Backseat Driver

Richard Usher's Immersive Tribute to British Automobiles

Backseat Driver

08/21/24 • 32 min

In this episode of the Backstreet Driver Podcast, I had the pleasure of hosting Richard Usher, the visionary behind the Great British Car Journey. Together, we embarked on a captivating journey through British automotive history, exploring his unique attraction dedicated to celebrating the heritage of British automobiles.

During our discussion, Richard vividly described the immersive experience offered at the Great British Car Journey. Visitors can see and learn about classic British cars, step behind the wheel, and experience the thrill of driving these iconic vehicles themselves. From the timeless elegance of the Austin 7 to the groundbreaking design of the Mini, each car represents a chapter in British culture and innovation.

Throughout our conversation, we emphasized preserving the stories behind these classic cars. These vehicles are more than just machines; they are symbols of British ingenuity and craftsmanship, each with its unique tale to tell. Preserving them ensures that future generations can continue to appreciate and learn from their rich heritage.

We also delved into the broader context of the British automotive industry, discussing key moments and innovations that have shaped its evolution over the years. From the challenges faced by British Leyland to the enduring appeal of British sports cars, we explored the industry's resilience and adaptability in the face of change.

One fascinating aspect of our conversation was the introduction of the 'Drive Dad's Car' experience at the Great British Car Journey. This immersive opportunity allows visitors to step into the driver's seat and experience the thrill of driving some of these classic cars for themselves, further enhancing their connection to British automotive history.

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The Incredible Journey of Rally Driver Malcolm Graham and Co-Driver Charlie Woodward Pt 2

Backseat Driver

06/05/24 • 36 min

In this episode of The Backseat Driver Podcast, I'm thrilled to welcome back rally drivers Malcolm Graham and Charlie Woodward for a captivating discussion about their extraordinary journey in rallying. Together, they take us on a nostalgic ride through their memorable experiences, starting with the serendipitous acquisition of a Datsun Works car and the remarkable modifications that set it apart from standard vehicles.

As Malcolm and Charlie reminisce about their rallying days, they regale us with entertaining anecdotes, including a hilarious mix-up involving Irish rally driver Ernest Kidney, unexpected triumphs on the rally circuit, and the eventual decline and sale of their beloved car. Their stories offer a glimpse into the camaraderie, challenges, and exhilarating unpredictability that defined rallying during their era, contrasting it with the more technology-driven and predictable nature of modern rallying.

Throughout the episode, we're treated to tales of heart-stopping close calls, ingenious mechanical solutions, and the undeniable bond forged between a driver and navigator over countless rallies. It's a journey that encapsulates the essence of rallying—a blend of adrenaline-fueled excitement, camaraderie, and the indomitable spirit of those who dare to push the limits in pursuit of victory.

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Bridge House Tea Rooms Hosts Its First Car and Motorcycle Auction

Backseat Driver

04/21/25 • 23 min

In this special episode of Backseat Driver, with me, Mark Stone, I visit the ever-vibrant Bridge House Tea Rooms, a beloved motoring hotspot that’s taken on a new challenge: hosting its first-ever car and motorcycle auction. I caught up with John Wright, the man behind Bridge House’s thriving car and bike nights, to hear about how this idea came to life.

What started as attendees bringing their vehicles with “For Sale” signs has become a full-blown auction event, thanks to overwhelming interest and steady community support. Teaming up with George Lewis of Hammertimed.com, a local auctioneer more familiar with tractors than turbochargers, the duo has assembled over 50 lots, ranging from a rugged Mark II Ford Escort rally car to K20-swapped Honda Jazzes and vintage Vauxhalls.

The atmosphere during preview day was electric. Visitors walked the rows of cars, inspecting the offerings and sharing stories. I spoke with several attendees, including classic car fans, Ford collectors, and curious first-time bidders like Sarah and Steven, who were drawn in by the variety and local convenience.

Auction day brought a strong crowd of around 250 people, a great atmosphere, and solid results. While not every lot sold under the hammer, several deals were finalised afterwards, and there’s already buzz about a second auction planned for September.

In addition to the auction excitement, Bridge House Tea Rooms entertained the crowd with a revamped café menu, a lively paddock marquee, and even a barbecue. Looking ahead, events like the Carl Fogarty Superbike Team launch, bike nights, the Scarecrow Festival, and the MudSport car night will keep the calendar full.

This episode captures more than just an auction—it celebrates community, character, and the unmistakable charm of Bridge House Tea Rooms. Whether you’re in it for the cars, the camaraderie, or just a great day out, this event was one for the books—and hopefully, just the first of many.

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HERO-ERA Flying Scotsman Rally 2024

Backseat Driver

04/17/24 • 38 min

It's me, Mark Stone, and I've got something special for you in this episode of the Backseat Driver Podcast. I had the incredible opportunity to immerse myself in the thrilling atmosphere of the 2024 Flying Scotsman Rally. From the excitement of its start at Carden Park, Chester, to the triumphant finish at Gleneagles Hotel, Scotland, I experienced firsthand the vibrant world of automotive heritage.

As I mingled with participants, organisers, and supporters at checkpoints like Bridge House Tearooms, I dove into their stories, uncovering the challenges and triumphs of navigating vintage cars through the scenic yet demanding British landscape. Their firsthand experiences vividly showed the dedication and skill required to conquer the rally's rigorous course.

Amidst the roar of vintage engines and the chatter of enthusiasts, I couldn't help but be amazed by the remarkable performance and endurance displayed by both cars and drivers. From the iconic Bentley to the distinguished Lea Francis, each vehicle showcased its unique charm and proved that age is no barrier to automotive excellence.

Throughout the rally, a palpable sense of camaraderie filled the air as participants supported one another through every twist and turn of the challenging course. It became clear that, beyond the quest for victory, the true spirit of vintage car rallying lies in the bonds forged between passionate enthusiasts and their shared love for automotive history.

As the rally came to a close, I joined in celebrating the drivers' achievements and the enduring allure of vintage car rallying. The rally results were a testament to the participants' dedication and meticulous planning, reaffirming the rally's esteemed status as a beloved tradition in the automotive world.

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You can listen to more motoring chat in all its forms on my very own radio show on Drystone Radio

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Fiona Elliott Shares the Inspiration Behind Me and My Car

Backseat Driver

06/19/24 • 35 min

It's me, Mark Stone, and in this episode, I had the pleasure of chatting with Fiona Elliott, the visionary founder behind Me and My Car, a company specialising in crafting unique and high-quality motoring and motorsport-related gifts. Fiona delves into the genesis of Me My Car, a venture born out of her frustration with the absence of premium motoring gifts nearly two decades ago. Drawing upon her background in retail buying and her husband's expertise gleaned from Castrol, they embarked on their entrepreneurial journey in 2006, driven by a steadfast commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction.

At the heart of Me and My Car's offerings lies a diverse array of products, ranging from whimsical chocolate cars to elegantly crafted clothing inspired by the rich tapestry of motorsport's history, epitomised by the renowned Suixtil brand. Fiona eloquently articulates the company's unwavering dedication to meeting and exceeding their customers' expectations, ensuring that each product resonates with a personal touch and evokes a sense of joy and admiration.

Our conversation delves into the meticulous attention paid to catering to customers' needs and the paramount importance of personalisation within Me and My Car's product range. Fiona's passion for motorsport and hill climbing infuses every aspect of the company's ethos, underscoring their genuine commitment to serving fellow enthusiasts with unparalleled dedication and enthusiasm.

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You can listen to more motoring chat in all its forms on my very own radio show on Drystone Radio

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Classic Le Mans 2023 Part 3

Backseat Driver

07/26/23 • 46 min

It's me, Mark Stone, and in this third part of the Classic Le Mans series, I have a diverse lineup of guests sharing their experiences and insights connected to the iconic Le Mans race.

First up, we have Roger Townsend, a driver from New Zealand who has travelled a long way to participate. Roger shares his excitement for the event and discusses his connection to Le Mans. He's driving a 1972 Ford Capri RS with a previous history at Le Mans, and he tells us about the car's historical significance.

Next, we have Prince Leopold of Bavaria, with a BMW M1. Prince Leopold talks about his car's significance and joy in returning to Le Mans. He shares his admiration for the track and the event's overall atmosphere.

Jean Philippe, a Frenchman dividing his time between Germany and Brazil, provides insights into motorsports in Brazil and his efforts to introduce Le Mans to the Brazilian audience through his TV show.

Mark Paulson, an expert in Talbot cars, shares his experiences racing at Le Mans and highlights the unique charm of racing vintage Talbots on the historic circuit.

Then I catch up with Simon King and Phillip St. Clair Tisdale, who bring their expertise driving Morgans at Le Mans. They discuss the handling capabilities of Morgans and the joy of participating in races alongside iconic cars. They also shed light on the motorsport community in New Zealand and the country's love for racing.

Lastly, we have Chris Spencer and Scott Renner, renowned Jowett restorers, who talk about the racing history of the 1951 Jowett Jupiter at Le Mans and the unique handling characteristics of the car. They also share their experiences as leading restorers of Jowetts in England and America.

Throughout the episode, our guests express their love for Le Mans, describing it as a magical and prestigious event. They touch on the challenges of racing, the significance of historical cars, and the allure of night racing at Le Mans.

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Andy Ogley's Insights into Millers Oils' Innovations

Backseat Driver

07/03/24 • 32 min

In this episode of the Backseat Driver Podcast, I had the privilege of interviewing Andy Ogley, the Technical Research and Development Manager at Millers Oils. Throughout our conversation, we delved into Millers Oils' rich history, which spans over 130 years of lubricating machinery and vehicles in Yorkshire and beyond. Andy shed light on the company's global presence and renowned fuel additives expertise, underscoring its status as a trusted name in the industry.

Our discussion then turned to introducing E10 unleaded fuel and its implications for vehicles, particularly older models and classics. Andy shared valuable insights into how Millers Oils' additives are specifically formulated to mitigate potential damages caused by E10's higher ethanol content, ensuring optimal vehicle performance and longevity.

We also explored Millers Oils' extensive range of products, examining their applications in automotive, motorcycle, and marine engines.Andy highlighted how each product is engineered to deliver unparalleled performance and protection across various applications, from engine oils to transmission fluids.

Furthermore, we discussed Millers Oils' response to the evolving automotive landscape, especially towards electric vehicles. Andy shared how the company remains committed to innovation and sustainability, exploring opportunities to develop lubrication solutions for electric drivetrains.

Our conversation also touched upon Millers Oils' involvement in motorsports and how it informs their product development efforts. Andy provided fascinating insights into how the company's participation in motorsports drives innovation and pushes the boundaries of lubrication technology.

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Stock Cars: It's Not All About the Racing! with Ian Bannister

Backseat Driver

05/15/24 • 38 min

In this episode of the Backseat Driver Podcast, I had the pleasure of hosting Ian Bannister, a dedicated stock car racing enthusiast and co-author of the captivating book 'It's Not All About The Racing'. Together, we delved into the rich tapestry of stock car racing, exploring its vibrant culture and community beyond the thrill of the competitions.

Ian captures the essence of the sport through photography to witness stock car racing evolution over the years - the culture, the camaraderie in the pits, the colourful personalities, and the tight-knit community surrounding this electrifying sport.

The accessibility of stock car racing, photography's pivotal role in preserving its essence, and how it offers an unmatched experience of closeness and intensity for both participants and fans alike.

From tales of tracks lost to history to personal growth intertwined with the sport, this episode provides a captivating glimpse into the dynamic world of stock car racing from the perspective of a fan-turned-insider. It's a celebration of the heart and soul of racing beyond the confines of the track that truly captures the essence of this exhilarating sport.

David Warburton and Specialised Automotive Services

Backseat Driver

07/31/24 • 41 min

In this episode of the Backseat Driver Podcast, we delve into the fascinating world of classic car restoration through an exclusive interview with David Warburton, the esteemed founder of Specialised Automotive Services. From its humble origins in his mother's garage, David's passion for refurbishing cars he couldn't afford blossomed into a globally recognized business renowned for restoring prestigious models such as Aston Martins, Ferraris, and Jaguars.

Throughout our conversation, David shares his remarkable journey, detailing the challenges and complexities inherent in car restoration. We explore the misleading representations often seen on television and instead focus on the meticulous process and craftsmanship required to breathe new life into these automotive treasures. David's dedication and his team's tireless efforts have earned them various awards and international acclaim, solidifying their reputation as industry leaders.

We also discuss how Specialised Automotive Services has evolved, expanding its scope and capabilities while maintaining a steadfast commitment to excellence. David reflects on the personal satisfaction derived from the restoration process, emphasizing the profound joy of witnessing these classic cars return to their former glory.

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You can listen to more motoring chat in all its forms on my very own radio show on Drystone Radio

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