Racing returns to Isle of Man

Pre-war racing cars on public roads – that is the promise of the Merlin Manx Classic Speed trials planned for the Isle of Man on September 28-30.

Using a 3.5-mile track which includes a good part of the old Willaston circuit outside Douglas, the meeting will be run as a pursuit sprint, cars being sent off in pairs at short intervals, with the general effect of a handicap race. Organised by the new Manx Motor Racing Club with the VSCC and RAC, the meeting will feature sports-cars in vintage, PVT and pre-’65 classes, as well as pre-1940 single-seaters.

Much of the circuit offers free viewing, while the meeting will use the motorcycle TT grandstands and pits, with views of the main straight and the first corner.

Although some Armco and tyre barriers are inevitable, the predominant stone walls and kerbs will bring back memories for those who raced there up to the mid-Fifties, and offer a novel sight for younger audiences. The entry list is already packed, but special ferry and hotel packages are being offered to spectators.