Shelsley Walsh bidding to secure its future

Midland Automobile Club is working hard to secure the future of Shelsley Walsh beyond the expiry of its current lease in March 2004.

Negotiations are ongoing to secure a 99-year lease, not only for the famous Worcestershire speed course, but also for the paddock, car parks and nearby buildings.

The Shelsley Trust, meanwhile, has been formed and charitable status is being applied for in order to take advantage of possible Lottery and Heritage grants.

The buildings included in these negotiations are those of the farm at the foot of the hill — and the Court House. The majority of these are in need of renovation and it is hoped that they will eventually form offices, an archive, restaurant and toilets, as well as a museum dedicated to the history of the hill.

This summer a special three-day meeting will be held at the oldest motorsport venue in the world that is still operating on its original course. Over August 15-17, alongside a round of the British Hillclimb Championship, will be dedicated Ferrari and Maserati racing car classes, which should see the return of David Franklin’s stunning Ferrari 212.