Qashqai fanatic nets limited edition number 0001

IF EVER there was someone who was fond of the Nissan Qashqai, it’s this man.

Frankie Hipwell-Larkin, founder of the Qashqai Club online resource for owners of the popular crossover, has just taken delivery of a special new model of the car.

He was fastest out of the blocks when the order books opened for the limited-run Qashqai Premier Limited Edition, and netted himself number 0001 of a planned 2007.

The number, chosen to mark the year the Qashqai went on sale, means the Premier Limited Edition will be a relatively rare sight on UK roads, but Frankie’s is extra special as the first one to roll off the Sunderland production line.

Climbing behind the wheel for the first time, Frankie beamed: “I’m absolutely delighted.

“I’ve been looking forward to the launch of the new model for a long time and now it’s here, and I’m able to drive it away, it’s fantastic.

“Knowing my model is number one of 2007 makes it extra special and is a nice bit of added kudos.”

He added: “I launched the Qashqai Club to provide a forum for owners to get together, chat and share information and it’s really clear to see that Nissan really listened to our 7,500 members when developing the new Qashqai. That’s terrific.”

By Press Association reporter