This is one of the most unusual events I have attended and it almost defies description. It is certainly not a motorsport event as the cars are required to travel below the legal speed limit. It is not a classic car show as the cars are here to tackle the hill.
The event was originally conceived to commemorate the centenary of the 1921 hill climb which took place on Holme Moss, though the course has changed a bit since that original event. The modern event is based at the Fleece public house in Holme Village who offer breakfast and a full pub menu throughout the day.
Participants received a numbered certificate and the £10 entry fee goes to a number of popular charities.
The first Holme Moss Hill Climb took place on Saturday 7th August 1920 organised jointly by the Huddersfield, Halifax and Bradford Automobile clubs. The first event was won by Captain Malcolm Campbell driving his Blue Bird Talbot. Over the four years that followed, famous drivers of the day such as Archie Frazer Nash, Raymond Mays, Parry-Thomas and local favourite Eddie Hall, competed for FTD on the fearsome hill.
Today’s hill climb covers the same route (although slightly shorter) as the original climb. It starts on Ings bridge just after Holme village at 1017 feet above sea level and, after several testing corners and long straights it finishes 1 1/4 miles later, just below Holme Moss Summit at 1640 feet above sea level.
Spectators and participants gather in a field behind the Fleece public house, directed there by enthusiastic marshals. The route is a bit tortuous and tight for bigger cars but it is only a short distance. Once in the paddock there is an eclectic mix of cars. A number hail from the era of the original event, right through to modern Porsches, Mazda’s and everything in between. Every now and again a car disappears to tackle the hill whilst others return. Everyone seemed to get as many runs in as they wanted.
The route is public highway and there are plenty of vantage points to watch or photograph the action. Take care though as the pavements disappear as you approach the climb. All the participants are having a great time and many wave enthusiastically as they pass you.
This is a small event organised by local enthusiasts and it’s distinct variety and friendliness adds to its appeal. An eclectic collection of cars, friendly enthusiasts, stunning countryside and a good pub. What more could you ask for a day out as a spectator or a driver.
Click on the image to see it in all its glory.
The ‘charitable donation’ is £10. There is no entry fee
Mark Stone 07836 691145 http://www.motoringnorthwest.com Presenter: The Backseat Driver Radio Show on Drystone Radio 103.5 FM Live Event Compère 1/3 of the 3OldGits Member of the Guild of Motoring Writers
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There is no entry fee, just £10 for the Yorkshire Air Ambulance if you feel like it. Otherwise, its completely free. Plus it’s organised by Guy Loveridge
Thanks for publicising this, it is currently a small event as COVID and Yorkshire Water spoiled the plans for a closed road competitive hill climb in 2020.
The current plan is to run a competitive event next year, Huddersfield motor club are assisting with the running of the event
Happy to promote this and other events if you email details to yorkshirepublishing@gmail.com