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THE latest must-haves for wannabe racing drivers have made a star-studded debut in the region. The state-of-the-art driving simulators shared the spotlight as the Audi 3 Cabriolet was unveiled to motoring enthusiasts at Audi Newcastle’s showrooms in Scotswood Road and at Silverlink, Wallsend.

The simulators, which use some of the most advanced virtual reality technology available, were supplied by North-East corporate entertainment pioneer Nigel Kirkup.

“The Audi A3 Cabriolet was undoubtedly the star of the show, but if the simulators were the extras, they certainly stole a scene or two. They’re great fun and unbelievably realistic,” said Nigel, 44, whose Ebchester-based company Prime Entertainment runs team-building and corporate fun events all over the UK.

Prime Entertainment, which acquired eight of the simulators at a cost of nearly £3,500 each, has also clinched a deal to sell the equipment. Based on Playstation 3 technology, the simulators use Logitec G25 gear and steering control systems, widescreen HD visuals and surround sound to vividly recreate racing conditions.

Added Nigel: “They can be driven individually or networked using wireless technology to enable up to eight drivers can compete in the same race. Drivers can even compete online against people in other countries.

“For the Audi event, visitors raced Audi R8 and Audi TT sports cars in a series of time trials on a choice of six race circuits, including famous US venue Daytona, the streets of London and the Swiss Alps. We had everyone from a child to a 67-year-old grandmother having a go - and they all loved it.”

Prime Entertainment has been operating since 1992. It hosts private parties for about a dozen guests to corporate events and exhibitions attended by hundreds. Themes for events include James Bond casino nights and Hollywood-style award ceremonies, featuring lookalike film characters and Hollywood stars; Scalextric-style slot-car racing, table football and air hockey tournaments, and even giant games. It lists among its regular customers a number of leading UK and international companies, including Lloyds TSB, International Paint, Deloitte UK, Boehringer Ingelheim, Scolarest and the British Army.

For more information, call Nigel Kirkup on 01207 562055, email him at nigel@prime-ents.co.uk or visit www.prime-ents.co.uk

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