OWLS MOTOR CLUB
Peter Woolett was an OWLS member in the 1950s who raced sidecars, including at the Isle of Man over 4 years. The following, is from a book that had been researched and produced by Kate and Bernie Townsend and especially their daughter. Kate is a niece of Peter Woolett and Bernie (Kate’s husband) had also been an OWLS member in the 80s/90s. We are very grateful to the Townsend family for allowing us to reproduce the book on our website. This content is especially pertinent as we head towards our 100th anniversary of the OWLS Club in 2026.
1956
Peter rode with Maurice J Candy and they finished 11th with a time of 1:34:00 They rode a Norton at a speed of 61.99
The image showcases the dynamic duo of Peter Woollett and Maurice Candy, fearlessly tackling the challenging Sidecar TT race on their powerful Norton machine. The intensity is palpable as these two skilled riders navigate through a treacherous bend with unwavering determination etched across their faces. Their synchronized movements demonstrate a remarkable level of teamwork and trust, essential qualities for success in such a demanding event. Woollett's focused gaze reveals his unwavering commitment to conquering every twist and turn of the circuit, while Candy's firm grip on the sidecar handlebars exudes confidence in his role as navigator. Together, they form an unbeatable partnership that pushes boundaries and defies limits.
These photographs not only capture a moment frozen in time but also encapsulate the spirit of adventure that defines motorcycle racing. It serves as a testament to the courage and skill required by these daredevils who risked it all for their passion. As we admire this vintage gem, let us celebrate these unsung heroes who paved the way for future generations of racers.
They remind us that true legends are born on tracks like these – where speed meets bravery – forever etching their names into motorsport history.
Peter and Maurice at the Manx Arms
Peter and Maurice in Onchan
1957
Peter rode with Maurice J Candy for the second time. This time they finished in 6th place with a time of 1:41:50 Their Norton had a speed of 63.58.
Feature in TT Special Magazine in 1956
Extracts from the Sevenoaks Chronicle
14th June 1957 5th July 1957
Our picture is of 28 year-old Peter Woollett of Glebe Road, Sevenoaks Weald, who won a bronze replica and one world championship point in this year’s Isle of Man TT. Two weeks ago, the chronicle pictured Mr. Don Overall, of Angus Herbert’s, Sevenoaks, who also entered a bike in this event. While Don was unplaced. Peter and his passenger, George Loft, managed to bring home a little of the I.o.M. Glory to Sevenoaks. Peter, who works for Marchant’s of Sevenoaks Weald, was entered by the OWLS Motor Club, of which he is a member. His mount was a Norton with Watsonian sidecar. He arrived back home on Sunday and promptly went to see some racing at Brands Hatch!
RACING MOTOR-CYCLIST One of the younger generation in Weald who has recently been in the limelight is young Peter Woollett who a few weeks ago raced his Norton sidecar outfit in the T.T., winning a bronze replica and a world championship point. Peter. who lives at 6. Glebe Road, is known all over Kent, and is fast becoming known at racing places ail over the country. He is an OWLS Motor Club member and highly popular, works in the Weald for Marchants, where he drives a lorry. His father drove It for several years, and when Peter took on the job, he went over to maintenance. Peter owns a small van in which he takes his motor bike all over the place to race meetings. In his parents' front room there is an imposing array of cups, medals, two T.T. bronze replicas and certificates, all for prowess awheel. His family are his most faithful "fans," following him to all sorts of out of the way places to see him win.
1958
By the 1958 TT Peter had switched to ride with George H Loft on another style of Norton. The year before they had finished 15th in the World Championships. They finished 6th with a time of 1:32:24 and a speed of 63.06.
In this photo print, we are transported back to the thrilling world of motorcycle racing in 1958. The image captures Peter Woollett and G H Loft, two skilled riders astride their powerful Norton sidecar during the prestigious Sidecar TT race. The atmosphere is electric as these fearless competitors prepare to push themselves and their machines to the limit on the treacherous Isle of Man circuit. Their determination is palpable, evident in their focused expressions and firm grips on the handlebars. Woollett and Loft's Norton machine exudes a timeless elegance with its sleek design and classic color scheme. Every detail speaks of precision engineering, showcasing why Norton was renowned for producing exceptional motorcycles. This photograph not only freezes a moment in time but also encapsulates the spirit of camaraderie that exists among racers. Woollett and Loft share an unspoken bond as they navigate hairpin turns together, relying on each other's skill and trust to conquer every twist and turn. As we gaze upon this remarkable image from BikeSport TT Race Pics, we can't help but be captivated by the courage displayed by these daring individuals who risked it all for their love of speed. It serves as a reminder that even decades later, their legacy lives on within the hearts of motorcycle enthusiasts
Extracts from the Sevenoaks Chronicle
23rd May 1958 13th June 1958
Peter Woollett, who came sixth in the Isle of Man T.T. sidecar race last year, is to compete again In this year's race on, June 4. Mr. Woollett, who has recently moved from the Weald to Clarendou Road, Sevenoaks. will ride his usual motor-cycle. Norton- Watsonian, and his sidecar rider will be G. Loft, of Plumstead. He sets out on this. his third appearance in the race. on Sunday and will travel by land and sea.
In the window of a shop at the foot of St. John's Hill, Sevenoaks is a silver Tourist Trophy replica. It was won by a Sevenoaks man, Peter Woollett, in the Isle of Man on Wednesday, when he came sixth in the three wheel class and gained one world championship point. Peter Woollett is a young man with a one track mind. He thinks only of motor-cycles. This was his fourth TT race and he has won two bronze replicas on previous occasions. His passenger this time was George Loft, of Plumstead. Down at the shop, Peter said they drove up to Liverpool, shipped the “bike” and “chair” over to the Isle and made good weather, but returning there were one or two green faces on board. “We were over there just two weeks, and managed to get a couple of practice runs in on the Wednesday, before the race”. His machine is a Norton, it is now in the shop window as an attraction and the state of the new tyres is sufficient indication of the toughness of the 100 mile race. They are cut and pitted from constant drifting on hard surfaces. “The Tar was hot and several times we went around corners sideways” said Peter, “but it’s not too dangerous in those conditions, if you use your ‘loaf’.” Next year he intends to have another attempt at the premier award, or perhaps a gold replica first. His friends awheel in Sevenoaks district are all rooting for him.
For several years now, a young local racing motor-cyclist has been getting his name before the public who follow this thrilling sport. He is 29 year old Peter Woollett, who is a partner in the motor-cycle and cycle engineering firm of Sharp and Woollett, of St John’s Hill, Sevenoaks. For the past three years he has competed in the Isle of Man combination TT race. On the last two occasions he came sixth. But now he has decided that instead of accepting that old advice; “Go West, young man, Go West.” he will go East – to the continent. Weight-Saving And in preparation for the Belgium Grand Prix and the Dutch Grand Prix at the end of June. Mr Woollett has built a special lightweight side-car. It still has a steel chassis, but the body is now made of fibre glass. He has been experimenting with this new side-car during the present season, and at Brands Hatch on Whit Monday, he rode his 400cc Norton into fifth place in the 10 lap final of the Three Wheeler Invitation Scratch race for machines up to 1200cc. Mr G.H. Loft of Plumstead, his usual passenger, was with him.
Bradden Bridge Corner
1960
Peter rode with C F Campbell this year. They rode a Norton and finished 16th place. They achieved a time of 1:38:08 with a speed of 69.21
The formidable duo of Peter Woollett and C F Campbell astride their powerful Norton sidecar at Braddan Bridge during the Sidecar TT race. The intensity is palpable as Woollett's focused gaze meets Campbell's determined expression, both riders exuding a sense of confidence and skill. Their sleek Norton machine gleams under the sunlight, its streamlined design hinting at the incredible speed it can achieve on the iconic Isle of Man circuit. This photograph encapsulates not only a moment frozen in time but also represents an era when daredevil racers pushed themselves to their limits for glory. It serves as a reminder of the dedication and passion that fuelled these competitors' pursuit of victory amidst challenging conditions. As we admire this vintage gem, let us appreciate not just the technical prowess required to navigate treacherous bends but also acknowledge these riders' unwavering spirit. This image captures a snapshot from history that continues to inspire generations of motorcycle enthusiasts worldwide
Peter and Campbell at The Nook 1960
In this print from Bike Sport TT Race Pics, we are transported back to the thrilling world of motorcycle racing in 1960. The image captures the dynamic duo of Peter Woollett and P F Campbell aboard their powerful Norton sidecar during the Sidecar TT at the Nook. The intensity of the moment is palpable as Woollett skilfully navigates through a challenging turn, while Campbell expertly balances on the sidecar, ready for any unexpected twists and turns that lie ahead. Their synchronized teamwork and unwavering determination are evident in every line etched on their faces. This snapshot freezes time, allowing us to marvel at these fearless competitors who pushed themselves and their machines to the limit in pursuit of victory. The Norton bike exudes raw power with its sleek design and roaring engine, symbolizing both speed and strength. As we gaze upon this historic photograph, we cannot help but be drawn into its energy – feeling our hearts race alongside these courageous racers. It serves as a reminder of an era when passion for motorsports was fuelled by pure adrenaline rather than commercial interests. This extraordinary image encapsulates not only a significant moment in racing history but also embodies the spirit of daring adventure that continues to captivate enthusiasts around the globe today.
Peter and Jim Sharp
Peter and Jim were based together in Sevenoaks, Kent. Jim was heavily involved in the setting up of Brands Hatch in the 1940′s when he was Chairman of the OWLS MOTOR CLUB who along with three other clubs started the first organised motorcycle races at the now famous circuit. Jim and Peter were in partnership back in the 1950′s and Jim acted as mechanic, manager during Pete’s sidecar career.
Steve Hills said: Pete and Jim were two of the most likeable guys in the biz, always helping young tearaways like me and my mates with sanguine advice as well as the practical. I went to Brands with Jim a couple of times for a time trial in his Ex Works Rapier and he proved to be a very fine driver, easily holding some of the young bloods in their souped up jobbies! Pete went on to work at Redlands with my Dad when he split up with Jim. Two of the nice guys.
Peter and Jim went on to open a Motorcycle shop together.