Wolf WR7 (Gareth Tarr).
team that changed James’s tyres in the 1976 Japanese GP. He revealed that when the then new carbon-fibre chassis came in during 1981 James considered a return to drive for the Woking-based team, which by that time was being run by Ron Dennis. A few years later James also considered starting his own team, although it is believed this was never a serious proposition. Howard also stated that despite his popular image, the moment James got to the circuit he was totally professional. He had some difficulty fitting into the M23 McLaren as he was quite tall and had large feet (he cut the toes off his boots).
“M
um, can I have a word?” What could Barrichello’s manager want? “Do you think Rubens should sign for Ferrari?” Di Spires was somewhat taken aback, “I only make the tea”. It was a sign of both the respect and affection that Formula One’s favourite caterer had earned in 30 years behind the scenes that such advice was sought. Di’s unique role in the paddock resulted in many wonderful stories which were the basis of the Brooklands Trust Members’ lunch and talk on the last Sunday in October.
Di and her husband Stu started their business in the mid-1970s, aiming to provide food for the paddock. Their first Grand Prix was at Monaco and, arriving late in the old motor-home they had bought, they parked. A small figure appeared from the shadows, “You’re new here”. Not much happened in F1 without Bernie Ecclestone know- ing, even back then. Later in the talk Di read out a personal letter from the F1 supremo thanking
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A sold-out Napier Room proved the popular- ity of this event and it is hoped that similar anniversary events will be held in the future. No doubt BTM Talks organiser Steve Clarke will be interested in any suggestions, although it will take a lot to beat someone as special as James Hunt.
The Wolf WR7 was the last GP car James was to compete in and one can be seen in the Jackson Shed at Brooklands, together with some memorabilia. Maurice Hamilton’s new book James Hunt is now available in the Museum Shop. Gareth Tarr
DI SPIRES –“I JUST MADE THE TEA” News
Autographed Nelson Piquet T-shirt (Gareth Tarr).
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