Crystal Palace, London's own circuit, has recently been found to be one of the oldest Motor Racing venues in the world - this is its story

The history of one of Britain's oldest race circuits Many rare/unseen photographs Coverage of the very early meetings 1899-1902 Coverage of the final speed events 1997-2001 Events that took place after the circuit's closure The circuit as it is today Potential future plans for the venue A much needed update on the track's history.

Recounting a time of unparalleled access to the highest level of motor-racing, this is an informal, personal record of the people, the cars, and the events from that golden era, gloriously illustrated with many previously unpublished photographs. Coverage includes GP and non-championship F1 racing, plus Formula 2 and 3, Sports, GT and Saloon car racing. Now, a generation later, many of the cars and drivers shown here in their heyday can be found appearing at historic race meetings, drawing crowds approaching the size of those seen at modern Formula One, touring car, and motorcycle events. The author's personal recollections are complemented by contributions from one of the foremost racing mechanics of his day, Bob Dance. A unique combination, and a unique book.

The book picks up where Parker's previous volume, Motor Racing at Brands Hatch in the Seventies, left off. It offers a very personal account of visits to the world's busiest motor racing circuit during a decade of excitement and change, both on and off track, in the form of a scrapbook of previously unpublished photographs.

A defining era in motorsport documented in words and intimate photographs, both black and white and colour, from the mid-1950s through the 1960s, when motor racing was still accessible to all, and the 1970s when overt sponsorship and television changed the sport for ever.