Hill Views

Sir,

l am researching for a book about the Great Auclum speed hill climb near Reading which took place in 1939 and between 1947 and 1974. The aim of this project is to capture for all time the story of Great Auclum, so that long after the last remnants of the track have been dug up there will be a testament to this shortest of speed hillclimbs. In doing this, I hope to unearth stories and information about the less well-documented years of speed hillclimbing and offer an addition to the few books dealing with this branch of motorsport.

I have gaps and discrepancies in the information I have gathered and I also require more detailed information that will enable me to piece together an authoritative account of this unique event which passed into history almost unnoticed. Specifically, I need more information about results, times, competitors, event reports, and photographs, as well as anecdotes and reminiscences. I am having particular trouble gathering information about the first event in 1939 and the post-war years 1947 to 1958.

I have already contacted a number of well-known competitors and I have been encouraged by the positive response I have received. I have also enlisted the help and support of Denis Jenkinson who was a marshal at Great Auclum, his local hill. I would be most grateful for any help that MOTOR SPORT readers may be able to offer.

Stephen Lovegrove, Crowthorne, Berkshire.