Anthony Brewer

Going quick in 2000

Anthony Brewer tribute
From Sayell Racing website

The Grand Prix Midget fraternity received a double blow in one weekend when two of their drivers lost their lives in the space of two days. Anthony Brewer from West Sussex lost his battle with cancer on Friday 31st August 2001 and Steve Piggins lost his life on Saturday 1st September as a result of injuries received in a road accident, on Bank Holiday Monday. The Club remembered them both just 24 hours later at an emotionally charged June Cochrane Memorial meeting at Alwalton Raceway, Peterborough on Sunday holding a minute silence immediately prior to their first race.

Anthony Brewer came to the Grand Prix Midget scene in 1977 from the long circuit scene, racing Midgets on and off until 1990. Racing a Mk 18 Dastle Anthony, was a star grade driver who was renowned for his gentlemanly style whilst finishing regularly in the top 6 placings. He finished 5th in the 1988 Championship and 6th in 1989, winning the Graham Hill Trophy in 1986, the Derek Kisby Trophy in 1987 as well as a 3rd place in the 1988 World Championship. Anthony also carried out an excellent job as Club Chairman for 4 years between 1986 and 1989.

Anthony surprised his former race colleagues when he designed and built his new car with an almost rear engined appearance albeit with the Ford still in the front for a return to the formula in 2000. Results showed that he was just as capable of winning whatever the design taking 2 heat wins and finishing 6th in the Series.

Anthony had not raced in 2001 advising the club that he was unwell but typical of this unassuming “private” man he had not let on just how ill he was. Although only a few of today’s current drivers, knew Anthony from his original Midget days, those who met him for the first time last year all liked and respected him and he will be sadly missed. Anthony's car is now with Anthony's good friend and another former Midget driver and official Dermot McGivern who we understand plans to refurbish and then race the car in due course. We wish him well with the project and look forward to seeing the car again.