Hawthorn

In offering our sincere condolences to Hawthorn on the loss of his father, which expression of sympathy will be endorsed by every one of our readers, we have to record that our leading G.P. driver is having a raw deal from his country. Apart from the question of whether or not he is more useful to Britain in a racing car than in on Army truck or trainer aircraft, the Farnham, Surrey, police serve summonses for old driving offences on Mike a few hours before he was due to attend his father’s funeral and, as if his fearful experience in and injuries resulting from the accident in a blazing Ferrari at Syracuse are not enough for the time being, Hawthorn is to be medically examined for call-up at the earliest opportunity.

When Britain has no first-line racing drivers we lament; when we achieve one we treat him in a manner which even hard-boiled John Cordon, of the Sunday Express, who was amongst those who criticised Hawthorn for evading call-up, declares is something of which British citizens should he ashamed. Never mind, Mike, whatever the future holds in store, you have the support of tens of thousands of enthusiasts, who wish you well.

The Volkswagen Owners’ Club are holding a treasure hunt, starting at the Talbot Hotel, Ripley, Surrey, at 11 a.m., on Sunday, July 4th. No entrance fee to members; other Volkswagen owners, entrance fee 5s. Information from 30, Foscote Road, Hendon, N.W.4.