ROARY THE RACING CAR KEEPS KIDS ON TRACK AT THE AUTOSPORT SHOW

Want to entertain the brats whilst you dream of new bits for your car at the Autosport Show?

Popular pre-school character, Roary the Racing Car, and his mechanic, Big Chris (voiced by Peter Kay) will once again be entertaining young visitors at the Autosport International Show from 10-11 January 2009 at the Birmingham NEC, providing a fun day out for all the family.

Roary is a bright and energetic single-seater whose catch phrase is: “light ‘em up!”. His exploits, shown on television all over the world, have provided children aged two to six years with an exciting introduction to the world of motorsport, thanks to a strong storyline, fantastic songs and great humour packed into ten-minute shows. Some top names from the world of sport and entertainment are also involved including racing legend, Sir Stirling Moss, who narrates the series.

Roary the Racing Car will have a dedicated play area at the Autosport International Show throughout the weekend, including a small racing track laid out with pedal cars. This will enable budding young racing drivers to cut their teeth early and provide plenty of photo opportunities, as well as children will get a chance to meet Roary and Big Chris in person.

But Roary has a serious side to him as well, as visiting marshals will use the race track to explain to children what all the racing flags mean. The children who react correctly to the flags on the track will walk away with a Roary goodie bag. Not only does this encourage safer racing for the next generation, but it may also persuade some of the parents present to give the vital job of marshalling a go. Combining fun and education, Roary plays a vital role in the world of motorsport and underlines the fact that the Autosport International Show truly has something for everyone.

Roary the Racing Car Executive Producer and Managing Director of Chapman Entertainment, Greg Lynn, comments:  “The Autosport International Show is a great family event and we are excited to be there again in our second year!  Roary is a great vehicle for getting kids excited about cars from an early age and there will be a lot of motoring fun and games for children and parents alike to enjoy.”

Haymarket Exhibitions Show Director Ian France commented: “We’re delighted to welcome Roary the Racing Car and Big Chris to the Autosport International Show again, after they proved such a big hit last year. As well as making an appearance at their dedicated play area, they will also be dropping in to other parts of the show throughout the weekend, so do keep an eye open for them. Whatever your age or interests, the Autosport International Show is sure to appeal.”

Roary the Racing Car was originated by Dave Jenkins and designed and developed by Keith Chapman. It is consistently ranked as one of Five Milkshake! and Nick Jr’s top performing shows with viewers tuning in daily to watch their favourite four wheeled friend. The show which launched in 2007 has now sold to over 110 territories worldwide with race fever gripping the imagination of boys globally.

The 2008 Autosport International Show attracted over 84,000 visitors, including 28,000 trade buyers. Over 1,000 media representatives were present throughout the event, covering the show’s numerous live displays and 850 exhibitors.

Autosport International will be open to the public on Saturday 10 to Sunday 11 January 2009. Adult tickets start at £29 per day, with children’s tickets costing £19, and include a 34-page souvenir brochure. To book, visit autosport-international.com or call 0044 (0) 844 579 3188.

Paddock passes are available for £35 per adult and £25 for children. In addition to standard admission, visitors will have access to the Driver Signing Area as well as fast-track entry to the Live Action Arena and a great viewing position at the centre of the grandstands.

A Platinum Club pass, at £100, includes all the benefits of the Paddock Pass plus exclusive access to the VIP enclosure at the very top of the Live Action Arena grandstand, complete with champagne and canapés. You will also receive complimentary parking, cloakroom at the NEC plus a goodie bag.