Words:- Leanne Fahy

Photos:- whatnonegatives.com

The weekend of 7th and 8th August brought the masses to Croft as our Nostalgia Weekend got into full swing. Celebrating four decades, the on and off track displays included something for everyone, with people of all ages enjoying the sights.

Photo by whatnonegatives.com

On track we had the pleasure of seeing and hearing some spectacular machines from single-seaters and tin top racing from between the 1940’s and 1970’s. Standing in the assembly area as the field for each series was gathered before going out on track, all attentions switched to the array or machinery being lined up. One particular car that absorbed a great deal of focus was the distinctive blue Gurney Eagle Formula 5000 monster that sounded as powerful as it looked.

photo by whatnonegatives.com

As well as the Formula 5000 collective, Formula 2 cars, various classes of Historic Formula Fords and historic touring cars graced the Croft tarmac, as they put on a spectacular display. The touring and sports cars series’ featured a grand mixture of racing cars, with traditional Mini Cooper S models going head to head with Mustangs and the like. Differing weather conditions throughout the day created more excitement on track, with sunshine and drizzle keep everyone on their toes. Despite now being ‘historic’ it was easy to see why these cars were the top cars of their day.

photo by whatnonegatives.com

Elsewhere, there were army tanks, aeroplanes and clothing stands to give the spectators a real taste of what life was like ‘back in the day’. In true Croft spirit there was no hesitation in joining in the fun, when a number of exhibitors spent the day wearing the clothes of their era and beyond.

photo by whatnonegatives.com

From speaking to spectators, competitors and marshals the day proved to be a success, with many people hoping for it to become an annual event. Together, Croft Circuit and the Historic Sports Car Club (HSCC) put on an event to be proud of. A trip down memory lane was the ideal occasion to bring the history of Croft and motor racing to life.

A video taken during the weekend, kindy supplied by Anthony Dunn and Amanda Whitaker can be viewed below:-