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British Rail Class 430 4-REP No. 3003 was one of fifteen exceptionally powerful electric multiple units built for the Southern Region's Bournemouth electrification scheme. Entering service in 1967, the 4-REPs were designed specifically to provide the electric traction required for fast and semi-fast services between London Waterloo and Bournemouth, while also hauling unpowered 4-TC trailer units onwards to places beyond the electrified section.
The units were unusual in several respects. Each 4-REP contained two newly built driving motor cars, while the two intermediate vehicles were converted from existing Mk.1 locomotive-hauled stock. The resulting four-car unit had approximately 3,200 hp, making the 4-REP one of the most powerful electric multiple units in Britain at the time.
The Bournemouth electrification scheme
The origins of the 4-REP lay in the decision to electrify the South Western Main Line from Brockenhurst to Bournemouth using the Southern Region's 750V DC third-rail system.
The electrification created an unusual operational problem.
The railway beyond Bournemouth towards Weymouth was not initially electrified. British Rail therefore needed a means of operating through trains from London Waterloo to Weymouth without requiring passengers to change trains at Bournemouth.
The solution was the development of the 4-REP and 4-TC system.
The 4-REP would provide the electric traction between Waterloo and Bournemouth. At Bournemouth, the REP could be detached while a diesel locomotive attached to the rear of the train took the 4-TC trailer units onwards to Weymouth.
The arrangement allowed through trains to operate while avoiding the cost of electrifying the entire route to Weymouth.
Construction of 3003
The first eleven 4-REP units were constructed for the opening of the Bournemouth electrification scheme.
The motor cars were new construction, built at York Works, while the trailer vehicles were converted from existing British Railways Mk.1 coaches.
No. 3003 was among the original fifteen-unit fleet, entering service in 1967. The first eleven units were built for the initial electrification scheme, while four additional units were constructed later in the 1970s.
The unit's two motor cars were capable of producing enormous power for an electric multiple unit of the period. The total installed power was approximately 3,200 hp, with eight English Electric EE546 traction motors.
The four-car formation consisted of:
a Driving Motor Second at each end;
a Trailer Brake First;
and a Trailer Buffet.
The units provided 24 first-class seats, 128 second-class seats and 23 buffet seats.
The inclusion of a buffet car was an important feature of the original fast-service concept. The 4-REPs were intended for long-distance express work rather than merely suburban operation.
The distinctive 4-REP operation
The 4-REPs were sometimes described as “tractor” units.
The description was appropriate because they supplied the traction for trains formed with trailer units.
A typical Waterloo–Weymouth train could consist of a 4-REP coupled to one or two 4-TC sets. The REP provided the electric traction over the third-rail section, while the trailer units contained driving cabs and passenger accommodation but no traction motors.
At Bournemouth, the operating arrangement changed.
The REP was detached, while a diesel locomotive took over the train for the non-electrified journey to Weymouth.
The system was an ingenious compromise between electrification and through passenger operation.
Early appearance
The first 4-REPs entered service in rail blue, rather than the later familiar blue-and-grey livery.
Photographic records show 3003 at Bournemouth during May 1967 in its original appearance, with a blue body and small yellow warning panel. The first eleven units were delivered in this form before subsequently being repainted blue and grey during their early overhauls.
The first repainting programme began with 3001 in December 1968 and was completed with 3008 around June 1970.
The change gave the units the appearance that would become most strongly associated with the type during the 1970s and 1980s.
High-speed South Western services
3003 spent its working life on the South Western Main Line.
The 4-REPs were designed to work the fast and semi-fast services between Waterloo, Bournemouth and Weymouth, providing powerful acceleration and high-speed running.
The units were capable of 90 mph operation.
Their substantial power was necessary because they frequently hauled lengthy formations of trailer coaches. A 4-REP coupled to two 4-TC sets could produce a substantial passenger train, yet the REP had enough power to maintain the demanding timetable.
The units consequently became the electric equivalent of a powerful locomotive-hauled express.
The buffet car
Each original 4-REP included a buffet vehicle.
The buffet cars were converted Mk.1 vehicles and were an important part of the long-distance service concept.
The buffet associated with 3003 was vehicle 69321, which carried the name “The Farnborough”. The buffet names were a distinctive feature of the 4-REP fleet, with each of the original units receiving an individually named buffet car.
This gave 3003 an additional identity within the fleet.
Signal Repeating AWS experiments
During the 1970s, 4-REP units also participated in experiments with Signal Repeating Automatic Warning System.
The system was intended to provide additional information to drivers concerning signals.
The equipment was fitted to the odd-numbered motor cars, which normally operated at the London end of the units.
3003 was among the units fitted with the experimental equipment.
The equipment was subsequently removed, with the SRAWS installation on 3003 being removed in December 1977.
The experiment was ultimately unsuccessful in securing widespread adoption, although it forms an interesting part of the technological history of the 4-REP fleet.
Snow and traction problems
The enormous power of the 4-REP units could occasionally create difficulties in poor rail conditions.
The units suffered from traction-motor problems during snowy weather.
On some occasions the formation was rearranged so that the 4-REP was placed in the middle of the train rather than at the end, helping to reduce the effects of poor adhesion.
The problem illustrated the unusual nature of the units. A 4-REP had considerably more installed power than was necessary for a short suburban train, yet that power was precisely what allowed it to haul long trailer formations at high speed.
Refurbishment
3003 underwent a particularly significant overhaul during 1984–85.
It was one of only three 4-REP units to receive a full asbestos-strip overhaul at Eastleigh during this period, the others being 3001 and 3007.
The work helped extend the unit's operational life and improve its condition.
The 4-REPs were by then approaching twenty years old, yet they remained central to the South Western Main Line timetable.
Renumbering and Class 430
The 4-REPs were initially classified under the Southern Region's own numbering arrangements.
They were later assigned the TOPS classification Class 430.
The original unit numbers 3001–3015 were retained for most of their working lives.
Shortly before withdrawal, the surviving units were reclassified as Class 432 and renumbered 2001–2015.
Consequently, the unit photographed as 3003 during the 1970s and much of the 1980s would eventually become 2003.
The arrival of the Class 442
The 4-REP fleet's decline began with the introduction of the Class 442 “Wessex Electric” units.
The new trains were designed specifically for the South Western Main Line and offered modern passenger accommodation, improved reliability and greater efficiency.
The 4-REPs' traction equipment also became valuable.
Some of the electrical equipment from withdrawn 4-REPs was recovered for use in the new Class 442 fleet.
This meant that the withdrawal of the old units was not simply a matter of replacing them with new trains. Components from the veteran units were themselves reused in the new generation of South Western electric traction.
By 1988, only a small number of 4-REPs remained in traffic.
The final years of 3003
3003 survived into the final phase of 4-REP operation.
The unit was renumbered 2003 under the Class 432 designation.
It was one of the small number of units selected for continued operation while the fleet was being reduced and reorganised.
The end came in the aftermath of the Clapham Junction disaster of 12 December 1988.
Unit 2003 was working as part of the South Western suburban and express operation when the collision occurred.
The unit suffered catastrophic damage.
Its leading motor coach, 62146, was destroyed, while the buffet car 69321 and Trailer Brake First 70803 were also seriously damaged. The surviving motor coach, 62145, was subsequently repaired and reused in another 4-REP formation.
The damaged unit was officially withdrawn on 6 February 1989.
The Clapham Junction disaster
The destruction of 2003 occurred during one of the most serious railway accidents in modern British history.
On 12 December 1988, a morning commuter train collided with another service near Clapham Junction. The accident resulted in 35 deaths and almost 500 injuries.
The involvement of 2003 meant that the unit became one of the casualties of the disaster.
Its destruction also had wider consequences for the 4-REP fleet.
The planned overhauls of the remaining units were altered following the loss of 2003, while the surviving vehicles were progressively reformed and withdrawn.
The end of 3003
The damaged vehicles from 2003 were eventually moved for disposal.
Motor coach 62146, buffet car 69321 and TBFK 70803 were sent to Vic Berry's scrapyard at Leicester and were scrapped during 1990.
The surviving motor coach 62145 was repaired and reused in the later 6-REP and related formations.
The original unit 3003 therefore ceased to exist as a complete four-car unit.
Its destruction in the Clapham disaster brought its working career to an abrupt end after approximately twenty-two years.
The significance of 3003
3003 represents one of the most technically interesting electric trains operated by British Rail.
The 4-REP concept was unusual because the units were not intended simply to carry passengers under their own power.
They were high-powered traction units for trailer formations.
Their 3,200 hp output allowed them to haul 4-TC trailer sets over the electrified South Western Main Line at speeds comparable with conventional express trains.
The design also demonstrated the flexibility of British Rail's Mk.1 coaching stock. Three of the four vehicles in each original 4-REP formation were based upon or converted from standard Mk.1 passenger vehicles.
The units combined modern electric traction with conventional compartment-stock design.
3003's eventual destruction at Clapham also means that it was not preserved.
Its individual history therefore survives principally through photographs, records and the surviving components that were incorporated into other formations.
British Railways Standard Class 4MT No. 76017 “Hermes”
British Railways Standard Class 4MT 2-6-0 No. 76017, known in preservation as “Hermes”, belongs to a completely different generation of railway technology.
Built at Horwich Works in 1953, it was one of 115 Standard Class 4 Moguls constructed for British Railways.
The locomotives were designed by R. A. Riddles and were intended for mixed-traffic duties. Their relatively light axle loading allowed them to operate over a wide range of routes.
Only four examples of the class survive today, making 76017 an important representative of British Railways' standard steam programme.
Construction
76017 was completed at Horwich Works in June 1953.
It was allocated from new to the Southern Region, initially based at Eastleigh.
The Southern Region required locomotives capable of operating over routes with relatively restrictive axle-load limitations.
The Standard Class 4's 2-6-0 arrangement and modest axle loading made it suitable for both passenger and freight duties.
76017 consequently worked a mixture of goods and passenger trains during its relatively short British Railways career.
Southern Region service
Eastleigh was the locomotive's principal home during its early years.
Its duties included trains serving Southampton and Bournemouth, as well as freight workings.
The locomotive's mixed-traffic design meant that there was no sharp distinction between its passenger and goods roles.
A locomotive could work a goods train on one day and a passenger service on another.
This flexibility was precisely what British Railways had intended when developing the Standard locomotive family.
The Whitchurch accident
76017 was involved in a significant accident on 23 September 1954.
It was working the 07:00 Banbury–Eastleigh goods train when the driver lost control.
The locomotive passed through the catch points at Whitchurch, leaving the railway and running down the embankment.
There were no fatalities or serious injuries.
The locomotive was recovered using the Eastleigh and Fratton breakdown cranes and subsequently returned to service.
The accident became one of the more notable events in the locomotive's brief British Railways career.
Salisbury
In February 1960, 76017 moved from Eastleigh to Salisbury shed.
Salisbury remained its final British Railways allocation.
By this time, however, the future of steam traction was becoming increasingly uncertain.
The dieselisation programme was accelerating, and modern diesel locomotives were progressively replacing steam power.
Withdrawal
76017 was withdrawn in July 1965, after only about twelve years in service.
Its withdrawal illustrates how rapidly British Railways' traction policy changed during the 1960s.
A locomotive built in 1953 as a modern standard design was considered surplus only twelve years later.
The locomotive was sold for scrap and sent to Woodham Brothers' scrapyard at Barry, arriving in January 1966.
Survival at Barry
The years at Barry proved decisive.
Woodham Brothers' enormous scrapyard contained hundreds of withdrawn steam locomotives.
The sheer volume of work involved in dismantling them meant that many locomotives remained untouched.
76017 spent approximately eight years at Barry.
Although its exterior deteriorated badly, examination revealed that its boiler and mechanical components were in surprisingly good condition.
Preservationists recognised that the locomotive was worth saving.
The tender
76017's original tender did not survive.
It had been sold to Briton Ferry steelworks, where it was used as an ingot carrier.
A replacement tender was therefore obtained from sister locomotive 76077, another Standard Class 4 Mogul that had been sent to Barry.
The replacement was a BR2A tender, which remains associated with 76017 in preservation.
Parts were also removed from 76077 to assist in the rescue of 76017.
The decision ensured that at least one of the two locomotives would escape the scrapyard.
Rescue
76017 left Barry on 1 January 1974, bound for Quainton Road in Buckinghamshire.
The locomotive had been purchased for preservation and was now beginning a second career.
Restoration work took place at the Buckinghamshire Railway Centre before the locomotive was transferred to Hampshire.
The Watercress Line
In March 1978, 76017 moved to the Mid-Hants Railway, now known as the Watercress Line.
The location was particularly appropriate because 76017 had spent its entire British Railways career on the Southern Region.
Restoration continued at the railway.
The locomotive eventually returned to steam in May 1984.
“Hermes”
The name “Hermes” was acquired during preservation.
76017 did not carry the name during its British Railways career.
The name nevertheless became firmly associated with the locomotive and has been used throughout much of its preservation life.
First preservation career
76017 became one of the principal steam locomotives at the Watercress Line.
It worked passenger trains and special services and became a familiar sight between Alresford and Alton.
Its preservation career also included visits and special workings elsewhere.
One particularly appropriate event took place in 1997, when 76017 hauled a recreated scrap train marking thirty years since the end of Southern Region steam.
The symbolism was striking: a locomotive that had survived the Barry scrapyard was hauling a train recreating the final days of the Southern steam era.
Withdrawal and second overhaul
76017 continued operating until 1995, after which it entered a lengthy period out of traffic.
A major overhaul followed.
The work ultimately involved extensive attention to the locomotive's boiler, frames, motion, cylinders and other components.
The overhaul took several years and cost in excess of £500,000.
After approximately twenty-one years out of service, 76017 returned to steam in 2016.
Its return was an important event for the Watercress Line and for the preservation of the Standard Class 4.
Later preservation career
76017 continued operating on the Watercress Line before visiting other heritage railways.
In October 2022, the locomotive moved to the Bluebell Railway for its Giants of Steam event.
It subsequently moved to Southall Motive Power Depot.
The change followed the death of a shareholder in the owning group and the subsequent acquisition of the locomotive by John Bunch.
Kent & East Sussex Railway
In 2024, 76017 moved to the Kent & East Sussex Railway at Tenterden.
It was hired to the railway for its 2024 season and played an important role in the line's 50th anniversary gala.
The locomotive subsequently worked passenger trains and Santa Special services.
Its final period of operation came during the winter of 2025–26.
Withdrawal in 2026
76017 worked its final trains on the Kent & East Sussex Railway during January 2026.
Its boiler certificate had expired, bringing its latest period of operation to an end.
The locomotive has since moved to the West Coast Railway Company's depot at Carnforth, where it is now undergoing preparations for another overhaul.
The latest available information therefore records 76017 as out of service and under overhaul, rather than operational.
Four survivors
Only four Standard Class 4 2-6-0 locomotives survived into preservation:
76017, 76077, 76079 and 76084.
All four were built at Horwich and all four survived at Barry long enough to be rescued.
76017 was the first of the four to return to steam.
Its survival is therefore particularly significant within the history of British Railways' Standard locomotive programme.
The contrast between 3003 and 76017
The histories of 3003 and 76017 illustrate the extraordinary technological changes taking place on Britain's railways during the middle decades of the twentieth century.
76017 was built in 1953, when steam remained the dominant form of railway traction.
Only fourteen years later, 3003 entered service as a highly advanced electric multiple unit.
76017 represented the final generation of standardised British steam locomotive design.
3003 represented the increasingly sophisticated electric railway being developed by the Southern Region.
The two technologies briefly overlapped.
A Standard Class 4 locomotive could still be found working passenger and freight trains when the first 4-REPs were being designed and constructed.
By the time 3003 was working its fast Bournemouth services, however, the railway's future was increasingly electric and diesel-powered.
Two very different careers
The two vehicles also experienced dramatically different endings.
76017 was withdrawn in 1965 and sent to Barry, where it narrowly escaped destruction.
3003 remained in front-line passenger service until 1988.
The 4-REP was then destroyed in the Clapham Junction disaster, with several of its vehicles subsequently scrapped.
76017, meanwhile, had already begun a second life in preservation.
The contrast is particularly striking.
One vehicle survived because it was considered worth saving from a scrapyard.
The other disappeared after being involved in one of Britain's worst railway accidents.
A shared connection through British Railways
Both vehicles were products of the railway modernisation programme of the 1950s and 1960s.
76017 formed part of the British Railways Standard locomotive programme, intended to rationalise and modernise steam traction.
3003 formed part of the Southern Region's Bournemouth electrification programme, intended to modernise the principal South Western passenger services.
Both were designed for demanding passenger work.
76017 could haul conventional coaching stock over the Southern Region.
3003 could haul 4-TC trailer sets at high speed over the electrified South Western Main Line.
Their careers therefore represent two successive approaches to the same basic railway problem: providing reliable, fast passenger transport over Britain's main railway routes.
A fitting historical comparison
76017 and 3003 also demonstrate the speed of technological change.
When 76017 entered service in 1953, its design represented modern British steam engineering.
When 3003 entered service in 1967, the railway was already moving towards powerful electric multiple units and diesel-electric traction.
Within another twenty years, the 4-REP itself was becoming obsolete as newer electric stock appeared.
76017 survived because preservation intervened.
3003 did not.
The contrast gives both vehicles considerable historical interest.
76017 “Hermes” survives today as a tangible example of the final generation of British Railways standard steam locomotives, currently awaiting another overhaul at Carnforth. 4-REP 3003 survives only through photographs, records and the components of its former vehicles that were incorporated into other units.
Together, their histories provide a particularly evocative illustration of the transformation of British railway technology from steam to high-powered electric multiple-unit operation.
Former Northern Class 142 Pacers Nos. 142031, 142053, and 142048 pass Catholme on 10th January 2020 heading on their final journey to Kingsbury scrap yard, on the 09:00 Gascoigne Wood to Kingsbury sidings movement.
Day 2 of Mini Festival at Brands Hatch and after a Superb Day of Both Racing and High Speed Action on the Saturday Sunday Was Promising to be a lot of the Same but with even more Racing to Look forward too.
With 2 Races for both Miglia class and Dunlop Mini Sevens as well as Formula 3 The Days events were already shaping up to be One for The History Books with Multiple Fierce and Competitive Drivers from Saturday Looking to Improve and Win their Respective Classes.
Lets take a Look at what Will be Racing Today and see which of the Drivers can Push Hard and Aim for a Win in their Respective Class.
Dunlop Mini Challenges Supported by Mini Spares - Miglia (Race 9 Results)
First up onto the Track was The Dunlop Mini Miglia Challenge and after a Very Intense Qualifying Battle Yesterday (Aron Smith) Took the Pole with (Andrew Jordan) Second and (James Cuthbertson) in Third Place. Will all Three Men be able to Keep their Positions come the Race or will they start to fall down the order once Racing Gets Underway. Lets find out.
In First Place was (Endaf Owens) in his Miglia with a Best Lap Time of 54.221 and a Top Speed of 78.76mph. Fantastic Drive there Endaf who was Definitely not Afraid to get that Miglia Sideways as he Raced his Way through the Field to take a Dominant Victory.
In Second Place was (Andrew Jordan) In His Miglia with a Best Lap Time of 54.498 and a Top Speed of 78.64mph. Amazing Driving from Andrew Showing what a Fantastic Mini Racer he is as well as a Superb BTCC Driver as well using his Skills Learned from his BTCC Racing to Hold on for Second Place.
In Third Place was (Aaron Smith) in His Miglia with a Best Lap Time of 54.449 and a Top Speed Of 78.63mph. Awesome Work there Aaron Putting on an Incredible Display Of Driving Commitment and Skill to Keep 3rd Place and Take the Final Podium Spot.
What a Start to the Days Racing with Three Top Drivers Battling out for a Victory and Showing what they can do when it comes to Competitive Miglia Racing. What New Challenges will be Seen in Race 2 as each Drivers Gets Ready to do Battle once again and this Time who will be the one to Claim that All Important Victory.
Lets Find out
Dunlop Mini Challenges Supported by Mini Spares - Miglia (Race 17 Results)
In First Place was (Endaf Owens) In His Miglia with a Best Lap Time of 54.862 and A Top Speed of 54.862mph. Very Fast and Quick Racing from Endaf who was Pushing as Hard as he Could to keep the Gap wide Open and ensure a Victory. Amazing Driving
In Second Place was (Aaron Smith) in His Miglia with a Best Lap Time of 54.773 and a Top Speed of 75.23mph. Fantastic Drive there Aron Really Great Work and taking Second Place away from the Previous Second Place Winner (Andrew Jordan)
In Third Place was (Andrew Jordan) in His Miglia with a Best Lap Time of 54.913 and a Top Speed of 75.21mph. Another Storming Drive from Andrew to take Third Place this Time Well Done.
What Another Amazing Race will all three Top Drivers Pushing their Miglia's Hard and all wanting to achieve that 1st Place Finish. To all other Drivers out there Good Luck and Keep Pushing Yourselves to Work Harder and you will Achieve what it is that you so Desire.
Dunlop Mini Challenges Supported by Mini Spares - Se7en (Race 13 Results)
Dunlop Mini Sevens were next up onto the Circuit and with Cars that all Have a Very Colourful set of Liveries and Drivers Ready to go this Next Race was going to be One that would be a Fantastic Watch from either Paddock Hill or The Main Straight as the Minis would be Blasting Past at Nearly 75mph.
Previously Yesterday During Qualifying it was (Jeff Smith) who took the Pole with (Nick Fowler) in Second Place and (Spencer Wanstall) in Third Place with all Three Drivers being Separated by Less than Half a Second as they Crossed the Line to Finish Qualifying.
With Three Very Experienced Drivers at the Front and a Whole Grid of other Great Drivers Ready Lets see what Results this Race will bring.
In First Place was (Jeff Smith) in his Mini Seven with a Best Lap Time of 59.566 and a Top Speed of 72.29mph. Amazing work Jeff Pushing that Little Mini Seven to its Limits and taking First Place.
In Second Place was (Jonathan Lewis) in his Mini Seven with a Best Lap Time of 59.197 and a Top Speed of 71.91mph. Another Incredible Drive from Jonathan Keeping Hold of Second Place and taking Home the Spoils from the First Race.
In Third Place was (Nick Fowler) in his Mini Seven with a Best Lap Time of 59.688 and a Top Speed of 71.83mph. Fantastic Drive there Nick Racing Hard and Managing to Hold onto Third Place on the Podium Well Done.
Mini Racing is Really Turning out to be Very Exciting and Fantastic This Year with so Many Different Winners and Other Drivers working Hard to Keep their Cars is Running and Race Ready condition. A Big Congratulations to Jeff Jonathan and Nick for showing some Seriously Impressive Racing and to all other Drivers Taking Part and enjoying what They Love.
Lets Dive into Race 2 and See who Might make a Leap to 1st Second or Third and who will be able to challenge the Top Three Drivers.
Dunlop Mini Challenges Supported by Mini Spares - Se7en (Race 19 Results)
Race 2 Up Next and things were not going as Smoothly as Most Drivers would Have Wanted as they all Gripped their Steering wheels and Prepared for Battle The Heavens Opened and a Large Rain Shower Engulfed the Track and with already Dark Conditions now getting even Darker it was only a matter of Time before Visibility would be Very Difficult.
Who has the Nerve to Push Hard and Take The Victory and who will be Brave Enough to take Second and Third Place? Lets Find out
In First Place was (Joe Thompson) in His Mini Seven with a Best Lap Time of 1:06.615 and a Top Speed of 60.38mph. Extremely Well Driven there Joe Pushing Hard but keeping the Mini Under Control in Very Damp and Dark Conditions to take a Superb Victory.
In Second Place was (Mike Jordan) in His Mini Seven with a Best Lap Time of 1:06.801 and a Top Speed of 60.33mph. Amazing Drive there Mike Well Deserved and Driven too.
In Third Place was (Spencer Wanstall) in His Mini Seven with a Best Lap Time of 1:05.178 and a Top Speed of 60.32mph. Incredible Bravery from Spencer and to Keep that Car on the Track Must Have Taken some Incredible Skill thought the Entire Race.
What a Fantastic Finish to the Mini Sevens Racing Today at Brands Hatch with Multiple Different Winners on the Podium and Some Very Changeable Conditions it made for some Remarkable Racing and Brilliant Overtakes thought.
Congratulations to Joe Mike and Spencer on their Podium Places and Well Done to all Other Mini Seven Drivers for Braving the Conditions to put on a Race that Shows What the British Spirit of Racing is all About. Alex Issigonis would be Proud.
Formula 3 Cup (Race 12 Results)
Formula 3 up Next and with the Track being Mostly Dry before the Start of This Race Each Drivers was Ready to Push Hard and try to take the Victory from the other. Qualifying Yesterday Proved that even a Smaller Grid can still Make for some Intense Racing with Drivers such as (George Line) (Robbie Watts) and (Shane Kelly) showing some Incredible Speed and Capable Car Control thought the Entire Qualifying Session.
With Lots of Aero and a Very Fast set of Dallara F308 Engines Powering them Lets See what the Formula 3's Get up to.
In First Place was (George Line) in his F3 Dallara F308 with a Lap Time of 43.825 and a Top Speed of 96.55mph. Incredible Speed and Confidence shown from George behind the wheel of that Formula 3 showing that he was Almost Fearless and in a League of his own. Incredible Driving.
In Second Place was (Robbie Watts) in his F3 Dallara F308 with a Lap Time of 43.926 and a Top Speed of 96.39mph. Another Super Driver in Robbie Pushing Hard and Defending Second Place thought the Entire Race and Keeping George Busy on his Toes Most of the Time.
In Third Place was (Shane Kelly) in his F3 Dallara F308 with a Lap Time of 44.071 and a Top Speed of 95.88mph. Very Well Done there Shane Racing Hard and Keeping up the Pace with Both Robbie and George in Second and First.
What an Exciting First Race for the Formula 3 Drivers who are all Showing that they All Have the Nerve and Skill to Race Hard and Push where it matters. Congratulations to Stefano George and Dominic and Good Luck to All other F3 Drivers out there for Race 2 Coming up Next.
Formula 3 Cup (Race 21 Results)
With Race 2 About to Start all of the Drivers took off for their Formation Lap and Plenty of Water and Spray was seen Shooting up from the Back of Each Car and Having had the First Race take Place in Dry Conditions thease New Track Conditions would be Very Different for Each Driver and Driving Ability is a Must for Survival Out there. With the 5 Red Lights illuminated the Race Began but who would Finish and take Home The Victory. Lets Find Out
In First Place was (Stefano Leaney) in his F3 Dallara F317 with a Best Lap Time of 50.532 and a Top Speed of 84.71mph. Stefano is Really Proving to be a worthy Drivers to Drive in Formula 3 as Once Again his Sheeree Bravery and Fearless Nature was on Display once again in Conditions that Most other Divers would have thought Twice about Pushing their Machinery to Hard in. Congratulations Stefano.
In Second Place was (George Line) in his F3 Dallara F308 with a Best Lap Time of 52.738 and a Top Speed of 81.07mph. Fantastic Work there George Once Again Demonstraighting how to Race an F3 In Wet Conditions with Beautiful Lines taken thought the Corse of the Race and a Well Deserved Second Place.
In Third Place was (Shane Kelly) in his Dallara F308 with a Best Lap Time of 52.771 and a Too Speed of 80.96mph Another Very Brave and Quick Driver in Wet Conditions with Shane Really Defending Hard and Fast in order to Keep hold of that Well Deserved Third Place.
What an Astonishing Race with Winners in Stefano George and Shane all taking spots on the Podium and Hopefully One Day Having their Chance in Formula 1. Each Driver put on a Super Display of Driving Skill and Keeping their Cars at High Speed on a Wet Track is no Easy Feat. Well Done to all the Other Formula 3 Drivers too Keep Pushing Hard and Making sure you do Everything you Can To One Day Achieve That Victory.
Fastest Mini in the World (Race 11 Results)
Fastest Mini In The World was Up Next and this Racing Series Features Many Familiar Looking Minis and yet Each one has a trick up its Sleeve and that is that their Standard 1275gt Engines have all been Replaced with Engines from Cars that have Considerably more Horse Power. The Goal of the Race is to not Just Win but to also Prove to Everyone that You Have The Fastest Mini in the World.
With Qualifying Yesterday showing Very Quick Pace from (Bill Richards) in his Maguire Club Estate it was clear to see that The Drivers and their cars were in a completely different League to all other Racing Minis there that Weekend. Lets Find out who came First in the First Race and who took the First Title of Fastest Mini in the World.
In First Place was (Harvey Death) in his Austin Mini Cooper S V8 with a Best Lap Time of 51.294 and a Top Speed of 82.01mph. Fantastic Driving from Harvey to Push his V8 Mini to the Limit and take Home First Place and the Top Step on the Podium.
In Second Place was (Bill Richards) in his Maguire Clubman Estate with a Best Lap Time of 53.391 and a Top Speed of 80.15mph. Epic Drive there from Bill Pushing Hard and making sure to Keep Harvey Behind Him.
In Third Place was (Richard Billingham) in his Austin Mini Clubman with a Best Lap Time of 53.347 and a Top Speed of 79.91mph. Very Well Driven there Richard showing the Insane Horse Power thease Mini's have and how they Accelerate and Decelerate much Faster than a Standard Cooper S or even a Racing Mini Seven.
What an Epic Race and Display of Incredible Driving and Battling for the Victory of Fastest Mini in the World. Each Driver Held their Nerve and Push Very Hard Indeed which was Fantastic to see. Congratulations to our Race Winners Harvey Bill and Richard. Lets see what Luck Race 2 Brings.
Fastest Mini in the World (Race 16 Results)
In First Place was (Harvey Death) in his Austin Mini Cooper S V8 with a Best Lap Time of 52.256 and a Top Speed of 79.02mph. Another Fantastic Victory for Harvey who has proven to Have The Fastest Mini in the World and is Really Capable of Driving it as well. Congratulations
In Second Place was (Fabio Luffarelli) in his Mini Classic Saloon with a Best Lap Time of 55.949 and a Top Speed of 76.21mph. Amazing work there Fabio Fantastic to see such an Iconic Mini Out there but with a Twist by putting a Far more Powerful Engine under the hood to Have even more Fun with it. Amazing Build and Super Drive.
In Third Place was (Matthew Skidmore) in his Austin Mini with a Best Lap Time of 55.257 and a Top Speed of 75.71mph. Brilliant Drive Matthew Showing the Real Power and Driver Ability of a car Pushing right onto the limits all the Time.
What an Incredible Days Racing for the Fastest Mini in the World Showcasing Many Classic Favourites that Everyone Loves but with some surprises under each Bonnet. Congratulations to Harvey Fabio and Matthew for their Incredible Victories and Good Luck to all other Teams in the Series.
Mighty Minis & Super Mighty Mini Championship (Race 10 Results)
Mighty Mini's and Super Mighty Mini's were up Next and with a Massive Grid of Both Mighty and Super Mighty Mini's on Display This was going to be another Race that would be well worth the Watch.
From Qualifying Yesterday (Bobby Thompson) took the Pole setting a Very Fast Time of Just 1:00.205 Round the Brands Hatch Indy Circuit with (Ian Slark) and (Stuart Coombs) following Closely Behind in both Second and Third.
With So Many Different Drivers on the Grid and Plenty of Traffic to Navigate Through this First Race was going to be an Epic One to Witness.
In First Place was (Bobby Thompson) in his Super Mighty Mini 1293 with a Best Lap Time of 1:00.331 and a Top Speed of 61.14mph. Fantastic Work Bobby Racing at High Speeds and Pushing that Mini around the Circuit in Record Time. Congratulations
In Second Place was (Ian Slark) in his Super Mighty Mini 1293 with a Best Lap Time of 1:00.319 and a Top Speed of 61.13mph. Amazing Driving Ian Top Driver and a Fantastic Mini Racer
In Third Place was (Neven Kirkpatrick) in his Super Mighty Mini 1293 with a Best Lap Time of 1:00.426 and a Top Speed of 61.07mph. Well Done Neven a Really Well crafted Drive and a truly deserved Third Place.
What a Start to an Amazing Race with so many different Mini's taking to the track and Pushing hard keeping the top Three on their Toes the Entire Time due to How evenly matched each Mini is. Congratulations to Bobby Ian and Neven and See You all in the Final Race.
Mighty Minis & Super Mighty Mini Championship (Race 18 Results)
The Last Race of the Day for the Mighty and Super Mighty Mini's Championship and with a Very Tight Battle at the Top Between Bobby Ian and Neven which one of them will be able to take Home Victory for the Last Time today. Lets Get straight to finding out.
In First Place was (Neven Kirkpatrick) in his Super Mighty Mini 1293 with a Best Lap Time of 1:01.029 and a Top Speed of 70.35mph. Phenomenal Drive Neven Fending off Ian in Second Place and Keeping yourself up Front to Win and a Fantastic Way to End the Day with a Victory
In Second Place was (Ian Slark) in his Super Mighty Mini 1293 with a Best Lap Time of 1:00.756 and a Top Speed of 70.34mph. Another Brilliant Drive by Regular Ian Slark with Tremendous Car Control and Ability he Really is an Incredible Driver.
In Third Place was (David Kirkpatrick) in his Super Mighty Mini 1293 with a Best Lap Time of 1:00.991 and a Top Speed of 70.23mph. Amazing Work David Driving Hard and so Great to see Neven up there In First Place, Always Something to be Proud of.
And So that Ends the Days Racing for The Super Mighty Mini's and Mighty Mini's Racing, A Big Congratulations to Neven Ian and David on their Race Wins and also a Huge Well Done to all of the Other Mini Racers out there who Enjoy what they Do and show the World their Dedicated Passion and Commitment to Keeping British Racing Alive and Well.
Pre 66 Mini's (Race 15 Results)
Pre 66 Mini's were up Next and a whole Host of Classic Minis had taken to the track during their Formation Lap with Mini's from a By Gone Era that Showed Beauty and a Really Fierce Competitive Nature during the Pre 66 Category of Mini Racing.
During Qualifying the Previous Day (Ian Curley) Narrowly Beat Endaf Owens to Pole by just 0.254 with a Very Fast and Committed Lap Endaf Had to settle for Second Place while (Phil Brown)would take Third.
But today out of all three drivers who would be Brave Enough to challenge Ian and Endaf both Drivers who are very Competitive in their Racing and who both want to Win This One Race.
In First Place was (Endaf Owens) in his Mini Cooper S with a Best Lap Time of 58.026 and a Top Speed of 73.85mph. A Very Fast and Fearless Drive from Endaf who looked like he was Really Enjoying throwing that Mini Around in his Very Aggressive Driving Style. Congratulations Endaf
In Second Place was (Jeff Smith) in his Mini Cooper S with a Best Lap Time of 57.993 and a Top Speed of 73.84mph. Well Done Jeff an Awesome Drive and Keeping up with Endaf was no Easy Task.
In Third Place was (Ian Curley) in his Mini Cooper S with a Best Lap Time of 58.053 and a Top Speed of 73.32mph. Amazing Work Ian A Very Strong Drive for Third Place on the Podium.
What an Exciting Race for the Pre 66 Mini's with Both Endaf Owens and Jeff Smith Really Driving Hard and Defending both of their positions thought the Course of the entire Race. Also Well Done to Ian for Another 3rd Place Victory as Well as all other Drivers Racing.
Teekay Couplings Production GTI Championship (Race 14 Results)
The Teekay Couplings and Production GTI Championship was up next and with a whole Range of VF Golf GTI'S in one Race it was Going to be a Very Quick and Action Packed Race to Watch.
During Qualifying (Martyn Walsh) took the Pole with (Adam Hance) and (John Beale) in Second and Third Place Respectively.
With So Many Evenly Matched Cars Taking Part in the Race This was Really going to be About Driver Ability and Car Control to see who could extract that little bit more performance out of their Machine for a Victory.
In First Place was (Simon Hill) in his VW Golf GTI with a Best Lap Time of 56.824 and a Top Speed of 71.05mph. Amazing Driving Simon Pushing that VW to its Limits and Really showing off the Complete Understanding of Driver and their Car around the Race Track.
In Second Place was (Adam Hanke) in his VW Golf GTI MK5 with a Best Lap Time of 56.682 and a Top Speed of 71.02mph. Very Well Done Adam and a Really Spirited Drive from a Fantastic Driver to gain Second Place.
In Third Place was (Hendry Riley) in his VW Golf GTI With a Best Lap Time of 57.212 and a Top Speed of 71.01mph. Fantastic Work Hendry Driving the Wheels off that Thing and Taking Home Third Place.
What a Fantastic Starting Race with Plenty of Action and Drivers Working Hard at the Wheel and Thought the entire Race to try and Gain a Spot on the Podium.
Lets see what Race 2 Brings and Who May be able to Mount a challenge to the Top Three Drivers.
Teekay Couplings Production GTI Championship (Race 20 Results)
In First Place was (Simon Vercoe) in his VW Golf GTI with a Best Lap Time of 1:08.465 and a Top Speed of 62.13mph. What A Drive from Simon Vercoe Pushing that Golf to the Edge of the Track through Paddock Hill Bend and Making sure to Keep the Power on High thought the Entire Race for a Successful 1st Place Victory
In Second Place was (Hendry Riley) in his VW Golf GTI with a Best Lap Time of 1:08.886 and a Top Speed of 61.88mph. Amazing Driving there Once again Hendry for Second Place
In Third Place was (Simon Hill) in his VW Golf GTI with a Best Lap Time of 1:08.853 and a Top Speed of 61.81mph. Well Done Simon Pushing Hard and Making sure to Stay on the Podium Position for Third Place
What a Fantastic Set of Drivers and Race Cars all showing Different Racing styles and Lines but with Equally Matched Machinery. a Big Congratulations to Simon Vercoe Hendry and Simon for their Incredible Victories and Race Craft when out on the Track and Good Luck To Everyone Else.
Z Cars Racing & New Generation Production BMW Championship (Race 8 Results)
The Last Race of The Day and its the BMW New Generation and Z Cars Championship. With Many Different BMW'S Taking Part in this Race Speed Skill and Concentration will all be key Factors in Getting either a Win or a Podium Position.
During Qualifying on Saturday Chris Murphy took the Pole with Jack Wood Second and Edd Giddings Third. Three Drivers all with Many Hours of Racing Experience under their belt.
With The Race About to Start Lets Find out Who Will be The Last Ones to take First Second and Third Place on the Podium in Todays Racing.
In First Place was (Chris Murphy) in his BMW Z4 with a Best Lap time of 55.880 and a Top Speed of 75.95mph. Incredible Drive there Chris Taking the Win and Showing just how to Drive a Z4 BMW around the Brands Hatch Indy Circuit. Congratulations.
In Second Place was (Edd Giddings) in his BMW Z4 with a Best Lap Time of 56.481 and a Top Speed of 75.90mph. Amazing work there Edd with Some Incredible Driving and Keeping Pace with Chris Made for a Really Entertaining Battle.
In Third Place was (Matthew Dance) in his BMW Z4 With a Best Lap Time of 56.526 and a Top Speed of 75.16mph. Well Done Matthew Finishing in Third Place and Taking Home a Wonderful Victory.
And With that The End of Another Perfect and Incredible Days Racing comes to an End at Brands Hatch. The Mini Festival always knows How to Bring out the Best in both Drivers and Cars and Has a Real Atmosphere about the Love for the Little British Icon. The Spectators and The Raving Drivers a Like Really Cherish this Event and I Hope to see it and Document it Many More Times.
A Final Congratulations to Chris Edd and Matthew for their Superb Drives and to all Other Competitors Across the Entire Weekend for sharing their Love and Passion for Motorsport Helping to inspire the Many Different Young Talent's to One Day Achieve their own Racing Dreams.
See You All Again Next Year!
Daily Dog Challenge "280. Big and Little"
Our Daily Challenge - Aug 6, 2012 - "Multiple Choice"
Gee, I wonder which they are going to choose?
Stop on by Zachary and Henry's blog: bztraining.blogspot.com