Pictured above: Philip Barltrop (left), operations director for Donington Park Racing Ltd, picks up the keys to three Ford Ranger 4x4 pick-ups from David Haynes, group commercial sales manager at Sandicliffe Commercials

Donington Park's return to full racing action is well and truly back on track after it took delivery of three 4x4s pick-up trucks from East Midlands dealers Sandicliffe Commercials.

The Leicestershire circuit, which re-opened in August, is leasing three Ford Ranger vehicles from the Stapleford-based dealer for use by its security and ground staff.

Their top speed may pale in comparison to the cars which race around its iconic curves, but Donington Park would be lost without the 4x4s, which are required to ferry equipment and staff around the site, as well as venturing onto the track itself to carry out routine maintenance work.

Philip Barltrop, Operations Director for Donington Park Racing Ltd, said: "Our site is quite large and we regularly have to access the grassed areas surrounding the track, so the 4x4s are invaluable.

"We are very grateful to Sandicliffe for supplying us with the pick-ups, especially since they were able to accommodate our request at quite short notice."

David Haynes, Group Commercial Sales Director at Sandicliffe Commercials, which is part of the Sandicliffe Motor Group, said: "Donington Park is a legendary venue, so when the circuit asked for help, we were happy to oblige.

"The Ford Ranger is one of the world's best-selling 4x4 pick-ups and these vehicles are perfect for the tasks that they will be asked to perform at Donington."