British Racing Drivers' Club

The club was founded in April 1928 by Dr. J. Dudley Benjafield, one of an informal group of British racing drivers known as the "Bentley Boys".

Members who died or were killed during the Second World War included:[6] Cecil Kimber (a vice-president), The Earl of Cottenham, A.V.

"[19] In the modern era full membership status is offered only to those who are judged to have been successful at an international level for a number of seasons.

When Le Mans-winner John Duff joined the club in 1935 he was proposed and seconded by existing members.

In 1946 eligibility was described thus: "It is pointed out that, normally, membership is confined to gentlemen who have competed in an open motor road-racing event or taken a first, second or third place award in a Brooklands Automobile Racing Club's Meeting.

In recent years, Silverstone and the British GP have become an ongoing contentious issue between the BRDC board and Bernie Ecclestone's Formula One Management, with differences of opinion over the costs involved and the state of the circuit's infrastructure.

[26] Also within the remit of the club are: The support and development of young British drivers has become an important part of the BRDC's existence, not least with its involvement in the annual Aston Martin Autosport BRDC Award to honour and promote a young driver from a British championship who, in the eyes of the judges, shows the most talent and potential.

The BRDC also provides financial backing to selected young British drivers competing in junior formulae.

In 2008, the BRDC announced the creation of its SuperStars program, designed to advise and financially support Britain's most promising young drivers.

[27] In the recent past the Club Presidency has been held by former Formula One World Champions Sir Jackie Stewart and Damon Hill.

The position has recently been held by former touring car driver Stuart Rolt, (from 2005 – 2008 and from 2010 – 2012) and Robert Brooks, Chairman of Bonhams auctioneers, from 2008 – 2010.