Vintage racing sensation arrives at Museum

A newly restored vintage car which wowed the crowds on the race tracks of the 1930s has been unveiled at the Lakeland Motor Museum.

The 1935 Singer 9Hp Le Mans was named in honour of the famous racing venue, after the previous model - known as a Bantam - did well at the 1933 Le Mans 24 hour race. This Special Speed version included sporty modifications such as twin SU carburettors and was a favourite with the really serious competitors tackling long distance trials.

Exactly 80 years old, the newly unveiled racing sensation now making its home at the Lakeland Motor Museum was part of a trio known as the ‘Ruddy Trials Team’ which won a series of competition medals during the 1935 racing season. Originally patriotically painted in red, white and blue, the vehicle has been recently restored with a gleaming red exterior.

Manager of the Lakeland Motor Museum, Chris Lowe, says, “This vehicle was one of the high-performance cars of the inter-war period and its real racing forte came in long distance trials. It’s a pleasure to welcome another special piece of our motoring heritage to our ever-expanding collection.”

Of course, the Singer isn’t the only vehicle celebrating a proud racing heritage. The dedicated Isle of Man TT Tribute Exhibition marks the achievements of famous motorcyclists including Berry Sheene, Joey Dunlop and the ‘Morecambe Missile’ John McGuinness.