SOUTHAMPTON Lexus has helped The Alan Mullally Benefit Year get off to a roaring start by supplying the Hampshire cricketer with a Lexus IS200.

Alan's benefit year was launched last month with a gala dinner at The Rose Bowl. A host of different events have been planned for the year ahead, including cricket matches, golf days, dinner dances and even a Gentlemen's Evening at Stringfellows in London!

Nicknamed 'Spider', the left-arm, fast-medium bowler has an impressive cricketing history, playing for England, Leicestershire, Victoria and Western Australia, in addition to Hampshire.

Alan's England Test career spanned from 1996 to 2001 and he played one-day international matches for his country during the same period.

His benefit year is being backed by fellow cricketers, including Robin Smith and Shane Warne and Hampshire County Cricket Club supporters.

Lexus Southampton have a longstanding relationship with both Alan and the club. Lexus centre manager Bill Wallwork said: "We've supported Alan for four out of the last five years and are delighted to be involved with his benefit year.

"Over the year we'll entertain customers and display vehicles at the various events."

The IS200 combines 134mph potential and handling with contemporary design and styling - let's just hope Alan does not drive quite as fast as he bowls!