Snetterton
originally started off life as an RAF airfield which was then designated
for use by the United States Army Air Force. The airfield was opened in May
1943 and closed down in November 1948.
The track was used
by both Team Lotus F1 and
Norfolk Racing Co (Le Mans) to test their racing cars. In the
1960s and early '70s the circuit was 2.7 miles in length. Sear corner was 80 m
further from Riches corner and led onto the "Norwich Straight"
clearly visible in satellite maps and currently used by a Sunday market.
The straight ended
in a hairpin bend leading to Home Straight which joined the existing track at
the Esses but is now a main access road for the circuit. Russell bend was added
in the 60's and named after Jim Russell who ran a racing drivers school at the
circuit.
Initially added to
improve safety by slowing vehicles as they approached the pits, Russell bend
was the scene of many accidents and was later altered to its present
configuration.
We can see Phil Read and Mike Hailwood fighting at Snetterton circuit in 1966.
We can see Phil Read and Mike Hailwood fighting at Snetterton circuit in 1966.
