Shifting market conditions, such as unpredictable electric vehicle (EV) residual values and tighter consumer budgets, are making it harder for traditional dealerships to deliver good-value car finance to consumers. LeaseCar, which recently rebranded from Central Contracts, has turned these industry dynamics into a commercial advantage.

Additionally, new EV entrants from China (BYD, Omoda, Jaecoo, Chery, Leapmotor) are bypassing traditional retailer networks and choosing independent brokers to reach drivers, with competitive broker pricing that overcomes consumer ‘brand hesitation’ by lowering the financial barrier to entry.

Positioning itself as an agile digital aggregator, LeaseCar, which recently ranked fourth in the BN25 league of UK leasing brokers, has achieved year-on-year growth and was named Arval Broker of the Year.

Capitalising on OEM partnerships to secure large commit-to-purchase batches from brands like Omoda, BYD, Chery, Stellantis and Nissan, LeaseCar’s volume now stems from direct manufacturer agreements, locking in exclusive pricing and rapid stock delivery for retail customers.

It is investing in a next-generation digital platform to meet consumer expectations with responsive, jargon-free car shopping. LeaseCar recently launched a redesigned website that pairs intuitive filtering (budget, fuel type, body shape, and immediate stock availability) with automated back-office technology to streamline document processing and reduce transaction times from days to minutes.

Following internal research highlighting regional variations in EV adoption, LeaseCar offers a diverse range of vehicles and fuel types. For example, while London and the South-East lead in battery EV leasing, northern drivers lean heavily into hybrid and efficient petrol vehicles as a pragmatic bridge. An extensive stock profile means it can cater for differing regional needs rather than pushing a one-size-fits-all product line.

A core driver of growth is LeaseCar’s proactive communication and personalised approach, which maintain an industry-leading contract renewal rate and seamlessly transition existing customers into new vehicle agreements, creating a highly resilient, recurring sales pipeline.

Gareth Roberts, strategy director at LeaseCar, said: “Uncertainty across the broader motor trade, whether around EV residual values or changing vehicle ownership habits, has created the ideal environment for the online model.

“At a time of higher living costs, drivers aren’t looking to tie up capital in depreciating assets; they want fixed monthly outgoings, clear terms, and a seamless digital journey. Because we can move quickly with car manufacturers to secure high-demand stock at competitive rates, we’re capturing consumer demand faster than traditional dealerships.

“Growth isn’t just about winning initial clicks; it’s about what happens next. We couple digital tools with genuine human customer care, so whether a buyer wants to move into an EV, hybrid or budget-friendly petrol hatchback, our focus is on transparency and long-term satisfaction.”

Gareth Roberts, strategy director at LeaseCar

For more information, go to: https://LeaseCar.uk/.

The 2026 winner is an inventive and striking 1972 Volkswagen Beetle created with a ‘no rules, no limits’ ethos. Kept a secret from everyone by Ray until its reveal in front of a stunned audience at Volksworld 2025, all proceeds from its sale will go to raise money to fight prostate cancer, a battle Ray himself is facing.

The ‘Volksrod’ build was inspired by 1960s Hot Rod legends such as Ed Roth and everything about it is unconventional. The body is chopped by 14 inches but the motor is raised by 6” and the front axle pushed forward by 10”. Converse to the wild body, the engine is a stock Twin Port 1300. A closer look reveals it’s packed with quirky details and creative upcycling ideas. These include the champagne cooler bucket that houses the cyclops lamp and speedo, a vintage cinecamera bought for £1, a dome that came from a primary school toilet roof, inverted Corvette bumpers and a spider strainer from a chip fryer that now forms part of the seat. Ray also created a chain link steering wheel and adopted an egg-whisk for the radio aerial. Even the hydraulic suspension, a fluid dispersal system, was devised by Ray. The rear wheels are from a 1951 truck and the front pair, each now a different colour, are space savers from a Porsche. Inside, every element, just like the exterior, has been chopped, stretched or reimagined by Ray. Accessing it is equally unconventional – either via opening the clamshell roof or passenger door that folds flat.

“I just built this car to make people smile, and hopefully, I achieved this,” says creator Ray Ramsay. “Lots of people say it looks like a Hot Wheels so maybe one day this day could come true.”

Ahead of the Hot Wheels Legends Tour’s first visit to CarFest, the Hot Wheels Design Team in Los Angeles whittled down entries from right across the UK to the three displayed at Silverstone – a 1989 Fiat Panda, known as The Flying Washing Machine, a 1951 Tempo Matador truck that used to deliver potatoes in Australia and the 1972 Beetle. Judging took place at Silverstone with each vehicle carefully scored against the authenticity, creativity and garage spirit criteria.

This year, Hot Wheels built its biggest stand ever for the UK leg of the Legends Tour. Spanning 450 sq metres, it featured full-size vehicles from the Garage of Legends, including Bone Shaker, TV’s Ultimate Challenge winning off-road R33 Nissan Skyline and Pontiac Firebird and lastly, a life-size Hot Wheels Formula 1® 2026 Car with custom Hot Wheels livery, all on display for automotive and racing enthusiasts to enjoy. Fans also had the chance to visit the largest ever Smyths Pop-Up Store at a UK round – offering a range of Hot Wheels die-cast including the coveted, limited-edition, 2026 Legends Tour diecast Team Transport.

“The UK turned up some stunning entries with incredible stories behind each build,” says Hot Wheels design manager Dwayne Vance. “The amazing condition of the Matador and how it has been brought to life demonstrates the sheer hard work these builders put in. The Panda is packed with authenticity as a true track car but ultimately the VW was a real gem. Full of creativity and inspired by Hot Rod culture. It embodies everything that Hot Wheels stands for.”

As well as the prestige of winning the UK leg and entering the Garage of Legends, Ray Ramsay also received Hot Wheels merchandise alongside prize bundles from Hot Wheels Legends Tour UK partners Meguiars and Players. The UK winner will also have the opportunity to head to Los Angeles and visit the home of Hot Wheels with exclusive access to the iconic Design Centre where both Legends and all other Hot Wheels die-cast designs are created.

This year is the ninth and biggest Hot Wheels Legends Tour to date with a record 19 countries celebrating Hot Wheels fandom, car culture and true garage spirit. Ray’s VW will now face cars from Europe in a regional final before the Global Finale in the US in November.

Motorists are calling for the stronger measures to help keep newly qualified drivers safe on Britain’s roads, with 81% believing new drivers should fully understand issues such as correct tyre pressures, tread depths and the role of tyre pressure monitoring systems.

Bridgestone’s findings^[1] also reveal widespread backing for tougher roadside enforcement, with 67% of motorists saying tyre safety checks should form part of routine police traffic stops, reflecting growing concern about the role that poorly maintained tyres can play in serious road collisions.

Responsibility doesn’t stop with individual motorists either, with more than three-quarters (76%) believing that employers should do more to ensure tyres are safe and correctly maintained on vehicles used for work-related journeys, irrespective of whether employees drive a company car or their own private vehicle. And 78% also called for dedicated tyre safety education for youngsters, before they even learn to drive.

The results come on the back of recently released figures from the Department for Transport^[2], which highlight the growing consequences of poor tyre maintenance on Britain’s roads. According to the department’s Reported Road Casualties Great Britain Final Results 2025 report, the number of people killed or seriously injured (KSI) in collisions involving illegal, defective or underinflated tyres rose by 19% year on year, increasing from 169 in 2024 to 201 in 2025.

Overall, there were 667 casualties resulting from tyre-related incidents during 2025, up 14% from 585 the previous year, while the number of collisions involving defective tyres increased to 447. The figures underline the importance of regular tyre checks and greater tyre safety awareness, particularly among newly qualified drivers who are still developing safe driving habits.

Bridgestone’s Helen Roe, Bridgestone UK, Senior Marketing Manager said: “The latest findings reinforce our belief that tyre safety should play a far greater role in helping young drivers develop safe driving habits from day one. Despite tyres being the only point of contact between a vehicle and the road, tyre maintenance remains one of the most overlooked aspects of vehicle safety.

“We have seen some high profile cases of preventable road fatalities due to defective tyres and we can’t stress the importance of knowing the tyre basics and carrying out some simple checks, which can be done in a matter of minutes.”

Bridgestone’s 2026 survey builds on its 2025 research, which highlighted strong public support for additional safeguards aimed at newly qualified drivers. More than half (57%) backed the introduction of a Graduated Driving Licence, while half supported displaying a ‘recently passed’ sign for up to 12 months and limiting new drivers to carrying just one passenger during their first year behind the wheel.

A total of 39% believed newly qualified motorists should complete a refresher driving course after passing their test, while one in five (21%) supported restricting new drivers to travelling within a 50-mile radius of home during their first six to 12 months on the road.

Helen added: “Learning to drive doesn’t stop the day someone passes their test. Developing safe habits, including understanding how to check and maintain tyres, is an important part of becoming a confident and responsible driver.

“It’s encouraging to see such strong public support for improving tyre safety education and ensuring motorists understand the importance of looking after the only part of the vehicle that actually touches the road. Simple checks can make a real difference to road safety, not only for new drivers but for everyone using our roads.”

The research supports Bridgestone’s ongoing ‘Be a Bridgestone Road Safety Hero’ campaign, which encourages motorists to carry out regular tyre checks and promotes simple maintenance advice to help reduce the risk of incidents caused by underinflated, damaged or excessively worn tyres.

The campaign forms part of Bridgestone’s wider E8 Commitment, specifically supporting its principles of Ease by giving motorists greater peace of mind through education and Extension by helping create safer, more sustainable mobility for all road users.

For more information about Bridgestone’s road safety initiatives and tips on tyre care, visit Bridgestone Tyre Care Guide.

Jade joins Gateway2Lease as the West Midlands-based business experiences 20% year-on-year growth across all sales channels, and has recently expanded its sales team.

She will be responsible for leading and developing the sales team to reach further ambitious sales targets.

Jade is highly experienced in the automotive sector, having worked at JLR for more than a decade in a variety of roles, including New Model Programme Lead – Marketing, Sales and Service, and Global Business Manager – Commercial.

She was Managing Director of OEM supplier SPAL Automotive UK, where she was responsible for promoting growth and securing the sales pipeline, and headed SPAL Group’s medical technology division THD UK.

Immediately prior to joining Gateway2Lease, Jade ran her own consultancy firm, Infinite Business Performance, supporting SMEs with growth performance.

“I’m delighted to have joined Gateway2Lease – the growth trajectory of the business is really exciting,” Jade said.

“We already have a well-performing sales team, and my role is to help create the environment for them to further succeed – but at the right pace.”

Gateway2Lease’s family-orientated culture appealed to Jade. The leasing broker was founded by Managing Director Kelly Marshall and her father Alan Marshall in 2008, and since 2015 it has been co-owned by Kelly’s brother Rob Marshall, who is also Operations Director.

“I can relate to that as I worked at JLR at the same time as my brother and father,” Jade said. “We all worked on the cessation of the original Land Rover Defender and then I worked on the launch of the new Defender in 2020, following in the footsteps of my great grandfather who was the foreman on the first Land Rover built in 1948, and my grandfather, who was a foreman for Land Rover in 1956.

“Now, I get to experience another part of the automotive sector and work with a broad spectrum of OEMs and funders.”

Commenting on Jade’s appointment, Kelly Marshall said: “It’s fantastic that someone of Jade’s calibre has joined the business, and she will play a pivotal role in the next phase of Gateway2Lease’s growth.”

Taking place on Sunday 27th September 2026, the event will see people and their four-legged friends enjoy a scenic 3km walk along Liverpool’s iconic waterfront, all while raising vital funds to help people with disabilities live fuller, more independent lives.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER YOUR DOG FOR JUST £5

Paws Along the Prom is much more than a community dog walk. Every pound raised helps Options continue its work supporting people with disabilities across Liverpool, Sefton and Wirral, creating opportunities that go far beyond traditional support.

For over 30 years, Options has championed a person-centred approach, believing everyone deserves the chance to choose how they live, pursue their passions and be active members of their communities. Founded in 1993, the charity has grown into one of the region’s leading providers of supported living, empowering more than 180 people with disabilities to live life on their own terms.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER YOUR DOG FOR JUST £5

Funds raised through events such as Paws Along the Prom help the charity:

• Create inclusive activities where people can build friendships and confidence.
• Provide life-enhancing opportunities beyond standard support packages.
• Campaign for a fairer, more accessible society.
• Support people to achieve their personal goals and aspirations.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER YOUR DOG FOR JUST £5

Participants will gather at 10.30am before setting off from Liverpool’s famous Three Graces, walking a picturesque route along the waterfront before finishing at The Liver Building. Registration costs just £5, and walkers are encouraged to raise £45 through sponsorship to maximise their impact. The event also promises plenty of fun along the way, including:

• A free Paws Along the Prom dog bandana for anyone registering before 29 August.
• The chance for furry friends to shine in the Paws Awards.
• An opportunity to meet fellow dog lovers while supporting an important local cause.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER YOUR DOG FOR JUST £5

The charity also works to make communities more inclusive through campaigning, disability awareness and community engagement initiatives. By taking part in Paws Along the Prom, participants aren’t simply enjoying a morning out with their dog — they’re helping to create opportunities, challenge barriers and build a more inclusive future for people with disabilities.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER YOUR DOG FOR JUST £5

Fundraising co-ordinator Julie McAdam said: “We’re really excited about this event — combining dog walking with helping our cause as a charity! Options believes disability should never be a barrier to living a full, meaningful life. Our support is built around each individual, helping people develop independence, build relationships, take part in community life and achieve ambitions that matter to them.”

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER YOUR DOG FOR JUST £5

Whether you’re a passionate dog owner, an animal lover or simply looking for a fun way to support a worthwhile local charity, Paws Along the Prom offers the perfect opportunity to make a real difference. Register your dog, invite family and friends, and help Options continue its mission of creating “a better world for people with disabilities.”

Paws Along The Prom / Sunday 27th September 2026, 10.30am

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER YOUR DOG FOR JUST £5

For more info about Options visit the WEBSITE

Follow Options on FACEBOOK and INSTAGRAM

July 2026 — New data from Purbeck Insurance Services, the UK’s only provider of personal guarantee insurance for SME owners, reveals that applications for personal guarantee-backed finance rose 63% year-on-year in Q2 2026, reflecting sustained and growing demand for borrowing among small and medium-sized businesses. Behind every loan application is a director who has personally guaranteed a business loan and the scale of that exposure is growing as Purbeck’s data shows the average loan value exceeded £300,000 for the second consecutive quarter.

Highlights

• 63% year-on-year rise in Personal Guarantee Insurance applications in Q2 2026
• Average loan value £317,000 — above £300,000 for the second consecutive quarter
• Start-ups now borrowing more than established businesses — average start-up loan reaches £345,000, the first time in a year
• Working capital accounts for 36.2% of all borrowing — more than one in three applications
• Working capital loans have almost doubled in two years 
• Growth-focused borrowing makes up 20% of all applications despite economic headwinds
• Asset purchase, development and acquisition together account for nearly one in four applications

Working capital crisis driving borrowing surge

Working capital — the day-to-day funding needed to keep a business trading — remains the single biggest driver of personal guarantee-backed borrowing, accounting for 36.2% of all Q2 2026 applications and the volume of working capital loans has almost doubled in just two years. The trend points directly to the cashflow pressure bearing down on UK SMEs: 40% of trading businesses reported rising input costs in April 2026 — the highest proportion since December 2022, according to the ONS Business Insights and Conditions Survey.

The picture is not, however, one of businesses simply firefighting. Finance for investment in growth initiatives accounted for 20% of all applications — the second most common reason for borrowing. Businesses are also seeking finance for asset purchase, development and acquisition, which together account for nearly one in four of all applications. The breadth of borrowing purposes suggests that SME owners are balancing short-term cashflow pressures with continued longer-term investment, even in a difficult environment.

• a simpler route to adapted vehicle ownership;
• one trusted provider to manage both the vehicle purchase and adaptation process;
• greater flexibility through finance or outright ownership; and
• expert guidance throughout the customer journey.

New consumer research^[1] commissioned by Bridgestone found that 26% of motorists say they will never buy an EV, up significantly from 17% in 2025 and marking a return to levels seen in 2024. Meanwhile, just 16% plan to purchase an electric vehicle within the next 12 months.

The findings suggest that despite the increasing presence of EVs on UK roads, many of the concerns that have surrounded electric motoring for years remain firmly entrenched.

Battery longevity and replacement costs continue to top the list of worries, cited by 55% of respondents. Half of motorists are concerned about the cost of charging an EV, while 44% remain worried about vehicle range and the initial purchase price.¹

Charging infrastructure also continues to be a sticking point, with 43% believing there are still not enough charging points available. In addition, 41% expressed concerns about the time it takes to charge an electric vehicle.¹

Despite the hesitancy, the longer-term outlook remains more positive, with more than half (53%) of motorists saying they expect to buy an EV within the next five years, while a further 7% remain undecided.¹

Drew Chapman, North Region Consumer Sales Director at Bridgestone, believes the findings highlight the importance of continuing to support motorists as the transition to electrification gathers pace.

“Electric vehicles are becoming an increasingly familiar sight on our roads, but our research shows that many drivers still have genuine questions and concerns about making the switch,” he said.

“While some of the barriers are gradually reducing, issues such as battery life, charging costs and infrastructure remain front of mind for many motorists. The industry has made significant progress, but it’s clear there is still work to do in building confidence among consumers.”

Bridgestone continues to support the transition to electric mobility through its range of ‘EV Ready’ tyres, designed to meet the specific demands of all vehicles. Its Turanza 6 tyre is an ideal solution, which has been developed to deliver a balance of efficiency, safety and long wear life. The premium all-season tyre is an example of Bridgestone’s ‘EV-ready’ advances, making it suitable for both combustion engine and electric vehicles.

Drew added: “Whether drivers are behind the wheel of an EV, hybrid or conventional vehicle, they want products they can trust. Our focus is on helping motorists get the very best from their vehicles today while supporting the mobility solutions of tomorrow.”

Bridgestone’s ‘EV Ready’ range forms part of the company’s wider commitment to sustainable mobility solutions and its global E8 Commitment, including the pillar of Ecology, which focuses on advancing sustainable tyre technologies and solutions.

For more information on Bridgestone’s EV Ready products, visit https://www.bridgestone.co.uk/stories/sustainability/Bridgestone-EV-Tyres

TO LEARN MORE VISIT THE WEBSITE OR CALL 0151 440 3398

The academy was founded by Charmaine Scott, 42, whose own life-changing journey into sewing inspired her to create a learning space unlike any other. Originally from South London, Charmaine worked as a bus driver while raising her autistic son. After moving to Liverpool and going through a divorce, she found herself struggling with her mental health and realised she had no hobby or creative outlet.

TO LEARN MORE VISIT THE WEBSITE OR CALL 0151 440 3398

Looking for something new, she enrolled on a beginner’s sewing course. “I was completely hooked,” she said. “I couldn’t believe how calming and mindful sewing was. It was a great source of escapism, allowing me to switch off from everything else and focus on creating something with my hands.”

However, once she had completed the beginner’s course, she found there were very few opportunities to continue developing her skills. “I realised there was a huge gap in the market. People wanted somewhere they could continue learning, building confidence and progressing at their own pace. I also saw the opportunity to create a community, bringing people together through sewing,” she explained.

TO LEARN MORE VISIT THE WEBSITE OR CALL 0151 440 3398

With that vision in mind, Charmaine launched Charmingo Sews Academy in 2025, initially hoping to create a small community where people could continue their sewing journey together. Instead, demand exploded and the academy soon outgrew its small premises — moving to Queens Dock Business Centre and welcoming over 100 enthusiasts through the doors every week.

Today, the academy offers an extensive programme of courses, including beginner, improver, intermediate and advanced sewing, dressmaking, garment construction, zip installation and a host of specialist workshops, allowing students to follow a structured learning pathway from complete novice to accomplished maker.

TO LEARN MORE VISIT THE WEBSITE OR CALL 0151 440 3398

The academy’s hands-on teaching approach means beginners achieve results quickly. Students learn to confidently use a sewing machine during their very first session and, within just a few weeks, many are creating tote bags, aprons, kimonos and even their own clothing. A full five-week beginner’s course costs just £270, with many students choosing to return time and again to continue expanding their skills.

TO LEARN MORE VISIT THE WEBSITE OR CALL 0151 440 3398

But while learning to sew is the obvious attraction, Charmaine believes the academy’s success has been driven by something much deeper. “Sewing is incredibly therapeutic,” she said. “People come here for all sorts of reasons, but they leave with so much more than new sewing skills and friendships are made for life.”

Students regularly speak about the positive impact sewing has had on their mental wellbeing, helping reduce anxiety, improve confidence and provide valuable time away from the pressures of everyday life. Many also discover a strong sense of community, forming friendships that continue long after classes finish.

TO LEARN MORE VISIT THE WEBSITE OR CALL 0151 440 3398

Recognising the importance of social connection, Charmaine runs a Sewing Social session, giving people the opportunity to come together, sew and chat. There’s also a free sewing mental health group, where people can sew and support one another in a welcoming environment designed to promote better mental health.

TO LEARN MORE VISIT THE WEBSITE OR CALL 0151 440 3398

The practical benefits are equally rewarding, with students making handmade gifts for family and friends, creating home furnishings such as curtains and cushions, repairing clothes and producing bespoke garments they can wear with pride. Students of how well received their handmade creations are — with loved ones really appreciating a hand-made gift rather than simply a purchase.

The academy’s success has also created employment opportunities. Several students who first joined as beginners have progressed through the courses before returning as tutors themselves, helping inspire the next generation of sewists while building careers within the creative industry.

TO LEARN MORE VISIT THE WEBSITE OR CALL 0151 440 3398

Charmaine summarised: “What began as a personal journey to improve my own wellbeing has become a thriving business that has helped hundreds of people discover confidence, creativity and connection. It’s incredible how it’s grown! Running the academy has not only transformed the lives of my students but my own too, improving my mental health and giving me the flexibility to spend more quality time with my son.”

TO LEARN MORE VISIT THE WEBSITE OR CALL 0151 440 3398

Charmingo Sews Academy has become the UK’s largest independent sewing academy and is showing no signs of slowing down. As Charmaine’s concept continues to grow, it is proving that sewing is about far more than fabric and thread — it is creating confidence, community and opportunities, one stitch at a time.

Charmingo Sews Academy / Suite 218-219, Queens Dock Business Centre, Norfolk Street, Liverpool, L1 0BG / 0151 440 3398

TO LEARN MORE VISIT THE WEBSITE OR CALL 0151 440 3398

Follow Charmingo Sews Academy on FACEBOOK and INSTAGRAM

CLICK HERE TO BUY THE BOOK FROM TROUBADOR PUBLISHING

Structured around an entire racing season, each chapter centres on a different meeting on the circuit, allowing readers to experience every triumph, setback and hard-fought battle alongside Arthur. From intense wheel-to-wheel action to the politics and rivalries that exist beyond the chequered flag, Backmarker delivers a high-tempo story packed with drama and authenticity.

CLICK HERE TO BUY THE BOOK FROM TROUBADOR PUBLISHING

The novel evokes the spirit of iconic racing films such as Days of Thunder and Gran Turismo, combining fierce competition with compelling personal stories and an underdog determined to prove he belongs on the grid. What truly sets it apart, however, is Jordan’s meticulous research.

Determined to portray the sport as accurately as possible, the author immersed himself in the UK Mazda MX-5 racing scene, attending race meetings throughout the country and working closely with drivers. The result is an authentic and detailed portrayal of grassroots motorsport that captures not only the adrenaline of racing but also the camaraderie, determination and politics that define life in the paddock.

CLICK HERE TO BUY THE BOOK FROM TROUBADOR PUBLISHING

Kieran explains: “I am an established playwright and screenwriter and originally conceived Backmarker as a television series. However, I soon realised the story was perfectly suited to the page, allowing readers to fully immerse themselves in Arthur Mangold’s journey across an unforgettable racing season. The research for the novel has been gruelling but thoroughly enjoyable.”

CLICK HERE TO BUY THE BOOK FROM TROUBADOR PUBLISHING

After securing a publishing deal with Troubador Publishing, Kieran officially launched the novel last month at an event in Ormskirk. Since then, he has continued promoting the book at Mazda MX-5 race meetings, where he has met fans and signed copies trackside. The response has been emphatic and the novel has been placed with Waterstones and other top book retailers.

Kieran said: “The response has been overwhelmingly positive and the novel has received praise from both dedicated motorsport followers and readers with little prior knowledge of racing. I think the blend of gripping storytelling, authentic detail and memorable characters has helped it appeal well beyond the racing community. I’m delighted at the response and I’m already thinking about a sequel.”

CLICK HERE TO BUY THE BOOK FROM TROUBADOR PUBLISHING

More than just a sports novel, Backmarker offers readers a rare behind-the-scenes look at one of Britain’s most popular grassroots racing championships. Every chapter places them in the driver’s seat as Arthur battles rivals, overcomes setbacks and chases his dream of success — taking the reader on an awe-inspiring real-time journey through the season.

CLICK HERE TO BUY THE BOOK FROM TROUBADOR PUBLISHING

For anyone who enjoys compelling underdog stories, edge-of-your-seat competition and richly researched fiction, Backmarker is a debut that deserves a place on the starting grid of this year’s must-read books. And in terms of young authors to keep your eye on, Kieran Jordan certainly deserves a place on the podium.

Kieran Jordan / Backmarker

CLICK HERE TO BUY THE BOOK FROM TROUBADOR PUBLISHING

Follow Kieran Jordan on INSTAGRAM