Motoring News

Ford’s Basildon, Brentwood and Dagenham connections have been
acknowledged as the car maker
continues to sponsor the Essex County Cricket ground at Chelmsford.

One of the first new Ford Focus ST models in the UK was today handed
over to Essex and England player, Alistair Cook in recognition of his
2,000 Test runs at the age of 23 years and 79 days beating David
Gower’s previous record. He joins Ravi Bopara in owning one, with most
of his other Essex team mates driving Ford Mondeos.

"The association of Ford and cricket brings together two very British
images," said Mark Ovenden, marketing director of Ford.

"Essex is the home of Ford in the UK and we are proud to remain a
supporter of first-class cricket in our home county."

David East, chief executive of Essex County Cricket Club, added: "We
are delighted to continue our successful relationship with Ford. It is
fantastic to have such a recognised brand associated with us in what is
clearly a very strong commercial deal for Essex County Cricket Club."

Ford is celebrating the 100th year of the Model-T, and so on hand in
Chelmsford was former Essex and England captain Graham Gooch OBE. He is
one of only nine living players to have scored 100 centuries in
first-class cricket.