Paul’s passion for Old Fords stretches back more than four decades, with his motorsport journey beginning in the mid-1980s. Since then, he’s competed in rallycross, sprints and hill climbs across Northern Ireland, building and campaigning a series of Escorts along the way.
The star of this month’s Marcus Hayes Calendar Car Collection is his current Mk1 Escort, UYP 243M.
Purchased in 2013 as a very tired shell fitted with an Essex V6, the car was stripped back to bare metal before beginning a complete three-year rebuild with motorsport firmly in mind. New floors were fitted before the shell was transformed into the competition car it is today, complete with a full roll cage, fire suppression system, bucket seats, harnesses and a carefully chosen drivetrain built to thrive on the hills and sprint courses.
Power comes from a lively 2.0-litre Pinto engine breathing through twin carburettors, paired to a five-speed Type 9 gearbox and a 4.6 limited-slip differential. Adjustable Bilstein suspension helps keep the car planted while retaining the unmistakable character that has made the Mk1 Escort one of Britain’s most iconic competition cars.
Since making its competitive debut at Croft Hillclimb in County Down in 2016, the Escort has continued to compete regularly in local sprint and hill climb events. More recently, Paul and his wife Kelly took part in the hugely popular RPM Run Déjà Vu event, reliving the legendary Circuit of Ireland stages alongside many famous ex-works rally cars. The car is currently undergoing a full refresh ahead of another event through County Down and the spectacular Mourne Mountains.
Away from the competition stages, Paul and Kelly have also dedicated countless hours to organising the Greyabbey Classic Bike & Car Show, raising more than £25,000 for Cancer Research UK since the show’s inception.
This limited edition Marcus Hayes collection celebrates not only a beautifully prepared Mk1 Escort, but also the dedication, craftsmanship and lifelong enthusiasm that keep classic motorsport alive. Whether you’re a lifelong Escort fan or simply appreciate purpose-built competition cars, this is a collection you’ll be proud to own.
