Grand Prix royalty from the '50s,' 60s and '70s bearing the names of Brooks, Hill, McLaren and Stewart were joined by 60 members and friends of the Women's Motor Racing Associates Club for an exclusive lunch at The Ivy, in the heart of London's West End, to celebrate the WMRAC's 50th Anniversary.
The club, known as The Doghouse Owners' Club was founded on 7 February 1962 by a group of highly influential ladies. Under the chairmanship of Sheila Van Damm, the committee comprised Mrs Colin Chapman, Mrs John Cooper, Mrs Gregor Grant, Mrs Graham Hill and Mrs John Webb; the acting secretary was Miss Peggy Sandberg (Mrs Peggy Rowe). Bette Hill, who was present at the inaugural committee meeting, was clearly delighted with the Club's 50th Anniversary celebrations on Tuesday 7 February 2012 in London.
"It's brilliant! Absolutely marvellous to see so many here today," Bette said as she greeted members keen to talk to the Club's Founding President and former Doghouse cabaret star.
"We've shared such marvellous times together over the years," she recalled as she chatted to Pina Brooks, Patty McLaren-Brickett, Doreen Leston, Helen Stewart, President Shirley Procter, Chairman Leonora Hill and – the only gentleman present – guest speaker, former BRM and Williams Grand Prix driver and BRDC Vice President, Howden Ganley.
Sir Stirling Moss, who wasn't at the dinner, admitted: "For the first time in my life, I can sincerely say that I regret not being in 'The Doghouse'! Wishing you all a fabulous time at The Ivy."
