Derek Herneman on Driving Around the Coast for Charity

Derek Herneman on Driving Around the Coast for Charity

Author: Mark Stone October 6, 2025 Duration: 33:08

It’s me, Mark Stone, and in this episode of the Backseat Driver Podcast, I share the remarkable story of Derek Herneman, who set out on a 4,000-mile journey around the UK coastline in a vintage Land Rover and a 1946 caravan — all to raise awareness and funds for bowel cancer and Alzheimer’s charities.

Inspired by a pair of books given to him by his son, Derek combined his passion for classic vehicles with a mission to make a real difference. In our conversation, I uncover the meticulous preparations behind the trip — from restoring his beloved Land Rover and caravan to tackling the logistical challenges of life on the road.

Derek also recalls the hospitality he received from fellow Land Rover enthusiasts, the unexpected friendships forged along the way, and the sense of community that supported him throughout his adventure. Looking ahead, he reveals his ambition to take on yet another journey — this time aiming for the Arctic Circle — proving his spirit of exploration and philanthropy shows no signs of slowing down.

___

https://pod.link/1656058575

Visit our sponsors

GAZ Shocks 116 Trophy

Hodder Tyres

Tarox Brakes

SAS Autos

Listen Now

Mentioned in this episode:

Visit the Backseat Driver Podcast Sponsors

GAZ Shocks - Home of the 116 Trophy and the 120 Coupe Cup. Find them at www.gazshocks.com | Hodder Tyres - Trusted brands, every season, every condition. Visit www.hoddertyres.co.uk | Tarox Brakes - The Art of Slowing Down, precision-built in Italy. Check out www.tarox.com | SAS Autos - Experts in high-quality servicing and classic car restoration. Discover more at sas-autos.co.uk


There's a particular kind of conversation that happens when the engine is off and the real talk begins. Backseat Driver captures that feeling, hosted by Mark Stone from his home in England's north-west. Mark's own journey from competitive driving in the eighties to decades of motoring journalism and television gives him a unique vantage point. He's not just a reporter; he's lived the life, and that genuine enthusiasm for anything with an engine comes through in every discussion. This podcast is built around Mark's conversations with the prominent figures who shape the automotive world, from legendary engineers and designers to champion racers and behind-the-scenes innovators. You'll hear stories that rarely make it into magazine articles, personal reflections on iconic cars, and unfiltered opinions on where the industry is headed. It's for anyone who finds the culture of motoring as compelling as the machinery itself. Tune in for a deep, relaxed dive into the passion that drives us all, hosted by someone who has truly been there and done it.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

Backseat Driver
Podcast Episodes
Andy Ogley's Insights into Millers Oils' Innovations [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 32:51
In this episode of the Backseat Driver Podcast, I had the privilege of interviewing Andy Ogley, the Technical Research and Development Manager at Millers Oils. Throughout our conversation, we delved into Millers Oils' ri…
Steve Doney Dives into the World of Land Rovers [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 33:19
In this episode of The Backstreet Driver Podcast, I enjoyed a detailed conversation with Steve Doney, a fellow enthusiast whose passion for Land Rovers knows no bounds. Together, we delved into the rich tapestry of histo…
Fiona Elliott Shares the Inspiration Behind Me and My Car [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 36:19
It's me, Mark Stone, and in this episode, I had the pleasure of chatting with Fiona Elliott, the visionary founder behind Me and My Car, a company specialising in crafting unique and high-quality motoring and motorsport-…
Inside the Gas Shocks 116 Trophy: Oulton Park [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 40:40
Join us at Oulton Park for the Gas Shocks 116 Trophy with series manager Mark Bate and me, Mark Stone. I'm thrilled to bring you this episode packed with in-depth interviews and behind-the-scenes access. We'll be chattin…
Celebrating a Century of Speed: The Vintage Montlhéry 100 Event [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:06:50
It's me, Mark Stone. This week, I had the pleasure of attending the Vintage Montlhéry 100 event, commemorating the 100th anniversary of the renowned French circuit. Amidst the festivities, I marvelled at an impressive ar…

«1...678910