Margaret Jennings

Another link gone with pre-war Brooklands: as Margaret Allen, Mrs Jennings was one of the outstanding lady drivers there. Born in Scotland, the fearless young girl began using the family Lagonda in the Womens’ Automobile and Sports Association’s tough trials, then graduated to racing at Brooklands, notably in MGs, and at Le Mans in the successful ‘All Girls’ MG Midget team in 1935. She also drove in Monte Carlo Rallies and Alpine Trials, paired with her husband to be, Christopher Jennings, later editor of The Motor.

But she will best be remembered for her skilled handling of the 6 1/2-litre Bentley ‘Old Mother Gun’, taking her 120mph Badge in 1936. In Folland’s single-seater Frazer Nash at Shelsley Walsh in 1936, she made the fastest time by a lady, In the rain that defeated Von Stuck in the Auto-Union. SCH Davis thought that, given better luck. she would have had the ladies’ record there, and won her 130mph badge at the Track.

Anyone who saw her race in ‘Mother Gun’ will never forget her ability in such a car.