Usually, in Formula 1, the action starts when the lights go out, but at the Enstone factory, it’s when the lights go on that a small, but vital team, begin their all-important nightshift.

It’s in the hours of darkness that key team members play their part in ensuring the BWT Alpine Formula One Team’s cars are ready to compete on the world’s biggest motorsport stage.

Among them is Darren Ward, Lead Composites Machinist (Nights). With over a decade of experience in pattern making, Darren’s job is to oversee the intricate moulds and patterns that form the backbone of the A525’s carbon fibre components. It’s highly skilled work that requires precision, expertise, a sharp eye for detail, and the ability to meet strict deadlines to ensure the seamless operation of the whole composites department.

While the rest of Enstone sleeps, Darren and his team push on. The night shift may lack the bustling atmosphere of the day, but it has its own rhythm. Communication is essential, and the camaraderie among the night crew is a source of pride.

Darren Ward, Lead Composites Machinist (Nights)

“It’s hard to pinpoint one specific thing that I enjoy, but it’s important to note that it’s my colleagues who make working nights enjoyable, Together we strike the perfect balance between professionalism and having fun. The team works together effortlessly, always supporting one another and willingly sharing knowledge to help improve parts and progress as a unit.” says Darren, who joined the BWT Alpine Formula One Team in January 2003.

After lending a hand in other areas of the composites department, six years ago Darren learned how to operate the five-axis pattern machine. Then, following the return from the coronavirus pandemic, Darren’s shift team grew and he took on a more senior position. His main responsibility each night is to manage the workflow, resolve any issues, and ensure priority jobs are completed first.

“Being asked to step up has really given me a big confidence boost and highlighted the trust my Team Leader and manager have in me. The variety of roles is satisfying, whether that’s machining a chassis or working on a part made from Rohacell, a structural foam."

While the night shift can feel isolating, it does offer moments of high concentration. With fewer distractions, Darren and his team are able to find focus and rely on their collective experience and skills, working together to solve any problems that arise during the night. So while the rest of the factory is quiet, their busy corner allows them to meet the high-performance standards required of a Formula 1 operation.

While the fans are cheering on Pierre and Jack on the race track, spare a thought for the unsung heroes like Darren Ward in the hours of darkness, crafting and making the components that are so vital in the makeup of an F1 car. Their dedication and precision often go unnoticed, but without them, competition would be impossible. In the quiet hours, the heartbeat of Formula 1 is still racing.