Ulster GP 1955

The very demanding 7.5 mile Dundrod circuit played host to two classic races in 1955, the 500cc Ulster GP for motorcycles and a few weeks later, the Tourist Trophy for sports cars. The two wheel experts were out in force on August 13th, with the exception of Geoff Duke and Reg Armstrong, following a disagreement about starting money, between the Gilera team and the organisers. There were three works Nortons however, for John Hartle, John Surtees and Jack Brett; two Moto Guzzis for Bill Lomas and Dickie Dale and a semi-works Norton for Bob McIntyre.

Surtees and Hartle had a terrific scrap for the lead over many laps, but both had to stop for fuel, whereas Lomas and Dale planned to run non-stop. The plan paid off and as his fuel load lightened Bill Lomas began to fly. On the 8th of the 15 laps he broke the outright lap record, which stood to Dr Nino Farina in the Alfa Romeo 159. Lomas went on to win from Hartle, Dale and McIntyre after a perfect race which he has always regarded as his greatest victory. (B&W 15mins)

Motorcycle Sport 1956

This film looks at three very different events from the 1956 motorcycle season. The Scarborough Senior race at Oliver's Mount provided a tremendous battle on the narrow, twisty road circuit between Geoff Duke (Gilera) and Bob McIntyre (Norton). They finished in that order. The Wesh 3-Day Trial was run against a backdrop of marvellous mountain scenery but rain on the second day played havoc with the electrics of many machines. The event was also criticised for being too tough for any but the works teams, the privateers having no chance. Finally, the Motocross GP at Hawkestone Park is given full coverage in this intriguing look back at motorcycle sport in the mid-Fifties. (B&W 25mins)