A BLUE Peter presenter has taken a British Motor Museum car for a spin.
Presenter Lindsey Russell drove the London to Brighton Veteran Car Run in a 1904 Thorneycroft – the same driven by Olympian Sir Steve Redgrave in 2014.
The car from the Gaydon-based museum was built by marine engineer John I Thornycroft, who built his first steam-powered vehicle in 1895, and who by 1902 had expanded to include petrol-engines.
This particular car has had a long and distinguished career in the run – which is the longest running motor event in the world. On several occasions before the Second World War, the Thorneycroft was the first car to reach Brighton.
The run marks a day in 1896 when a group of pioneer motorists set out from London towards the seaside, in celebration of the ‘emancipation of the motor car’. The drivers that take part now drive some of the most innovative and unique cars from across the country.
Museum curator Stephen Laing said: “We were delighted that Lindsey Russell drove one of the cars from the museum’s collection.
“The run is one of the most exhilarating and exclusive motoring experiences in the world. Watching over 400 veteran cars take part is an amazing and nostalgic experience.”
Coverage of the run will air on Blue Peter on December 1.
