Harris’s outing

The first of the recent run of ‘continuation’ lightweight Jaguar E-types to race made its competition debut at Le Mans on Saturday. Top Gear presenter and journalist Chris Harris contested the Jaguar Classic Challenge race in chassis number 15 of the six cars built to 1963 specification. The car retired with a misfire. It is owned by the Stratstone Jaguar dealership.

went to EMC Instone’s 35hp Daimler in 77.6 seconds. By the time of the final pre-war event, in June 1939, Raymond Mays had trimmed the hill record to 37.37s with his ERA.

For eight years now, the current record has stood at an incredible 22.58s, testament to the talent and bravery of Martin Groves in his Gould. Over the years, the top drivers in this exacting branch of the sport have pitted themselves against this ribbon of asphalt, as little as 12 feet wide in places, which rises 328 feet at a maximum gradient of one-in-six.

Over more than a century, Shelsley has been a shining light, not just in hillclimbing but in motorsport in general. It is the most British of venues in a glorious setting where the heritage of this incredible place is expertly managed by the Midland Automobile Club. The Nostalgia Weekend will be a fitting celebration of a national treasure.