A WOMAN who spent her years as a schoolgirl in Droitwich watching her father compete in the Chateau Impney Hill Climb, is planning to return to the event this summer, as one of the drivers, in a car previously driven by Stirling Moss.

Shirley Monro attended a boarding school in Droitwich during the 1960s, making the journey to the Chateau Impney to watch her father Donald Monro compete.

Mr Monro was one of the competitors in the original speed trials, driving a distinctive AC Ace Bristol around the course, alongside some of the biggest names of the name, and following his death, Ms Monro was inspired to begin competing herself.

She will be returning for the inaugural Hill Climb this summer, competing in her Cooper 500 Mk IV, which she has been driving for 30 years, since she started out in the sport, and which she has just discovered, was originally driven by racing legend Stirling Moss during the 1953 season at the French, German and Italian Grand Prix.

She said: “To drive a course that my father raced all those years ago when I was so small, it’s going to be thrilling but emotional for me – the memory of it is so sharp. The sad thing is that he’s not there to see it, but I’m sure he’ll be helping me get round those corners. The whole weekend will be very special.”

Rod Spollon, chairman of the Chateau Impney Hill Climb Club, added: “We’re delighted to welcome Shirley back to the Chateau as a competitor, rather than a spectator, for the inaugural Chateau Impney Hill Climb. It will be fantastic to see her set off from the same start line that her father often did, and her presence is sure to bring back many memories for anyone attending who competed alongside Donald in the 50s and 60s.

“The original speed trials at Chateau Impney were very inclusive events, with lots of families and children in attendance, and we want to recapture this spirit by making this year’s Hill Climb a fantastic family day out.

“Children are welcome free of charge, and the thrilling atmosphere of the Hill Climb offers a great way for young people to get excited about motorsport and find out more about it, much as Shirley did during her schooldays in Droitwich.”

For more information on the Hill Climb, which is taking place on July 11 and 12, call 01905 774411 or visit chateauimpneyhillclimb.com.