Backseat Driver

In this episode of the Backseat Driver Podcast, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Miles Garner from Revival Cars Ltd, a passionate classic car enthusiast and esteemed member of the Historic and Classic Car Hirers Guild. Our conversation delved into the fascinating world of classic car rentals, shedding light on the Guild's origins and operations and the diverse array of vintage automobiles a...

It's me, Mark Stone. Welcome to the Backseat Driver Podcast, where today I bring you exclusive coverage from Epoch Auto 2024, hosted at the stunning Euro Exhibition Center near Lyon, France. This year’s event celebrates motoring history, showcasing everything from the elegance of vintage MGs to the roar of iconic Formula 3 racers. As I stroll through this vast exhibition, we uncover the passion be...

In this episode of The Backseat Driver Podcast, I had the privilege of sitting with the esteemed rally driver Neil Calvert and his co-driver and life partner, Arlene Calvert. Neil takes us on a mesmerising journey, recounting his earliest encounters with the rallying bug in 1963. This ultimately led him to become a celebrated figure in historic rally circles, notably behind the wheel of his iconic...

Join me, Mark Stone, for an in-depth continuation of my interview with Mike Wilds at Race Retro. In this episode, Mike recounts his early struggles in Formula One, his brief stint with BRM, and the numerous mechanical failures that hindered his racing career. Despite these setbacks, Mike's career flourished in sports car racing, particularly in the Le Mans 24 Hours and the Group C era. From the hi...

Join me, Mark Stone, as I sit down with the legendary Mike Wilds at Race Retro. Mike takes us through his incredible journey from a young boy peering through windows at The Chequered Flag to becoming one of the most versatile and well-known drivers. Discover how his passion for racing cars led him to the 750 Motor Club, his first race in a DRW Mark 1, and eventually driving Formula 1 cars. Mike sh...

In this episode of the Backseat Driver Podcast, I had the pleasure of interviewing Malcolm Mackay, editor and car enthusiast, to delve into the fascinating world of classic car ownership and its challenges. We discussed the emergence of the Historic Classic Vehicles Alliance (HCVA), a crucial player in safeguarding the industry against threats such as emission zones, Brexit-related transport compl...

In this special episode, join me, Mark Stone, as we celebrate the 70th anniversary of the iconic Bluebird K7 at Salmesbury Hall, where this engineering marvel was first built. I’m joined by a host of distinguished guests, including Gina Campbell, who reflects on the legacy of Bluebird and her family's historic achievements. We'll explore the restoration journey of the jet-powered hydrofoil and dis...

Join me, Mark Stone, for a thrilling episode of the Backseat Driver Podcast as we explore the automotive marvels at the Lombard Rally Reesby Hall. I chat with passionate car enthusiasts in this special edition, starting with David Wingfield and his Ford Escort RS2000, then Don Booth and his legendary Audi Quattro A2. We also hear from Gareth Davis with his Vauxhall Chevette, Gary Dixon and Vauxhal...

Join me, Mark Stone, on the Backseat Driver Podcast as we dive into the world of historic and modern rally cars at the exciting Lombard Rally Festival Revesby in Lincolnshire. We start with highlights from the Lombard Rally Festival, followed by an insightful interview with Andrew Towse, who shares his experiences driving the legendary Hillman Avenger. I also chatted with Andy 'Ace' Harrison, York...

It's me Mark Stone, at Bridge House Tea Rooms with an exciting celebration of the 50th Classic Car Night. In this episode, I chat with John Wright, who spearheads this unique event supporting North West Air Ambulance and North West Blood Bikes. We dive into the details of Richard Little's unique self-built off-road buggy, Greg's powerful Datsun 240Z, Jason's quirky Replicar Cursor, and Gary Gee's...

In this episode of The Backseat Driver Podcast, we welcome back our esteemed guest, truck driver Lee Tombling, alongside the intriguing newcomer, Alexander McCabe, who brings a unique perspective as a former legal expert turned accomplished author. Together, we delve into the current landscape of truck driving, exploring the strides made toward improved wages and addressing persistent challenges s...

In this episode of the Backseat Driver Podcast, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Qal Shah, an expert in car tuning from BHP UK. Throughout our conversation, Cal provided fascinating insights into the evolution of car tuning, tracing its history from basic mechanical adjustments to today's sophisticated techniques, including the utilisation of microchipping and the Engine Control Unit (ECU)...

In this second part of The Backseat Driver Podcast, I'm thrilled to welcome back my guest, the esteemed former professional racing driver Patrick Watts, to continue our in-depth discussion. Patrick delves into captivating anecdotes from his illustrious career, with a particular focus on his trials and triumphs with the Peugeot team during the SuperTouring era. He highlights the challenges, includi...

It's me, Mark Stone. In this episode of The Backseat Driver Podcast, I had the pleasure of interviewing Patrick Watts, a celebrated racing driver whose journey spans grassroots hill climbing to the pinnacles of the British Touring Car Championships. Patrick shares the genesis of his racing fervour, an origin surprisingly not rooted in familial tradition but ignited by his father's contagious passi...

In this episode of the Backstreet Driver Podcast, I had the pleasure of hosting Richard Usher, the visionary behind the Great British Car Journey. Together, we embarked on a captivating journey through British automotive history, exploring his unique attraction dedicated to celebrating the heritage of British automobiles. During our discussion, Richard vividly described the immersive experience of...

Join me, Mark Stone, as I explore the thrilling Holme Moss Hill Climb 2024, the final recreation of this historic event. We start by delving into the History of Hill Climb Racing and how it has evolved. Then, enjoy exclusive interviews, starting with Guy Loveridge, the event organiser, who gives us an insider's view of orchestrating this monumental race. We also chat with key participants, includi...

In this Backseat Driver Podcast, I have the pleasure of sitting with Bryn Pearce, representing Lightning House Motorsport Promotions and Events. Bryn takes us on an exhilarating journey through Lightning House's inception and dynamic activities, showcasing their remarkable achievement in reviving Rally GB to Chester Council's acclaim. We delve into their extensive involvement in diverse motorsport...

It's me, Mark Stone, bringing you an exhilarating episode of the Backseat Driver Podcast, recorded live from the 2024 Goodwood Festival of Speed! This event is a paradise for motorsport enthusiasts, and we've captured the essence of the festival with exclusive interviews and behind-the-scenes insights. Join me as I sit down with motorsport legends, including Keith Doddsworth from the International...

Welcome to the Backseat Driver Podcast with me, Mark Stone for Part 2 at the Lombard Rally at Grimesthorpe Castle. In this episode, we dive deep into the world of classic cars and rally legends, bringing you closer than ever to the heart of the rally scene. I chat with an impressive lineup of rally enthusiasts and racers. Meet Dom Booth, a true legend in the rally world, showcasing his HB Internat...

It's me, Mark Stone and in this first part of this two-part episode on the Backseat Driver Podcast, I am in the world of rallying at Grimesthorpe Castle's Lombard Rally Series. This episode is packed with adrenaline and excitement, featuring a stunning array of classic cars and motorbikes, each with its unique history and charm. I chat with legendary drivers like Andy Dawson, Bangers and Cash's Da...

In this episode of the Backseat Driver Podcast, I had the privilege of interviewing Andy Ogley, the Technical Research and Development Manager at Millers Oils. Throughout our conversation, we delved into Millers Oils' rich history, which spans over 130 years of lubricating machinery and vehicles in Yorkshire and beyond. Andy shed light on the company's global presence and renowned fuel additives e...

In this episode of The Backstreet Driver Podcast, I enjoyed a detailed conversation with Steve Doney, a fellow enthusiast whose passion for Land Rovers knows no bounds. Together, we delved into the rich tapestry of history surrounding the British icon of off-roading, exploring its significance in Britain's post-war export boom and its enduring reputation for rugged dependability worldwide. Steve g...

It's me, Mark Stone, and in this episode, I had the pleasure of chatting with Fiona Elliott, the visionary founder behind Me and My Car, a company specialising in crafting unique and high-quality motoring and motorsport-related gifts. Fiona delves into the genesis of Me My Car, a venture born out of her frustration with the absence of premium motoring gifts nearly two decades ago. Drawing upon her...

Join us at Oulton Park for the Gas Shocks 116 Trophy with series manager Mark Bate and me, Mark Stone. I'm thrilled to bring you this episode packed with in-depth interviews and behind-the-scenes access. We'll be chatting with drivers, team members, and special guests, giving you an insider's look at one of the UK's friendliest yet most competitive racing series. We'll delve into the series' growi...

In this episode of The Backseat Driver Podcast, I'm thrilled to welcome back rally drivers Malcolm Graham and Charlie Woodward for a captivating discussion about their extraordinary journey in rallying. Together, they take us on a nostalgic ride through their memorable experiences, starting with the serendipitous acquisition of a Datsun Works car and the remarkable modifications that set it apart...