A motoring must

The launch of Chelsea AutoLegends 2012

I was introduced to Chelsea AutoLegends some three years ago when my good friend the racing driver James Wood became involved in the organisation of it.

Held at The Royal Hospital first in 2010, this extravaganza of all things motoring has grown immensely and will include over 500 collectors’ cars, motorcycles and racing vehicles. It is expected that some 15,000 will attend the one-day event and with supporters numbering Derek Bell MBE, Phil Packer MBE, Sir Stirling Moss MBE and Jodie Kidd, it’ll be as much about socialising and enjoying a good day out as it will be about cars.

Yesterday’s press launch featured an impressive line up of vehicles. Amongst them were Ferraris, Lamborghinis and Porsches. A particular highlight was an innovative GT2 Aston Martin racecar that had been specifically designed to run on second generation bio-ethanol fuel. Owned by Lord Drayson’s Drayson Racing Technologies LLP, this car has raced in the American Le Mans Series and the 2009 Le Mans 24 hours’ race.

Drayson, the former Minister of State for Science and Innovation, was present and spoke to invited guests about the importance of innovation in motoring. He told of a 200mph electric car that can be wirelessly charged and praised AutoLegends for: “Bringing old and new together.” It truly does just such.

Also present were representatives from Walking with the Wounded. This worthy charity, whose supporters number Prince Harry and Brian Blessed, has been chosen as the Chelsea AutoLegends 2012 charity partner and hopes to benefit from the occasion through raising both awareness and funds to aid the rehabilitation of wounded veterans.

Chelsea AutoLegends 2012 looks set to be a great day out. Be sure to put the 2^nd September in your diary.

Chelsea AutoLegends will be held on Sunday 2^nd September 2012 at the Royal Hospital, Chelsea, SW3. Advance tickets are on sale for £15 a ticket whilst the entry fee for those bringing a car of note is £35. For more information, go to: http://www.chelseaautolegends.com

Follow Chelsea AutoLegends on Twitter at: http://www.twitter.com/ChelseaAutoLgds