Cuth Harrison secured pole position for Heat 1 at 2:03.8, but retired with a broken half-shaft and the heat went to Reg Parnell from Tony Rolt and John Bolster, Bolster setting the fastest lap at 1:57.9.

Peter Walker retired with gearbox issues, while Leslie Johnson was a non-starter due to shock absorber trouble and getting sand in his supercharger.

Rolt applied intense pressure, closing the gap consistently throughout the race but lacking the pace advantage to make an overtake.

The two were separated by a single car length at the chequered flag, Bira's engine screaming as he did not want to risk losing ground with a gear change.

Michael Chorlton, whose car struggled with carburation issues all day, reached the finish albeit nine laps down.