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John Grose launches new OMODA franchise

News

Local dealership John Grose is officially launching its OMODA showroom on Saturday, August 31, a few weeks after it opened it's doors to the public.

The big picture: The launch event, which runs from 10:00 to 16:00, will introduce the OMODA brand to the Ipswich market and expand John Grose's franchise portfolio in the area.

OMODA Sales Manager, Luke Elmer
OMODA Sales Manager, Luke ElmerJohn Grose

Key details:

  • The new showroom is located on Ransomes Europark, just off the A14.

  • Visitors can explore the OMODA 5, a mid-sized SUV that will be the first model available.

  • Test drives will be offered to those bringing their driving licence and National Insurance number.

  • There are currently 70 Omoda dealers in the UK, with plans for 100 dealers by the end of 2024, but this is the first in Suffolk

What they're saying: "This new showroom is more than just a space to display our vehicles; it's a hub for innovation and a testament to our commitment to sustainability and customer-centric design," said a spokesperson for the dealership.

Between the lines: The launch of a new car brand in Ipswich could signal increased competition in the local automotive market and potentially create new job opportunities.

What's next: An all-electric model, the OMODA E5, is planned for future release, though no specific date has been announced.

The bottom line: The event offers Ipswich residents a chance to see the new brand firsthand and experience what the dealership calls "affordable luxury".

Former Ipswich Town striker charged in £600k cannabis smuggling case

News

Former Ipswich Town striker Jay Emmanuel-Thomas has been charged with attempting to smuggle £600,000 worth of cannabis through a UK airport.

The big picture: The 33-year-old, who spent two seasons at Portman Road from 2011 to 2013, was arrested by National Crime Agency officers in Scotland following the seizure of approximately 60kg of the drug at Stansted airport.

Jay Emmanuel Thomas playing for Ipswich Town
Jay Emmanuel-Thomas playing for TownAlamy

Key details:

  • Jay Emmanuel-Thomas, 33, was arrested Wednesday in Gourock, Inverclyde.

  • He's accused of attempting to smuggle £600,000 worth of cannabis through Stansted airport.

  • Border Force officers found approximately 60kg of the drug in two suitcases from Bangkok.

  • Emmanuel-Thomas is set to appear at Carlisle magistrates court Thursday, charged with importing class B drugs.

60kg of cannabis
60kg of cannabis was seizedNCA

JET's Ipswich career: The journeyman joined Ipswich in 2011 for £1.1m from Arsenal, scoring nine goals in 75 appearances for the Tractor Boys. He left Ipswich in 2013 in a swap deal with Bristol City. He most recently played with Greenock Morton in the Scottish Championship.

The bottom line: The NCA warns that cannabis smuggling into the UK carries a maximum 14-year prison sentence, contradicting misinformation some couriers receive about facing only fines.

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