Mike Hawthorn (1929-1959)

1953 Trophy race at Silverstone. Courtesy of the Museum of Farnham

The first Englishman to win the World Championship Motor racing title. His passion for cars came from his father, who ran a garage in Farnham. Enzo Ferrari signed Mike for the Italian team in 1952. He won the World Championship in 1958.

Despite his glamorous public image, he was sickened by the racing business. He retired to run the garage but was killed in a road accident on the Guildford bypass.

Useful Links

Farnham

The Museum of Farnham

Napier Railton racing car

Brooklands

20th Century Surrey

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