An evocative look back at the unique Brighton Speed Trials, first run in 1905. Captures the flavour and feel of one of Britain’s oldest motor sports events. Over 150 previously unpublished photographs of cars and motorcycles chronicle the event from the ’60s through to the mid-’80s.
Brighton and the automobile go hand in hand. The ever-popular seaside town is perhaps best known today for the annual London to Brighton Veteran Car Run, but it also hosts countless other motoring events and charity runs. All types of vehicles, ranging from commercials to vintage motorcycles and gatherings of single marques from MGs and Minis to classic Volkswagens, flock to the seafront every year. Celebrating its centenary in 2005, the Brighton National Speed Trial is one of Britain’s oldest motor sport events and despite a few gaps throughout the years, they are the most consistent motoring event in the town’s history.
The book focuses on the events that took place during the Sixties, Seventies and Eighties. It covers the history, development and wide range of cars that have competed in the trials. The book also includes a complete list of fastest times recorded at the event, from the 1905 record time of 23 seconds for the flying start kilometre, to the time of 10.25 seconds for the standing quarter mile in 2003.
Written by the professional illustrator, Tony Gardiner, it is the only book so far to cover the popular annual event, so is essential reading for anyone with an interest in this unique part of Britain’s sporting heritage. With over 140 colour photographs to thumb through, it’s an atmospheric account of the golden age of speed trials and an excellent book to have on your coffee table.
