The Brooklands screen performs no useful function that I have yet been able to discern, save perhaps diverting the larger insects away from one’s teeth, but when I do relax, I find myself noticing the countryside – we are sandwiched between the Wye Valley and the Forest of Dean – which itself is a natural speed inhibitor.  Driving is becoming a joy again, and whichever way I go, the return is invariably back from Ross up a hill which rivals (in my imagination at least) Prescott, with the engine under load this time, and the exhaust announcing our return.

All in all, No.1 is a tremendously satisfying car to drive.  It is a very sociable car, attracting attention from all quarters and it’s manners are generally impeccable. My current work (mostly overseas) means that I have no need of a modern car, borrowing Lulie’s when necessary, although I can easily anticipate No.1 making the journey to the local Waitrose when stocks of wine get low.  Much of my recent experience must be second nature to 12/50 owners but for me it remains a joy to revel in these new-found pleasures.

Over the last four years, I have also begun to understand No.1’s sense of purpose - there is nothing about it that lacks direction.  In 1923, the great and the good at Holyhead Road knew what they wanted to achieve, and Racing Car No.1 was a single minded result that, as late as Brooklands in 1929 and in many fine performances since then, has borne testament to exactly how advanced the 12/50 was for it’s time.  That No.1 would inform the design of the cars responsible for the most notable racing success in the marque’s history was no doubt planned, but it’s continued existence after 1924 was not.  In that sense, I feel hugely privileged to be custodian for another generation.

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