Derek Bell delights crowds at Classic Nostalgia event

Racing driver Derek Bell celebrated the anniversary of his first Le Mans win 40 years ago by driving the Porsche 956 and Jaguar XJ12C at The Midland Automobile Club’s Classic Nostalgia event at the Shelsley Walsh Hill Climb.

As guest of honour, Derek took part in a full day of activities, driving up the hill, autograph sessions, promoting his book My Racing Life and carried out an interview session in The Courtyard with motorsport commentator Toby Moody.

Derek said, ‘It was like a lovely english festival, the atmosphere was fantastic, the cows were looking over the fence, people watching the racing and the dancing in The Courtyard, just lovely.’

Derek drove the Porsche 956 twice during the day and after his second run asked for another go. ‘I am like a kid in a candy store here today, being allowed to drive a selection of cars from over my career, with their current owners taking such a pride and pleasure in seeing their iconic cars in action.’

He also drove the Jaguar XJ12C, which was brought to the event by the Jaguar Daimler Heritage Trust and formed part of the Jaguar celebrations. The raucous sound of the car was a real head turner as the sound rattled amongst the trees on its way up the hill.

During the day there were two opportunities to get autographs, photos and purchase Derek’s book My Racing Life and to chat with him on the Stewart Miller/Peter James Insurance stand.

In the lunch break Derek spent half an hour chatting with motorsport commentator Toby Moody to a packed Courtyard in glorious sunshine, regailing stories of his career and talking about the Porsche 956.

In the morning Derek unveiled the Transport Trust ‘Red Wheel’ which had been presented to the Shelsley Walsh Hill Climb for its contribution to motoring.