Motor-mad mayor's fundraising drive
STOWMARKET'S motor-mad mayor has celebrated regaining his driving licence by leading a real fundraising drive.John Drake was forced to hand in his licence last year after suffering a mild epileptic black out, although he was not driving at the time.
STOWMARKET'S motor-mad mayor has celebrated regaining his driving licence by leading a real fundraising drive.
John Drake was forced to hand in his licence last year after suffering a mild epileptic black out, although he was not driving at the time.
A year on and without suffering a further fit, he has returned to the wheel with an extra large appetite for the open road.
To celebrate his return to driving fitness, he conducted a marathon charity road test of as many cars as he could in one day. Eighteen cars in total were put through their paces on Friday from garages across Suffolk, including some of the very latest, stylish models. So far he has raised nearly £400 for the Alzheimer's Society.
Mr Drake, who works in property suffers from mild epilepsy.
He said: "When you have a black out you have to notify the authorities. I kept free of blackouts for 12 months and now I can drive again.
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"I love cars but if you don't have a licence you tend to miss it. It's much better than public transport!"
The Evening Star caught up with Mr Drake as he was jumping from one driving seat to another.
"It's been fantastic," he said. "I think it's a much better idea than going for a sponsored run!"
Some of the cars included the new Nissan Primera from Jefferies in Bacton, a host of models from the Sterling Garages in Ipswich, including an Alfa Romeo Spider. He also road tested the new TVR from Kerridges.
Other garages that took part included Bristos, Garneys and Hill, Ipswich Audi, Lancaster, Cox of Ipswich and Gammers.
