On 15th February, a group of intrepid explorers set out on Brooklands Museum Renowned Torchlight Tour. Not only did we come across motor racing cars and airplanes, but also tales of a ghost or two! Brooklands has a rich historical past, starting with the construction of the world's first purpose-built motor racing circuit. There was a ceremonial opening of the Motor Course in June 1907, consequently meaning that in June this year, Brooklands will be celebrating its 110th anniversary.
The groups gathered for a hearty vegetable soup and warm bread roll to warm us up for the adventure ahead. Our tour commenced in the Vimy Pavilion, where we found a replica of the Vickers Vimy. This was designed as a long-range bomber, capable of delivering a one ton payload to central Germany in the First World War. However, deliveries to the RAF began in October 1918, too late for the First World War. Yet, in June 1919 the Vickers Vimy secured its place in history by becoming the first non-stop transatlantic flight. This replica ceased flying in 2009, following an array of aviation occasions, such as Farnborough Airshow.
Test Hill was constructed in 1909, to encourage the testing of motor cars. Our group made the strenuous trek up the sheer slope, and eventually we reached the top. On such a clear night, we could see the glowing lights of Brooklands and all around. Sandy, our tour guide, told us that in 1932, R.G.J Nash set the all-time car record for Test Hill at a speedy 7.45 seconds! Nonetheless, ‘The Terror’ flew around 40 feet before eventually landing.
Sandy exclaimed that in February 1913, the fearless Brooklands racing driver, Percy Lambert, achieved 103.84 mph. Unfortunately, while trying to improve his own record a few months later, after promising his fiancée that he would attempt no more, he crashed and was killed on the track.
“At the torchlight tour in December 2016, two people told of a sighting of a man in full racing clothing, who perfectly fitted the description of Percy. This certainly hasn’t been the only sighting of Percy! So, the spirit of Percy Lambert is still well and truly alive today!” Sandy declared.
Our tour was informed that with the outbreak of World War Two, the aerodrome was demanded by the Government and devoted to the production of Vickers and Hawker aircraft, including Hurricane fighters and Wellington bombers. When the war ended, everybody hoped of the track’s eventual recovery but the anticipated costs were too high, especially seeming as German bombs had exploded on various parts of the racetrack. Consequently, motor racing at Brooklands was gradually discontinued.
A member of our tour said “Brooklands is an historical gem, which is well worth exploring! The darkness makes the tour even more electrifying!”
The Torchlight Tour was an insightful experience into the history of Brooklands Museum. Sandy took us through the years, as the notorious museum looks to celebrating its 110th anniversary in June. Ensure that you watch out for upcoming torchlight tours, as it is an opportunity not to be missed!
By James Stonehouse, St George's College Weybridge
