Preview: Donington Historic, 3-5 May

The Donington Historic promises to be bigger and better than ever in 2014, with star cars and drivers confirmed for the Bank Holiday event, which takes place on 3-5 May. With star cars and drivers taking part, and some 400 racers spanning the 1920s through to the '80s, it promises outstanding entertainment and excitement.

The Festival’s Guest of Honour, John Surtees OBE. The only man ever to have won World Championships on two and four wheels will be at Donington Park for the Sunday and Monday of the event, celebrating the 50th anniversary of his famous 1964 F1 World Championship win. 

Star drivers abound across the various races, with 1969 Le Mans winner Jackie Oliver out in a Ferrari 250 SWB and a BMW 1800, while musician Mark Knopflerwill drive a Maserati 300S in the two-part Maserati and OSCA race held to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Italian marque. Former BTCC stars Steve Soper, Robb Gravett and Patrick Watts get behind the wheel in the touring cars, and Steve Soper will drive a Ford GT40.

A major highlight will be the Maserati Centenary Trophy race, which includes Stephen Bond’s ex-works 250S, which was campaigned by Scarlatti and Bonnier in the 1957 Sebring 12 Hours and Adam Painter’s 1935 4CS which won its class on the 1935 and ’36 Mille Miglia. Other highlights include Jonathan Turner's 1935 Squire Short Chassis, a very rare piece of British motoring history. Never heard of it? At its launch, the Squire was the most expensive sports car in Britain.

There will also be historic rally car and karting action on the Melbourne Loop, the car club displays in the infield, the stalls in the trade village and the splendid Donington Grand Prix Collection museum.

Advance tickets cost £20 for a single day, £32 for a two-day ticket and just £45 for a three-day weekend ticket (on-the-gate prices will be £25, £40 and £60, respectively).

More at www.doningtonhistoric.com