MAC NEWS £1.50 where sold
Aug /Sept 2017
No 223
A Classic
Success Rallying Finnish Style
Campbell Family Celebrated
70th Anniversary of Championship
Finnish Star Almost takes BTD
Gina Campbell and Don Wales join in
15 Champions Re-united
SHELSLEYWALSH.COM
Editorial By Mark Constanduros
The MIDLAND AUTOMOBILE CLUB (est. 1901) Shelsley Walsh Hill Climb Worcestershire WR6 6RP Telephone during office hours: 01886 812211 Fax No: 01886 812917 www.shelsley-walsh.co.uk
OFFICIALS 2017 President: J. W. Moody Vice Presidents: A.B. Griffiths, A.E. Gabriel, N.H. Harrison, M.D. Griffiths, F. Drasar, D.M. Nursey, J.J. Toulmin, D.S.Whitefoot Committee: I.Antony Harper (Chairman), M Harrison (Vice Chairman), J.R. Wood, T.W.J. Moody, D.L. Ball,A.K. Harrison, Mrs M. Nightingale, C. Deas S.D. Fidoe, P.G. Nuthall, W.S. Durling Treasurer: M Harrison Commercial Manager: Mark Constanduros Competitions Secretary: Robin Webb Event Coordinator: Anouzka Lowrie-Herz Competition Assistant: Rachel Lovett
We are now heading towards the end of the season, Classic Nostalgia has been and gone and what a success it was. The feedback has been really good, the rally cars again went down very well. Both Don and Gina were very appreciative of the club’s efforts in pulling together a great Campbell display. A number of times they mentioned how surprised they are about the interest in the family’s exploits. A big thank you to everyone who helped to get Shelsley Walsh ready for the weekend and who worked very hard over the two days to make the event the success it was. We didn’t get long to rest before Championship Challenge was here, celebrating 70 years of the British Hill Climb Championship. I quite enjoy sourcing cars but finding hill climb cars turned out to be very different. They had either disappeared, been broken up or made into something else, but we did achieve it and this was down to everyone helping, so thank you. It was a fabulous weekend, so many people said what a great atmosphere there was in the paddock and it was lovely to see all the past champions chatting to each other and mucking about. For me, I had never met most of them so it was a good opportunity to finally put names to faces. The Sports and Classic Section of the club, who work very hard to put on trips for the classic car owners that we have in our membership are now preparing for the biggest event of their calendar, The MAC Classic. You will find an advert for the event in the MAC News and entries are being encouraged online, but if you require a form please call the office or Gail and one can be sent out or emailed to you.
Finance & Membership: Sarah Browne Archivist: David Moore Auditors: Bloomer Heaven and Co The views and statements expressed are not necessarily those of the MAC. Correspondence also is the opinion of the writer only. The Midland Automobile Club accepts no responsibility nor endorses the products or services offered by the advertisers.
Front Cover Photo: Rob Overy and Mark Constanduros Above Image: Mark Constanduros Design and Print: The Printed Word
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2017 Omologato Shelsley Walsh Spirit Watch
This year marks the second anniversary of the relationship between Omologato and Shelsley Walsh. To celebrate, the 2017 model of the Spirit of Shelsley Walsh is announced with only fifty timepieces being made. The watch has been designed together with the historical link of the venue and this year’s theme at Classic Nostalgia. Watches will be delivered at the end of August or early September 2017. The 2016 model sold out extremely quickly, so to avoid disappointment, place your order by clicking: www.omologatowatches.com/products/shelsley-walsh-blue Tech Specs: Case Diameter: 42.5mm Material: Chrome finish stainless steel Dial Colour: Sunray gloss finish dial Movement: Japanese Quartz Water Resistance: 5ATM Face: Sunray dial in Shelsley Blue Glass: Flat sapphire finish Strap: Wrapped edge folded Stainless Steel Width: 22mm 3
A Classic Success at Shelsley Walsh
A fantastic occasion, very well organised and a huge success, that was the consensus of opinion from visitors, competitors and officials alike for Classic Nostalgia organised by the Midland Automobile Club at the Shelsley Walsh Hill Climb over the weekend, a festival showcasing motor sport from years gone by. Huge crowds, many suitably attired in 40s and 50s period dress, saw plenty of action on track while guest interviews, live music and dancing attracted many to the historic courtyard, where the renovated Watermill was in full working order, staffed by the team of ‘Dibnah’ volunteers. Highlight of the event was a celebration of the Campbell family and their speed records and cars, as Malcolm Campbell was a regular competitor at Shelsley Walsh in the 1920s and Gina Campbell, daughter of Donald Campbell and a speed record holder herself was guest of honour with fellow family member Don Wales, both happily talking about the many historic family exploits. Gina, said: “This is my first visit to Shelsley Walsh and I have been absolutely blown away by the venue, the setting, the reception I have received and the amazing and genuine interest in our family and its chequered past. “I have been happily chatting to so very many people, most of whom know far more details, facts and figures about our speed records, our family history and our cars than I do, so it has just been a simply wonderful experience for me.” The World Rally Car and Group A Rallying was also a major feature of the weekend with former Mitsubishi works rally driver Kristian Sohlberg being reunited with his Mitsubishi Lancer 5
WRC04 and taking Best Time of Day for rally cars on Saturday, while the car’s owner Tristan Bailey, from Gloucester, took the same honour driving the car himself on Sunday. Tristan, commented: “We have had a fantastic reception here with this car and we were both delighted to take the top spot, with Kristian adding how it had been very narrow, very slippery and very exciting, but wonderfully entertaining for the crowds and I totally agree with him, a truly great event!” Local man and long time MAC competitor Keith Harris took overall Best Time of Day on both days in his Chevron B25, saying: “This has been a thoroughly enjoyable weekend, especially competing against fellow MAC member Mark Harrison, from Worcester, in his truly immaculate TolemanTG280, but for this event the Chevron has prevailed!” The Austin Healey Club Healysport Speed Championship saw a win for Richard Mason on both days, with Paul Geering winning the Bert Hadley Memorial Championship class in his wonderfully named Austin 7 Pigsty Special. Other class winners included Richard Conway in a Volvo PV 544, Richard Brown in a Buckler Special, Malcolm Thorne in a Lotus Buick, Peter Joy in a Lotus Elite, Trevor Shortt in a Reliant Scimitar GT, Nigel Elliott in a TR7 V8, Dave Paveley in a Mitsubishi Lancer, Martin Spencer in GN Spider 2 and Graham Boulter in a Kudos Coupe. Chairman of the MAC Sports & Classic Section, Tony Harrison, said: “It has been brilliant to see so many happy faces, both old and new, here over the weekend and the whole atmosphere has been wonderful, ranging from drama and action on the track to the festival fun throughout the courtyard and paddock areas. “The Concours D’elegance was very well received and we had a fabulous selection of cars entered. The winning car was Malcolm Lamb from Little Witley in his 1953 Morgan Plus Four drop head Coupe which was chosen by Classic and Sports Car magazine judges Simon Taylor and Malcolm Thorne.” “The quality and variety of cars taking part was exceptional and the visitors’ car park seemed to be a whole classic motor car show of its own. Everybody I have spoken to has been very complimentary and credit must go to the whole MAC team who have worked so very hard to create this exceptional family event here at Shelsley Walsh.”
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Picture Credits: 1. The Campbell Display. Credit Mark Constanduros 2. Tristan Bailey. Credit Tony Adams 3. Rover SD1. Credit Rob Macdonald 4. Don and Gina interview. Credit Rob Macdonald 5. Malcolm Lamb (right) and Simon Taylor (left). Credit Mark Constanduros 6. Keith Harris. Credit Tony Adams 7. The courtyard entertainment. Credit Tony Adams 8. Ding Dong Daddios. Credit Mark Constanduros 9. Finnish rally driver Kristian Sohlberg attacks the hill. Credit Stuart Santos Wing 7
Superb Campbell Celebrations at Shelsley Walsh
Malcolm and Donald Campbell were honoured at the Shelsley Walsh Hill Climb during Classic Nostalgia with a fabulous display of cars including the Napier Bluebird replica. Gina Campbell and Don Wales joined in the Midland Automobile Club’s celebrations as the family’s Speed Records were put on display. Eight cars associated with the family surrounded the middle of the paddock, a stunning Rolls Royce Phantom 2, a Porsche 356, Jaguar XK150, an Aston Martin Le Mans, Ford V8 Woody and E-Type from the film Across the Lake and the mighty Napier Bluebird replica set the scene. Inside the wooden barn was a wonderful display of images, books, models and further items of interest about their achievements which was very busy all weekend. Don and Gina happily chatting with everyone who came to visit. At lunchtime on each day both Don and Gina took to the stage to chat about the family history and the records. The crowd was transfixed as they talk very openly and at times very movingly. They received a huge round of applause at the end. Each day there was a parade of the eight cars up the hill with the Napier Bluebird doing “fire ups” in the paddock at random moments. Don drove Gina up the hill, the beautiful Porsche 356, whilst the lead car was a stunning Atalanta of which a special Bluebird edition had been revealed on the Friday. 8
There were autograph sessions at the Peter James and Stewart Miller Insurance stand with the signing of a very special book “A Matter Of Time”. One chap even produced the steering wheel of one of the Campbell record breaking machines. “In the courtyard it was a joy to join the crowds and hear that fifty years since Donald Campbell’s death, Gina and Don are both certainly keeping The Campbell’s family legacy for speed alive.” Both Don and Gina complimented everyone on the event and how wonderful it was and how delighted they were to see so many cars and the enthusiasm for the family and its achievements.
Picture Credits: 1. Campbell gathering. Credit Rob Overy 2. The Napier Bluebird replica. Credit Stuart Santos Wing 3. Gina Campbell and Don Wales with the steering wheel. Credit Mark Constanduros 4. Gina Campbell and Mr Whoppit. Credit Tony Adams 5. Napier Bluebird replica doing fire ups. Credit Mark Constanduros 6. Donald Campbell XK150 drives the hill. Credit Geoff Robinson 9
Group A Rally Cars Thrill the Crowds
Group A Rally Cars took to the Shelsley Walsh Hill Climb on the tarmac and on the grass as Group A put on a tremendous display at Classic Nostalgia. There were twenty Rally cars in action from the Rover Mini of John Partridge to Ryan Champion in the ex-Piero Liatti Subaru Impreza and Malcolm Proudlock in the ex-Carlos Sainz Subaru Impreza who put on a superb display of driving skill with Bottom Ess being taken on the grass and full opposite lock! There were Toyota Celicas, Mitsubishis, BMW M3s and the very last and incredibly immaculate Lancia Delta Integrale in action over the two days, with the crowds cheering them on. There was a special moment with all three Subaru Imprezas, two Group As and one WRC, being lined up in chronological order before taking to the hill on Sunday with a full commentary about each of the cars and their history. All the drivers were grinning from ear to ear after their runs which were done in spectacular style much to the crowd’s delight, including burn outs up to and off the start line from Kevin Jones in the ex-Tony Pond Rover SD1. Almost everyone was having a go into Bottom Ess with some superb car control and the spreading of dirt across the track which kept the marshals on the their toes.
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Picture Credits: 1. Subaru Line Up. Credit Mark Constanduros 2. Malcolm Proudlock opposite lock out of Bottom Ess. Credit Ian Dowding 3. Ian Gwynne in the Prodrive BMW M3. Credit Stuart Santos Wing 4. Marcus Willis in the ex Didier Auriol Lancia Delta Integrale. Credit Mark Constanduros 5. Kevin Jones tyres smokes the Rover off the line. Credit Mark Constanduros
World Rally Cars Celebrated Finnish Style
As part of Classic Nostalgia’s celebrations over the weekend, the World Rally Car was suitably recognised as Kristian Sohlberg took Best Time of Day in class in the Lancer WRC04 at the Shelsley Walsh Hill Climb. The former works Mitsubishi driver flew over from Finland for the Saturday activities and very soon got to grips with the famous Shelsley Walsh Hill Climb posting what would have been fastest time of the day overall in the Mitsubishi Lancer but was pipped in the dying moments of the day by 0.10 seconds. 11
Other cars in action were the Ford Focus with David Wright who really attacked the hill in tremendous style, often having the spectators on the edges of their seats as he threw it into Bottom Ess and Top Ess, both ninety degree bends and often on three wheels. He was not the only one giving it a go in the WRC class, Niall Moroney flew up the hill in the ex-Colin McRae Subaru, with Graham Butler in the ex-Carlos Sainz Ford Escort Cosworth and Gordon Winning in another Escort Cosworth chasing hard. All the drivers had a great time and commented on what a superb event Classic Nostalgia was and how much they enjoyed the relaxed atmosphere. The crowds certainly enjoyed the show and the Marshals were kept busy sweeping the track!
Picture Credits: 1. Kristian Sohlberg. Credit Rob Overy 2. Kristian Sohlberg with Toby Moody. Credit Mark Constanduros 3. Niall Moroney in the ex-Colin McRae Subaru Impreza. Credit Geoff Robinson 4. David Wright in the ex-Carlos Sainz Ford Focus. Credit Ian Dowding 5. Graham Butler in the ex-Carlos Sainz Ford Escort Cosworth. Credit Ian Dowding 6. Gordon Winning in the ex-Melvyn Evans Ford Escort Cosworth 12
The First 2017 Omologato Presented The very first Omologato Spirit of Shelsley Walsh Blue was presented at Classic Nostalgia. Shami Kalra, who owns Omologato and sponsors the timing display on Vox Villa spent the Saturday looking around the paddock and chatting to competitors as he searched for a lucky recipient and someone who evoked the Spirit of Shelsley. The lucky winner was Mark Harrison who was competing on his 40th birthday and for the first time in the beautifully prepared ex-Derek Warwick Toleman. Shami commented: “I was totally taken by the car, it was beautiful and when I was chatting to Mark and he was telling me about the car I realised he was a worthy recipient. “Upon speaking to him again later in the day I found out it was his 40th and knew I had made the right decision.” Unfortunately Shami couldn't be there to present the watch due to a family bereavement in the week, but it was very much appreciated him making the visit. The watch was presented to Mark Harrsion by MAC Commercial Manager Mark Constanduros on the start line at the end of the day. Mark Harrison commented: “I am absolutely blown away by this, I have never won anything like this and am very appreciative of Shami’s generosity.” Details of this year’s watch are at the front of the MAC News with orders now being taken.
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Champions Celebrate 70 Years of British Hill Climb Championship
A glorious weekend all round as the British Hill Climb Championship came to Shelsley Walsh for not only a weekend of high speed action where Trevor Willis retained his lead and Will Hall took Best Time of Day but also to celebrate the championship. Fifteen Champions joined in over the weekend culminating in a group photo with all the Champions, ten championship-winning cars and the four constructors who have taken the all the championships since 1977. There was lots of hilarity and great stories being told as drivers were reunited with each other and gave interviews throughout the weekend to the attending crowds. During the lunch break, on both days, a parade of cars took to the hills with Champions driving selected cars. 2015 Champion, Alex Summer, drove the 2001/2002 Champion Graeme Wight Jr. whilst five time champion Martyn Griffiths drove the 1977 champion Alister DouglasOsborn. 1978 champion David Franklin drove his Ferrari which he was also competing in with wife Debbie in the passenger seat.
Alex Summers and Graeme Wight Jr. Credit Mark Constanduros
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1988 champion, Charles Wardle, drove a Pilbeam MP43 sportscar similar to the one he drove in period, whilst five-time champion David Grace had a go in Graham Wynn's Gould GR55 which unfortunately broke a drive shaft on the second day as he got to the start line.
Charles Wardle in the Pilbeam MP43 Sportscar. Credit John Charters
Chris Cramer and Martin Groves where chauffeured up the hill in the course car as Adam Fleetwood borrowed a Caterham for his parade run. Scott Moran drove his championship winning Gould which he was using over the weekend whilst current leader, whilst his father and 1997 champion Roger got to drive a Chevron. 2012 champion Trevor Willis chose not to drive his current OMS in which he is leading the championship but drove his first OMS race car. Triple-champion Martin Bolsover got the chance to drive the Pilbeam MP43 and Ray Rowan drove his Roman powered by an F1 Judd engine and he even bolted on a new set of slicks for the occasion.
Roger Moran in the Chevron. Credit Ian Dowding
On Saturday evening, championship organisers BARC hosted a party with a buffet, music and a bar and the following day a birthday cake was presented with cake being delivered round the paddock and also to the commentators.
Martin Bolsover in the Pilbeam MP43. Credit Ian Dowding
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The weekend was rounded off with a very exciting fourth Top 12 Run Off with Will Hall taking Best Time of Day with a 23.21 second run, to be congratulated by all and to huge cheers as he collected his spoils.
Whoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s who in image above: Standing left to right Adam Fleetwood, Ray Rowan, David Grace, Martin Groves, Alister DouglasOsborn, David Franklin, Martyn Griffiths, Chris Cramer, Trevor Willis, Roger Moran, Martin Bolsover, Charles Wardle, Graeme Wight Jr. Martin Bolsover, David Grace, Alister Douglas Osborn, Mike Pilbeam. Credit Mark Constanduros
Sitting left to right Scott Moran, Alex Summers Whoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s who in image on previous page: Champions: left to right Alister Douglas-Osborn, David Franklin, Martyn Griffiths, Chris Cramer, Martin Bolsover, Charles Wardle, David Grace, Roger Moran, Graeme Wight Jr, Adam Fleetwood, Martin Groves, Scott Moran, Trevor Willis, Alex Summers. Constructors: front left to right sitting on cars Mike Pilbeam, Steve Owen, Ray Rowan (also a Champion), David Gould, Andrew and Stephen Hepworth (in absence of father David)
The Constructors Mike Pilbeam, Ray Rowan, David Gould, Steve Owen Credit Mark Constanduros
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Fish and Chip Run Report By Fay / Lyn Wilkinson
Having only joined the MAC this year we felt we would like to get more involved in a few events that the club ran. We started with the very excellent Black Plate day in June (sandwiches and cakes were delicious) and on leaving we were approached by a very distinguished gentleman who introduced himself as John Spencer, and as we were going on the Fish and Chip run, would we care to scribe out a little report for the club mag? This for me would be a challenge as I have hardly written two sentences together since leaving school nearly sixty years ago. Never mind, no harm in having a go just this once. We left Worcester at 8.30, plenty of time to reach Westons Cider for 10.00, pleased to get there with no mishaps where we find the well oiled organising team of Colin and Hilary in full swing. We were issued with an eight page instruction route which I can only describe as being akin to Egyptian hieroglyphics (help!). But firstly the tour of Westons itself. Having passed the site many times before it's not until you get into the complex you can appreciate the enormity of it all just to supply you with a glass of cider. Our excellent guide, Ruth, was very patient in explaining the different processes to achieving the end product. The company is still owned by the Weston family, very rare these days to find a totally British company. If you have never visited before please do so, you will not be disappointed. As we stood in the specially enclosed car park, we presume to stop anyone from trying to escape, we were only allowed out one at a time at minute intervals for the eighty-mile run. As I have previously mentioned, we needed help so looking around to try and find like-minded people like us who hadn't a clue sure enough we found sets of bewildered parties who agreed (not quite the done thing) we could work together and try not to get lost. Well, we took the lead that lasted a mere four-hundred yards before a missed turn meant our Alpine was immediately relegated to the back. The lead party was now a very nice1973MG Midget. Our leader decided we needed to regroup calling in at a garden centre in the middle of nowhere to ascertain whether we were on the same tulip run as everyone else. As the MG now needed a rest, our ace card came into play and a cool black sleek MR2 took the helm. Admittedly the MR2 did a lot better than the Alpine but even so one small slip and she had to go so the purring MG was once again our leader. We all arrived back at base only one and a half hours late. That matters not, we had completed the run. Summary: • • • •
Where exactly did we go that afternoon? Answer, no idea. Did we enjoy the day? Answer, you bet we did! Would we try another run? Answer, oh, yes please. Fish and chips capped the day, thank you to all the staff.
In closing the names of the three Must-Get-Here’s have been omitted for fear of acute embarrassment. 19
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Veteran Car Club Visit On Tuesday 4th July, the Veteran Car Club of Great Britain came to Shelsley Walsh. One by one, the preend of World War I, cars arrived into the paddock. The cars were both big and spectacular and created a magnificent display in the paddock area. They had some intricate brass work and all cars were pristine clean. Some of the cars arrived a little later after partaking in a timed run to Shelsley. Once all the cars had arrived the guests made their way to the restaurant to refresh and enjoy a well deserved lunch. The mill was open for all to look around and admire. Once lunch was finished the club was invited to participate in a run up the hill. The cars queued up awaiting their turn to take on the challenge of the famous Shelsley Walsh track. Despite the ages of the cars, everyone made it to the top of the hill, except for one which made it only half way. The visit was enjoyed by everyone and it was great to see such an impressive presentation of historical cars. Thank you to David Collier for arranging the visit. We hope to welcome you back again in the near future.
MAC Sports and Classics - News and Events By Tony Harrison
MAC Classic events are open to MAC Members only, unless otherwise noted. Eligibility of cars – Vintage, classics and modern sports cars. Events Calendar for 2017 24th September 2017 – a visit to Nuffield Place, the home of Lord Nuffield, the founder of the Morris Motor Company, is being planned. This event is now accepting entries online. Also to be noted, April 22nd 2018 The MAC Classic. The next of our biennial favourites, open to all Sports and Classic Car owners and not only MAC members. Do tell any friends about it! This event will be launched at this weekend’s Classic Nostalgia and entries can be done online. 4th June 2018 We have on hold until mid-July, twenty rooms at the Dales Country House Hotel in Upper Sheringham, on the north Norfolk coast. The dates are four nights from Monday 4th June 2018 and room prices vary from £170 to £195 per night, dinner bed and breakfast. There is now a waiting list should you be interested. For more information or to express an interest in any of the above, please contact Gail Harrison, classics@shelsley-walsh.co.uk. 21
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Thank You from the Buckler Register By Keith Thomas
On behalf of the Buckler Register, I would like to thank everyone at Shelsley for giving us the opportunity to celebrate Bucklers 70th anniversary at Classic Nostalgia in truly classic style with special thanks to Robin Webb and all the staff in the MAC office for sorting out various details in the lead up to the event. Some of our group have been regular competitors at Shelsley for a number of years, some in fact have been lifelong members of MAC but everyone was in complete agreement that this event has improved year on year it is almost impossible to see how to improve it further, the organisation and facilities are superb. The ability for MAC members to park in the orchard is a worthwhile innovation, the new road around the orchard allows vehicles easy passage without the danger of getting bogged down if it’s wet, this was very much appreciated. The Buckler register put on a display with a dozen or so display screens, the interest shown in these by the public was astounding, in fact we had several people bring unknown information even photographs of Bucklers they owned in the early 1950s, this all helps to piece together more and more of Britain’s post war motoring history. Thank you for allowing us to be part of this wonderful event.
Welcoming New Members By David Lowe and Roger Powell
Sunrise Ambassadors The very high public interest in all aspects of motor sport competition coupled with the increasing commercial involvement of the Club in all the business aspects which are associated with this has resulted in a very high workload in the MAC office now. The Club recognises that one of its most important roles is to continue our traditions with the new membership: after all, they are our future and we need to welcome our new members individually if possible. While our new extended club staff are a superb asset to the club, they have their ‘day job’ to do and it was considered that perhaps existing members may like to help with the welcoming process. The proposal is that say a pool of a dozen or so gregarious club members could spend an hour or thereabouts at each meeting during the season just getting out and about and talking to anyone who wants to listen. We are particularly keen to engage with new members and competitors, welcome them to The Hill and to generally make them feel part of our heritage at Shelsley Walsh. There is no intention whatever that the Ambassadors should spend all their day out on this exercise. Just an hour or so is all that is needed and we wouldn’t expect any formal reporting to be completed unless there were issues of specific concern that might need further attention. If you are an outgoing type of person, particularly of the younger age group, both ladies and men are most welcome, you will enjoy meeting people who are motor sport fans, then please contact either David Lowe or Roger Powell via Anouzka in the club office. We would love to hear from you to help to create a broader friendly interface across the whole of the club membership. 23
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August Driving School By Simon Fidoe Photo: John Hallett
School day of two halves The August driving school seemed to be split into two distinct halves. The morning was fine and dry, and the afternoon included some serious downpours, the first of which started just as participants were walking back to their cars after lunch. As if the challenge of having the guidance markers removed over the lunch break wasn’t enough, they all then had to cope with some very challenging conditions. The conditions that prevailed were however excellent for the purposes of highlighting driving ability, both good and bad, although most on display were good. The usual array of cars included a brace of Audi TT Roadsters, a trio of Austin Minis, and a trio of Mazda MX5s, one of which was dual driven by the winner of the prize of most improved driver of the day, Terry Kennerson. We also had one of our youngest ever school participants, Amelia Coker at just 16, who was definitely showing signs of wanting to beat her dad on her way to getting upgrade signatures for her competition licence – look out Mike! The best novice driver of the day was Mark Rosten-Edwards in his Raw Striker who showed great restraint in the wet afternoon conditions to demonstrate how he had taken on board the advice from the instructors. On the subject of instructors, our latest team member was there to offer advice and driving tips – 2012 Champion and current leader of the British Hillclimb Championship, Trevor Willis. Overall win on the day went to Robert Lancaster-Gaye in his bright yellow Porsche GT3, which despite its lack of technological assistance, still made consistently smooth and rapid progress on each run; no doubt assisted by a small amount of experience! Robert will now be watching the results of the final school day in September to see if he has won the race for the drive of a works Radical Sports Car. If you fancy seeing if you can beat him to it, there are still a limited number of places left at our 5th September School day. To book, drop us an email at drivingschool@mac1901.co.uk or call the office 01886 812 211. 25
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Competition Secretary’s Report By Robin Webb
In very short order we have had Classic Nostalgia, Blyton Sprint one week later and then the 70th anniversary meeting of the British Hill Climb Championship. Both Rachel and I have been swimming (and sinking) under a mass of entries for all three events and much midnight oil has been burned to ensure that we have been as fair as possible with the selection process. Nostalgia is such an enjoyable weekend and, in the office, we benefit from some excellent music outside of our door in the courtyard. Impossible to feel anything other than refreshed and happy during a fun weekend – and the weather held too! Our annual trip to Blyton is now maturing into a permanent fix in our calendar for the last Sunday in July and has its own relaxed ambience. We bought all the marshals a hot breakfast as a welcome to the day and continued with our relaxed late start of 10.30am. I believe that every single driver came up to us at the end to thank us for the day. Mainly their thanks were directed at the track configuration (we use the minimally used Eastern Circuit) which has proven to be a real test and winner in the eyes of the competitors. We rebooked the venue on the spot and next year it will be on 28th July. As I left the circuit at 5pm, the heavens opened – once again we escaped with a dry day. Finally, I am writing this on the Monday, less than 24 hours after the big BHC 70th Anniversary meeting in which we saw four class records broken and no less than four run-offs over the two days. The double header was unusual and I heard no adverse comments from the competitors but we will not replicate it next year and will go back to the normal two-day meetings in June and August. Just two sprints and one Shelsley event to go – where did the year go? Once again, we have the prospect of sorting entries for a hugely oversubscribed September meeting and we are currently nudging 200 for Saturday alone. It is the worst job to turn away entries and it’s something that we must discuss at committee level to see how we can deal with this. Finally, I really need to thank the team in the office who refuse to leave the office on time and keep working way beyond their allotted hours for the benefit of all our members, competitors, spectators and clients. They call themselves “Charlie’s Angels” and I think that’s rather apt!
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Championship Challenge Report By Tony Adams. Photos: Rob Macdonald
Paddock cheers confirmed the success of the 70th anniversary British Hill Championship events held at Shelsley Walsh Hill Climb over the weekend. The run-offs for the fastest contenders on Sunday were unbelievably close with mere two hundreths of a second separating the top drivers and this is exactly what the sport is all about, said championship coordinator Tim Wilson. “This event has been hailed as a great success and such closely fought final runs for championship points provide a fantastic spectacle for everybody, as was clearly demonstrated by the wonderful applause and support not only in the paddock but right along the spectators’ galleries.” The weekend also saw the return of many British champions from over the years who were reunited with cars and drove a variety of them in a parade up the course as a tribute to the sport and then posed for an anniversary photograph in the paddock. Unique champion David Franklin, from Bristol, driving a March 772 BMW M12, was British Hill Climb Champion in 1978, not only on the hills but was also British Sprint Champion, the first and only time this has ever been achieved, and commented: “This weekend has been truly superb, I have been chatting to so many lovely, friendly people in the paddock that I rarely see, but have known for over forty years. “I thought the jazz band and championship reception celebration on Saturday evening was splendid and the atmosphere altogether in this very historic place has been simply wonderful.” Current championship leader and 2012 champion, Trevor Willis, from Worcester, said: “The place is really buzzing this weekend and I am honoured to meet so many fellow former champions that I have heard so much about, but have never actually met before today. “I have a reasonable championship lead this year but there is still a very long way to go and a lot of points up for grabs, and with so many drivers getting used to their new cars the pressure is really on, so I need to seriously concentrate my efforts to try to gain the title.” On the track itself the action was intense, with Scottish driver Wallace Menzies taking Best Time of Day in both Saturday runs in the latest Gould GR59M, with six-time former champion Scott Moran and Will Hall taking the honours in the two Sunday run-offs only by fractions of a second, much to the delight of spectators. 29
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Invited for the weekend were members of the 500 Owners Association and this provided championship points for Phoebe Rolt in an Elva 200 FJ, with Charles Reynolds taking second place in his Cooper Mk VII while third place went to Finlay Mackintosh in his Cooper Mk VI., with exactly the same places resulting in Sunday’s competition. The ever popular Paul Matty Sports Cars Lotus Championship saw class wins for Geoff Stallard in a Lotus Elan and John Palmer in a Lotus 61, while the invited TVR Car Club Speed Championship saw Steven Mogg take the honours in his Griffith 500. In the many different classes, Steven Darley set a new record time of 30.62 seconds for road going production cars with his Subaru Impreza, with Robert Kenrick blitzing up the track in the latest GWR Raptor to set a fantastic new record time of 25.76 seconds in the 1100cc racing car class. Other class winners included John Palmer in a Westfield, Nigel Elliott in a TR7 V8, Allan McDonald in a Mini Evo, Richard Spedding in a GWR Raptor, Tim Elmer in a Dallara, Kelvin Broad in a Pilbeam MP 101, Dave West in a Peugeot 106, Johnny Mackenzie in a Dax Rush, Paul Jones in a Lotus Exige, Duncan Andrews in a Porsche Cayman, Andy Griffiths in a Caterham Hayabusa, Tim Davies in a Pilbeam and Philip Stader in a Mallock. On a different note and keeping it in the family, potential young driving star of the future, Archie Hawkes, aged 11, from Worcester, put in a sterling performance on the Shelsley Walsh gaming simulator, situated in the spectator car park, with a fantastic time of 23.47 seconds, and all at a cost of £2.50... probably slightly less that expenditure for his mother Tina’s record breaking efforts in her Force PC racing car! MAC commercial manager, Mark Constanduros, said: “It has been a fabulous event here at Shelsley Walsh, wonderful to have so many past champions with us and also championship winning cars. The feedback has been excellent and our thanks must go to the many owners of cars who have loaned them to past champions. It really has been a very historic spectacle for everyone over the weekend.”
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£20 off RAC Breakdown Cover* RAC patrols fix 4 out of 5 cars at the roadside on average in just 30 minutes. It’s no wonder 92% of our members would recommend RAC Rescue. Get covered today Visit rac.co.uk/uk-join/benefits Call 0330 159 0463 quoting RCAFGEN-MS50 *The £20 discount is applied to personal based prices available on rac.co.uk for new customers only. Prices are correct as of 20.04.2017. Roadside only cover is not available on monthly payment. Offer cannot be used with any voucher promotion and may be withdrawn at any time.
Quote MAC membership number to claim preferential rates when selling your vehicle at:
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Breakdown cover arranged and administered by RAC Financial Services Limited and provided by RAC Motoring Services and/or RAC Insurance Ltd.
Special accommodation rates apply to MAC members & 10% discount for spa treatments, food & drink. Call 01299 896 666 to make your reservation. The Elms Hotel, Abberley, Worcestershire
Get three issues for £3.00 and save 15% off remaining issues. See advert in this magazine.
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August Breakfast Club Report By Chris Gittins and Anouzka Lowrie-Herz
Despite being at the height of the holiday season combined with competitive events being held at a number of hill climb venues across the midlands, the turnout at the August Breakfast Club at Shelsley Walsh was a lot higher than expected. Lots of regulars arriving early to eat and a pleasing number of visitors explaining that they had visited the hill climb many years ago, some as young children, and thought it time to reacquaint themselves with this iconic venue. Welcome back. An excellent array of Lotus models made an impromptu display in the modern performance area, whilst Porsches old and new shone in the courtyard. Alfa Romeo, Jaguar, MG and Morgan were well represented together with rarer models being displayed, such as a beautiful red Dinalpin (Renault Alpine A110 produced in Mexico by Diesel Nacional (DINA) from 1965 to 1974), and an immaculate 1995 dark grey Ford Escort RS Cosworth with its huge rear wing, highlighting Ford’s primary intention, to use the model as the company’s foray into Group A of the World Rally Championship. A special thanks to David Potter, who displayed his very special 1976 Ferrari 512 Berlinetta Boxer that had just emerged from a top flight eighteen-month restoration process, resulting in one of the finest examples in the world. David allowed an “access all areas” view of the car, including the detailed engine bay with its 5 litre, flat 12 power plant, resulting in a few speechless onlookers. 101 of this right hand drive model, the first mid-engined Ferrari road car, were produced and it is thought that around forty survive today worldwide. The sun shone, breakfast was consumed and the brave made the top of the hill on foot. Yet again the quality and level of presentation of the visitor’s vehicles did not disappoint and was an inspiration to those of us with projects waiting for those finishing touches or those considering buying that special car. Following the level of interest in all things mechanical, the club will be arranging an “open bonnets” display at the September Breakfast Club, for those drivers wishing to share the results of their hard work with the visitors and their fellow drivers. 33
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Dibnah News By Tim King
This July, we were pleased to welcome visitors from the Veteran Car Club with their magnificent vehicles, SAIC – Shanghai Automobiles that took over MG Rover back in the ‘noughties’ – and the 41 Club. The first two groups also drove up the hill, but the latter group purely came to see the Mill and thoroughly enjoyed their tour guided by Max Hunt and Richard Galle. The Mill was, of course, open for the breakfast club, Classic Nostalgia and the VSCC meeting. Dibnahs were also delighted to welcome Ben Godfrey and his family to Classic Nostalgia following his excellent report about the Mill on the BBC Midlands Today programme. Max Hunt is now quite an authority on Lord Herbert Austin (one of the founder members of MAC) and gave his excellent lecture on the great man to Blakedown Historic Society this month; I mention this as he very generously donated his fee to the Shelsley Water Mill Society which, as I mentioned last month, is trying to raise £1800 to replace the large wooden gear wheel. Speaking of the Nostalgia meeting, several Dibnahs and their wives were involved with the running of the Concours d’Elegance for the first time, but fortunately not the judging – which was carried out by Simon Taylor and Malcolm Thorne of Classic Car magazine – as Dibnah David Haggerty’s fine MGA was a class winner. The gardening section has carried out some restoration work to the fencing around the trees in the orchard, but a bumper crop of apples is not likely this year mostly due to the severe frost in April / May, which will be sad news for the cider brewers amongst us. Tony Harrison and Ambrose Benjamin have also spent a day or two standing in cold water clearing weeds from the stream behind the restaurant. www.shelsleywatermill.com
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Brand Mechanical Engineering Co. 25 Wainwright Street Aston Birmingham B6 5TH Tel: 0121-327 6622 Email: brianbrand2002@yahoo.co.uk
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For Sale 1983 Mini Mayfair – Mk 1 Cooper S evocation – look-a-like – homage MED 1380 XET Race/Rally Engine – less than 4000 miles – on 45 Weber – 113 BHP against 1275 S output of 75BHP – print out available. Straight cut gearbox with KAD short shift. 4 pot Brakes. Hi Low suspension. 10 x 6 Minilites on Yoko tyres. All the right bits – comprehensive build file. Cobra seats. “Works” Catmint co driver dash. Brantz Computer, Brantz Timer – both with remote resets. Chronometer. Butlers map light. Route card holder with P lights. Kill switch. Ideal for Classic Tours/Rally/HERO/HRCR events or going to the Pub. Price: £5950 Contact: Brian Williams 01782 796839, 07752 183038 brian@bmw968.com Westfield S Eight Reg DX05 VCN, 7,500 miles, 3.5 litre Rover V8 engine. Ideal road going and hill climbing car. Dry stored. Ring 07801654838 for details. Best offer secures sale. SELECTION OF PARTS FOR SALE Quick lift jack, Ideal single seater-Formula Ford £75.00 2 x Hewland MK8 gearbox hosing one perfect and the other with slight localised crack, £100 each; 2 x Minilite type Minitor Silver mag wheels, 6J x 13 with 3.75” PCD (95.25mm, Triumph), complete with nuts; 2 x Minilite type Minitor Sliver mag wheels, 7J x 13 with 4.25” PCD (108mm, Ford), complete with nuts. All in perfect condition fitted with part worn AVON tyres, suitable many uses including Formula Ford or Lotus Seven £250.00 Milling machine Clarke Micro milling machine, ideal for milling small racing car parts. In as new condition, see page 132 Machine Mart catalogue £150.00 Contact Mike Fisher 07831 435610 1964 Jaguar ‘E’ Type 3.8 FHC UK car. Chassis 861441. Matching numbers. 62,000 miles. Dry stored for 31 years. £37,500. Tel: 01299 266087 (Worcs). Email: rob.may39@btinternet.com Tonneau cover (unused) For 1972 MGB Roadster. Frame and hood (used but good) for 1972 MGB Roadster. Tom Nellist. Hereford. Tel. 01432 851 822 UNIT FOR SALE OR RENT Approx 1 mile from the Hill Cimb, at Homme Castle Barns, a useful multi purpose industrial/workshop Approx 2,500 ft with mains water, WC, electric and roller door. Parking for at least 6 cars. Lovely setting, 15 mins from Worcester and 25 ins from the M5. Contact Paul Ridgeway 01886 812312 or 07968 160915.
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Wanted Old Motoring Books Required The Shelsley Walsh Bookshop would be grateful to receive donations of any old motoring books or motoring memorabilia for resale. All money raised will go to support the Archive. Please contact Alex Harrison 01905 356631
New Members David Connors, Dudley John Roberts, Much Birch Andrew Franklin, Stourport on Severn Jonathan Heynes, Stratford upon Avon David Nash, Redditch Eric Banner, Edgbaston Jamie Roberts, Stourport on Severn John Stones, Stourport on Severn Richard Barber, Ashbourne John McQuillan, Hereford Neil Tidman, Pershore
Dale Fox, Presteigne Andy Walker, Mansfield Benjamin Watson, Harbourne James Rumney, Malvern Derek Newton, Worcester Julie Harper-Ellam, Brackley Andrew Holmes, Worcester Paul Auston, Newnham Nick Kennedy, Burwash Weald Kevin Mills, Stourbridge Nick Perry, Bristol Jonny Wilkinson, Meifod Gerard Sears, Bromsgrove Stuart Hobbis, Stourbridge David Rushton, Pershore
MAC Monthly Draw June Winners 1. J L Martin
£100
ALL PROCEEDS TO SHELSLEY ARCHIVE
2. R Thomas
£50
You can enter at any time.
3. R Kettel
£35
4. J North
£30
5. A Gabriel
£25
6. F Wheeler
£20
7. P Cutis
£15
Print off an Entry Form from www.shelsley-walsh.co.uk or contact Rachel Lovett 01886 812211 rachel@mac1901.co.uk
8. W Wood
£10
THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT
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Midland Automobile Club Sports & Classics ‘The Lord Nuffield’s Place Tour’ Sunday 24th September 2017 (This is a Club event only open to MAC )
Meet at Hillers, Alcester, Warwickshire B49 5PD from 9am and finish at Nuffield Place, Huntercombe, near Henley on Thames, RG9 5RY for cream tea. Driver ................................................................................................................................ Passenger ........................................................................................................................ Address ............................................................................................................................ .................................................................... Telephone No. ............................................ Email address ................................................................................................................... Car Make ................................................... Model ......................................................... Year ............................................................ Colour ........................................................ Registration No. ......................................... MAC Membership No. ............................... Please note that the cost of morning refreshments is NOT included in the entry fee. (Entry restricted to Vintage/Classic cars or Modern Sports Cars. Please make every effort to use the car as entered above.) Cost of morning refreshments and entry to Nuffield Place is NOT included in the entry fee. For those who are not National Trust members, entry to Nuffield Place is £9.00 per person. (Entry restricted to Vintage/Classic cars or Modern Sports Cars. Please make every effort to use the car as entered above.) Entry fee for driver and one passenger: £25.00 Places are restricted and will be on a ‘first come, first served basis’. Closing date for entries is Monday 28th August. Final instructions will be sent out after entries have closed, just prior to the event. We regret that no refunds will be issued after the closing date. Please enter and pay on-line. Alternatively, forward entry form, and cheque payable to the Midland Automobile Club to: Gail Harrison, 14 Mill Close, Blakedown, Worcestershire DY10 3NQ (01562 700612) e.mail: classics@shelsley-walsh.co.uk. If no email address, please forward an A5 stamped, addressed, envelope for receipt of final instructions. MSA waiver
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