A LEADING civic society will ‘Go, Go, Go!’ to Shelsley Walsh to take the wraps off a tribute to much-loved motor racing commentator Murray Walker.
Fresh from a tribute to the late Sir Stirling Moss at the Worcestershire track, Worcester Civic Society have now turned their attentions to honouring the beloved British icon, who passed away in March.
Murray made his commentary debut behind the microphone at Shelsley Walsh in 1948, the BBC liked what they heard at Shelsley and invited him for an audition. This led to his first British Grand Prix commentary role at Silverstone in 1949, and the rest they say is history.
During his 23-year run as full-time commentator, Walker became known for his animated enthusiasm, authoritative voice and comical blunders, affectionately dubbed by his legion of fans as ‘Murrayisms’.
A special tribute of ‘Murrayisms’ will form part of the blue plaque unveiling at the commentary box.
The plaque has been created by Worcester Civic Society to commemorate the achievements of eminent people who have had an association with the city and county and will serve as a permanent memorial to “the voice of British motorsport”.
The plaque will be unveiled over the weekend of July 17 and 18 – the same weekend as the British Formula One Grand Prix.
First used in 1905 and in continuous use ever since, Shelsley Walsh is the oldest motorsport venue in the world that still features its original course.
Racers will be following in the wheeltracks of motorsport greats such as Raymond Mays, Hans Stuck and the late Stirling Moss.
As part of his long association with the venue, Moss was patron of the Shelsley Trust, which helped to secure the 99-year lease on the hill climb during the mid-2000s.
Known throughout the motoring world for its unique atmosphere, Shelsley allows enthusiasts to get close to the action as well as the cars and drivers.
General admission tickets for Classic Nostalgia are ‘access all areas’, allowing visitors to walk around the paddock and soak up the wonderful vintage atmosphere.
Murray’s commentary voice has been likened to a “screech and resembles a 500cc engine being revved up”.
Petrol heads will be able to get revved up themselves as the weekend also welcomes the return of its flagship event ‘Classic Nostalgia’.
Visit www.classicnostalgia.co.uk for more.
WE’VE put together some of our favourite ‘Murrayisms’ Can you pick out your favourite?
“Unless I am very much mistaken…. I AM very much mistaken!”
“Mansell is slowing down, taking it easy. Oh no he isn’t IT’S A LAP RECORD.”
“And there’s no damage to the car. Except to the car itself.”
“This has been a great season for Nelson Piquet, as he is now known, and always has been.”
“It’s lap 26 of 58, which unless I’m very much mistaken is half way.”
“I’m ready to stop my start watch.”
“There’s nothing wrong with his car except that it’s on fire.”
“I don’t want to tempt fate but Damon Hill is now only half a lap from his first Grand Prix win and… and HE’S SLOWING DOWN, DAMON HILL IS SLOWING DOWN… HE’S… HE’S STOPPED!”
• Got a funny Murrayism we’ve missed? Visit www.facebook.com/EveshamObs to share yours
