Backseat Driver

In this episode of  Backseat Driver , we’re joined by John Rigby, chairman of the Lancs TRF (Trail Riders Fellowship), to dive into the world of trail riding. We discuss what sets trail riding apart from trials and enduro riding, the history of ancient byways and green roads, and the thrill of exploring the UK’s stunning landscapes on two wheels. John shares his journey from competitive motoc...

It's me, Mark Stone and in this episode of the Backseat Driver Podcast, I sit down with Frankie Wainman Jr., one of Yorkshire’s true motorsport legends. A multiple-time world and national champion in BriSCA F1 Stock Car Racing, Frankie has dominated the dirt ovals for decades, earning the nickname "The Shale Shifter." With a career built on skill, resilience, and a deep un...

Join us for a deep dive into Bugatti history, heritage, and racing legacy as we broadcast directly from Prescott Hill Climb, one of the world's most iconic motorsport venues. Sitting down with Angela, curator of the Bugatti Trust, to uncover fascinating stories about Bugatti's past, from its pioneering engineering to its enduring influence on automotive design. Whether you're a Bugatti e...

It’s me, Mark Stone, and in this episode of the  Backseat Driver Podcast , we take a deep dive into the world of motorsport education at  Myerscough College . After a strong recommendation from rallying expert  Ronnie Sandham , I head over to meet  Simon Moss , Lecturer in Motorsport Technology, and  Danny Cowell , Lecturer in Vehicle Technology and Motorsport. We explore...

In this special episode of  Backseat Driver , with me, Mark Stone, I visit the ever-vibrant Bridge House Tea Rooms , a beloved motoring hotspot that’s taken on a new challenge: hosting its  first-ever car and motorcycle auction . I caught up with  John Wright , the man behind Bridge House’s thriving car and bike nights, to hear about how this idea came to life. What started as atten...

On this episode of  Backseat Driver , I had the pleasure of hosting Martin Smith and Mark "Glovey Squanch" to discuss their remarkable journey from England to the Nürburgring in a Reliant Kitten. They shared the meticulous preparations and modifications to ready the Kitten for such an ambitious trip, culminating in an exhilarating experience navigating the famed Nordschleife. Our conversation...

In this episode of  The Backseat Driver , I chat with Alec Poole, a motorsport legend whose career spans rallying, racing, and team management. Alec takes us on a journey that began with his father’s MG franchise in Ireland and evolved into a storied career that includes racing apprenticeships in France, competing in BMC events, and memorable appearances at iconic races like Sebring and the L...

In this episode of  Backseat Driver , I sit down with Matt Sims, widely known as Motorhome Matt, to explore the captivating world of motorhomes. We trace their history from the post-war rise in popularity to the surge in interest during the COVID-19 pandemic. Matt breaks down the differences between camper vans, motorhomes, and RVs, shedding light on what makes each unique. We also delve into...

In this episode of  Backseat Driver , I sit down with Neil Gioia, an experienced car salesman, to unpack the realities of today’s car market. We explore the challenges dealers face, from extended waiting times for new vehicles to the ripple effects of the ongoing semiconductor shortage. Neil provides insights into the surge in used car prices and the shifting dynamics caused by the rise of el...

In this episode of  Backseat Driver , I had the pleasure of speaking with Damian Jones, Senior Motor Car Specialist at H&H Classics. With career-spanning roles at Brooks (now Bonhams) and Cheffins before joining H&H in 2005, Damian has been instrumental in consigning and selling high-profile vehicles, including the ex-Richard Colton 1960 Ferrari 250 GT SWB.  Our discussion delved...

In the third instalment of the Ian Harwood interview series on Backseat Driver, Ian and I delve into the most gruelling part of his rally journey: navigating the rugged landscapes of South America in a battered Mark II Cortina. Ian shares vivid accounts of conquering Argentina’s challenging terrain, crossing the majestic yet perilous Andes, and enduring the unforgiving Atacama Desert. From intense...

In this episode of  Backseat Driver , I welcome back Ian Harwood to share the gripping story of his participation in the legendary London to Mexico Rally, one of the longest and most gruelling endurance rallies in motorsport history. Ian takes us through the highs and lows of this epic adventure, from mechanical breakdowns and navigating treacherous terrains across Europe and South America to...

In this episode of  Backseat Driver , I sit down with Ian Harwood, a rallying legend who brings decades of thrilling experiences. From passing his driving test to conquering local rallies and tackling international events like the iconic London to Mexico rally over 50 years ago, Ian’s story is one of passion and perseverance. Ian shares unforgettable anecdotes about the cars he’s driven, part...

In  Part Two  of the  Retromobile 2025  special on  Backseat Driver with me  Mark Stone , take you further into this iconic automotive event, bringing you interviews with some of the most fascinating figures in the classic and racing world. We start with  motorsport artist Yahn Janou , who shares his journey in capturing speed and history through his stunning pai...

In the first part of this special episode of Backseat Driver, I, Mark Stone, am joined by co-host Marie Catherine Ligny as we bring you exclusive coverage from Retromobile 2025, one of the most prestigious automotive gatherings in the world. This year’s event is packed with history, innovation, and fascinating conversations with key figures in the industry. We celebrate 70 years of the Citroën DS,...

In this episode of  Backseat Driver , I sit down with John Wright at the delightful Bridge House Farm Tea Rooms, an unlikely yet thriving hub for motoring enthusiasts. John shares how he turned this charming location into a bustling venue for classic car and bike nights, attracting hundreds of vehicles and passionate attendees. We explore the origins of these events, their growth since 2010,...

In this episode of  Backseat Driver , we go back to 2023 and celebrate the exciting return of the Skipton Car Show, led by Mark Dale. The event invites an impressive array of vehicles, from classic and vintage cars to creatively modified models. Mark shares the show's rich history, its hiatus, and the enthusiasm fueling its revival. As a professional chef and event manager, Mark provides a be...

In this episode of  Backseat Driver , I sit down with Chris Spencer at the Bradford Industrial Museum for an engaging conversation about the legacy of Jowett cars. Our chat begins with memories of our previous meeting at Le Mans. Chris earned a remarkable position at the Le Mans Classic event, a testament to his expertise and passion for these classic vehicles. Chris shares insights into the...

It's me, Mark Stone, and in this episode of Backseat Driver, I had the pleasure of speaking with Paul Hargreaves, a distinguished figure in motorsport media. Paul's journey began with a passion for driving tractors in his youth, which evolved into a notable career as a cameraman and producer in the motorsport industry. Paul shared captivating stories from his early days, including participating in...

In this episode of  Backseat Driver , I had the pleasure of sitting down with Paul Hargreaves, whose life journey has been deeply intertwined with motorsport—not as a driver or team member, but from behind the camera lens. Paul's career began in the insurance industry from 1960 to 1978, after which he transitioned into television, film, and video production. His notable works include producin...

In this episode of  Backseat Driver , I welcome back John Saltinstall, the brilliant author of the definitive Niki Lauda biography and Jackie Ickx's authorised competition history. Together, we dive into Jackie Ickx's extraordinary career, from his innovative approach to self-promotion to his bold ventures into rally raids like the Paris-Dakar and even powerboat racing. John shares fascinatin...

In this episode of the Backseat Driver Podcast , I sit down with John Saltinstall, the acclaimed author renowned for his biographies of racing legends. From his transition out of the finance world to crafting compelling stories about icons like Niki Lauda and Jackie Ickx, John takes us on a journey into the world of motorsports history. We explore the meticulous research process behind his wo...

In this episode of  Backseat Driver , I welcome back author Darren Banks for another deep dive into the world of racing drivers. We reflect on the life and tragic death of Gerry Birrell, a talented Ford Capri racer who lost his life in a preventable Formula Two accident. Our conversation also honours Roger Williamson, marking 50 years since his fatal crash at Zandvoort. Darren shares fascinat...

In this episode of  Backseat Driver , I had the pleasure of hosting Darren Banks, a former bookseller turned author of four fascinating books on lesser-known racing drivers. Inspired by John Saltinstall, Darren shared how his love for research and history ignited his writing journey, focusing on drivers like Roger Williamson, Tom Pryce, and Stephen South. We explored the challenges of craftin...

In this episode of the Backseat Driver Podcast, I had the pleasure of conducting an exclusive interview with Precision Driver Russ Swift from the comfort of his kitchen in picturesque Yorkshire. Russ graciously shared his remarkable journey from a motorsport enthusiast to achieving the prestigious title of British Champion in auto testing and ultimately ascending to global recognition as a renowne...