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Summer Bonanza Trade Show 2024: Building on Success

We hosted our 2nd annual Summer Bonanza at our Colchester branch on Thursday, 27th June.

It was a day to remember — 20+ leading suppliers, local builders, contractors, industry supporters and DIY enthusiasts came together to network, explore the latest products, and discuss upcoming projects.

Visitors enjoyed a free wood-fired pizza from The Mobile Pizza Co, baked fresh on-site. The first 50 visitors got to take home an exclusive gift bag filled with goodies. We also had instant win raffle and a prize draw throughout the day to win a PlayStation 5.

A special guest: Jessica Fitch-Hall — Colchester based, Senior TKM racer, Club 2000 O Plate Winner 2022 and British Championship contender 2023. Jess joined in the demo’s and performed a few tricks to visitors in the afternoon, ahead of a packed summer racing schedule.

We enjoyed live tool and product demonstrations, which provided a great opportunity to explore new solutions for upcoming projects. In addition to the fun and games, exclusive trade deals were available throughout the day.

The event was not only about showcasing products but also about building strong relationships within the community. A big thank you to our Summer Bonanza 24 exhibitors: Brett Martin, SSQ Natural Slate, Fernco Ltd, Long Rake Spar Co Ltd, JB Kind Doors, Pavestone UK Limited, Bradstone, Clark-Drain, Everbuild Building Products, TIMCO, Toolbank, FP McCann, Mannok, Joule UK and Haemmerlin UK.

We can’t wait for next year’s Summer Bonanza, date to be confirmed. Thank you to everyone who came along to make the day such a success. Trade events are new to us, and we plan on building on experience.

Watch this space for more exciting events at Collier & Catchpole – your trusted local building supplier.

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Racing Ahead: An Exclusive Interview with Jessica Fitch-Hall

To commemorate a year since we first met Jessica Fitch-Hall, Female racing driver, British Kart Racing Driver, Formula Ford Race Driver for Fern GP, we took some time to reflect on her racing career, so far.

Jessica’s ambition and success remind us how important it is to support young talent within our communities, especially when they are breaking new ground. Growing up in a family passionate about motorbikes and cars, she was drawn not only to the high-speed excitement of racing but also to the technical aspects of the sport.

jessica fitch-hall

Being on the track, Jessica says, is all about the adrenaline. “It’s just you and the kart“. It’s a reminder that true success comes from inner drive—a message that resonates beyond the track.


When did you first become interested in motorsports?

I first became interested in competing in motorsport around the age of eight. I was fascinated by the idea of the fast-paced racing but also the mechanical side as well. From a young age, I was brought up around a family who had interests in both motorbikes and cars. 

What is your greatest achievement in your racing career so far?

Probably competing in the British Kart Championship and being a confirmed driver for Fern GP in their single seaters. It was a dream I had since I was eight watching others compete where I am now.

jessica collier & catchpole

What has been your biggest challenge?

Probably overcoming the explosion from our race van as we lost all of our equipment. The support from everyone was amazing, and we will never forget the help from everyone.

 What is your favourite thing about being on the track? 

The adrenaline overpowers everything when on track it’s just you and the kart.

What’s next?

I have my first test day in the formula Ford with Fern GP. It will be a huge step for me to adapt to, but I have an amazing support network to help me with all the new challenges.

Do you have a quote to live by?

“You can copy someone’s idea but not their energy. That’s why some will win regardless of others trying to replicate them. It doesn’t matter what others are doing it’s you vs. you.”

What are the next steps in your motorsport career?

I would like to achieve a seeded ( top 10) in the British Kart Championships. I would also like to test in a formula three car.

Supporting young talent like Jessica is essential for building future champions and breaking barriers, showing that anyone can thrive with the right passion and perseverance.

To find out more and to support Jessica Fitch-Hall, head over to her Instagram

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Collier & Catchpole Sponsors Colchester Racer Jessica Fitch-Hall

We are proud to share our sponsorship of Jessica Fitch-Hall — Colchester based, Senior TKM racer, Club 2000 O Plate Winner 2022 and British Championship contender 2023 🏁

Jess, now 17, began her karting career at just 8 years old, and her passion and determination have made her a formidable competitor on the track.

We are delighted to support Jess in her motorsport journey, helping her pursue her dreams and continue making strides in a traditionally male-dominated field.

Jessica

“I want to thank my new sponsors for the opportunity. It means a lot. Their support has been amazing, especially empowering females in the motorsport community,” said Jessica.

By investing in individuals like Jess, we’re not only supporting her personal and professional growth but also reinforcing our commitment to the wider Colchester and Essex communities. This partnership reflects our values of hard work, dedication, and excellence— Qualities that Jess embodies both on and off the track.

Jessica

Follow Jess on Instagram for race reports, sponsorship opportunities, updates and insights into Jess’s exciting journey as she continues to excel in her motorsport career.