Racing at Brooklands

The Kings of Speed - 30s style - thrill the crowds at Brooklands - the world's first purpose built motor racing circuit

Starting in 1930, this film shows crowds at Brooklands watching a variety of racing cars whizzing around a circuit notable for its steep curved banks. Watch out for the period signage, often for long-vanished motor products. Note too the start line near the Vickers Ltd aircraft company's sheds. Later, in 1938, we see some remarkable colour footage of more racing before a short visit to the Crystal Palace circuit where we get a quick glimpse of one of Brunel's water towers.

H A Voss was an amateur filmmaker who worked for the British Phosphate Commission. He travelled extensively for both business and pleasure. Many of his earliest films date from the 1930s and, as in this film, feature life and events near the family home in Coulsdon, Surrey.