US Fire Chief's vintage car to roar up Kop Hill

The 1915 Model T Ford, which drew plenty of admirers from Eden shoppers, will be one of the hundreds of classic cars cruising up the Kop Hill in Princes Risborough on September 25.

The magnificent motor, which is traditionally black in colour, was given its striking red finish in honour of the Fire Chief of the American state of New Hampshire.

Present day owner Helen Duffell said: “This car was first registered to the Fire Chief of New Hampshire in the US, which was painted red because of his role and why he would use it.

“But I don't think he would have rushed to many fires in it because we could only get up to about 35mph in it downhill at last year's Kop Hill, but it is great fun to drive.

“The Kop Hill Climb is excellent, last year's event was such a fantastic two days and we will be taking part in this car again.”

Organisers and motoring enthusiasts are celebrating the 100th year anniversary of the original climb and also the diamond jubilee of the crash which brought the event to an end.

In March 1925 a student lost control of his Bugatti and ploughed into a crowd of people, injuring local residents and leading to the nation-wide ban on street racing.

The climb, which was briefly reinstated in 1999, was rekindled last year, attracting more than 2,000 spectators and 250 vintage cars and motorcycles.

The Bugatti which transformed the face of street racing on the UK's roads 75 years ago will be making its return to the south Buckinghamshire circuit this year.

Dick Skipworth will also be showcasing his collection of Ecurie Ecosse Jaguars, including the Tojeiro Buick and the Cooper Monaco which were both driven by racing legend Sir Jackie Stewart.

Barrie “ Whizzo” Williams will open the centennial event, while antiques expert John Bly, Nicholas Parsons and weatherman Bill Giles will also be on hand throughout the weekend of September 25 and September 26.