Recommend Conti Premium Contact 7 tyres Reg, if you have 16 inch rim option that being the smallest size they cater for. So much better than the factory fit Avon ZV7's that harden up after five years or so and become dangerous with the slightest hint of a damp surface.
I too was told to use 2nd from standing start. It becomes second nature to load up the clutch for a quick getaway with breathing space before next change. Steep hill starts and trickling very slowly in traffic at idle makes good use of 1st. If your car was built on or after April 2018 it will have the factory 5 link rear suspension keeping the rear axle under far better control.
