H&H to auction archives of pre-war race ace, Bert Hadley

H&H Classic Auctions have achieved some excellent results for the archives of past racing and rally drivers of late and are delighted to be offering those of successful pre and post-war driver Bert Hadley at their Duxford Imperial War Museum sale of October 9.

Hadley joined the Austin Motor Co. as an apprentice in 1926, but quickly progressed through the roles of mechanic, racecar builder and test driver to that of leading works racer. He returned to the tracks after the war on behalf of Jaguar, Nash-Healey, Jowett and Triumph.

Among the fascinating archives on offer are:

An original artwork by Frederick Nevin of Shelsley Walsh in May 1938 featuring a cameo of drivers in action, including Hadley – as published in The Motor and Power & Speed magazines of the period

A good selection of original period photographs of Hadley in action (some framed)

A souvenir photo album of Hadley's involvement in the XK120 record-breaking speed trials at Montlhery in 1952. This album was presented by Jaguar to each of the drivers (including Stirling Moss) involved - complete with original presentation certificate

Hadley's racing outfits including overalls, goggles, visors, cloth cap and a Herbert Johnson helmet

A good selection of plaques, trophies, cups and medals won by Hadley at a myriad of pre and post-war events. Includes a trophy for the 1937 Brooklands Relay Race

Original correspondence from Hadley to various contemporaries including: Murray Jamieson, Lord Austin, Leonard Lord, ERA Ltd, the BRDC, William Lyons and more

A quantity of paperwork relating to Hadley's Le Mans drive in the Jowett Jupiters

Pre-war race programmes, Motor Sport & Speed magazines, plus programme for 1953 Mille Miglia

For further information on all H&H auctions refer to classic-auctions.com.