Dumfries to race at Le Mans?

Former Le Mans 24-hour race winner and Formula One driver Johnny Dumfries made a return to the cockpit after an 11-year absence last Sunday at this years' Le Mans pre-race test session.

The decision to step back into his racing overalls was made [in part] to help publicise the second-annual Mount Stuart Motorsport Classic, taking place on the weekend of 19/20/21 September 2003.

Known as Johnny Bute away from the racetrack, 45-year-old Dumfries partnered Ayrton Senna in a John Player Special Team Lotus F1 car for the 1986 season. His greatest success came in sportscar racing, however, and, partnered by Jan Lammers and Andy Wallace in the iconic Silk Cut Jaguar XJR-9LM, in 1988 he joined the elite group of Le Mans 24- hour winners.

The recent test in John Nielsen's DBA-Zytek LMP675 came as a result of a request by sportscar boss David Price.

"Dave has tried to entice me back behind a wheel before and this time he was successful," said Dumfries. "I really enjoyed the weekend and despite feeling a little rusty in the first few laps, it is amazing how it all comes back to you. I am seriously considering racing with the team in June but I have to weigh up various other commitments. I will make my decision in the next couple of weeks."

One of Dumfries' 'commitments' is to host the second annual Mount Stuart Motorsport Classic at his stately home on the Isle of Bute off the west coast of Scotland. The event comprises a mixture of modern motorsport activities and historic and classic vehicle displays in the magnificent setting of Mount Stuart. With strong participation by motoring manufacturers, and the cream of past and present motorsport teams and personalities due to attend this year's event, the 2003 Mount Stuart Motorsport Classic will transport the excitement and glamour of the paddock to the tranquillity and serenity of Mount Stuart.