Lunchtime Talk Sir Henry Segrave: Speed Knight

A talk by Keith Hick

On 16 March 1926, Henry Segrave set his first Land Speed Record—152.33 mph (245.15 km/h)—driving Ladybird, a 4‑litre Sunbeam Tiger, across Ainsdale Beach in Southport. Join Keith Hick as we mark the 100th anniversary of this remarkable achievement.

The name Segrave has long been synonymous with speed. A pioneer who claimed both the World Land Speed Record and the World Water Speed Record, Sir Henry de O'Neal de Hane Segrave left an unforgettable legacy in the North West, one shaped by extraordinary triumph and deep tragedy. His legacy lives on through the prestigious Segrave Trophy, awarded annually to those who push the boundaries of land, sea, and air.

In this talk, Keith explores Segrave's extraordinary life: from his service as a Great War fighter pilot, to his success as a Grand Prix racing driver in the Roaring Twenties, to his iconic status as a record‑breaker. He paints a vivid portrait of a real‑life "Boys' and Girls' Own" hero whose adventures captured the imagination of a generation. A contemporary of Malcolm Campbell, May Cunliffe, and Parry Thomas, Segrave chased speed wherever he could find it – on the track, in the cockpit, and on the water – his determination no doubt sharpened by his wartime experiences. After setting the Land Speed Record on Southport Sands in 1926, Segrave became the first person to exceed 200 mph on land in 1929 in the USA. He then turned his attention to water, and in 1930 on Lake Windermere became the first to break 100 mph on water.

Join us as Keith reveals the fascinating stories behind one of the most celebrated names in record‑breaking history.

Please note – this talk will start at 1:30pm, half an hour later than a regular lunchtime talk.