The new Prescott Hill Climb season is up and running.

Test Day and Non-Competition Day isn’t about points or podium finishes but Dom Bessell, who is competitions secretary for the Bugatti Owners’ Club, said it was a great day.

“It was a shakedown day, it was lovely to see some cars in the paddock," he said. "It was just nice to get back into the swing of things.”

And motorsport photographer Rob Wilson certainly agreed.

“There is something special about the first real day of the season,” he said.

“Test and Non-Competition Day is a chance for drivers to shake off the winter rust and for fans to get an up-close look at an incredible spread of machinery.

“The paddock was a glorious mix of ‘just off the road’ and ‘just off the trailer’.

“You had everything from punchy Minis and BMWs to those ultra-raw Caterhams that look like they were born for the corners at Prescott.

“Tucked in between them were serious single-seater race cars looking like guided missiles even when parked.”

But for theorists, the real magic was in the history.

“Seeing vintage pre-war MGs and Bugatti Grand Prix cars actually being driven was a rare treat,” continued Wilson. 

“Watching those Bugattis work their way up the hill is a masterclass in mechanical soul.

“They really showed the crowds exactly why Prescott is considered the home of the Bugatti Owners’ Club.”

And while the cars are obviously centre stage, Wilson also took time out to pay tribute to the unsung heroes who help to make days like Saturday possible.

“A huge shout-out to the marshals,” he said. “These folks are the backbone of the sport, standing out in the elements so the rest of us can play.

"This weekend they were also doing some vital homework by testing a new red light system.

“It’s designed to work right alongside the classic flags to give drivers an even clearer safety signal.

“It’s great to see a historic venue like Prescott embracing a new tech to keep everyone safe.”