Littlehampton’s Emma is on track for a special year

Emma’s year as the town’s first citizen is set for a flying start with the track day, just two days after she is due to take on the chain of office later this month.

Rustington businessman Peter Saywell, a family friend, offered Emma the use of his fleet of supercars, and his contacts who will be bringing yet more motoring marvels to the event, on Saturday, May 26.

The owners pay for the privilege of lapping the Goodwood circuit at high speed, with the proceeds going to the Chichester-based charity Cancerwise, together with donations from spectators enjoying the sight of the gleaming engineering zipping past them.

Emma, who at 34 is due to become the town’s youngest mayor, chose the charity as one of two she is supporting during her year in office, to show her gratitude for the help she received from Cancerwise when she was treated for cervical cancer last year.

“They have been so good to me and have helped to get me back on my feet again,” said Emma, a single mum with two children.

“I am so excited about the track day. There are going to be some amazing cars there. Hopefully, I’ll get to do a lap or two, but in the passenger seat – I would be too nervous to drive, myself.

“I hope we raise lots of money for Cancerwise, but also more awareness for the charity, which supports anyone affected by cancer, whether the patient, their family or carer.”

The track day runs from 9am-5pm, with a parade lap of the cars between 12.30 and 1.30. Admission is free, but donations are invited.