FEATURE inaugural Summer Run was geared for an intimate and enthusiastic gathering of veteran cars – all dating back to the start of the previous century . These gathered on the clubhouse ’ s Cedar Lawn in readiness to embark on a bespoke 40-mile route .
‘ The Royal Automobile Club has always been at the forefront of innovation and continues to be so with the launch of this inaugural Summer Run for veteran cars .’
Snapshots from a great day . Below : Philip Oldman – pictured with Ben Cussons – winning winning the Chairman ’ s Choice award ; right : the heritage fleet ’ s Morris patrol van ; far right , bottom : Sarah Marsh ’ s De Dion is greeted by the locals .
Among the pioneering machines glistening in the morning sunshine at Woodcote Park were revered names from the dawn of motoring such as Daimler , De Dion-Bouton and Napier , as well as less familiar , long-gone marques such as Argyll , Clement , Dennis and Swift .
Flagged away from 10:30am , the cavalcade passed through the rolling North Downs and picture-postcard villages of the Mole Valley towards a leisurely lunch stop in the tranquil Surrey countryside , before returning to Woodcote Park for afternoon tea and a casual concours plus awards on the Cedar Lawn .
‘ What a marvellous occasion … and hopefully the first of many ,’ enthused Ben Cussons , Chairman of the Royal Automobile Club , who took part driving the Club ’ s 1901 Mors .
‘ The Royal Automobile Club has always been at the forefront of innovation and continues to be so with the launch of this inaugural Summer Run for veteran cars . We were blessed with beautiful weather and enjoyed a fabulous route through the gloriously sunny countryside on largely traffic-free roads . All the participants were impressed with the professionalism of the organisation as well as the relaxed friendly style of the event .
‘ While driving these remarkable veteran cars in November always reminds us just how intrepid and spirited those early motorists were , I ’ ve got to say it was a real pleasure to be swapping our scarves and goggles for short sleeves and sunglasses on the Summer Run , which certainly lived up to its billing . Also , the longer daytime hours – plus the serenity of Woodcote Park – encouraged all those taking part to enjoy the convivial company of others sharing similar passions .’ -
26 The London to Brighton Veteran Car Run