NEWS

Loton Park ready to host the 2013 VSCC Hill Climb Season Finale this weekend!

Friday 13 September 2013

We look forward to welcoming a bumper entry of 180 Pre-war and Historic Racing and Sports-Cars to the idyllic Deer Park of the Loton Park Estate in Shropshire this weekend 14/15 September to compete at the Club’s traditional Hill Climb Season curtain-closer. Comprising the full complement of the Club’s traditional Pre-war Class structure, in addition to an Invited Class for Post-war Racing Cars, the event has attracted a truly eclectic and inspiring entry.
Over forty different revered marques are represented, spanning seven decades from the day’s oldest machine in the shape of Ron Birkett’s 1909 FL Sports Edwardian to the youngest in former Club Secretary Neil Murray’s 1960 BMC Formula Junior so there is sure to be something to suit all tastes. A number of Class champions from last year return to defend their crowns, including Graham Beckett in his Austin 7, John Guyatt in his Darracq Talbot Lago T150C and Ian Baxter in the MG Bellevue Special. Club Director Geoff Smith brings his newly-acquired ‘Pic-Pic’ (pictured) to Loton for the first time – we cannot wait to see the aero-engined Edwardian Special fly up the hill – but will he be able to challenge previous owner, David Baker’s 2006 Class Record first time out?
 
Erstwhile VSCC Hill Climb champion James Baxter swaps his regular ERA drive this season for another as he makes his debut in AJM 1; this may tip the balance in Rob Cobden’s favour, as he is a hot tip for Fastest Time of Day in his fierce Riley Falcon Special. However, he will not have an easy ride to victory if regulars such as Sue Darbyshire in her Morgan Super Aero and fellow Riley Special pilot Pete Candy have anything to do with it! Look out for some spectacular performances throughout the field, including the exuberant style of young ‘hot-shot’ Charlie Martin in the unique Morgan ‘RIP’ Special and, everyone’s favourite ‘tyre-smoker’, the behemoth Napier Bentley of Chris Williams.
 
Competitors will attempt two practice runs on Saturday, followed by two timed runs towards competition on Sunday. Away from the track, there will be the traditional Trade Village, including our own Club Display, where a wide range of VSCC Regalia will be available, as well as catering serving hot/cold food; spectators can enjoy free access to the competitors’ paddock where they can wander among the rows of wonderful machinery, see the cars up-close and talk to the drivers. With its idyllic setting, relaxed paddock atmosphere and thrilling track, Loton Park is truly one of the highlights of the Club’s season.
 
Tickets are available on the gate (£6 on Saturday, £10 on Sunday) and Under 16s go free so why not make a family trip to Shropshire this weekend. Loton Park is 9 miles west of Shrewsbury off the A458 just beyond the village of Alberbury (SatNav SY5 9AG). Runs will begin at approx. 09.30hrs on both days, with a lunch break scheduled for 13.00-14.00hrs before on-track action continues.
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