Of all the sights to be seen in the old car hobby, perhaps nothing is more remarkable than the annual London to Brighton Veteran Car Run. The world's longest-running motoring event, it attracts entrants from all over the globe. On November 1st, 2008, some 500 of these magnificent relics will be driven 60 miles on public roads, beginning in London's Hyde Park and ending in the seaside resort town of Brighton. The cars compete in an event where the objective is merely to get to the finish; not easy when struggling with primitive machinery. Most will be powered by internal combustion engines but three will be electric and 18 steam-driven of which the car above (or should I say "cart?") is an early example, having been built for the Salvesen shipping family of Grangemouth in 1896. Left in pieces by a collector who died before he could restore it, the vehicle was completely refurbished by Michael Ware after sitting unused for 40 years. It competed in the 2004 London to Brighton, coming home 363rd of 375 finishers.

Londoners and visitors to that great city can also enjoy the London to Brighton Veteran Concours which takes place in Regent Street, on the day before each annual Run. Over 100 of the finest examples of these ancient autos can be viewed there, free, in all their glory. On October 29, RM will hold its second annual Automobiles of London auction (RM staff members Rob Myers and Buck Kamphausen will be competing in the Run), while Bonhams will present their annual veteran car auction on October 31st, offering a rare opportunity for enthusiasts to purchase an historic vehicle. The LBVCR benefits from enthusiastic support by sponsors Daily Mail and Tindle Newspapers and Renault, Bonhams, Cater Allen Private Bank, Autocar, Classic & Sports Car, RAC, Hagerty, Kuoni Travel, The Regent Street Association, Castrol and new for 2008, Wyler Geneve and Yorkshire Tea. I'll drink to that!

[Photo: LBVCR]

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