Profile - Ian Linford & Demelza Scholes



Ian Linford had a long-held ambition to compete at BCCC level after winning numerous accolades in clubman events in his V8 Special. Following much persuasion he took the test to get a National B licence to allow him to compete with the BCCC crews. A 100% pass showed that the skills were there and he decided to put those skills to good use by putting an entry in for the 2014 Freelander Challenge.

The quest to take part in the Challenge started in December 2013 with a search for a suitable motor. An ideal candidate was soon found on ebay in the form of a white 1999 non-running Freelander for £350. The car was aptly named Rudolph.

 

After replacing the engine and gearbox Linford made the long journey from his home in Hertfordshire to Lancashire where Dan at Protection & Performance fitted a roll cage. The car was finished just one week before the first event of the season.

With the car all sorted all Ian had to do was source a navigator. He took a risk with a rookie Demelza Scholes but she makes up for her lack of experience with enthusiasm, encouragement and fearlessness. Ben Brough and Brian Taylor complete "Team Sheepie" as service crew and the team is supported by Polysport.com, who supply Yokohama tyres, and the Brewery Tap in Furnuex Pelham (Ian's local) who, as well as backing the car, provide celebration or commiseration drinks!

 

When he is not competing Ian works as an RAC patrolman in Hertfordshire, a job he has had for many years. Before that he worked in an independent Land Rover specialist in Essex so he has plenty of ability and experience under the bonnet which will prove invaluable in the Freelander Challenge.

The team's season can be followed at www.facebook.com/team.sheepie.