The ex-Benjafield M45 led the 1935 race outright

One of the stars of the 13th Le Mans endurance race is to be auctioned byH&H in its sale of July 27 at Buxton, Derbyshire. Prepared by London dealersFox and Nicholl and driven by Benjafield and Gunter, the 4.5 litre LagondaM45 Rapide Team car led the 1935 race at La Sarthe for some time beforedropping down the order with gearbox problems.

Even though the sister car of Hindmarsh and Fontes went on to achieve anhistoric victory, the Lagonda company sadly failed to capitalise on itssuccess and went into receivership just one month later, making this M45especially rare and desirable.

Resplendent in red coachwork, BPK 203 is offered in fine order and carriesan estimate of £280,000-£350,000. Said H&H's Managing Director Simon Hope,"Early Le Mans team cars very rarely come to market, but it is a particularprivilege to be able to offer one driven by Dr Benjafield, a true icon ofpre-war motorsport."

Joseph Dudley Benjafield was born in Edmonton and qualified as a doctor in1912. His first love was boats, but he purchased a Bentley in the early 20sand so began the career of one of the greatest race drivers of the time.'Benjy's' finest hour was winning the infamous 1927 Le Mans race with SammyDavis.

Another of Benjafield's many claims to fame was the formation of the BritishRacing Drivers' Club (BRDC), which these days owns and runs the Silverstonerace circuit and hosts the British Grand Prix.

For further information on H&H and its upcoming sales call 01925 730630.