Visitors to this year’s Midlands Machinery Show (16-17 November) will get a chance to be in the hot seat, with a range of driving experiences on offer.
If you have ever wondered what it would be like to drive an HGV, Diamond Driver Training will be giving visitors a chance to have a go around a set course. “This is for anyone who would like to have a go at driving an HGV but wouldn’t normally have the opportunity,” says instructor Karl Hunt.
“It is aimed at anyone visiting the MMS, particularly those considering an HGV driving course in the future. It’s a great chance to have a go.”
Visitors will also have the opportunity to ride the 4×4 course in a Ford Ranger Wildtrak, driven by a professional Ford driver. The vehicle will be outside the Lady Eastwood Centre and visitors wishing to book a ride can call at the Woldmarsh stand inside the building or at the 4×4 static vehicle display outside the Stanley Sheldon Hall, says Phaedra Bryant of Woldmarsh.
“The Ford Ranger Wildtrak features a bold, purposeful exterior design and sleek, high-tech, inviting interior. It offers a choice of proven and durable diesel powertrains, including the addition of Ford’s powerful V6 turbodiesel,” says Ms Bryant. “An upgraded chassis and suspension ensure excellent ride and handling, whether riding with passengers, fully loaded with cargo or towing. Its cargo area has increased functionality and better access.
“We are excited to be able to participate in the 4×4 course this year after its absence since 2019, so we hope visitors to the show will be able to make the most of it.”
And visitors will also be able to test out the new kid on the block – the Ineos Grenadier, at the Chandlers stand. “There will be three vehicles going around the course and one static new Ineos Grenadier for potential customers to have a look at,” says Gavin Pell, managing director at Chandlers.
Over 25s with a full driving licence will be able to take a test drive for themselves. “Customers can pre-book to drive themselves in one of these exciting new vehicles around the 4×4 course, accompanied by one of our team, or opt to be driven by an Ineos professional driver in order to get a taste of what these off-road vehicles are capable of.”
The Ineos has a choice of petrol or diesel engine. Both are three-litre six-cylinder turbo BMW-sourced engines linked to an eight-speed automatic gearbox with permanent all-wheel-drive.
Visitors interested in a test drive should contact the Chandler’s team in advance at Belton or Horncastle depots, or queue up on the day.
“We are delighted to be able to bring back the 4×4 course,” says events, show and development manager Elizabeth Halsall. “It provides a unique opportunity for visitors to the Midlands Machinery Show to trial cutting edge vehicles.”
- For more information or to register for free entry to the Midlands Machinery Show, visit www.midlandsmachineryshow.com/.
About the show
The Midlands Machinery Show is organised by the Newark and Nottinghamshire Agricultural Society (NNAS) and is a platform for agricultural businesses to showcase their latest range of tractors, machinery, services and technology to farmers, machinery operators, contractors and landowners.
NNAS is an agricultural charity; its objectives include promoting and organising the show, as well as supporting young people with careers in agriculture, through its annual Education Awards and Midlands Agricultural Engineering Apprenticeship awards.
Contact for further information
Elizabeth Halsall
Events, Show and Development Manager
Newark and Nottinghamshire Agricultural Society
Organiser of Midlands Machinery Show T: 01636 705 796 E: [email protected] www.midlandsmachineryshow.com
