The retired couple, who live in the village of Freckleton, Preston, trialled German shepherds for 25 years, travelling all over the country and winning many prizes. Their competitive days are now behind them, but Arthur and Brenda could not imagine life without dogs and still have two: Tasha, an eight-year-old German shepherd, and three-year old collie-cross Patch, who came from a rescue centre. They enjoy nothing more than getting out in the fresh air and walking their dogs, or working the allotment they keep near to their home on Lancashire’s Fylde coast.
Supplied by local Dealer Ciceley Commercials, the Mercedes-Benz Citan has given them an extra lease of life. “It’s absolutely smashing and ticks all the boxes for us,” declared Brenda, who worked as a weaver. “I love the Citan to bits!” added her husband, a former butcher. “It looks very smart and is a joy to drive, as well as being very practical.” The couple have fitted their new Mercedes-Benz with two of the cages they used when trialling, so they can transport the dogs safely. “Tasha and Patch are an important part of our life and they get really excited when they see the back doors open,” said Arthur. “They know it means we’re off for a walk.”
The couple took advantage of competitive Mercedes-Benz Financial Services funding arranged by Ciceley Commercials van sales executive Phil Markham, to acquire their new vehicle.
The smallest van ever to wear a three-pointed star, the Citan is also available in Compact and Long lengths, but the Balls chose an Extra-long model, its stylish appearance enhanced by the additions of optional alloy wheels and fog lights.
The Citan range incorporates a number of fuel-saving BlueEfficiency measures as standard, including the ECO start/stop function – which turns off the engine whenever the vehicle is stopped in traffic, then restarts it as soon as the driver depresses the clutch – low rolling resistance tyres and optimised alternator and battery management systems. The 109 CDI model chosen by Mr and Mrs Ball is powered by an advanced 90 hp engine and offers diesel returns of up to 65.7 mpg (combined cycle). Like all Mercedes-Benz vans, it came with a three-year, unlimited mileage warranty, while the manufacturer’s MobiloVan scheme includes free, round-the-clock emergency roadside assistance.
Mr Balls added: “We used to run a Mercedes-Benz Vito van when we were trialling, which was caged out to carry five German shepherds. I had it for five years and it never let us down once. I’ve every confidence that our new Citan will prove just as reliable.”
If you’d like to find out more about the new Mercedes-Benz Citan, we’d love to hear from you! Simply contact a member of our team and discuss your requirements in further by filling in our quick contact form. Alternatively, you can visit our Citan page in order to find out more about this small but mighty van.
