Senior Sales Consultant – Based in Ripon (but always has one eye on Elland Road and the other on an Italian number plate)
Hometown: Born in Leeds, raised in Wakefield, and now back where it all began – Leeds through and through
James brings a whole lot of passion, experience, and Leeds United loyalty to the Batchelors showroom in Ripon. With a career dedicated to helping people find their perfect car—and a lifelong obsession with anything Italian on four wheels—he’s the go-to guy for performance, personality, and the occasional Yorkshire pud-fuelled sales pitch.
Comfort food? Nothing beats a proper Sunday roast chicken, with all the trimmings (Yorkshire puddings absolutely included). Bonus points if it’s followed by a Madness vinyl on the turntable—yes, James still has all the original 7-inch, 12-inch, and picture discs. Ask him nicely, and he might even show you his collection (just don’t ask him to stream it).
When he's not closing deals or talking torque, James is following his beloved Leeds United—a fan since 1977, with stories to match. And if he's not at Elland Road, he’s probably in Italy. Having holidayed there over 17 times (and counting), he’s explored every corner from the lakes to the coast. Dream trip? Japan’s on the bucket list—but let’s be honest, he’ll probably sneak in another Italian detour first.
Once dreamed of chasing criminals as a traffic cop in a fast car—these days, he’s just as happy handing the keys over to someone else and watching them drive off with a grin.
So whether you’re after a slice of car-buying expertise, a tip on the best gelato in Florence, or a friendly chat about Leeds United’s glory days, James is your man—just don’t mention VAR.