Fire chiefs said the vehicle had been used only 96 times in the past year and a new operational risk and response team would be more efficient.

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But although team insiders say there will be no operational changes at Renault as Bob Bell combines the role of team principal with his duties as technical director, it is hard to see how the team will not miss their figurehead, Briatore, and Symonds's tactical nous.

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Of course, Vinny and his team brought tremendous operational experience.

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