The Door Industry Journal: July 2017

Monday, 31 July 2017

A Hole-In-One for the Securefast Smartlock system

Located in St Andrews, the legendary home of golf, stands the Kinnettles Hotel Spa, a bespoke luxury 5-star hotel that as recently undergone a major refurbishment programme, in partnership with published Scottish interior designer Pat Renson who has designed the hotels unique collection of distinguished Suites.

Incorporated in the high specification refurbishment was the installation of the latest state of the art Smartlock Security system from Securefast plc for all bedroom and communal doors.

Originally built in 1879 and designed by architects J. Hall and D. Henry, the hotel’s 9 luxurious suites are each fitted with BE-Tech Mifare Virtual Hotel lock to all bedroom doors as well as the communal door from the restaurant to the guest area, together with the BE-Tech Virtual Hotel system management software.

The stylish new Smartlock ASL900 is a wire free, stand alone, intelligent computer based access control system that uses MIFARE® RFID proximity card technology, which offers a cable free, easy to operate and secure access solution. By combining the hotel’s classical elegance with the latest Securefast technology ensures that guests enjoy the luxury and splendour of the magnificent rooms combined with hassle free checking-in and check-out whilst maintaining the security at the hotel.

With 60min fire rating, the new Smartlock by Securefast incorporates centralised card programming, which utilises easy to use Windows based software that enables individual and personalised card access to doors and areas, time and date validity and shift control, all without the need for unsightly cable installations around the building.

To receive further information on the Securefast Smartlock system please contact the sales team on 01543 501600 or visit the web site at www.securefast.co.uk .

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Sunday, 30 July 2017

Ford Celebrates 100 Years of Truck History -- from 1917 Model TT to 2017 F-150 Raptor

1935 Ford pickup truck in Greyhound Express Livery

One hundred years ago on 27th July 1917 in the United States of America, Ford introduced its first purpose-built truck, the 1917 Ford Model TT, forever changing the auto industry – and the very nature of work itself.

A century later, Ford trucks are among the most iconic vehicles in the world. F-Series is America’s best-selling truck for 40 consecutive years and best-selling vehicle for 35 straight years. In Canada, Ford F-Series has enjoyed 51 consecutive years as best- selling pickup and now marks seven straight years as best-selling vehicle.

1918 Ford Model TT one-ton stake bed truck

Throughout this rich history, Ford continuously has worked to improve its trucks by listening to truck owners and developing new innovations that improve their ability to get the job done. These innovations give today’s Ford truck owners greater towing and hauling capability, advanced engines for improved efficiency, and driver-assist technologies that make it easier and more convenient to operate.

Birth of a legend

Nine years after the first Model T saw Ford customers asking for a vehicle that could haul heavier loads and provide greater utility for work and deliveries. On July 27, 1917, Ford responded with the Model TT, which retained the Model T cab and engine. The Model TT came with a heavier-duty frame capable of carrying one ton of payload. The factory price was $600; 209 were sold that year.

100 Years of Trucks Poster

Similar to the Fordson tractor introduced in 1917, Henry Ford envisioned a chassis that could accommodate third-party beds, cargo areas and other add-ons to deliver the increased functionality needed to get work done. It was a formula for success. By 1928, Ford had sold 1.3 million Model TTs before replacing the truck with the more capable Model AA with a 1.5-ton chassis.

Henry Ford marketed his early trucks heavily in rural areas, according to Bob Kreipke, Ford historian. “Model AA trucks in particular had a certain class to them,” he said. “Customers could use them on the farm, yet still take them to church on Sunday.”

1948 Ford F-1 pickup truck

Like the Model TT, the Model AA was available exclusively as a chassis cab offered in two lengths, with new powertrain and axle options for greater capacity. To stay ahead in what had become a hotly competitive business, Ford replaced the Model AA with the even more capable Model BB in 1933. Many were outfitted as mail and freight vehicles, ambulances and stake trucks. Two years later, Ford introduced the 1935 Model 50 pickup, powered exclusively by its famous Ford Flathead V8 engine.

1953 Ford F-100 pickup truck

By 1941, Ford had sold more than 4 million trucks. Changing over to war production resulted in the loss of consumer sales but a gain in experience building heavy-duty military truck chassis and four- wheel-drive personnel carriers. A year after consumer production resumed in 1947, Ford leveraged that knowledge to provide even more innovations for its customers.

1954 Ford F-100 pickup truck

“After the war, a lot of rural Americans moved to urban and suburban centres looking for work, and many took their Ford pickups with them,” said Kreipke. “Ford saw this as an opportunity, and began work on the next generation of trucks for 1948, what came to be known as F-Series Bonus Built trucks.”

This first-generation F-Series covered Classes 2 through 7 capacities – from the half-ton F-1 to the much larger F-8 cab- over truck. With the arrival of the second-generation F-Series for 1953, Ford increased engine power and capacity, and rebranded the series. The F-1 became the
F-100, while F-2 and F-3 trucks were integrated into the new F-250 line. F-4 became F-350. Class 8 trucks were spun off into a new C- Series commercial truck unit that produced iconic C-, H-, L-, N-, T- and W-Series Ford trucks.

1965 Twin I Beam Advert

Throughout this period, Ford trucks started looking less utilitarian, sporting two-tone paint, automatic transmissions, and improved

heater and radio offerings. New standard features debuted with the 1953 F-100, including armrests, dome lights and sun visors. Lower and with a wider cab, the new truck featured integrated front fenders and a more aerodynamic design.

1975 Ford F150 pickup truck

Then, in 1957, Ford tested out a car-based truck – the Falcon Ranchero. Marketed as “More Than a Car! More Than a Truck!,” this light-duty truck brought car-like amenities to consumers.

Creating the Built Ford Tough brand

In 1961 – 44 years after the Model TT – Ford introduced its fourth- generation F-Series. Lower and sleeker, it debuted the company’s revolutionary twin I-beam front suspension. An upscale Ranger package appeared in 1967. Ads emphasised improved comfort, value and durability, as Ford trucks now offered power steering and power brakes, and a lower chassis profile. A larger SuperCab option introduced in 1974 featured more comfortable seating to attract dual-purpose work and family buyers.

1993 Ford F-150 Lightning pickup truck

With the arrival of the sixth-generation F-Series in 1975, Ford dropped the popular F-100, replacing it with a higher-capacity F-150 pickup to combat the C/K trucks from General Motors. By 1977, F-Series pulled ahead in the sales race, and 26 million trucks later, Ford hasn’t looked back.

1999 Ford F150 Super Duty

That same year, a copywriter for a Ford truck magazine is said to have written three simple words that would come to define the brand – Built Ford Tough. It is more than a slogan – it’s the F-Series brand promise to its owners and the mantra for Ford’s entire truck team.

2004 Ford F150 pickup truck

Trucks were fast becoming universal family vehicles, in addition to being work trucks, according to Kreipke. Instead of renting a truck for a big job or for towing, people now had ones they could use for work during the week, then hitch a trailer to and haul the family in for weekend getaways. Ford trucks were adapting to the changing, more active American lifestyle.

2008 Ford F450 F Series Super Duty

Premium edition trucks, such as the Lariat package introduced in 1978, offered more comfort features including air conditioning, leather trim, and power windows and locks. In 1982, Ford charted a different course with an all-new compact truck – Ranger. Versatile and efficient, Ranger quickly built a reputation for being tough and capable, leading it to thrive in diverse markets around the world. Now, after a seven-year hiatus, Ford is reintroducing an all-new Ranger in North America in 2019.

2010/2011 F150 SVT Raptor

Expanding the Built Ford Tough Lineup

Ford reset the benchmark again in 1998 with the introduction of F-Series Super Duty. Engineered for fleet and heavy-duty work use, Super Duty – from the F-250 all the way up to the F-750 – more clearly defined Ford trucks for a growing base of commercial applications.

2015 Aluminium Body F-150

With an expanding lineup of F-Series trucks, the company added high-end trim and technology packages to meet customers’ diverse needs. The addition of King Ranch, Platinum and Limited model trucks provided more luxury content along with improved functionality and capability. Features such as premium leather- trimmed seating, SYNC® with navigation, sunroofs and heated seats, along with gross vehicle weight and tow ratings in the 15,000-pound range combined to deliver on the Built Ford Tough brand promise.

2017 Ford F-350 King Ranch

While Ford worked to continuously increase truck capabilities, the company made bold investments in efficiency, too. Powerful, yet efficient EcoBoost® V6 engine technology debuted for 2011, providing customers with better fuel economy and power. This was followed by the industry’s first high-strength, military-grade, aluminium-alloy body for the 2015 F-150, providing customers the “and” solution of greater efficiency and more capability. Two years later, 2017 Super Duty trucks also got lighter-weight high-strength, military-grade, aluminium-alloy bodies – a savings Ford reinvested in providing best-in-class towing and hauling capability.

52018 Ford F-150

Innovation on the performance front continued, too, with Ford leading the way in the speciality truck segment. Early examples include Harley-Davidson F-150 and F-150 SVT Lightning. Then came Raptor – the first off-road trophy truck from a major manufacturer.

Inspired by desert racing and designed specifically to meet the needs of off-road truck enthusiasts, the purpose-built F-150 Raptor set the bar high for off-road performance. Today’s second-generation 2017 F-150 Raptor features a 450-horsepower EcoBoost V6, 10-speed transmission, and segment-exclusive Terrain Management System™ with electronic-controlled transfer case and differentials.

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Saturday, 29 July 2017

New branding and website launch mark dhf’s 120th anniversary

Tamworth-based trade association, dhf (Door and Hardware Federation), has today announced the launch of its new branding and website – www.dhfonline.org.uk - as it celebrates its 120th anniversary this year.

Identifying a need to bring its logo, literature and website up to date, dhf has embraced a sympathetic move forward, without forgetting its roots. Over time, it is anticipated that dhf will be easily identifiable from the layout, colours, categories and style of its new branding, culminating in a strong professional image, that attracts a new audience without eliminating its core members.

The new dhf logo is strong with a definite boldness; with the new website providing an improved platform to showcase its services, offering a clean, fresh and current interface with stimulating content befitting of the strong dhf brand.

Enabling users to access information quickly and easily, the new website provides a thorough overview of the six member areas that it represents and permits the simple downloading of publications. Information relating to standards, and legislation, a new ‘search facility’, and a dedicated member’s area offering a host of services such as a ‘business support area’ where press release and business plan templates can be accessed to support their business growth, will also be an important feature. In addition, regular news updates and social media interaction are part of the new upgrade.

The organisation has experienced significant member growth over the past five years, with almost 400 members in 2017, compared to just 220 in 2012. In addition, more than 1200 individuals have completed the dhf Safety Diploma Training Course, with the dhf initiative, ‘Gate Safety Week’, a year-long commitment that culminates in a week of activities during October, now in its fourth year. A new training officer and additional administrative staff have also joined the pro-active organisation to support its growth.

Commenting on the new dhf branding and website launch, Marketing Manager, Patricia Sowsbery-Stevens said:

“I am thrilled with the new branding, which is strong and modern. The website which delivers on all levels, is easy to navigate and reflects our values and vision. The organisation is experiencing tremendous growth and success and a more professional brand and website will enable it to move forward whilst also bringing a wealth of additional benefits for our members. It also seemed fitting to be able to launch the new branding as we celebrate our 120th anniversary, and we look forward to many more successful years ahead.”

Door & Hardware Federation

01827 52337

www.dhfonline.org.uk

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Friday, 28 July 2017

Out Now - The Summer 2017 Issue of Door Industry Journal

Summer is here and I’m sure you’re looking forward to some time on the beach or by the swimming pool – I know I am!

And what could be better for your holiday reading than the latest issue of the Door Industry Journal now known as DIJ?

Before I tell you what’s inside, I’d like to say the new livery introduced with our last issue has gone down a storm. Even the number of people referring to us as DIJ has increased dramatically, which was one reason we made the change.

Now back to this issue, which at 128 pages is our biggest ever.

Here’s a few highlights:

On page 6 there’s news on preparation for the upcoming DHF Gate Safety Week in October. This is a vital campaign, as there’s many automated gates that are potentially dangerous due to not meeting the required standards.

On page 20, you’ll meet Darren Rhodes, new MD of the Procter Bros. Group, surely one of the oldest firms in the sector, having been established in 1740 – 277 years ago - and still family-owned!

On page 27 read about our brush with TV stardom, as the guest publication on “Have I Got a Bit More News For You” in May.

David O’Mara - Marketing Manager at Hörmann - reports on changing consumer priorities on page 46, with sectional doors replacing the traditional up and over doors, or “shin busters” as they’re known in America.

There’s news from NVM Group on page 84, where you can learn about their expanded operations at Portico, which they acquired last year.

On page 92 you can read about how EasyGates are speeding up the process of force tester recalibration.

Something else for automated gate specialists on page 100, where Woodrite launches their range of “legendary quality” wooden gates.

Finally, some useful advice on page 122, where Graham Hulland of dormakaba advises on extending door hardware life expectancy.

I hope you enjoy this issue of DIJ and have a good summer holiday. Just don’t forget that sun cream….

Derek Hibbart

Editor, Door Industry Journal

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Thursday, 27 July 2017

Fire door safety campaigners demand public register of Responsible Persons

In the shadow of the Grenfell Tower devastation, Fire Door Safety Week campaigners are renewing their call for a publicly available national register of Responsible Persons for fire safety in rented accommodation.

The register would require the name of the individual who has legal responsibility for fire safety in a building to be registered on a national database. Their name and contact details would be prominently displayed in the building to help tenants report any concerns.

In turn, the Responsible Person should sign a formal acknowledgement of duty of care and meet a mandatory minimum level of competence, says the British Woodworking Federation (BWF), organisers of the annual Fire Door Safety Week campaign.

Hannah Mansell, spokesperson for Fire Door Safety Week, who is also BWF technical manager, chair of the Passive Fire Protection Forum and a trustee of the Children’s Burns Trust, says:

“When we start digging, the identity of the Responsible Person is often a mystery. It can become very complex trying to identify who it is, especially in organisations that own or manage vast housing stock.

"Although the Fire Safety Order took effect over 10 years ago, our research shows that tenants don’t know who to report fire safety concerns to. Even worse, when we surveyed those who are responsible for fire safety, half of them didn’t even know or were unclear about their role.

“Under the Fire Safety Order, Responsible Persons have to ensure that a regular fire risk assessment (FRA) is carried out by a competent person and is documented.

"The FRA should examine all aspects of fire safety management, including active and passive fire protection measures, signage, means of escape and the specific fire plan procedures.

"Their responsibilities also include acting on improvement advice and creating the emergency fire plan for the building, the key to this is arming the occupants with the knowledge of what to do in an emergency.

"Where in-depth and expert knowledge is lacking, the Responsible Person has a duty to engage someone with the relevant expertise to be able to implement or advise on key areas.

“There needs to be crystal clarity about the Responsible Person and a total transformation of attitude towards fire safety of tenants in rented accommodation.

"By identifying the Responsible Person and providing their contact details, occupants become empowered to report any concerns they have about the fire doors in their buildings. This would also ensure that those responsible for keeping tenants safe from fire know their duty and are made aware of issues directly.”

The call for a register of Responsible Persons was first made following the inquest into the death of Sophie Rosser, 23, who died in 2012 following a fire in her block of flats in London. At her inquest, the Coroner was frustrated in her attempts to allocate the blame to any particular person or organisation.

Research last year confirmed the BWF’s fears that little has been done to address this problem. More than half of all tenants had no idea who the Responsible Person was for the building where they lived and even more worryingly, two thirds of low income households renting flats had never been given the emergency fire plan information.

Fire Door Safety Week

Fire Door Safety Week, now in its fifth year, will run from 25 September to 1 October and aims to raise awareness about the role of third-party certificated fire doors in preventing life changing injuries and the legal responsibilities of managing fire door safety. It will focus on promoting awareness of the critical role of fire doors in high rise buildings, houses of multiple occupancy and other types of shared accommodation.

The campaign will be giving advice, hosting events and sharing useful resources. It will also be signposting tenants as to where they should be reporting their fire safety concerns.

So far, the campaign has confirmed cross sector support from a wide range of organisations including the fire and rescue services, housing associations, charities, BWF members, fire safety professionals and organisations from every corner of the UK.

Further information and advice for landlords and building owners can be found at www.firedoorsafetyweek.co.uk

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Wednesday, 26 July 2017

UNION launches FastLatch

UNION, part of ASSA ABLOY Security Solutions, has launched the FastLatch, a new range of push fit tubular latches and privacy bolts.

Designed with a stylish and modern appearance for interior doors, FastLatch is both aesthetically pleasing and easy to install due to its revolutionary round forend, reducing installation time and offering a professional finish.

Available in a choice of three high quality finishes – polished chrome, polished brass and satin nickel, FastLatch is supplied with both round and square corner strike options, enabling a quick and simple installation or retrofit.

FastLatch has been tested to 800,000 closing cycles, to ensure it lasts for decades of residential use, reducing maintenance and replacement costs.

Karen Hubbard, Mortice Product Manager at ASSA ABLOY Security Solutions, said:

“FastLatch is a perfect fit for modern living, offering a stylish finish for interior doors. As well as meeting aesthetic needs, the FastLatch is simple to install, saving time for installers. FastLatch represents the quality, reliability and ease of installation that is expected of a UNION product.”

For further information, please visit www.uniononline.co.uk/fastlatch or contact the UNION sales team on 0845 223 2124.

You can also like UNION’s Facebook page or follow on Twitter.

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Tuesday, 25 July 2017

Brightest and best of UK woodworking to be celebrated at Drapers' Hall

The British Woodworking Federation (BWF) will be holding its 2017 Annual Dinner & Awards on Friday 24th November in the majestic setting of Drapers’ Hall in the heart of the City of London.

A formal black-tie dinner with a relaxed atmosphere, the Annual Dinner & Awards night provides a great opportunity for BWF members and their guests to network, celebrate achievements and enjoy a five-star evening with woodworking industry colleagues. The awards presentation offers a showcase for the sector’s best projects, products, processes and people.

Amarjit Binji, Managing Director of high quality joinery manufacturers AJB Group Ltd, encouraged BWF members to get involved with the event and praised the quality of the awards.

“The Dinner is always a top notch night out in a spectacular setting. The quality of entries and fantastic people I have met reminds me what a brilliant industry this is.”

Located on the site where Thomas Cromwell built his palace in the 1530s, the richly decorated Drapers’ Hall is steeped with history and recognisable from films and TV programmes such as The King’s Speech, The Apprentice and The Great British Menu.

The venue’s opulent Livery Hall will provide the perfect setting to announce this year’s BWF Awards winners. There are six categories of award, highlighting technical innovation and excellence in joinery projects and product design, process efficiency and health & safety, as well as special awards for apprentice and trainee performance.

Entry to the sector’s most prestigious awards is free and open to all, including non-members of the BWF, providing that they are from the UK woodworking industry. Entries must be received by 8th September 2017 with shortlisted entrants to receive one free ticket to the Annual Dinner and Awards event with. The shortlist is set to be revealed at Timber Expo in October.

You can find out about entering the awards at www.bwf.org.uk/choose-wood/awards.

BWF members can book their place at the Annual Dinner & Awards at www.bwf.org.uk/news/events.

The BWF Annual Dinner & Awards are kindly sponsored by Accoya, Teknos, W18 Exhibition, Didac and CITB.

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Monday, 24 July 2017

Home automation at landmark development in York

The homes at St Leonard’s Place are fitted with a number of ICONA Managers,
a full duplex, hands-free entry monitor and system manager
with a 4.3-inch 16:9 colour touchscreen display.

It may be known as Yorkshire’s ‘Regency Gem’, but St Leonard’s Place – a Grade II-listed crescent in York – has very 21st century home automation and video door entry systems from Comelit fitted in many of its luxurious homes.

Offering spacious apartments, elegant mews homes and outstanding townhouses, the development by Rushbond presents a range of luxury accommodation for residents with high-end lifestyles.

Around 20 of the dwellings include Simple Home automation from Comelit, featuring:

VIP door entry with Simple Key Advanced, which features a programmable high-security electronic key
Distributed lighting control
Audio distribution with Bose® speakers in kitchen, living areas and wet rooms
Zoned climate control
Interface and control of intruder alarms
Local and remote control of Simple Home via serial bridge to residents’ tablets and phone devices
Connectivity with third-party intruder alarm systems

The homes at St Leonard’s Place are fitted with ICONA Managers, a full duplex, hands-free entry monitor and system manager with a 4.3-inch 16:9 colour touchscreen display. ICONA Manager is capable of monitoring and controlling home automation devices and door entry systems. Additional services and devices can also be added to the system.

The monitors are situated in locations such as the kitchen, living space and master bedroom and feature sensitive-touch capacitive technology, LED backlighting and swipe functions. They can be semi flush-mounted, wall-mounted or desk-based. With their remote capability, home automation functions can also be controlled directly from a tablet or smartphone anywhere in the world.

In the zone

The system at St Leonard’s Place – installed by Dynamic Networks Group with M&E contracting by J H Shouksmith – has been designed using a combination of ViP and Simple Home. Each controlled living space consists of two separate dimmable lighting zones – a zone for all ceiling-mounted illumination and one for wall and table-mounted lights.

The installation also features a zoned audio system, featuring concealed speakers, amplifiers and micro-server that can play MP3 stored music and streamed Internet radio stations. It also supports Internet streaming services.

Each ICONA Manager includes a temperature and humidity sensor that provides real-time and stored climate information. This data can be displayed on the graphical user interface on the ICONA and Smart devices.

The incoming electrical supply for each dwelling has a power-monitoring sensor that records and displays real-time power consumption. This can be displayed on the ICONA Manager and analysed using third-party software.

“Being a Grade II-listed building, there was limited space and potential for alterations, so the compact nature of our modules appealed to the customer,” says Nick Stevens, Comelit’s Business Development Manager for the Northeast.

“Furthermore, the customer liked the design of the ICONA monitors and we were able to suggest a more cost-effective solution than originally considered, which included remote access by tablet or smartphone to the Simple Home system.”

IP system delivers

The advantage of an IP-based system such as ViP is that it increases the performance of video intercoms, while being versatile and easy to install. It can also provide simultaneous audio and video with no distance limitations, and is able to cater for an unlimited number of users. ViP uses standard Cat5 or Cat6 cabling for reliable performance, with additional control equipment kept to a minimum. It is also easy to integrate with other IP devices and is suitable for integration with existing standard networks.

“The Comelit home automation and door entry solutions at St Leonard’s Place bring convenience and contemporary style to the residents of this landmark development,” concludes Nick Stevens.

For more than half a century Comelit has been a leading global manufacturer of video and audio door entry products. The company offers the most up-to-date systems in the industry and these continue to evolve as technology moves forward. Comelit designs and manufactures class-leading video door entry panels and monitors, IP and analogue high-definition surveillance solutions and domestic Home Automation systems.

Comelit products are sold in over 70 countries worldwide through an extensive technical and sales network. Their quality is guaranteed by cutting-edge technological research, ongoing optimisation of functional and application processes and purebred Italian design.

www.comelitgroup.com

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Sunday, 23 July 2017

Final Countdown to Epic Silverstone Classic

Silverstone Classic enhanced tracking

This month’s not-to-be-missed Silverstone Classic (28-30 July) is all set to further enhance the massive three-day extravaganza’s unrivalled status as the world’s biggest classic motor racing festival.

Featuring the full spectrum of glorious motor sport history from much-loved bygone eras, the colossal 22-race programme staged on the famous 3.7-mile Grand Prix circuit has once again attracted more than 1,000 entries, with many of the spectacular showdowns featuring massively oversubscribed grids.

Record numbers of car clubs are turning out in force, too, with Saturday’s vast infield display areas entirely sold-out. In total, more than 10,000 beautiful classics will be on show over the three days with, as tradition now dictates, many clubs choosing to celebrate key model and marque milestones with special shows and track parades at what is unquestionably the summer’s standout automotive showcase.

Formula Ford will be celebrating 50 years at the Silverstone Classic

But, as ever, there’s much, much more to the Silverstone Classic than unprecedented numbers of peerless racing and road cars from yesteryear. The three-day blockbuster includes live music concerts from headline acts, dramatic live demos, interactive driving experiences, rides on the JET Big Wheel, crazy golf, air displays, a shopping village where the 2017 Silverstone Classic clothing range can be purchased, an adrenaline zone, traditional funfair rides, static displays, street car shootouts, Spitfire engine fire-ups, racing simulators and a host of other entertainment to keep all ages fully entertained.

What’s more, all these fabulous activities – plus a host of others – are included absolutely FREE in the cost of admission. Tickets also offer access to trackside grandstands and both racing paddocks. This widely-praised ‘access-all-areas’ policy not only allows visitors the chance to really savour more racing action than is possible to see anywhere else in the world in one weekend, but also the heaven-sent opportunity to relish all these wonderful racers up close.

Ferrari v Lister in the Stirling Moss Trophy

Tickets must be purchased in advance and remain on sale until 5pm on Thursday, 27 July, and festival-goers are advised to leave extra time as enhanced security procedures are in place.

Adult admission starts at £43 and weekend camping and a limited number of hospitality upgrades are still available.

Full ticket details and all the latest news is available on the official website silverstoneclassic.com and via the event’s social media platforms.

With so much to see and do, selecting just a handful of utterly unmissable highlights is nigh-on impossible. Accepting the Herculean challenge, here are our Top Ten attractions at the 2017 Silverstone Classic:

1. Unrivalled Track Action

As the world’s biggest classic motor racing festival, the Silverstone Classic features more track action than you’ll experience anywhere on Earth over one weekend.

The packed 22-race programme includes all the finest championships including the FIA Masters Historic Formula One Race Series, FIA Masters Historic Sportscars, the Royal Automobile Club Woodcote Trophy, Stirling Moss Trophy, Group C Racing and Super Touring Car Trophy. This year’s schedule also celebrates 50 years of Formula Ford and sees the welcome return of the Pre-War Sports Cars starring Bentleys, Bugattis and Frazer Nashes from the twenties and thirties.

Amy Williams is one of the celebrities racing at the Classic

2. Star-studded Celebrity Race

World and Olympic champions, chart-topping musicians, best-selling authors and familiar figures from TV and radio will all be on a star-studded grid for the inaugural Celebrity Challenge Trophy Race to be staged on Saturday evening at this year’s Silverstone Classic.

The stellar, big-name line-up features no fewer than five gold medal-winning athletes: cyclist Jason Kenny, skeleton racer Amy Williams and rowers Jonny Searle, Greg Searle and Mark Hunter. Famous musicians are to the fore, too – notably Howard Donald from chart-toppers Take That and Brian Johnson, who fronted rock legends AC/DC for over 35 years.

In keeping with the spirit of the event, all these luminaries will be racing flat-out in an evocative field of Austin A30 and A35 saloons from the late fifties and will be raising awareness for the event’s official charity Prostate Cancer UK. A just giving page has also been set-up allowing the public to donate – click here for more information.

Spa 24 Hours winning RS500

3. Iconic Racing Cars from Yesteryear

As ever, both Silverstone paddock complexes will be bursting with an astonishing array of cars from many of motor sport’s golden eras.

The two HGPCA grids for pre-1966 grand prix cars boast a pair of iconic Maserati 250Fs, while the twin-grid JET Super Touring Car Trophy encounters two magical reunions. Italian tin-top ace Gianfranco Brancatelli will be back behind the wheel of his 1989 Spa 24 Hours-winning Ford Sierra RS500, while seven-time Bathurst winner Jim Richards will be reunited with the stunning JPS-livered BMW 635 CSi that he raced in the early eighties. Richards, plus both the RS500 and 635, will be travelling all the way from Australia to wow crowds at the Classic!

Keith Helfet's timeless Jaguar XJ220 design

4. Happy Birthday, Jaguar XJ220

Once the world’s fastest production car, Jaguar’s extraordinary XJ220 will mark its 25th birthday in sensational style on Saturday at the Silverstone Classic. Record numbers will be mustering for an incredible track parade led by no fewer than three of the TWR JaguarSport racing XJ220Cs that competed in the Le Mans 24 Hours – one of these is coming all the way from Japan to be part of the party.

Among those partaking in the parade are two of the key figures behind what remains the fastest, most exciting and most expensive road-going Jaguar ever created: Jim Randle and Keith Helfet. As Engineering Director at Jaguar, Randle was the inspiration behind the original concept car, while Helfet was the brains behind the XJ220’s stunning – and astonishingly ageless – styling.

10,000 classic cars add to the Silverstone Classic showcase

5. Mammoth Classic Car Displays

Every year, more and more car clubs choose the Silverstone Classic for their major summer gatherings, turning the venue into a mecca for enthusiasts. A new record will be established later this month, with in excess of 120 clubs displaying more than 10,000 privately-owned – and cherished – classic cars, all proudly displayed for public delectation on the infield.

Clubs also play an important role in celebrating key model and marque milestones, with enhanced gatherings and huge track parades between the races. This year’s highlights include 60th anniversaries of the Fiat 500 and Lotus Seven, 50 years of the Ferrari Owners’ Club and MG Car Club, 40 years of the Triumph Six Sports Club and 30 years of the Lamborghini Club UK.

The McLaren Owners Club is also organising the largest-ever collection of McLaren road cars – over 120 in total ¬– to honour what would have been company founder Bruce McLaren’s 80th year.

Car Clubs out in force at the Silverstone Classic

6. Two Evenings of Great Live Music

The Silverstone Classic is renowned for its ‘rocking’ as well as its ‘racing’, and this year’s live music line-up will reinforce that reputation. It will also provide the growing numbers attending the entire festival weekend with some great entertainment on Friday and Saturday evenings.

he opening night hosts a special 50th anniversary Summer of Love celebration topped by The Bootleg Beatles, widely hailed as the world’s premier Fab Four tribute band. They will be joined by two further highly-regarded tribute acts – Who’s Next and Are You Experienced? – playing the much-loved music of The Who and Jimi Hendrix. Spandau Ballet’s former front man Tony Hadley headlines as the sun goes down on Saturday evening, supported by the authentic Dire Straits Experience.

Jaguar Challenge Series will be making its debut at the Silverstone Classic

7. Jaguar Showcasing its Pedigree

Legendary British brand Jaguar will be out in force at this year’s Silverstone Classic. On top of the special XJ220 celebrations, the track schedule includes a round of the high-profile Jaguar Classic Challenge for the first time. Open to all pre-1966 Jaguar models, the impressive grid will feature no fewer than 35 E-types as well as Mk1 saloons plus XK120, XK150 and D-type sportscars. Visitors wanting a more interactive experience can jump aboard the Jaguar Art of Performance Tour.

The wonderful opportunity to take memorable, heart-pumping drift rides in an F-type proved massively popular with show-goers 12 months ago and is sure to be another huge hit second time around – what’s more, it is FREE.

World GP Bike Legends at the Silverstone Classic

8. Grand Prix Legends on Two and Four Wheels

The peerless race programme is boosted still further by a couple of remarkable track demonstrations. To mark its 40th anniversary, the legendary Williams F1 team has dusted off Nigel Mansell’s magnificent 1992 British Grand Prix-winning Williams FW14B for some high-speed laps on both Saturday and Sunday.

For many, 25 years on, the wail of its magical Renault V10 engine will be worth the entry price alone! There is something very special for two-wheeled fans, too, with the return of World GP Bike Legends. Star names revving up include 500cc World Champions ‘Fast’ Freddie Spencer and Wayne Gardner as well as ‘Prince of Speed’ Phil Read, the oldest surviving 500cc/MotoGP World Champion following John Surtees’ passing earlier this year.

The bike showcase will be complemented by Ace Corner, where London’s famous Ace Cafe will be hosting a mods and rockers-themed bike and scooter display by the National Paddock.

Capri for restoration

9. Live Restoration of Classic Ford Capri

The non-stop track action will not be the only against-the-clock competition at the 2017 Silverstone Classic. On the infield, eBay’s Restoration Live team, led by Fergus Walkinshaw, will be engaged in another race against time as it battles to bring a 33-year-old Ford Capri back to life using only parts sourced on eBay.

If all goes to plan, the finished car will be revealed as part of Mike Brewer’s Car Clinics on Sunday afternoon and then auctioned on eBay, with all proceeds going to the event’s official chosen charity, Prostate Cancer UK. Fergus’ team of five restorers includes a mechanic from Mission Motorsport, a charity that aids the recovery and rehabilitation of those affected by military operations by providing opportunities through motor sport.

Mike Brewer will be hosting his car clinics at the Classic

10. Race and Classic Cars Under the Hammer

For those either looking to join the thriving classic car movement or to enhance their own collections, there is a very tempting three-day sale organised by Silverstone Auctions. A glorious 1972 scarlet Ferrari Daytona once owned by Sir Elton John is just one of the amazing road and race cars going under the hammer.

Others include an ex-Rowan Atkinson Land Rover Defender Celebration model, an evocative Martini-liveried Lancia Delta HF Integrale as campaigned by four-time WRC champion Juha Kankkunen plus an impressive number of very desirable classics including TRs, Porsches, Ferraris, BMWs and Aston Martins.

The sale also features three racing saloons with notable BTCC heritage. The first is the ex-works Toyota Supra as campaigned by Barry Sheene in 1985. The second two are both Labatt’s-liveried BTCC race cars as driven by Tim Harvey in period: a 1989 Andy Rouse-prepared Ford Cosworth RS500 and a Vic Lee Motorsport-prepared BMW M3 from 1991.

Entry to the auction is by catalogue only.

To ensure you don’t miss out on these ten fabulous attractions, and all the other hundreds of amazing things to do and see, order your tickets now at www.silverstoneclassic.com.

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