach a minimum target of ÂŁ2000, to aid this great and diverse charity. Cycling is an absolute passion of mine next to the automotive industry of course - so my intention is to finish in style.

BEN can offer many varied challenges for anyone who is keen to support our charity; in addition to cycle rides we encourage anyone in the industry to take part in running events, skydive, test your nerve on a wing walk or enter our unique motorcycle rally. Or for something completely different enter a car in the Bangers4BEN rally. For more information on our events visit ben.org.uk, or contact Bekki Chandler, BENâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Challenge Events Co-ordinator on 01344 294714 or bekki.chandler@ben.org.uk.

Technical training As part of the AutoCare programme, garages receive technical training courses available from renowned training provider Frank Massey of ADS Ltd. ADS is a truly unique training provider that over the last 25 years have trained many of the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading diagnostic experts. The training courses are modular, building both experience and confidence in a simple to understand approach that covers a wide range of subjects such as; how to approach a problem, risk assessment, customer liaison and tool knowledge. For more information on training courses please contact the AutoCare team on autocare@autocaregarages.co.uk or call 01274 654605.

JUST GIVING To help Frank reach his target, you can make a donation by visiting www.justgiving.com/Frank-Massey or by contacting Annette on annette@ads-global.co.uk

If you, a friend or colleague needs support, please contact BEN: Tel: 01344 876770 Text: 07781 472622 Email: careservices@ben.org.uk Visit: www.ben.org.uk/gethelp

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Runners

Jumps

£1MILLION PRIZE FUND The Crabbie’s Grand National, often called the world’s greatest steeplechase, is a serious test of rider and horse. Famous Fences Let’s focus on 5 of the most famous jumps of the 16 fences from the National course:

n Jumps on 1 n Jumps on 2

Circuit

In 1839, the very first winner of the Grand National was called Lottery. Most would say this is extremely apt as the race is famously difficult to win and has seen a number of 100/1 shot winners over the years. The majority of us simply pick the horse with the best colours or name but if you are looking for a bit of guidance, follow our tips and advice.

THE CHAIR – A 6ft ditch sits in front of the tallest fence in the Grand National which is 5ft 3in in height. One of only two fences jumped just once in the race.

VALENTINE’S BROOK – The 9th and 25th fence named after the horse that apparently jumped the fence backwards in 1840.

13|29 14|30

12|28

15 16

11|27

Finish

10|26 9|25

Start 1|17

2|18

3|19

BECHER’S BROOK – The 6th and 22nd fence of the Grand National standing over 4ft tall. The landing side of the fence is 10 inches lower than the take-off side.

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4|20

5|21

6|22

7|23

CANAL TURN – Many pile-ups have occurred over the years at the Canal Turn as horses refuse to jump. This fence accounts for 5% of race fallers.

8|24

Four of our Four Legged Favourites Guide to Picking a Winner

LORD WINDERMERE Last season’s Gold Cup winner will carry top weight of 11st 10lb at the 2015 Grand National but will be amongst the favourites. Trainer – Jim Culloty

SAM WINNER This season Sam Winner has three wins and three places including one at Aintree already. Can he make the National another?

1. AGE The last three winners have all been 11 year old horses. 2012 – Neptune Collonges 2013 – Auroras Encore 2014 – Pineau De Re

Trainer – Paul Nicholls

BALTHAZAR KING A specialist in these types of races and has form this season with back-to-back wins. The 2014 Grand National saw top jockey Richard Johnson have a great race and was unlucky not to even win.

2. JOCKEY Ruby Walsh is the only jockey to have won this race more than once! Pick a jockey with experience but that has never won the Grand National, like Richard Johnson maybe?

Trainer – Philip Hobbs

3. TRAINER Female trainers have won two of the last six including Yorkshire trainer Sue Smith, who sent out Auroras Encore two years ago to win at 66/1.

MONBEG DUDE Monbeg Dude managed to make it round the course at last year’s National finishing in 7th place and also finished 4th at the Welsh National. Trainer – Michael Scudamore

4. RATING Look for horses with an official handicap rating of 150 and above.

5. STAMINA A horse with a proven record over longer distances and fences has the edge. The course is two laps of the Aintree course which equates to a total of four miles and three and a half furlongs.

6. WEIGHT Once the horse has navigated the 30 testing jumps they need enough in the tank to make it across the two-furlong run to the finish. Horses in higher weights will lose energy.

WHEN?

11th April 2015 at 4:15pm Don’t forget to download our Grand National Sweepstake poster and have a bit of fun with your colleagues and customers. www.groupauto.co.uk/ignition

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playstation one

Originally meant to be an add on to the highly successful Nintendo 64, the Playstation quickly found a market of its own. With classic games like Rayman, Tekken and FIFA Soccer the Playstation was every gamer’s console of choice. Fun Fact: It was the first video game console to sell over 100 million units!

p s

Jumanji

dvds

The DVD was introduced in Japan to replace VHS, and promptly became the biggest format to play movies on. Fun Fact: The letters DVD officially dont stand for anything!

sony

The worlds deadliest board game first clawed its way into cinema’s in 1995. Robin Williams’ character Alan Parrish was transported into the Jungle in this family adventure. Fun Fact: The film is scheduled for a remake this year!

G N I N R U T S G THIN

match.com

Match.com went live in early 1995 as a free beta and initial users were given free lifetime memberships. Fun Fact: "Down to earth" is used 232 thousand times by members of Match.com in their profiles and is the most common phrase.

5 1 0 2 IN

history channel

The History Channel was launched in 1995 and focused entirely on historical series and specials. Fun Fact: Shows on the channel now range from UFO’s, Doomsday theories and Mystical creatures.

believe n.....you won’t w lo f s a h e how tim ..... some of them

AMAZON.com

whats the story morning glory

Oasis’ second album sold a record breaking 347,000 copies in its first week on sale and propelled the band to stardom. Fun Fact: Indie hero Paul Weller features on the song ‘Champagne Supernova’. 66

toy story

Everyone’s favourite toys burst onto the screen and became the first animated film to be nominated for Best Screenplay at the Oscars Fun Fact: Buzz’s original name was rumoured to be Lunar Larry!

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Originally launched as Cadabra.com, Amazon is now the largest internet based retail seller in the Unites States. Fun Fact: When the website first went live it only sold books.

WITH OVER 600 PART DISTRIBUTORS ACROSS THE UK WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED

LARGE ENOUGH TO LEAD, SMALL ENOUGH TO CARE Find your local GROUPAUTO parts distributor at www.groupauto.co.uk or scan the QR code.

GROUPAUTO IS THE MOST SUCCESSFUL TRADING GROUP IN THE INDEPENDENT AFTERMARKET, WITH OVER 360 MOTOR FACTOR MEMBERS AND 480 INDEPENDENT GARAGES. HERE’S HOW YOU CAN BECOME PART OF IT. BECOME PART OF OUR INDEPENDENT GARAGE SCHEMES We have 3 independent garage schemes - AutoCare, Top Truck and The Approved Garage Network. We have substantial presence throughout the UK, with a combined total of over 480 garages. Our garage schemes benefit from consistent and highly competitive pricing on all parts, guaranteed quality parts and service, along with unrivalled garage support, and new customer generation.

PURCHASE FROM OUR APPROVED DISTRIBUTORS With over 600 parts distributor locations in the UK, our membership is by far the largest network in the UK. There are 4 distributor types which are known as ‘Members’ and are broken down into the following categories, Automotive, Commercial Vehicle, Retail and Colour Services. Our buying power allows members to pass on the savings, offer an outstanding service and provide added value schemes to garages that no other automotive trade distributor can match. Scan below to find your local distributor.

HIGH QUALITY APPROVED SUPPLIER In the UK we have over 100 Approved Suppliers who undergo a strict tender process agreeing to buying and quality terms for our distributors. You can expect the highest quality parts at highly competitive prices with a service to match from any GROUPAUTO distributor. Please visit our website at www.groupauto.co.uk for our full list of Approved Suppliers.

Scan here to find your local GROUPAUTO distributor.