Pictured above: James Broad (right) collects the prize E 220 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY SE Saloon from Nigel Edwards, Marketing Manager Mercedes-Benz Birmingham (left), and Charles Adkin, Mercedes-Benz UK E-Class Product Executive.

Local motorist James Broad is enjoying the use of a Mercedes-Benz E-Class for a year after a visit to Mercedes-Benz Tamworth's Efficiency Weekend led to him winning a national prize draw held by the manufacturer.

James won the E 220 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY SE Saloon after he attended the Mile Oak Retailer's event and was automatically entered into the competition to win the use of the stunning E-Class.

Taking place over the 19th-20th September at Mercedes-Benz Retailers throughout the UK, the Efficiency Weekend offered motorists the opportunity to help maximise their car's fuel economy and minimise its running costs. No matter if they owned a Mercedes-Benz or not, drivers were able to benefit from a complimentary 'efficiency healthcheck' on their car and handy tips on how they could lower its fuel consumption and emissions.

Visitors had the chance to test drive the latest Mercedes-Benz BlueEFFICIENCY models too, which use energy-saving measures, advanced engine technology and aerodynamic enhancements to be amongst the most environmentally compatible and economical cars in their sectors.

James, 33, took the opportunity to sample a C-Class at Mercedes-Benz Tamworth's Efficiency Weekend and he was amazed to find that his first taste of the brand enabled him to win a much, much longer 'test drive'!

"I was really surprised as I've never won anything before and the E-Class really couldn't have come at a better time," explained James. "The company I work for, Deb Ltd, has just relocated to Denby and I now have a significant commute, so it will be absolutely perfect, combining a very relaxing, comfortable drive with excellent fuel economy."

James added: "The car handles very well and I really like the available space and the dynamic styling."

Nigel Edwards, Marketing Manager for the Mercedes-Benz Birmingham Group, presented James with the prize E 220 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY SE Saloon, which is worth nearly £30,000 and came complete with insurance cover.

"The amount of time James spends behind the wheel means that he will really benefit from the car's high specification and, with a combined fuel economy figure of 48.7mpg and CO2 emissions of just 154g/km, he can enjoy prestige motoring that is both affordable and environmentally friendly," said Nigel.

"James certainly got the most out of attending our Efficiency Weekend, but we were delighted to demonstrate to the many other motorists who joined us how they could lower their fuel costs and, ultimately, help to reduce the impact their car has on our local surroundings."