Drivers heading to Thruxton Race Circuit for a driving experience will have the opportunity to sample the very latest technology from Ford, thanks to a new partnership between Hendy Group and Thruxton Motorsport Centre.

Hendy has supplied seven brand-new Ford cars to Thruxton Motorsport Centre, which will be enjoyed by the thousands of people every year who take part in the driving experiences here at Thruxton.

Mark Busby, Hendy Commercial Director, said that drivers will have the best possible opportunity to sample the handling, speed and capabilities of the Ford Focus ST, Focus ST-Line and the Fiesta ST-Line.

"We are delighted to be joining forces with Thruxton, which offers a wide range of driving experiences to those looking to hone their driving skills, enjoy driving on a track and youngsters looking to get behind the wheel for the first time," he said.

"Thruxton is an amazing circuit, and being the fastest in the UK really gives the cars a chance to shine."

Thruxton Motorsport Centre Marketing Manager Ben Norton said the partnership with Hendy was a natural choice for the circuit.

"It's great to be working with Hendy and we are looking forward to showcasing the cars which have tremendous capabilities," he said. "The mix of cars provided means they can be used to help drivers familiarise themselves with the circuit, drivers can spend time behind the wheel to improve their driving skills, and our expert instructors will be using the Focus ST to provide high-speed rides around the circuit."

He said the Focus models would also be used at race meetings and will become an integral part of all activities at Thruxton.

Ben said the Fiesta models would be key to running the junior experience courses, which are for budding drivers, as young as 12 years old, looking to get a feel of driving before they turn 17. "The Fiesta is an ideal car for youngsters to learn roadcraft, car control and build up confidence behind the wheel on our junior driving course which replicates junctions and roundabouts."

The cars are being supplied on an initial three-year deal, and Mark said that two parties are already exploring additional partnership opportunities.

"We are fortunate in having such a popular circuit within Hampshire and we can see great potential for us to work closer together in the future on a range of activities and initiatives," said Mark.