Silverstone - The Home of British Motor Racing

ISBN: 9780857330727, Author: Chas Parker

Silverstone traces the full history of the Silverstone circuit, which is rightly regarded as the home of British motor racing. From the first known unofficial use of the former World War Two airfield’s perimeter track and runways, through its opening a year later to host a fully-fledged international Grand Prix, right up to its present state-of-the-art incarnation.

While writing Silverstone, author Chas Parker was granted full access to the archives of the British Racing Drivers’ Club (BRDC), which owns the circuit, uncovering a treasure trove of facts, anecdotes and previously unpublished photographs. The fascinating text includes brief accounts of every major event to have taken place on the circuit – not just Formula One, but Formula Two and Three, long-distance sports car and GT races, saloon and touring car events, in addition to small club meetings. 

With contributions and reminiscences from drivers such as Sir Jackie Stewart, Sir Stirling Moss, Emerson Fittipaldi, John Watson, Alain Prost, Nigel Mansell, David Coulthard and Mark Webber, along with those who have worked and commentated at the circuit over the years, the decade-by-decade chapters chronicle the arguments and battles, both on and off track, which have featured in the Silverstone’s rich 60-plus year history.

Synopsis

The former wartime airfield at Silverstone is Britain's most important motor racing circuit and is best known as the home of the British Grand Prix, which was first staged there in 1948. This magnificent book tells Silverstone's entire history, covering the great races, influential characters and unforgettable events, as well as the evolution of the circuit itself. The book is profusely illustrated, including plenty of rare photographs that have not been published before. Produced with the full assistance of the British Racing Drivers' Club (BRDC) and Silverstone Circuits, this is the last word on the history of the much-loved 'home of British motor racing'. 

About the Author:

Chas Parker worked for a number of years as a freelance sub-editor and occasional contributor for Motorsport News. He wrote a book detailing the full history of Brands Hatch for Haynes in 2008, and Silverstone is his fifth book.