Honouring Henry Seagrave on Ainsdale Sands

Honouring Henry Seagrave on Ainsdale Sands

Author: Mark Stone March 23, 2026 Duration: 38:25

It’s me, Mark Stone, and in this episode of the Backseat Driver Podcast, I head to Ainsdale Beach to witness a remarkable recreation of Sir Henry Seagrave’s legendary land speed record attempt.

Held between 14th and 16th March, the event brought history back to life with the iconic Sunbeam Tiger Primrose, once driven by Seagrave himself, reaching speeds of over 150 mph on the sands. I explore the significance of this moment and what it means to reconnect with such an important chapter in automotive history.

The event also welcomed Michael Ashcroft of the Aintree Circuit Club, alongside Andy Green, who demonstrated the car’s capabilities and helped bridge the gap between past and present. Also in attendance was Annick Coatalen, granddaughter of Louis Hervé Coatalen, the car’s designer, adding a personal and historic connection to the occasion, as well as Vijay Mallya, the car’s current owner.

I take a closer look at the organisation behind the event, the challenges of bringing such a historic machine back into the spotlight, and the enduring fascination with speed, engineering, and legacy that continues to inspire generations.

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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

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