SPECTATORS returned to the iconic Shelsley Walsh track this weekend for the first time since lockdown.

The often damp and changeable weather contributed to the thrilling and action-packed weekend of speed hill climbing. British hill climb ace Sean Gould once again raced to victory in the ‘Top 10 Run Off’ with his 700bhp Gould GR59 V8.

Gould touched 130mph on Ess Approach and crossed the finish line at 146mph and went on to claim the‘Best Time of Day’ with his time of 23.85 seconds.

With just over half a second between them, three times British champion Trevor Willis and title winner Alex Summers tied for second place, both recording 24.42 seconds. Worcestershire based Summers also scooped the first Top 10 in his ex-Indy 500 engined DJ Firestorm.

Former Midland Hill Climb champion Josh Sadler made his welcome return in a Porsche 911 RSR replica setting an impressive 34.15 seconds in the road-going class.

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Alex Bones also competed in his Audi S3 against the likes of Audi TTs, BMW 1 series, Alfa Romeo 4C, Mini Cooper S and MGBs in the same class. The weekend saw many ‘personal bests’ achieved and first-time competitors taking part.

Tenbury Wells resident Darren Gumbley took to the wheel of Paul Jones’ Radical SR3 RS for the first time and surpassed the time set by its owner.

CEO of Motorsport UK Hugh Chambers said: “Hill climbing has a wonderful relaxed racing atmosphere and a fantastic mix of age groups competing in a wide variety of vehicles and classes.

“The skill and commitment of the drivers in the fastest machinery is something to behold.

"I would like to extend my thanks to the many marshals, officials and volunteers that make the events happen.”