As AM’s most recent recruit, my first blog seems a good opportunity to introduce myself.

After working as a reporter in local newspapers for the past seven years I have fortunately managed to land my dream job writing about the motoring industry.

It seemed inevitable to be honest, because I spent most of my childhood playing with matchbox cars and modified my second car, a Ford Orion, by adding alloys, big exhaust, spoiler etc.

Today, my obsession with throwing money at cars continues with the Mk2 Astra GTE which I’m slowly restoring.

My role is predominately to write features for AM, so please don’t be afraid to send me ideas or suggest companies which I could write a profile on.

Alternatively if you have any news about dealers or have heard a rumour you want me to check out, get in touch.

The struggling economy may be hitting dealers hard, but it seems from talking to people in the industry the tactic for surviving is to be flexible and use your initiative.

Many businesses are using the internet more than ever to reach customers while the Renault Retail Group is taking cars to people’s homes and work for them to test drive.

These are interesting times for the industry and I’m glad to be part of it and looking forward to speaking to you.