Silverstone was also the venue for a massive Jaguar E-Type birthday party. Highlight of the weekend for many was the sight of some 800 E-Types driving around the 3.6-mile Grand Prix circuit en masse in an attempt to set a new record for the Guinness Book of Records. There were at least 1000 of these iconic cars present on the weekend, with 52 of them taking part in two special races for them alone.
Jaguars of every other model were also on display, with over 8000 other classic cars from 120 car clubs jamming every inch of Silverstone ground. E-Types featured in the inaugural major auction for Silverstone Auctions on Saturday, which included the E-Type previously owned by Lofty England, the much-revered Jaguar competition mastermind.
More than 1000 race entries meant that the circuit was buzzing for each of the three days, with evening races a major feature—in rare English good weather—in addition to the attraction of special exhibitions and attractions. The British Historic Kart Club was on hand to demonstrate early racing karts, and Lake Speed Jr. was present to drive a Birel as his father had done in winning the World Championship.
By Ed McDonough
