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(1947 - 1976)
Discount for Club members !
Slark Rolling Road Tuning - Tel: 07980 939133
Welcome to Downton Motor Club
Downton Motor Club is more than just a car club - our heritage can be traced back to the days of the world famous Downton Engineering Works, who were responsible for tuning services, preparing race cars and building special engines during the golden age of British motoring. Motorsport is still in our DNA.
Throughout the year we have our own fantastic set of 'Speed' Championships with qualifying events at major motorsport venues across the country - these championship events offer a range of motorsport thrills and all at a reasonable cost.
Downton Motor Club - the home of fun, friendly and competitive motorsport.
(Photo - 2025 Speed Champion Steve Jarrett, R53 MINI)
DOWNTON MC News
Charity Rally - to the Pyrenees and back !
As a club we are always keen to support our members in their charity events. This year Nigel and Stuart Samson are driving to the Pyrenees and back in a Reliant Robin - so it is not too conspicuous it is suitably disguised as Thunderbird 4.
In their own words -
“This is our 10th outing for Ben on the Bangers Charity Rally. We are raising funds to support the excellent services that Ben provides to people in the Motor Industry.
Any and all donations welcome - wish us luck in our 35 year old car that's been off the road for a decade. We are attempting a return trip to the Pyrenees - in a Reliant Robin cunningly disguised as Thunderbird 4”.
Stu & Nigel Samson
Nigel and Stuart on last year's Banger's Charity Rally in Scotland
Thunderbird 4 - gathering the admiring glances
How to donate -
Please support Nigel and Stuart's epic adventure in raising money in aid of Ben.
Your donation helps Ben work with people to improve their mental health, physical health and their wellbeing - whether they are facing a long term crisis or just need some temporary help.
Donate at https://giving.ben.org.uk/pf/samsonmotorsport
Or donate via the QR code -
ABOUT BEN
Ben is a charity. It helps people in the automotive industry navigate through life’s challenges - in times of trouble Ben can help them make positive, lasting changes to their lives. They work with individuals & companies across all sectors of the automotive industry - improving people's health and wellbeing.
As a charity, they support people who need help with a wide range of issues – everyone is different, everyone is unique, everyone’s needs are different.
If you work in the industry and you’re worried about your physical health, mental health or concerned about your general wellbeing, Ben can help.
There is no stigma or judgement in asking Ben for help - we all need a bit of extra support sometimes to help us get over those bumps in the road. Whether you need help in a crisis or want help with something in particular like anxiety, depression, money worries, trouble sleeping or anything else – Ben can help!
We are pleased to announce that Downton Motor Club branded merchandise is now available to order!
We have teamed up with a well known local specialist company called Giraffe Promotions to provide a great range of value for money merchandise. As many of you will know Giraffe Promotions is run by club member Paul Wheatley. All merchandise is ordered / embroidered / shipped 'on demand' - this is ideal for DMC as we won't have money tied up in holding a stock of merchandise.
There is a wide range of 16 different garments to choose from - many of which can be personalised. Check out the polo shirts, fleeces, gilets, hats, hoodies, soft shell jackets etc.... many in a unisex fit if you are looking for a unique present for the wife :-)
Yes, you can now show your support for the Club with a superb range of merchandise bearing our distinctive Club logo. You can also personalise your goodies by adding 'your name' underneath the logo or adding words like 'Speed Championship' under the logo - the choice of wording is yours. There is also a small section specifically for the 2026 Speed Champion competitors - hoodies and T-shirts with all the championship event dates printed on the back.....
Click on the link below to explore the complete range of DMC merchandise available -
https://www.giraffepromotions.co.uk/product-category/3-clubs/downton-motor-club/
Hamlins Engineering is a long-established automotive machining and engineering company that has an excellent reputation for quality and service. Founded by Thomas Hamlin way back in 1896, they are known across the south west as one of the leading specialists in engine reconditioning, rebuilds, machining and precision engineering.
They will happily take on work for any make or model of car, commercial vehicle or motorcycle and have an excellent reputation for their work on vintage and heritage vehicles. Highly recommended.
On production of your membership card, Downton Motor Club members are now entitled to a very handy 10% discount on parts and labour! Check out the full range of fantastic services offered by Hamlins Enginnering at www.hamlinsengineering.co.uk or give them a call on 01278 422452.
Looking to try some Motorsport?
Downton Motor Club is synonymous with the name ‘Mini’ and continuing in 2026 we have special classes in our Speed Championships for road legal R50 and R53 BMW Minis (Class 4 and 4A). As these are running in a ‘road legal’ format there are no need for fire extinguishers, cut off switches, roll cages or full harnesses.
We have Downton Classes at 30+ events throughout the year - starting in March and going right through until the end of October. The ‘Speed’ calendar typically includes Sprints at famous circuits like Goodwood, Pembrey, Llandow and spectacular hillclimbs at venues like Wiscombe Park, Shelsley Walsh and Prescott - something for everyone.
Check out the Speed Championship tab for more details
