London to Brighton Run Centenary

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London to Brighton Run Centenary, by Malcolm Jeal. Malcolm Jeal, 53 Oak Lane, Easterton, Devizes, Wilts SN10 4PD, £21.

What a fine idea, what fun! To commemorate the centenary of the now world-famous RAC Veteran Car Run, with which the VCC of GB is so closely associated, Malcolm Jeal has edited this enjoyable book. It is a serious recall of pioneer motoring history in this country, as well as being fun. It is devoted mainly to those “Emancipation Runs” , the first “modern” re-enactment taking place in 1927. Jeal himself, as a highly respected historian, has made valuable contributions of his own. Other writers deal with topics like how veteran cars are still found, the 1927 Run, cars made along the original Brighton Run route, how to buy a veteran, and of course a chapter on the Veteran Car Club itself. All by experts, so of much value plus the 1896 Run properly explained by Michael Ware, to dispose of much rubbish and speculation.

I have written seven pages on “Brighton Runs I Remember”. Why do printers transpose pictures? Not serious in this case, but in the text it was Martin, not Matin, who averaged 25.58mph on a Mercedes 60 in the 1930 Run, when the RAC was not averse to speed certificates. Finally, and very clever, Mr Toad (guess who) tells of the veterans he has owned. That should explain the purpose of Jeal’s book, and how much enjoyment and information it provides. For goodness sake, if you like old cars, do not miss a copy. WB.