Clarkson and co may have been absent but lovers of veteran cars from around the world set off early this morning from London's Hyde Park on the annual outing to Brighton. Just under 500 cars, each over 100 years old, were entered with the same thought probably crossing many minds - "will we make it?"
Fortunately the weather was kind this year; a mild November day mercifully free of rain, drizzle and cold. For the participants it meant a reasonably comfortable run. For spectators it meant an opportunity to appreciate some spectacular period costume and headgear. Everything from bowler hats to boiler suits, handlebar moustaches and Edwardian dresses were on show.
The cars looked pristine; their bodywork gleaming, their chrome sparkling. A lot of love and attention goes on these machines and you can clearly see that in the faces of those who make the journey year after year.
At the finishing line on Brighton's Madeira drive, the commentator spots familiar faces for a chat. Participants come from all over Europe, from the USA and Western Australia. He picks out the rarest vehicles; partly for the appreciation of the aficianados but mainly to encourage better understanding for the uninitiated.
Causing particular excitement today was the steam cart which has never before completed the run. Not only had she finally made it, she made it two hours earlier than forecast. The smiles on the faces of her drivers showed the huge effort was worth it. As the cameras crowded around, another veteran media star was born.
The cars queue to cross the finish line and the driver skills becomes more evident. As motoring pioneers the Veteran cars' 100 year old brakes aren't always as reliable as the modern day equivalents they helped to shape. Apply the brakes too late and the car simply won't stop in time. A few anxious moments indeed with sometimes only inches to spare.
Henry Ford famously said "you can have any colour as long as it's black" and while there was no shortage of black cars, there were some delightful blues, greens, yellows, creams and reds on display. You really don't have to know anything about cars to appreciate this wonderful annual event. And if you do know about them, share your knowledge with the person standing next to you who doesn't.
What's your experience of the London to Brighton veteran car run?
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