BRENTWOOD, Essex, 15 April, 2009 – Ford renewed its commitment to Essex County Cricket Club with a display of 'mean and green' cars at Ford County Ground, home of Essex CCC.
As the team announced its player line-up for the 2009 season, Ford County Ground's guests got the chance to view the latest Ford products. Proving that 'mean and green' doesn't just mean facing a fast bowler, Ford displayed the new Focus RS and Fiesta ECOnetic.
The critically acclaimed Focus RS represents a return to the RS brand with a combination of style, power and innovation. Dynamic styling, following Ford's kinetic design, houses a 2.5-litre engine delivering 305PS.
For those seeking a more frugal drive the new Fiesta ECOnetic was available. Offering 76.3mpg Fiesta ECOnetic is one of the most fuel efficient cars in Britain. Low emissions of just 98g/km CO2 mean it is zero rated for road tax.
High profile Ford drivers at the club include England and Essex players Alastair Cook and Ravi Bopara, who drive Focus ST and Focus Coupé-Cabriolet models respectively, and Essex batting coach and former England international Graham Gooch, who drives an S-MAX MPV.
Mark Simpson, marketing director, Ford of Britain said: "Ford and Essex Cricket have a long history in the county built on common values of encouraging teamwork and working hard for success. We look forward to working with Essex CCC again in 2009."
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 the county's largest private employer with the majority of Ford's 13,000 UK employees based at facilities in Essex. Since 2005 Ford has sponsored Essex County Cricket Club's home ground – reflecting the company's high profile in Essex.
ECCC's Alistair Cook and Coach Graham Gooch are knocked for six by new Focus RS and best selling Fiesta.