Snowy Special Stage 1967 RAC Rally

This photo was taken on the same 1967 RAC Rally and shows a muddy track through a forest in North Yorkshire, England. We saw plenty snow on some of the Special Stages in areas North of this Stage and kept awake with drinks of hot tea. Rallying created a following of people who braved all weathers to stand in the middle of forests to watch the entrants speed passed. The RAC became THE rally to enter and was only one of many social events which were organised by motor clubs. I had joined the motor club at York, where I made many new and lasting friends. I wonder where they all are now?

This photo shows two ladies who (foolishly?) entered the 1967 RAC Rally in England. One of them threw up more than once during one of the Special Stages during that Rally while the other kept hurtling the Ford Cortina 2000 along the route without assistance from the Navigator. This photo was taken BEFORE that incident! A bottle of Brandy was thrust in the Navigator's hand for a quick swig which revived her; I should know about this episode as I was the Navigator and my friend Margaret was the driver. It was unusual for ladies to enter this Rally in those days and I am proud we actually finished though we were in the last ten cars to finish. But it was an achievement of which we're both proud. Rallying was primarily the domain of Mini Coopers although Cortinas were worthy contenders along with cut-and-shut cars and souped-up family cars. Big money hadn't entered into the rallying days of the 60s and 70s so even the last car to finish was welcomed and cheered. I would like now to publically thank the spectator who thrust that bottle of Brandy into my quivering hand - You saved the day for us!!! For the rest of the Rally, any food and cups of tea stayed in my stomach because of that gesture. Thank You.