Bicester Heritage threw open the gates to its historical site on June 5th and 6th to host its first public event of 2021. In a stunning return to form, the weekend extravaganza of historic motoring saw up to 4000 guests per day visit the site of the former RAF Bicester, united by a love of cars.
The first Scramble in 18 months saw visitors enjoy an incredible selection of delights. From priceless racing cars to cult classics and the just plain quirky, the 22nd Scramble covered the 20-acre pre-WWII RAF Technical Site at Bicester Heritage to recapture the unique atmosphere that makes the gatherings so special.
Many new on-site specialists, The Little Car Company, Electrogenic, Howden Insurance, Morgan Motor Company, Singer Vehicle Design, and Sky Wave Gin put on a show for guests, as did the event partners, Hagerty UK, Bremont, StarterMotor and Motorsport UK.
Blower Bentley and ‘Birkin’ boys united
Historic racing fans were treated to a special celebration on the event’s loop lawn, with two fantastic cars and the family of a legendary racing driver. An original Blower Bentley, Team Car No.2., was presented by Bentley Motors Limited. Acknowledged as the most famous, and most valuable, Bentley in existence, UU 5872 was campaigned by Sir Henry Ralph Stanley ‘Tim’ Birkin and competed in a number of high-profile races, including the 1930 24 Hours of Le Mans.
Joining the famous Blower on the Saturday were relatives of Bentley Boy ‘Tim’ Birkin, including his grandson and great grandson, who visited the event with their own 1927 3/4.5 litre Bentley. Understood to be the first time that the two cars have ever been brought together, the occasion served as a touching tribute to a fabled era of motorsport.
Scramblers assemble
The new Bicester Heritage Members Club ‘Scramblers’ was also launched over the weekend, giving members access to curated media, advanced tickets and exclusive themed events.
Born from the success of the eponymous events, Scramblers enjoy stories about car culture through the lens of the on-site specialists as they build and support the future for historic motoring.
Enthusiasts can register to join for free membership at wearescramblers.com
A bigger and better Bicester Heritage
The June Scramble allowed guests to see The Command Works, the historic site’s eight new buildings built due to demand for space at Bicester Heritage.
Totaling 77,000-sq.ft of business accommodation, the new facilities have been constructed sympathetically and in-keeping with their Grade II-listed surroundings and are part of the site’s expansion and plans to cement Bicester Heritage as a center of excellence.
Details of future Scramble events this year will be announced shortly. For more information visit www.bicesterheritage.co.uk
