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Britain By Car - A Motoring History


Created Date:

05 June 2015

Last Modified:

19 December 2023
Mexborough

Mike Hawthorn

The birthplace of Britain’s first Formula One world champion.

Location
Alexandra Road, Mexborough.

Date
1929 - 1931.

  • The commemorative plaque on the corner of Hope Street and Mexborough High Street, © Tony Thorpe.
    The commemorative plaque on the corner of Hope Street and Mexborough High Street, © Tony Thorpe.
  • The commemorative plaque on the corner of Hope Street and Mexborough High Street, © Tony Thorpe.

Commentary
John Michael Hawthorn was born on the 10th April 1929, and lived in Alexandra Road.  At the age of two years, the young Mike moved with his family to Farnham in Surrey, where his father, Leslie, set up the Tourist Trophy Garage, on the outskirts of the town.  

A plaque commemorating Mike Hawthorn’s links with Mexborough was unveiled in December 2006 by Jean Ireland, who was engaged to Mike at the time of his death.  The plaque is located on the corner between Hope Street and Mexborough High Street.  

Further details