A popular hill climb canned in the 1960s over safety concerns will be revived in September
A popular hill climb canned in the 1960s over safety concerns will be revived in September with the aim of it becoming ‘a mini Goodwood Revival’.
The Firle Hill Climb, in the South Downs National Park, near Lewes, Sussex is being reinstated on 20 September by the Bo Peep Drivers Club. It will have an initial entry of 50 cars, all at least 30 years old. Registration is now open on the club’s website.
The Bentley Driver’s Club set up the original event on Bo Peep Hill in 1949, but a crash between a competing car and some walkers in September 1967 prompted the event’s closure.
Bo Peep founder Rob Bryant said he was delighted to get a hill climb reinstated after getting permission to close Bo Peep Lane in Alciston, a village close to Firle Beacon, to host the event.
He said: ‘A year ago I thought it would be a great place for a hill climb event and then discovered the history.
‘My event is along the lines of a mini Goodwood event with themed 1950s, ‘60s and ‘70s dress, drivers’ lounge, a band and a charity auction. Funds raised will aid the Chailey Heritage Foundation, a school for children and young adults with a variety of complex disabilities.
‘I have sent invites to Aston Martin, Bentley, Lotus, MG and Triumph owners clubs’, but any roadgoing car is welcome, Allegro to Zagato.’ David Brown
• www.bopeepdriversclub.com