The Serpollet finds a permanent home

Many years ago, the Society was gifted a replica of a Serpollet by Bexhill Motor Racing Heritage (BMRH), founded by Malcolm Mitcheson. The other directors of BMRH were ex BOTPS Chairman, Michael Kent, and ex committee member, Peter Mitchell-Davis.

The Serpollet is a steam-powered car from 1901 made by Gardner-Serpollet in France; it uses a ‘flash boiler’ which provides steam to drive the engine. Malcolm conceived the idea of a replica of the ‘Easter Egg’ model, which took part in the Bexhill Races on 31 May, 1902. At the time, it held the world speed record having recently reached 76 mph at Nice.

The replica was based on research by Brian Hazell and Brian Storkey; Malcolm put up most of the money himself and brought in some additional sponsorship. Local schools were also involved in its construction. When BMRH closed, the three directors were keen for it to remain in Bexhill.

The Serpollet has been on display in Bexhill Museum for many years and at the end of last year, the Trustees agreed it should be donated formally to the Museum’s permanent collection, as it is an important part of Bexhill’s racing history.