Richard Peacock – Funeral Details
Richard Peacock – Funeral Details.
Richard’s funeral will take place at:
St Margaret’s Church, Bodelwyddan, LL18 5UR on Tuesday 6th October at 12.00. This is the well-known “Marble Church”, next to the A55 North Wales Expressway.
Please note that there is no parking at the Church, so you’re advised parking on the road outside the Church, or Ffordd Rhuddlan, opposite.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/XDy1in8G8bWHSC3p8
The wake will immediately follow at:
The Kinmel and Kinspa Hotel, St Georges Rd, Abergele, LL22 9AS.
ALL Welcome. Let’s give Richard wonderful send-off.
Graham Hughes (1936–2026)
President, former Chairman and Director of Aintree Circuit Club
(Graham, with his wife Irene, at our 65th Anniversary Dinner, at The Atlantic Tower Hotel, Liverpool. Credit ACC)
Aintree Circuit Club announces with profound sadness the passing of our President, former Chairman, and long‑serving Director, Graham Hughes, whose association with the Club spanned more than six decades and helped define its character, continuity, and resilience.
Graham joined the Club in the early 1960s and quickly became involved in its organisation and development. His steady leadership, practical intelligence, and deep love of motorsport saw him take on a succession of roles, culminating in his appointment as Chairman and Director in the late 1970s.
During this period, Graham played a decisive part in securing the future of racing at Aintree. In the mid‑1970s, he brokered a crucial agreement with the BRSCC Northern Centre, ensuring that competitive motorsport continued at the circuit until 1982. When the course was later put up for sale, Graham was again instrumental in the public fundraising campaign that ultimately enabled The Jockey Club to purchase the site, preserving Aintree’s place in British motorsport history.
Graham’s contribution to the Club was never confined to committee rooms. He was a racer, a mechanic, a mentor, and a man whose humour, generosity, and unmistakable presence were woven into the fabric of Club life.
I first worked with Graham when I was nineteen, an undergraduate studying Applied Physics, serving as his race mechanic. He christened me “Harvey”, after Dr Harvey Postlethwaite — a nickname delivered with the affectionate mischief that was so characteristic of him. Working with Graham meant learning quickly, laughing often, and discovering that motorsport was as much about people as it was about machinery.
One memory captures him perfectly. In 1977, at the newly reopened Donington Park, we arrived at the paddock gate where the “oppo”, as Graham always called such officials, asked whether we were racing. Graham, without hesitation, replied:
“No, we just drive around different circuits with the van, the trailer and the midge, on the off chance they might let us in.”
It was typical Graham — deadpan, disarming, and delivered with impeccable timing.
During the lunch break that day, he took the tow vehicle — a Mk1 Escort 1600 van fitted with one of his Weber carburettor kits — for a spirited lap of the new circuit. He delighted in machinery, in circuits, and in the sheer joy of being part of the sport.
Graham also had a taste for unusual cars, none more memorable than his Cadillac Fleetwood limousine. At the Oulton Park Gold Cup, crowds gathered around it as though it were part of the event. The race was televised, and Graham had a portable TV running while we sat on the roof — his own improvised grandstand. It was eccentric, brilliant, and unforgettable, just like the man himself.
Beyond the anecdotes and achievements, Graham’s legacy is one of stewardship. He guided the Club through challenging years, protected its traditions, and ensured that its future remained secure. His influence can be felt in every event that still takes place at Aintree, every volunteer who gives their time, and every member who values the heritage of Aintree.
Graham’s passing is felt deeply across the Club, the circuit, and the wider motorsport community. His leadership, humour, and unwavering commitment leave a void that cannot be filled, but his legacy will endure in the organisation he helped shape and the people he inspired.
Full details of the celebration of Graham’s life will be published in due course.
The Club extends its heartfelt condolences to his family — especially to Alex Hughes, our Chief Marshal, who devoted ten years to caring for his father following Graham’s diagnosis of vascular dementia; to Graham’s wife, Irene, and to Graham’s sons Graham and Mike.
Graham Hughes was a guardian of Aintree’s past, a protector of its present, and a quiet architect of its future. His memory will remain part of the Club’s story for generations.
RICHARD PEACOCK 1948-2026
Official Announcement.
Aintree Circuit Club is deeply saddened to announce the passing of Richard Peacock, our Vice President, long‑serving Director, and one of the most influential figures in British club motorsport. Richard died on Friday morning in hospital at the age of 78.
Richard, far right, on the grid at Aintree, with his great friend Ian Smith, briefing James Webster from Wallasey, who was the oldest holder of a UK Racing licence. Credit – ACC/Ian Smith. 1980
Richard’s connection to Aintree was lifelong. His father, Graham Peacock, was a founder member of Aintree Circuit Club in 1954, helping establish the organisation that would preserve motorsport at Aintree after the Grand Prix era. Richard grew up in that world and devoted his life to continuing the work his father began.
Aintree: A legacy carried across generations
Richard’s contribution to Aintree Circuit Club cannot be overstated. As Vice President and Director, he guided the Club through periods of change, ensuring that Aintree remained a place where drivers could learn, compete, and belong.
He founded the Aintree Racing Driver’s School, which became one of the most respected training centres in the country. Thousands of drivers — from complete novices to future professionals — began their motorsport journeys under Richard’s instruction. Among them was Eddie Irvine, who would go on to become a Formula One Grand Prix winner.
The BRSCC recognised Richard as one of the most important driver‑development figures in British club racing, noting his decades of service to Formula Ford and his unwavering commitment to grassroots motorsport. That commitment was felt most strongly here at Aintree.
Anglesey: The circuit he built
Richard’s vision extended beyond Aintree. In 1995, he led the creation of the original circuit at Tŷ Croes, relocating his racing school and overseeing its development into a licensed venue. His leadership culminated in the 2006–07 redevelopment, producing the modern Anglesey Circuit — a flowing, coastal track admired throughout the UK.
Anglesey Circuit’s own tribute described Richard as the architect of the modern circuit and a guiding influence for more than two decades. He later served as Non‑Executive Director and Patron, shaping the venue with the same thoughtful leadership he brought to Aintree.
A racer of distinction
Richard’s racing career spanned Formula Ford, Formula E Ford, Classic Formula Ford, and Historic Formula One. He was:
- Champion of Oulton in 1982 and 1984
- Formula E Ford Champion in 1986
- Classic Formula Ford Champion in 1994
- A respected competitor in Historic Formula One, driving machinery such as the Tyrrell 010, March 811 and Surtees TS9B
His achievements earned admiration across the paddocks of Britain.
Motorsport UK: A national contribution to safety and governance
Beyond his racing and circuit‑building achievements, Richard made a profound contribution to the governance and safety of British motorsport.
For many years, he served as a respected member of both the Race Committee and the Safety Committee of Motorsport UK. In these roles, Richard helped shape national standards for event organisation, competitor safety, circuit licensing, and training practices.
His work in these committees was widely recognised for its clarity, fairness, and deep practical understanding of the sport. Motorsport UK acknowledged him as a valued voice in the development of safe, well‑run competition across the country — a contribution that touched every level of British motorsport, from club racing to professional categories.
Richard’s influence in these areas will continue to benefit competitors long into the future.
A mentor, leader, and friend
Richard was a founder member of the Association of Racing Drivers Schools, shaping national standards for driver training. His calm, clear, and encouraging teaching style made him one of the most trusted instructors in British motorsport.
To Aintree Circuit Club, he was more than a Vice President. He was a steadying presence, a source of wisdom, and a link to the Club’s earliest days through his father, Graham.
A loss felt across two circuits and one community
Richard Peacock’s passing leaves a profound absence at Aintree, at Anglesey, and across British club motorsport. Few individuals have ever contributed so much to two circuits, two communities, and the sport at large.
His legacy is not only in the tracks he built or the Club he helped lead — but in the people he taught, the opportunities he created, and the spirit of grassroots racing he championed throughout his life.
Aintree Circuit Club extends its deepest condolences to Richard’s Wife, Ceri, his family and friends. We will honour his memory at forthcoming events and ensure that his contribution to Aintree — and to British motorsport — is never forgotten.
Details of Richard’s Funeral arrangements will be published when announced.
Ormskirk Motorfest 30th August 2026 – details
Hi Folks, we have now published the recommended route for The West Lancs Tour, which will be the official start for this year’s Motorfest. Please click on this link to download the route schedule.: Ormskirk Motorfest 2026 – West Lancs Tour 30th August – Recommended Route from Start to finish in Coronation Park or Town Centre paddocks.pdf
We have a new start venue – Brandreth Farm and Barn – cars will be starting from 0830. [www.brandrethbarn.com] Location coordinates: 53.620094, -2.85585
Spectators welcome at the start – Bacon Barms and light refreshments will be available.
Car will arrive at their display locations in Coronation Park and Aughton and Moor St Paddocks from 0930, but we would ask the public to keep to the Official opening hrs from 1100 to 1500, to allow safe movement of vehicles, with minimal pedestrians present.
You may download the Official Entry list here: Ormskirk Motorfest 2026 Official Entry List -250826.pdf
We will still accept late entries from Competition cars: email mja@aintree.org.uk
This year, we are celebrating the 100th anniversary of the British Grand Prix, where history was made at Aintree, in 1955, when Stirling Moss became the first British driver to win the home Grand Prix and also the first British winner of an FIA Formula 1 World Championship GP…here he is at Anchor Crossing/Melling Rd in that very race.
Finally, we are indebted to Cataclean, for their continued sponsorship of Aintree Circuit Club events…world renowned Classic Car Expert, Iain Tyrrell will be chairing our Judging Panel along with the Deputy Leader of West Lancs Council, Cllr Adrian Owens. Awards will be presented by the Mayor of West Lancs, Cllr Janet Ingman
Looking forward to seeing you all at Motorfest.
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Gordon Franklin RIP
We regret to announce the passing of Gordon Franklin, who died yesterday, after a short illness and equally sadly, just 8 days after his wife, Doreen, passed.
Gordon Franklin RIP. Many of you will remember Gordon from our racing days, as a track marshal and very active club member, who joined ACC in the late 1960’s. I became friends with Gordon when I joined the Club and had a memorable trip with Gordon, to the first Birmingham International Motor Show, at the NEC, in 1978. Gordon worked for the Ford Motor Company at Halewood, in what I believe was the body shell “rectification department”, correcting paintwork blemishes, which he was particularly adept, probably due to his oil painting art skills. What wasn’t common knowledge, was that Gordon was entrusted to prepare the Motor Show cars, hence our trip to the Birmingham Motor Show, to see “his” cars. Gordon was a very gifted painter and undertook commissions from various drivers as well as painting period pieces. The picture below was painted by Gordon in 1974 and is a depiction of Peter Gethin in the Marlboro BRM 180, that was gifted to the Club by Gordon.
Gordon was also very active in Model Car and Aero Clubs and was a Civilian Instructor for the Knotty Ash Air cadets, for many years.
The Club sends it sincerest condolences to his family and close friends.
Their funeral will take place at:
Springwood Crematorium, Rosemary Chapel, L25 7UN at 2.30pm 14th September followed by a celebration of their lives at:
The OSC Club, 75 Derby Lane, Old Swan, Liverpool L13 6QE, from 4.30pm
Entries now open for the Segrave 100 Southport Celebrations – 14 -16th March 2026
WE ARE NOW CLOSED FOR ENTRIES.
WELCOME TO THE SEGRAVE 100 WORLD LAND SPEED RECORD CELEBRATIONS – SOUTHPORT – 14TH – 16TH MARCH 2026
Lieutenant Colonel Stephen Segrave, great‑nephew of Sir Henry Segrave, and Gina Campbell, daughter of Donald Campbell and granddaughter of Sir Malcolm Campbell, pictured at Ainsdale in 2016 with the Sunbeam Tiger WLSR car.
Credit: Michael Ashcroft
Supported by Cataclean
Brought to you by Aintree Circuit Club
I am delighted to invite you to join us again at Southport, for the 100th anniversary of Sir Henry Segrave setting a new world land speed record on Ainsdale Sands – 16th March 1926.
This was the last occasion when a world land speed record was achieved by a circuit racing car and the smallest engine capacity car to do so, with just a 4 litre V12 supercharged engine – the Sunbeam Tiger (nee Ladybird)
I am further delighted to advise that thanks to the patronage of the family of VJ Mallya, the Sunbeam will be back at Southport and Ainsdale for the 100th anniversary!
You are invited to join us for three events from the 14th (Saturday) to the 16th (Monday) of March as follows:
Saturday 14th March – The Segrave 100th Anniversary Charity Dinner 2026 – Waterfront Hotel, Southport.
Tickets are £95/head for a 4-course gourmet meal and £750 for a table of 8 guests.
Guest of Honour: The High Sheriff Of Merseyside, Mr Billy Hui.
Details: The Segrave 100th Anniversary Dinner | SouthportC&S
Sunday 15th March – The Segrave 100 Concours – King’s Gardens, Promenade, Southport.
Entry Fee only £25 per car. Class Awards. Free if you are attending the dinner and the Segrave 100 at Ainsdale.
This was the location for the finish of the famous 1903 Southport Speed Trials, one of the first organised speed trials in Great Britain, where after the Official Runs, drivers attempted record breaking runs.
The Speed Trials attracted some of the biggest names in early British motor racing, including S. F. Edge in his Napier, J. E. Hutton in a powerful Panhard, G. Higginbottom in a Mercedes, A. Rawlinson in a Paris–Madrid Darracq, and the pioneering Dorothy Levitt, the first female racing driver, in her 12 hp Gladiator, winning her class.
To enter your car: The Segrave 100 – Concours d’Elegance – Sunday 15th March – King’s Gardens, Promenade, Southport. OFFICIAL ENTRY FORM | Ormskirk MotorFest
Monday 16th March – The Segrave 100 World Land Speed Record Celebration – Ainsdale Beach, Promenade, Ainsdale, Southport.
Entry Fee £100 per vehicle (concession of £90 if the attending the Segrave 100 Anniversary Dinner)
- A non-competitive display and parade event, that will consist of 6 classes, for period defined road and racing cars.
- Only cars manufacturer/registered up to and including 1950 will be accepted as entries.
- Priority entries will be given to pre-war cars.
- Beach Parade Runs will take place between 1030 and 1230, over the original measured mile speed course.
- The Sunbeam Tiger WLSR Car and other period Grand Prix and Racing Cars will undertake their parade runs from 1130 to 1230.
- You are invited to use the Official Entry Form below to enter your vehicle.
- Free admission to the General Public to enjoy the celebration and the spectacle of the event.
ALL PARTICIPATING VEHICLES MUST PRE-REGISTER, TO COMPLY WITH MOTORSPORT UK REGULATIONS.
We will not be able to accept any entries on the day. Only pre-registered cars and official vehicles will be permitted access to the beach parade run zone
To enter your car: The Segrave 100 – Ainsdale Beach – Monday 16 March 2026 – OFFICIAL ENTRY FORM | Ormskirk MotorFest
Packages: The Segrave 100 Dinner plus optional Concours plus Segrave 100 WLSR Celebration: £185
Payment for all events is by Bank Transfer to Aintree Circuit Club Community Account.
We look forward to seeing you all back in Southport, to join us for this momentous weekend of Classic and Speed celebrations.
Cataclean Southport Speed Sprint Revival 2026- Sat 28th March – POSTPONED
The Club have taken the very difficult decision to postpone the 2026 Cataclean Southport Speed Sprint Revival, scheduled to take place Saturday 28th March. This has arisen due to multiple unforeseen factors, that may compromise the running of a successful event within the community, arising since the date was originally set.
Plans to reschedule for later in the year have been met with positive support by Sefton Council and Motorsport UK.
Further information will be forwarded as alternative plans are put in place.
(Picture Credit Andrew Brown: Billy Hui, High Sheriff of Merseyside taking a parade run in Hamish Roscoe’s Triumph TR3 – 2025 Cataclean Southport Speed Sprint Revival)
Looking forward to seeing you at Southport.
Michael Ashcroft – Event Secretary.
Ormskirk MotorFest 2025 – Awards Winners
The Club is delighted to announce the Award Winners for this year’s MotorFest:
AWARDS WINNERS:
BEST MOTORCYCLE – NO 30 – ALAN MOLYNEUX – 1990 SUZUKI-BAKER RACE
BEST UP TO 1939 – N0 67 -GARETH PRITCHARD – 1932 FORD MODEL B
BEST POST WAR UP TO 1966 – NO 69 GEOFFREY ARROWSMITH – 1949 TRIUMPHS 2000 ROADSTER
BEST 1966 TO 1999 – N0 6 – PHILIP AUSTIN – 1973 JAGUAR E-TYPE V12
POST 1990 – N0 24 – ADAM BURROWS – 1992 PEUGEOT 205 GTI
BEST MILLENIUM – NO 27 – NICK OWEN – 1998 CHEVROLET CORVETTE C5
BEST MG – NO 50 – DAVID FILDES – 1960 MGA ROADSTER
BEST MINI – N0 103 – JOHN DICKENSON – 1999 MINI COOPER SPORT
BEST IN SHOW – NO 64 – DAVID WHITE – 1910 FORD MODEL T CONVERTIBLE
Best in Show Award Winner – David White, with Rod Keay – Centre (Director/Presenter – Liverpool Live Radio) and Mike Ashcroft -Left (Event Secretary – Ormskirk Motorfest/Aintree Circuit Club)
SPECIAL INVITATION – 70TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION – 1955 RAC BRITISH GRAND PRIX – SAT 9TH AUGUST 2025 – SPECIAL GUESTS – BTCC STARS – JASON PLATO AND DAN ROWBOTTOM
ALL TICKETS ARE NOW SOLD.
Hello Folks – PRIVATE INVITATION – 70th Anniversary Celebration – 1955 RAC BRITISH GRAND PRIX – SATURDAY 9TH AUGUST – AINTREE RACECOURSE. OPEN TO MEMBERS, NON-MEMBERS AND YOUR GUESTS.
Event Schedule
- 4:00 PM – Welcome & Registration – refreshments served in the Princess Royal Suite
- 6:00 PM – Race Car Parades on the historic grand prix circuit (grandstand section)
- 7:00 PM – Aintree Circuit Drive Experience
- 8:00 PM – Dinner in the Princess Royal Suite
Highlights
- Historic GP circuit runs in classic and contemporary cars
- Evening dinner with guest drivers and motorsport personalities
- Period race cars on display & memorabilia
- Anniversary presentation & celebration
To book your place: www.ormskirkmotorfest.com/aintree1955
Proudly presented by Aintree Circuit Club and supported by Cataclean.
SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT – ORMSKIRK MOTORFEST RETURNS FOR 2025 – Sunday 24th August.
The Club is delighted to announce the return of our Ormskirk Motorfest to its traditional home in Ormskirk Town Centre.
We will have vehicle display paddocks back in Moor St and Aughton St next to the Clock Tower and in Coronation Park.
The event will be free for the public to attend and will be open from 11am until 4pm.
Vehicles may join an optional open road parade run under general traffic conditions following the legacy motorfest parade route around Ormskirk Town Centre
To enter your vehicle, please click here
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