News
17 December 2013, Festive Calendar.
‘Equipe’ GTS race series with AMOC published an itinerary for 2014, and a good one it looks to be – Brands Hatch GP circuit is an end of June definite and the season kicks off with Silverstone on April 5th.
6 December 2013, Slow Post From USA.
Courtesy of Sports Car Club of America archivist Gary Horstkorta, we received WSM stationery from 1963 when Dr George Snively and Dr Clinton Chichester set up WSM America, Ltd. WSM’s 203 and 204 were exported to San Francisco in May 1963, which prompted the fledgling business, and representation was advertised in New York, Montivideo and Santiago.
18 November 2013, Classic Car Show.
The Classic Motor Show celebrated 30 years, and as the classic car scene is growing in popularity, it seems the UK’s largest indoor show is going from strength to strength – circa 65,000 visitors during the three days, and Saturday in particular was generally perceived as busier than ever. Alongside WSM 405, the Midget & Sprite Club stand featured Paul Webb’s Brabham Sprite and Paul Freeman’s Alexander Sprite.
15 November 2013, WSM Returns.
Editor Simon Goldsworthy’s industry at the Sywell Classic in September shines through with the ‘WSM Revival’ article in MGEnthusiast magazine. Part one delves into WSM history and elaborates on the forming of the current WSM Cars partnership, and part two next month features WSM 402 S2, the first Sanction 2 road car.
11 November 2013, NEC Display.
The Midget & Sprite Club at the Classic Car Show 15th-17th November will feature the Alpine blue Sanction 2 WSM of Geoff Hill. Last years appearance of the WSM MGB on the MGOC stand was a success and the Sanction 2 is likely to attract similar attention.
4 November 2013, Targa Florio 40 Years On.
Memorable return by three English drivers to Sicily and scene of the extraordinary 72 kilometre per lap race – click on here
1 November 2013, WSM 405 Update.
The first WSM to incorporate a K-series unit wears it well. The engine series was introduced in 1988 and in the 1990’s DW-S was much enamoured by the performance of his Metro GTi, subsequently christened ‘Pocket Rocket’ – it was in reference to this car that he was quoted in 1996 by Jon Pressnell in Classic & Sportscar as never having been overtaken in the Isle of Man. DW-S was certain the K-series unit would enhance WSM performance, despite the bhp that some ‘A’ series had achieved with development over the years. Certainly 405’s owner Geoff Hill thinks along the same lines, and in due course will experience just exactly what DW-S had in mind.
29 September 2013, Pistons & Props.
The first Sywell Classic was an interesting addition to the classic car calendar, and there was an entertaining mix at the busy Northamptonshire aerodrome of classic cars, racers and aeroplanes. 50 clubs with a variety of stands, and aerobatic displays, dragsters and the Breitling Wing Walkers all contributed to an encouraging 12000 visitors crossing the threshold. The nostaligic setting was a trip down memory lane, as Douglas Wilson-Spratt learnt to fly in an Auster under the guidance of Les Hilditch, chief instructor at Sywell in 1967, while leaving a young W-S to wander the confines.
The WSM display included BXN, 208, 401 and 402
Good to catch up with aviators and friends Chris and Mavis Parker, with their award winning Volvo Amazon on display (left), and pilot John Mangan who drove from Norfolk in his TVR for the Club stand. Ex-Delta mechanic Eddie Wright and his family were welcome guests, and Eddie’s grandson Haydn (right) had a seat fitting for the WSM he’s saving up for.
TV camera’s were filming in the WSM camp on Sunday, so a face for radio was wasted after all.
Adrian Hall-Carpenter flew in with the Jodel Mascaret that DW-S spent so long restoring, and it looked in fine fettle. The airfield and event logistics meant a re-union of WSM cars and aircraft, as originally envisaged, will keep for a future date.
MG Enthusiast editor Simon Goldsworthy was on hand to record how the WSM partnership and Sanction 2 cars evolved.
‘BXN’ and 208 were in action for the runway Sprint during the two day event – father and son Woolmer (left) duked it out for bragging rights
Ex-Sporting Owners Drivers Club member Barry Twitchell and his wife Julie stopped by, and he recalled occasions spent with DW-S.
Realisation that all is’nt as it seems with WSM Cars partner Paul Woolmer.
Ian Hulett continues his quest for additional weight loss in an effort to max performance with WSM 401.
A favourite other Sywell Classic item – maybe the 1960’s split screen VW flatdeck incorporating a Dodge Viper engine, or maybe Elle and the Pocket Belles?
The Jodel contingent had a constructive meeting before Hall-Carpenter returned to his Norfolk base
Doug Samuels, owner of the BMC replica transporter, convoyed the WSM 402 of partner Lorraine from Lincolnshire in his Toyota powered MGC
Although planned as a biennial event, the Sywell Classic may reconvene 27th-28th September 2014
20 September 2013, Cheeky Chops.
Its not just the WSM that appears to have a cheeky grin on the road – Lorraine Noble-Thompson pictured in WSM 402 seems to have one, and I hope its not because the needle’s too far over 70mph.?
19 September 2013, //2013 Frogeye Book Launch.
The latest John Baggott tome is still on the high seas as the container ship carrying ‘Frogeye Sprite – The Complete Story’ had a slower passage than planned due to the volume of books on board. John’s considerable depth of knowledge on the Frogeye subject is augmented by a fastideous gathering of information, and very few stones remain unturned. But simply an A-Z it is not. No self respecting Sprite enthusiast will miss the fascinating story of the little car’s design gestation to competition success, while charming the pants off many for 50+ years. Click on for a review of the book by Sebring specialist Martin Ingall, and signed copies are available from John on 01892 862656.
16 September 2013, WSM Fly In.
Four WSM’s have been invited to the inaugural Piston & Props event at Sywell aerodrome in Northamptonshire – alongside prototype BXN and 208 pictured left, will be 401 and 402 (right), and Adrian Hall-Carpenter will be flying in with the ex-DWS restored Jodel Mascaret. Already christened the ‘Sywell Classic’, the WSM presence is prompted by DW-S having learnt to fly at Sywell in the 1960’s and being based there with several aircraft.
Click on for more event information
15 September 2013, WSM 402 Racking.
The first Sanction 2 road car continues to rack up the miles as owner Lorraine-Noble Thompson flits around the country – pictured left at Donington last week, and right, attracting attention at the Goodwood Revival.
7 September 2013, Kilsby MG.
WSM history and 208 guesting at the monthly Northants MGOC meet, and re-acquainted at The George with many familiar faces from the 2004 visit the Club made to the Isle of Man.
6 September 2013, Roothams Rocking.
Local MG Club members and guests enjoyed a sunny afternoon at the Woolmer residence in Colmworth
5 September 2013, Memory Lane.
A week well spent in pursuit of ‘evidence’ towards the proposed WSM book ‘Wings, Wheels and Wuzzums’ – left to right Eddie Wright, Jim and Peggy McManus, young WSM fan Max (3 years old in October), Mick Hancock and Ivor Gurney (at Delta House) all had various gems to contribute. Icing on the cake was a tour around Sywell aerodrome with aviator Chris Parker and an air display by a visiting Spitfire.
For Sale 1992 Mercedes Benz 260E, arctic white/ blue cloth, 61,500mls, auto, ABS, ESR, Cruise, A/C, FSH, towbar + elecs one owner from new £1500 ono
Contact Jim McManus 01483 273826
3 September 2013, Genes In Mothers Pride.
Owner of WSM 402 S2 Lorraine put a question to Mum Joyce, who had yet to see her daughters latest toy. ‘Which out of all those cars in the car-park do you like the best?’. “Warmed the cockles when Mum walked straight to the ‘Douglas’.”
29 August 2013, Wuzzums Fly South.
Ian Hulett and Clive Cocks are taking WSM’s 401 and 210 to Angouleme for the Circuit Des Ramparts event in September alongside Paul Freeman in the Alexander Sprite. The narrow and twisty nature of the public road circuit should suit the agile Sprite’s.
28 August 2013, Watling St Assignation.
The Kilsby MG Club have the WSM MGB on display at the George Hotel on Tuesday 3rd September – previous monthly meetings have included guests such as Mike Costin of Cosworth-founding fame. Although the straight, and in those days lightly populated A5 from Hockliffe, was a favourite proving ground for WSM’s in the 1960’s, its been a while since we’ve had one tramping along in that neck of the woods.
31 July 2013, Shooting Brake Calibration.
Classic & Sportscar’s Alastair Clements ‘. donned wellies and Barbour to pick his finest sporting load-luggers.’ and featured the Jaguar XK150S conversion at number eight in the September 2013 edition.
30 July 2013, Wharf Factor 2.
Dennis Wharf was at the recent Brands Hatch HSCC Superprix with his camera, a favourite historics meeting and on the GP circuit. Following my sympathetic comment re the Triumph Spitfires coming to grief at Silverstone in June –
‘I hate to see old racing cars being badly damaged, as I probably appreciate the effort that has gone into them too much, but at least two cars appeared almost written off, one totally destroyed by fire, while the other, the F3 Toj Modus I think, heavily dropped into the barriers, knocking all four corners completely off, plus even worse damage to the chassis – it appeared banana shaped on the back of the truck. A very sad and upsetting sight, but luckily
no drivers were harmed – but only just. There were two car fires, one of which was near thing. Unsure as to the cause, such was the intensity, I imagine a fuel line came adrift pumping neat fuel onto a very hot exhaust. The car was so completely burnt out it was hard to identify, but a small piece of remaining bodywork indicated it to be either a March, Lola, or Chevron. This happened towards the end of the Martini Trophy race, for 2 litre Group 6 sports prototypes dating from the early seventies – the race and cars I enjoy the most. ‘
14 July 2013, Sebring History Update.
Interesting and satellite delayed follow-up to an email from George Katz in 2010 –
‘Just recently, on your website I saw an email dated November 12th, 2010 from George Katz concerning the Sebring Sprite JAX12/791NAR and in which he said that he sold the car to a policeman. I was the policeman concerned and had the car for a couple of years before a Russian diplomat rear ended me. He did the decent thing and paid for the repairs which were carried out in a small workshop at Boundary Mews, St. Johns Wood, by a fellow called Humphries I believe. Anyway he made me an offer for the car and I sold it to him – my wife was pregnant with our first child and we needed a roomier vehicle.
Some time later the car found its way to the USA, was refurbished and upgraded before placing second in the 1996 Historics at Monterey when driven by Stirling Moss. It was later sold at auction for $44000 in 2010 I believe. So, presumably the car is still going strong after all these years?
I left the police service in 1970 and now live in Canada where my present transport, a Ford F250 Super Duty 7.3 litre V8 turbo diesel pick up truck, does not corner quite as well as the Sprite. Forgot to mention that I come from Perranporth, Cornwall, so I am keen on Healeys of course. Have had a somewhat peripatetic lifestyle, moving from UK to Ireland, USA and Canada so most of our possessions are never unpacked! Since arriving here in Nova Scotia I am sure that I have seen a picture that I took of 791NAR, so I should be able to find it before long.
RegardsStuart Peters‘
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Email received November 12th 2010 – vember 12th – Email received from George Kat
‘Whilst archiving a suitcase full of old slides and photos for posterity I came across some pictures of a car I used to own in the 1960’s which might be of interest to you. I part exchanged my “hot” Mini for a Sprite which I bought from a mews garage in Swiss Cottage London, now long gone ( I probably saw the ad in Motorsport which I used to read at that time). The guys told me that it had been owned and raced by Douglas Wilson-Spratt and at the time the number plate was JAX 12. When I picked up the car they had changed the plate which I was annoyed about so they reduced the price of the car by about £50.00. The bonnet was fibreglass and the rear end was aluminium and it came with a detachable hardtop. I kept the car for about 7-8 years. I made the mistake of buying a new car (a TR4a) before selling the Sprite, so it languished on the drive for about a year before selling it on to a policeman. Does this car still exist? If so perhaps you could put me in touch with present owner as I have other photos of the car, and could let them know further details. George Katz‘
We passed details to Healey registrar Paul Woolmer – ‘ I am certainly aware of your old Sprite. As you say it was originally registered JAX 12, and owned by Jack Wolchover. Mainly used as a rally car on club and occasional national events, it was modified by Peels of Kingston with a light alloy rear and doors. The work was almost certainly commissioned by John Sprinzel Ltd of Lancaster Mews. It also had the ‘works’ spec wire wheel and disc brake conversion. The car now lives in the USA and I will contact the owner and ask if I can pass his details to you. In the meantime, I would be grateful to receive any additional photos you may have to add to my file on this interesting Sebring Sprite.’
24 June 2013, Bruce’s Bonus.
Bruce from Oklahoma and Bruce from Oklahoma are now confirmed Isle of Man and TT nuts. Yes, the weather was nigh perfect, and yes, the racing even more outstanding than usual, but the island blew them away.
18 June 2013, WSM 405 S2 Feels Blue.
The paint still curing in the oven, but looking nicely done. The ‘K’ series-engined WSM that DW-S had in mind is coming together, but probably never quick enough for owner and WSM fan Geoff Hill.
17 June 2013, Fezz Head.
Not often the keys to a Fezza are chucked my way, let alone a 360 Modena convertible, but thats what happened when friend Steve had a few days coming up in Monaco. The Mountain Rd was closed after TT for clearing, but there’s plenty of routes where the aural and physical beast was unleashed legally and without disturbing anyones day. Clearing 7500rpm with rag top tucked away was epic, as daughters concurred.
16 June 2013, Wu ing The Crowds.
WSM 402 travelled to Silverstone for MGLive and with owner Lorraine Noble-Thompson attracted much attention. The first Sanction 2 road car appeared to be a hit with the many MG fans, and there seemed constant scrutiny through the day. Named ‘Douglas’ in tribute to DW-S and affectionately known as ‘WU’, the silver dream machine set a few pulses racing.
15 May 2013, WSM Underwear.
WSM 405 receives the base coat preparation ahead of the Alpine Blue ‘Metallise’ finish specified by owner Geoff Hill. As WSM 405 deliberately echoes WSM 205 that Mike White commissioned in 1963 and subsequently raced, Geoff is in touch with Oxfordshire resident Mike to compare notes.
4 May 2013, Wharf Factor.
Thanks to Midget Register historian Dennis Wharf who called past the WSM camp at Brands.
‘Thought the attached might be of interest. I took them up at Druids on Sunday afternoon. The car does look very smart now, more so even than I remember it in period! Don’t know if I’ve mentioned this, but I did in fact see the car in about 1975 looking very shabby indeed, so bad in fact I wasn’t sure if it was the actual car. This would have been about the time between Robin Pinkerton’s ownership – I think he sold in around ’72 – and Barry Sidery-Smith buying it in ’76 I seem to recall. Of all places it was parked in Long Melford High Street. I have a picture somewhere, will dig it out.‘
23 April 2013, Motors TV at Silverstone.
Motors TV present coverage of the 21st April Silverstone Vintage Sports Car Club meeting which includes the HRDC Allstars grid – the programme is broadcast again tonight (23rd) at 11pm, and Ian Hulett in WSM 401 fortuitously manages to be in the camera-car orbit through much of the race. A race report post-boat lag will duly appear at Race News on this website.
13 April 2013, Three Tales.
A cracking 87 entries for the Manx Classic April 25th/27th, and fifteen pre-68 cars up to 1500cc makes for the most competitive Class 2a to date – visitors include Andrew Actman of Lenham Sportscars, Clive Cocks with WSM 210 and Paul Freeman with the Alexander Sprite. Stirring memories of bygone Willaston pursuits is the return of Eric Grundey in an MG Midget (left), but Class record holder in all three sections of the event is Dave Musgrove (right) in his Morris Cooper S.
12 April 2013, HRDC at VSCC.
Motors TV are presenting live coverage of the 21st April Silverstone Vintage Sports Car Club meeting, which may go some way towards explaining an oversubscribed ‘Allstars’ grid and a truly eclectic grid of machinery. Two WSM’s versus Milano GT, Cannon GT and Project 214 Aston Martin amongst others, and four WSM owners on the grid in Brian Arculus, Rae Davis, Ian Hulett and yours truly. Click on for entry list.
10 April 2013, Alpine Hue.
As specified by owner Geoff Hill, WSM 405 S2 soon receives an Alpine Blue ‘Metallise’ finish that features on so many race and rally Alpine’s. The third road-going spec Sanction 2 build is destined to have nearly 200bhp available courtesy of the K-series engine, hence the running gear modifications are mapped out in readiness. Having owned WSM 205 in period and perhaps having 100bhp on tap at most, Geoff looks forward to applying rubber to road with 405.
25 March 2013, Primed.
Ian Hulett has finished prepping his steed for the Manx Classic. Pictured prior to MOT, the road-registered Sebring will be in good company as the Paul Webb Brabham Sprite also makes the trek North under its own steam.
22 March 2013, Eight Inches Snow Use.
Urrrgghh – one week away from Good Friday, clocks changing to Summer time, and we have eight inches of snow thats not going anywhere in a hurry! Shades of winter 1963, so I’m told.
6 March 2013, Birthday Girl.
Exported to New York for US serviceman Joel Nelson in June 1963, WSM 207 celebrates 50 years on 13th March. The aluminium-bodied racer returned to the UK in 2003, and featured on the Fordwater grid at three Goodwood Revival’s to date. A pace setter on the HRDC Grand Touring Greats grid, and amongst the magnificent seven original WSM’s at WSM 50 in September 2012 (pictured with Joel and wife Shirley), owner Rae Davis of London continues to embellish the marque.
2 March 2013, Hill Climb Power.
On one of his rambles South, Geoff Hill gave WSM 405 S2 a once over now the K-series is offered up for size on the fourth Sanction 2 off the production line. As described by CCW this week, the tuned 1800cc engine promises to bestow ‘monster performance’ for the South Yorkshire resident, and will be considerably quicker than WSM 205 that Geoff owned in 1967.
1 March 2013, Pressing Matters.
Classic Car Weekly editor Dave Richards and his team produced a comprehensive seven page report on Race Retro in todays edition – Murray Scullion caught up with the WSM MGB, while Mike Le Caplain captured the ethos behind the Sanction 2 builds.
28 February 2013, Classic Car Weekly.
Comment in the weekly newspaper by Adam Sloman that WSM 402 S2 at the MG Spares gathering was.’one of the highlights of the show’, put a spring in the step of all concerned with the production of the Sanction 2 cars – Murray Henderson et al take a bow.
27 February 2013, History Files.
Email and pictures this morning from Gary Horstkorta, archivist for the Northern Pacific Division of the SCCA and referring to WSM 203 that was exported in 1963 to the USA –
‘Recently I have been able to spend some time looking for photos of the WSM. Good news, I was able to locate two photos along with the race program entry lists, all of which are attached here. The first photo is from a race at Laguna Seca in October 1963 which shows Dr Chichester drivng the WSM down the bottom of the famous “Corkscrew” and through old turn seven (now turn nine). The second photo is from the June 1964 race at the Port of Stockton, again with Chichester at the wheel. The car ran in the C Production class.’
25 February 2013, Retro Rewards.
Celebrating a 10th anniversary and billed as Europe’s premier historic motorsport show, Race Retro gathered a mighty ensemble of competition cars spanning 80-plus years. Alongside the Abarth award-winning stand, WSM was in the best of company with two cars on separate displays. The MG Car Club advertised the Ecurie GTS race series with the WSM MGB, and WSM Cars LLP had a stand dedicated to the Sanction 2 builds manned by Paul and Richard Woolmer, Andy Garbutt and Lorraine Noble-Thompson. On Saturday Sir Stirling Moss and Murray Walker OBE stopped by to admire WSM 402, and Mick Walsh from Classic & Sportscar and Mike Le Caplain from Classic Car Weekly rocked up to take some details.
Racer Willie Greenrecalled his 2003 Goodwood Revival win on the Fordwater grid in the Alfa TZ2 with the WSM of David Gathercole in ultimately vain pursuit. Ex-BMC competitions boss Stuart Turner sped across the display halls to run his eye over the latest WSM production, while some of the rally cars that were under his command in period were thundering around the stages outside. Perennial racers Barry Sidery-Smith (left) and Anthony Binnington took the opportunity to greet Sanction 2 owner Lorraine N-T in suitable style, and the irrepressible ‘Whizzo’ Williams relayed memories of DW-S together on a four-wheeled hiatus in the 1960’s, while taking in more than one form on the WSM stand in the shape of the lovely Andrea Naish.Amongst the 29,000
visitors, ex-rally co-driver and TV presenter Tony Mason, journalist Andrew Roberts, Midget & Sprite Club’s Gary Lazarus and Sprite racer Jack Wheeler graced us with visits, while WSM owners Brian Arculus, Clive Cocks, Geoff Hill and Ian Hulett, Colmworth Classic Cars proprietor Paul Webb and wife Yvette, Sanction 2 engineer Murray Henderson, Healey competition secretary Joe Cox and David Abecassis, son of the late, illustrious George, were other notables passing by. We were pleased to catch up with Steve Suckling (left) and John
May (right) as their help was instrumental in leading us to the subsequent recovery of the WSM3000. The five year search had began with John’s visit to the Isle of Man in 1998, and the trail ended with Steve’s telephone call in 2003 providing the contact details for Peter Welsh in West Gloucestershire. Other motorsport stars included Tiff Needell, current presenter of Fifth Gear and former Top Gear presenter, ex-BTCC three time Championship winner Win Percy, and Norman Dewis, Jaguar test driver who helped test and develop 25 Jaguar models in his career and is still involved in motorsport today. The level of interest in the Sanction 2 road car was very encouraging, while Dave Saunders on the MGCC stand (left) reckoned he could have sold the WSM MGB many times over – curious spectators enquired if further builds had been or would be produced?
Retro moments.
below, future WSM drivers.?
20 February 2013, Runners And Riders.
The WSM workshops resonate to the sound of restoration and race prep as the WSM3000 strip down continues and a new race season approaches. Toby Milan will be driving the blue WSM 208 for 2013, while Mick Darcey continues to rack up track time with his ex-works MGB GT, and Jonathan Abecassis at the wheel of the Healey 100M begins his third season in the footsteps of grandfather George.
19 February 2013, On The Catwalk.
Owner Lorraine Noble-Thompson reported much interest in the first road-going Sanction 2. Pictured right courtesy of Martin Ingall, the Midget Register stand was a definite attraction throughout the day.
18 February 2013, Showtime.
Ahead of presentation at the MG Spares show at Stoneleigh on Sunday 17th, WSM 402 strutted his stuff for pictures reminiscent of the WSM 201 debut in 1962.
9 February 2013, DWS Flight.
The long awaited debut of the restored Jodel Mascaret G-LDWS took place recently (picture left courtesy of David Moth). The aircraft had not flown since 1976, and was brought to the Isle of Man in 1983 on a trailer. The restoration was frustratingly near completion when DW-S passed away in April 2011, and guidelines for the aircraft sale by the estate executor included finding an owner to complete the build and return with a tribute flight to the IoM once the Certificate of Airworthiness was issued. To quote new owner Mike Howells – “Your Dads Jodel fly’s very well. He made an excellent job of the rebuild and I have flown the aircraft for about 11 hours whilst doing the test flying. Now all the paperwork is with the C.A.A. for the issue of the C of A.”
7 February 2013, Deja Vu.
James Elliott in Classic & Sportscar uncovers the Imperator GTS, a Hillman Imp-based special that Peels fashioned in aluminium for Peter Sheen in 1967. There’s quite a resemblance to the WSM bodies produced by Peels between 1962-66, but only two prototypes are known to have been constructed.
5 February 2013, Your Letters.
February’s edition of the Austin Healey Club journal includes a letter from Bill Vero with memories of racing against WSM in 1963.
4 February 2013, Happy Returns.
With WSM 202 taking her bow in 2012 at WSM50, we begin marking the individual birthdays of the surviving cars with WSM 203. Currently in Japan with Tazunu Kaneko, 203 was the only WSM built entirely at the Swiss Cottage Healey Centre premises in February 1963. After a mould was taken for future production, the car was exported (left) to San Francisco in May for George Snively and Clinton Chichester. Subsequent owners Takayuki Hata and Mazakazu Yahagi have maintained the car in excellent condition and it continues to be raced with historic grids.
18 January 2013, WSM On Show.
Thanks to Mike Parker and the Midget Register, WSM feature at the International MG Show at Stoneleigh on Sunday 17th February. Courtesy of Sanction 2 customer Lorraine Noble-Thompson, the silver GT WSM 402 heads up the Midget Register display – click on the graphic for event details.
17 January 2013, Screen Debut.
Work continues on the WSM3000 and the windscreen, which appears to be the original fitted item in 1965, is carefully removed. Testament to the design and build quality of the aluminium body is the integrity of the door and panel fits after so many years of neglect. In 2003, the first thing Dad did when re-introduced to the car after 37 years was to pull gently on the drivers door handle and open and close the door. After doing the same with the passenger door and the bonnet, he checked the shut lines and turned to me with that gentle smile and twinkle in his eye.
16 January 2013, By Popular Demand.
The WSM Car Club emerges as a result of enquiries from ex-owners and people associated in an assortment of ways with the brand. Even with so much online activity, it became clear further involvement was sought by those keen to strengthen links established, in some cases over 50 years ago, and people with more recent contact. Following WSM50 in September (left), and the Classic Car Show at the NEC in November (right), enquiries prompted research into whether the Club would be a practical addition. It appears this is the case and the membership number, although still an exclusive band, exceeds expectations.
15 January 2013, Arculus Expansion.
The Arculus stable has grown – from Holland, a Lotus IX that ran in the 1955 Goodwood 9 hour race and finished as highest place Lotus in the hands of Tony Page, now sits beside Brian’s Lotus Eleven Le Mans. In passing, Brian mentioned the Testa Rossa in the background that has been an ongoing project for some 15 years. Based on a 330GT but with an original aluminium 250 Testa Rossa body in Giallo Fly and on 16 inch Borrani’s, there’s hope that completion is in sight but both son and wife are hoping to get hands on too. The cars are in good company, as WSM 202 still heads up the collection.
14 January 2013, Jaguar Still.
The only picture I have seen of the XK150 that became the Tow Car in its previous maroon guise was sent by current owner Eugene from Switzerland. Bill Geldeard confirmed it was in the New Forest in 1964 and taken by his girlfriend Sylvia, whom he married two years later. They still both drive XK’s as ex-pats (right).
10 January 2013, Which WSM Will.?
Despite getting quicker in WSM 202 last season, Brian Arculus is enquiring about a lightweight bonnet from WSMCars for the oldest of the known surviving WSM’s. With Ian Hulett removing spinner ears from the already rapid WSM 401, I’ll be curious to see what measures Clive Cocks with WSM 210 comes up with and whether he follows the Paul Woolmer diet? It may be that Rae Davis is slowed by the extra weight of white paint that’s due to replace what went missing from the back of WSM 207 during the 2010 Goodwood Revival startline hiatus, but I won’t count on it.
9 January 2013, Savile Row.
Not a reference to the late and disgraced TV presenter, but as with bespoke tailoring, so the Sanction 2 is measured up and minor adjustments made where appropriate – such a shame we could’nt get Geoff Hill in person and had to resort to a crash test dummy for WSM 405.?
8 January 2013, Three Legs On Mann.
Entries are looking strong for the forthcoming Manx Classic 25th/26th/27th April. In particular Class 2a featuring pre-1968 cars up to 1500cc may prove to be the most competitive yet, with several AH Sprite’s making their debut from the adjacent Island and looking to usurp the home based WSM. The popularity is hardly surprising given the Governor’s Sprint in Douglas, Sloc hillclimb in the South and mammoth Lhergy Frissell hillclimb in the North make for a challenging threesome that comes with the added attraction of Manx countryside and a warm welcome.
7 January 2013, Show Debut 22nd-24th February.
Following a first WSM appearance at the NEC Classic Car Show in November last year, MGCC Director Dave Saunders has asked for the WSM MGB to be displayed at the popular Race Retro event at Stoneleigh Park in February. In 2011 28,500 people attended Europe’s premier historic motorsport show, and this year Sir Stirling Moss and Murray Walker OBE star alongside the featured marques Team Lotus and Alpine.
6 January 2013, .
Work has started on the WSM3000 restoration this week at WSM Cars, while the WSM MGB is looking at an early 2013 test session to blow the winter blues away.
4 January 2013, .
It seems most race and series organisers involved in the Historic arena experienced a good 2012, and judging by recently published itineraries, expect 2013 to be as successful. ‘Equipe’ GTS under the AMOC banner continue to thrive under Duncan Wilshire’s guidance, and a change to Dunlop tyres for the MGCC ‘Ecurie’ GTS series is a positive move. The HRDC, which featured WSM’s on the Grand Touring Greats grids for the opening two seasons, have amalgamated the MGB50 entries with tin tops and GTG to form a new ‘Allstars’ ensemble, and with the Classic Sports Car Club wielding the impressive ‘Swinging Sixties’ and ‘Classic K’ grids, there’s plenty of opportunity for WSM’s to get an airing.
Race news
Date
Events Calendar 2013
WSM Cars
Qualify
Grid
Result
6th April
AMOC Equipe Silverstone National 30 min
MGB
5th
30
7th
7th April
MGCC Ecurie Donington Park 45 min
MGB
10th
29
14th
21st April
VSCC HRDC All Stars Silverstone National 30 min
401 / MGB
7th / 13th
26
4th / dnf
25/27th April
MMRC Manx Classic Three Hills
208 / 210
c 4th/6th/2nd
4/5th May
MGCC Ecurie Brands Hatch Indy 2 x 30 min
MGB
26th
31
14th / dnf
11th May
AMOC Equipe Oulton Park 30 min
MGB
6th
38
7th
15/16th June
MGCC Ecurie Silverstone GP MGLive 2 x 30 min
MGB
29th
51
dnf / 23rd
6th July
AMOC Equipe Brands Indy 30 min
MGB
17th
33
8th
6th July
HRDC Allstars Brands Hatch 30 min
401
16th
31
dnf
1st Sep
HRDC Allstars Donington 30 min
MGB
10th
30
dns
7th Sep
MGCC Ecurie Oulton Park 40 min
208
24th
24
dnf
22nd Sep
FISC Circuit des Remparts
210 / 401
8th / 6th
15
7th / 4th
28th Sep
AMOC Equipe Snetterton 300 30 min
208
18th
21
10th
28 September 2013, WSM Basking With ‘Equipe’ GTS.
Wall to wall sunshine on three consecutive occasions now, and the closing event for the AMOC-based pre 66 sports and GT cars season was a 30 minute race on the Snetterton 300 circuit, the Norfolk venue infamous for less clement weather –
Q – John Andon and Pete Foster finished off the season just as they started at Silverstone in April – almost inseparable at the top of the standings and leaving the MGB cohorts in their wake. A failed water pump gasket relegated WSM 208 to 18th.
R – Andon’s start was solid enough to keep any Foster surprises at bay, but 8th qualifier Gordon Elwell’s Spritely appearance in Andon’s orbit at the first corners did startle the TR4 pilot. The MGB’s of Peter Edney, John Yea and Will Linley restored normal order on lap 2, but Elwell appeared to have the measure of Linley when the MGB expired in the pits after 6 laps. Andon clinched another mighty tussle with ex-airline pilot Foster, while Edney completed a lonely vigil in third. WSM 208 made a reasonable getaway, but after Andrew Mitchell’s lap 2 demise in the Alfa Giulia Sprint, it was a solitary run to 10th.
Pit & Paddock
Elwell met up unexpectedly with Tony Shaw (right) who sold ‘MEG’ to him in the 1960’s. A ‘thankyou’ to both gentlemen as they helped fix a problem with the WSM Sprite that had curtailed practice.
A double take as I saw in profile what transpired to be a JWF Italia – circa nine made of fibreglass in Australia and based on Healey 100’s. Owner Daniel Wood has competed with the HSCC, and today the AMOC ’50s Sports Car grid. Drum brakes and a heavy fibreglass body conspired against success in Maserati and Lister company.
Click on for results, courtesy of TSL Timing
22 September 2013, FISC at Angouleme.
Upbeat comment from WSM racers Ian Hulett and Clive Cocks after the Circuit des Remparts – high temperatures, good racing, big crowds, and a breathaliser before events summed up an entertaining week-end. A mixed bag of rivals on the FISC grid included Caterhams, Lotus Elan and Europa, Marcos, MGB’s and Morgan’s, and for the Sprite’s a 5.3 diff was the one to have for the twisty and narrow street course 25 minute races. Brakes took a caning, and Paul Freeman in the Alexander Sprite is quoted as saying ‘Its not for the feint hearted!’ Hulett’s 4th earned a spot on the final grid of the day for the top four from a variety of other sports car grids. The Alexander Sprite suffered overheating, much as spectators did who had to be attended to by ambulance.
pictures courtesy of Paul Webb, Ian Hulett and Paul Freeman, including the one of Michelle Obama incognito.
7 September 2013, MGCC Oulton Park.
The trek North for some was rewarded by fair weather and virtually none of the forecast downpours – Ecurie GTS practice saw Scott Quattlebaum nearly a second clear of Rod Begbie’s TVR Grantura, but WSM fortunes got no better as a misfire dogged 208 and a back row start in 24th.
Race – Quattlebaum’s Elva Courier was dominant for 40 minutes, especially after Begbie’s TVR on lap 2, the Halstead/McPherson Turner on lap 11 and Pete Foster’s TR4 on lap 12 dropped out, while MGB-shod Will Linley suffered a 10s jump start penalty and a dnf. The WSM got up to 15th after five laps before timing gremlins gradually cut power, leaving MGB playmate David Russell-Wilks clear for a 10th place finish.
Pit & Paddock
Appreciation and thanks to Alan Cameron who diagnosed his Class rival’s problem.
John Pearson generously offered Graham Bates’ spare hotel bed to AW-S.
Bates suggested AW-S could make other sleeping arrangements.
Ex-airline, now TR pilot Pete Foster boning up pre race.
Next race Snetterton ‘Equipe’ GTS Saturday 28th September (300 circuit)
1 September 2013, Donington SuperStars.
The HRDC Allstars grid enjoyed a high profile Sunday alongside some illustrious names in more modern motorsport – three ex-F1 drivers and BTCC and WTCC winners amongst the 500bhp V8 Touring cars. The Allstars grid attracted a healthy 30 entrants to the GP circuit for a 30 minute race, and practice was headed by the TVR Griffith of Mike Whitaker. Getting the WSM amongst a top-ten that included AC Cobra, E-Type, Marcos 1800 and Mustang was promising, but a smoke-filled cockpit at the end of practice and subsequent diagnosis revealed terminal engine failure.
Whitaker strolled to a comfortable win, but only after the Cobra of Michael Squire initially led. Pictured left, as usual 402 getting the attention while in the background investigation underway on the WSM MGB.
6 July 2013, Aston Ton Up at Brands Hatch.
The WSM MGB and WSM 401 joined the Aston Martin Centenary event at a packed Kent circuit, but their fortunes were diverse. A lacklustre 16th practice time on the HRDC Allstars grid for Ian Hulett was subsequently attributed to an electrics glitch, while the WSM MGB never found the sweet spot amongst the ‘Equipe’ GTS traffic in 17th where Peter Barnard set pole at 58.8s in his rapid Elva Courier – the next 17 places were covered by just one second on the 33 strong grid.
Race 1 (HRDC) – Huletts pace took him up to 10th amongst a morning grid where TVR Griffiths, Marcos and AC Cobra dominated, but engine failure after 17 laps saw the usually reliable WSM parked up.
Race 3 (Equipe) – John Andon and Pete Foster took the fight to polesitter Barnard, and the WSM leapt up to 8th and scrapped with the John Pearson MGB until the race was red flagged to recover cars scattered in various hot spots. The re-
start saw the WSM jump to 3rd until the straight line speed of William Plant’s Morgan Plus 4 and Dominic Spicer’s TR4 told, and the scrap with Colin Elstrop’s TVR Grantura for 4th was gloves off and filmed from on-board camera’s until Elstrop’s racecraft found a gap. Mugged on the last lap as Mark Hoble’s Morgan Plus 4 squeezed the WSM for 6th, eighth place was subsequently disappointing as the Pearson MGB outstripped the WSM on the last lap. Foster triumphed by a nose from Barnard and Plant at the flag after Andon retired with overheating.
Pit & Paddock
Woolmer Classic Engineering ran Aston Martin, Healey 100 and WSM
Exploring the GP circuit was an evening ‘must do’ for the children
The classic Brands shot
Photographs courtesy of Noel O’Reilly
Kelvin Martin’s Aston Martin Speed losing some at Paddock in the Pre-War team Challenge
Click on for results courtesy of TSL Timing
Next races September 1st HRDC ‘Allstars’ at Donington, September 7th ‘Ecurie’ GTS Oulton Park
16 June 2013, WSM at Spa Francorchamps.
Ian Hulett flew the WSM flag at what many believe to be motorsport’s best track –
‘The grid consisted of three race series – FISC, Trophee Maxi 1000 and Asave challenge – a total of 49 cars. Chris Dear bought his Mk 1 Midget over for the race, blew up his tow van close to the circuit, then blew his Sprite up in practice. He was unable to recover his spare engine until after the first race and got it fitted in time for the second, but then a recovery truck came to take his tow car and trailer back to the UK before the start of the second race and would not wait!
There was a varied FISC entry totalling 15 cars but Pieter Bakkers Sprite broke its engine in testing and took no further part. I ran the WSM on A48R tyres on alloy wheels for the first time. Practice was on Saturday evening and I managed a 3:05, the car being fast down the straights but a handful on the quicker corners.
On the rolling start I was behind Paul Castaldini’s Jaguar lightweight which broke a drive shaft on the way to La Source and slowed our side of the grid, resulting in a few lost places, so the focus for the rest of the race was trying to make those up. There was a lot of oil down which precluded fast laps and the race was stopped ten minutes short when a Porsche spun and caught fire at Eau Rouge. The WSM finished 3rd in FISC, 14th overall.
Second race was last in the programme on Sunday, starting in the finishing order from race one. I got a much better start and
chased down two of the Lotus Sevens in the FISC race. With the demise of the Morgan that won the first FISC race (clashed with a Mini on the first lap) it meant I finished 1st of the FISC cars and 6th overall. There were separate podiums for each race so I got the flowers, champagne, a cup and the national anthem! ‘
15 June 2013, ‘Ecurie’ Double Header at Silverstone.
The curates egg was hatched again as varied fortunes befell WSM and compadres. The MGLive annual jamboree lived up to previous efficient organisation, and the marshalls, guides and helpers were typically good humoured and welcoming. The weather was not so reliable, and both days were tainted with regular and sometimes strong rain.
Practice – the largest grid of the week-end with 51 cars saw the Elva Courier of Scott Quattlebaum set an astonishing pole in the dry almost a second clear of the MGB’s of James Cottingham and Brian Lambert. Previous pace setters such as Pete Foster and Malcolm Gammons were adrift by another couple of seconds, while the yardstick MGB driver Tom Smith suffered head gasket problems and would only start from 43rd position.
Race 1 – A battle royal as Robi Bernberg’s TVR Grantura took the lead from 4th spot on lap one, but Cottingham wriggled past on lap two. Quattlebaum found his qualifying form and headed from lap 3, but Gammons was closing, while Cottingham seized an opportunity on lap 7 to lead the squabble once again. Gammons pounced and took the spotlight on lap 9, but Quattlebaum settled matters with a blistering 2.37s on lap 11 which kept him clear of the hounding MGB’s where Gammons was fending off Cottingham. Smith battled up to 6th place, and debutant Richard Woolmer in the Sebring Coupe delighted family spectators with a mature drive to 19th. The WSM MGB was nerfed off on the last lap by an errant MGB for a dnf, but unusually amongst the ‘Ecurie’ grid, was not alone in receiving panel damage.
Race 2 – An unfortunate start line accident took out the Le Mans Triumph Spitfire of Alastair Pugh and the Spitfire of Jeff Handley, but both drivers were ok and a safety car period allowed the track to be cleared. On mixed track conditions, the outstanding talents of Smith from 6th were always going to shine if the car proved reliable. Quattlebaum found the going trickier, while again Gammons and Cottingham, skilful as ever, acknowledged the Master of the MGB racing universe is still the MG Motorsport-shod Tom Smith. The WSM MGB completed a comfortable midfield race and settled the previous days outstanding score, while Woolmer again impressed by climbing to 6th before a misunderstanding at Copse left him last lap gravel trapped.
Pit & Paddock
Oxfordshire resident and ex-WSM owner Mike White supported the brand again
Friend and aviator Chris Parker is recovering well from a nasty fall, and attended MGLive as in previous years
The lovely Brabham Sprite of Paul Webb
Paul and Malcolm deliberate over Mick Darcey’s MGB GT
Woolmer Classic Engineering had a successful week-end
Mick Darcey and Sharon Woolmer in cahoots by Healey 100S of David Large
Jonathan Abecassis won the FISCAR Historique Intermarque
Click on for results courtesy of TSL Timing
Next races July 6th/7th Brands Hatch AMOC Centenary on Indy and GP circuits
11 May 2013, ‘Equipe’ GTS at AMOC Oulton Park.
The vagaries of British weather truly materialised as practice got underway, and less than half the session was of any practical guidance as rain and oil hampered times. The combined 50’s Sports Cars/Equipe qualifying left Will Linley’s MGB on pole, well ahead of the TR4’s of Pete Foster and Martin Brewer, with the WSM and Mark Hoble’s Morgan Plus 4 tied up in 4th and 5th. Foster and Linley were hammer and tongs off the start on a dry track, with the WSM getting the jump on Brewer and a puzzling Aston Martin DB2 addition that had apparently practiced out of session and started 4th. Linleys MGB failed after 5 laps leaving Foster relatively comfortable, but aware that a charging John Andon was threatening. Hoble and Andon headed the WSM through City Hall approaching Druids, but oil on Island bend caught out the WSM on the next lap and dropped to 7th. Hail and rain then complicated Andon’s attack and Foster eased to victory, with Hoble deservedly taking the remaining podium spot.
Pit & Paddock
India Clegg continued her quest for an International licence for the 2013 Le Mans Legends and safely negotiated another signature in the Sebring Sprite S 221. After qualifying problems, Brian Arculus finished 4th with his Lotus Elite (Allstars grid), and 6th in the Hillman Minx (Touring Greats).
Click on for Autosport report Click on for results, courtesy of TSL Timing
Next race ‘Ecurie’ GTS at MGLive Silverstone 15th/16th June
4 May 2013, ‘Ecurie’ GTS at MGCC Brands Hatch.
There’s not many better venues when the sun is shining than the Kent amphitheatre – an involving circuit wrapped in green countryside with great spectating – so no surprise when the MG Spring race meeting paddock appeared full to capacity. The TVR Grantura of Rod Begbie topped practice (58.225s) by a fraction from MGB hotshoe Tom Smith, and indicative of the competitive nature of the grid, only in 22nd place did times reach 62s.
Race 1 30 mins – Smith got the jump and lead until pole man Begbie seized on an opportunity on lap 11. It was’nt to last as unlucky 13th lap for Begbie saw Smith dive pass. The fight never went out of the TVR pilote and twice he nosed ahead, only for Smith to reassert and keep less than a second in his pocket to the chequered. John Andon (TR4) doggedly fended off a charging Malcolm Gammons (MGB), who had missed practice and started from the back, until the Triumph defences were spent 3 laps from home – Gammons received Driver of The Day for 3rd place. The WSM MGB misbehaved in practice and qualified 26th, but slightly redeemed herself with a run to 14th.
Race 2 30 mins – Smith had an easier time following Begbie’s demise on lap 9, and even Gammons could’nt match the MG Motorsport ace. The TVR flag still flew with Robi Bernberg putting his Grantura on the podium, a task achieved with the help of Andon’s retirement 6 laps out. Picture right courtesy of Dennis Wharf.
Pit & Paddock
Author John Baggott paid a welcome visit.
Jonathan Abecassis (Healey 100M) joined the FISCAR grid.
WSM 202 owner Brian Arculus won the 50’s Sports Car race from pole in his Lotus Elite
Next race ‘Equipe’ GTS at Oulton Park AMOC meeting Saturday 11th May
25 April 2013, Spritely Manx Classic.
An invasion of various Sprites and Midgets from the ‘adjacent island’ filled Class 2a, and 87 entries overall was an increase for the third year running. Sunshine, rain and snow during the three events did’nt prevent a raft of course records, and the organising Manx Motor Racing Club deserve the proverbial pat on the back – the efficiency and friendliness were second to none, and Lhergy Frissell remains the ultimate hill climb challenge. Click on for results.
JAmerican John Gross brought his Elva Courier
Young fan Elle Brannan would like to have kept the WSM
Lovely local resident Mrs Jones brought out tea and coffee in Ramsey
‘Mustang’ Elle’s second favourite car
Nick Barnes aka Nick The Blaster with Lenham Le Mans Coupe
Photographs courtesy of Paul Webb and Martin Brannan
23 April 2013, Silverstone All Starred.
The Vintage Sports-Car Club ‘Spring Start’ event was for the first time a two day event, and the GP Italia Trophy race meeting also celebrated the race career of George Abecassis. A stellar line up of racing machinery within the paddocks and garages was supplimented by a Bonhams display of forthcoming auction items, amongst which was a one-off Bertone modelled Aston Martin DB4GT ‘Jet’ expected to attract above £2.8m. The George Abecassis Centenary Trophy drew cars which George raced, and competed against in the period 1938-56, and included grandson Jonathan driving a Healey 100/4 (right).
15 minute practice saw thirty-six cars on the HRDC Allstars entry, and with a certain inevitability the 7 litre Ford Galaxie 500 of Bill Shepherd topped the times, but encouragingly close behind were the Wolfgang Friedrichs Aston Martin Project 214 and Milano GT of Jarrah Venables, while even Anthony Reid’s talents could’nt close the 1.5s gap in the 4th placed Jaguar Mk 2. WSM’s had’nt set the world on fire in 7th and 13th, and Ian Hulett agreed much finger pulling was in order for the race.
The Motors TV camera car was in 9th-qualifier Jo Allenby-Byrne’s Mk 1 Ford Cortina, and caught a lot of Hulett performing his digit extracting. After Reid exited with mechanicals, and Venables pulled over with a trailing exhaust, the Mini Jem of Rae Davis was left defending third place from the improving WSM and less than a second separated the two at the line. Shepherd and Friedrichs had long since scarpered and Huletts progress was regularly monitored by camera crews. The WSM MGB had improved from 13th until a fuel pressure failure curtailed the run after 12 laps.
Pit & Paddock
Ex-WSM MGB owner Tony Bianchi in the 6.4 litre Farrellac Allard went well in the 50’s Sports & Sports Racing Cars grid.
Brian Arculus (WSM 202) had the Lotus Elite let him down prior to qualifying with the Allstars grid.
Jim Lowry of Equipe GTS fame and ex-WSM owner was on scrutineering duties.
Most One Sided On Track Dispute – Ford Galaxie v Harry The Hare.
Woolmer Classic Engineering made an impressive debut with race support for six cars.
Journalist Simon Taylor joined the gang.
11pm tonight (23rd) Motors TV present coverage of the entire Silverstone meeting
Next race Brands Hatch 4th/5th May MGCC meeting with Ecurie GTS grid
6 April 2013, AMOC Resurrection.
Following last season’s lacklustre performance during MGB 50 races, the WSM MGB celebrated a late Easter and came back to life at Silverstone on Saturday – the Aston Martin Owners Club Equipe ‘GTS’ grid of mostly 1960’s sports cars numbered a healthy thirty entries for the 30 minute National circuit thrash, and the WSM qualified 5th.
Race – John Andon and Pete Foster continued their struggle for TR4 supremacy in entertaining style, and newcomer Peter Tognola in a Porsche 911 completed the podium places after third place qualifier Ron Cody’s MGA spun. Foster outfumbled long time leader Andon briefly through traffic but a last lap dive inside was enough for Andon to take the spoils. The WSM was 7th, and encouragingly for the next day’s enduro at Donington, scored its fastest lap at the death.
Sundays MGCC meeting at Donington included the Ecurie ‘GTS’ spin-off from Equipe last season, and another 30-strong grid with only four entries from the previous days Equipe Silverstone entry signified a strong start to the season for both series. The spoke in the wheel for some was the Ecurie rule change to Dunlop tyres, chucking up the biggest surprise when Andon qualified in 20th and the WSM 10th. Rod Begbie (TVR Grantura) set pole by the relatively large margin of one second from the MGB of Malcolm Gammons, with Brian Lambert (MGB) and Foster close by – Rob Cull’s TVR Grantura rear spring changes were’nt proving a hit and Rob was regretting leaving the original known quantities on the home workbench.
Begbie stayed comfortably at the front, but retirement after 7 laps of the race for Gammons left Lambert second, and Foster picking up another podium for the week-end. Andon got to grips with the Dunlop vagaries and scrapped to 4th, while the WSM came off at Coppice in a major gravel excursion to finish 14th but at least with 10th fastest lap. Cull’s lightening start helped him to 6th and reserved judgement on the new springs.
Transpires the bloke in the Elva Courier (left) next to the WSM camp in the Donington paddock is coming to the Manx Classic as well – American John Gross was in our mirrors on Saturday at Silverstone, so he won’t just be making up the numbers.
Below, always good to see the interest WSM’s attract – three new fans made all the right noises with the biggest smiles.
Thanks to ex-WSM racer Mike White and wife Annabelle for hospitality on Friday, and wishing a quick recovery for WSM 401 owner Ian Hulett in time for his season opener on the 21st with WSM 401. WSM 202 owner Brian Arculus was a busy bee – 6th in the HRDC Touring Greats with his Hillman Minx, and 11th in the 50’s Sports Cars race in the recently acquired Lotus 1X.
Photograph courtesy of Dickon Siddall
Click on for Silverstone results
Click on for Donington results. Thanks to Lorraine Noble-Thompson for the snaps
Next race – WSM’s 401 and MGB on Sunday 21st April Silverstone HRDC Allstars grid at VSCC meeting
9 March 2013, Sods Law.
After weeks of dry weather, WSM 208 and the WSM MGB were scheduled at Rockingham for a shake down yesterday. Although 208 in the hands of Toby Milan completed some helpful sessions in the morning, it was so wet that useful comparisons against last years testing for Ian Hulett in the MGB in the afternoon were meaningless.
21 January 2013, Brands Hatch Plan.
Rare are the opportunities to race on the Grand Prix circuit in Kent, but the Aston Martin Centenary event on July 6th/7th offers just that – Indy circuit is in use on Saturday and GP circuit on Sunday – so WSM entries with ‘Equipe’ GTS will have a race on each day.
10 January 2013, .
Favourite to break the off-season blues are ‘Equipe’ GTS at Silverstone 6th April, and Donnington with ‘Ecurie’ GTS the day after, while inked in is MGLive at Silverstone June 15th/16th. Early doors at present but at least one of the five WSM Spridgets and the one WSM MGB are earmarked with entries.
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