When the hammer fell on the ex-John Horridge ‘Ecurie Bullfrog’ car, it generated a round of applause at the Buxton sale

Despite some middle-market jitters, demand for 1950s and ‘60s sports racers remain as strong as ever, with prices reflecting keen interest in the buying fraternity. This was clearly demonstrated at H&H’s recent Classic Driver auction, where DEN 275, a Bristol powered Lister with known provenance smashed expectations and achieved a new world record for its type at a final price of £126,500.

But DEN 275 is well-known within Lister circles, beginning its period racing career with a 1.5-litre Riley engine but ending it with a 2-litre Bristol unit. The Lister has enjoyed family ownership since August 1969, and despite being stored in an old mill for almost four decades, it still looks good as it awaits the restoration it patently deserves.

When the hammer fell on the ex-John Horridge ‘Ecurie Bullfrog’ car, it generated a round of applause at the Buxton sale, following the high-tension bidding was between a pair of competing buyers over the telephone. The sale’s attendees knew they’d witnessed something special even before the world record had been confirmed.

Pleasingly, the new owner plans to have DEN 275 running in historic events, hopefully as early as autumn 2009.

For a breakdown of the Classic Driver Buxton sale, check out the October issue of Octane, on sale on the 27th August, or visit the H&H website at www.handh.co.uk. Full auction schedule and contact details are on the site.