WITH the start of the Formula One season having got underway last weekend, we thought it appropriate to head into the archives and produce some pictures which record a time when East Lancashire had its own racing circuit.

OK, Longridge may not be Silverstone or Imola but hundreds of motor sport enthusiasts would head to the Ribble Valley for their fix of speed.

The circuit was housed in the former Tootle Heights quarry and the quarry roads formed the basis for the course.

The track opened in 1973 and hosted competition for five years until the quarry site was sold.

At less than half a mile long, Longridge was one of the country’s shortest circuits meaning a maximum of 10 cars could be on the start line.

Excitement on both four and two-wheels could be found during the track’s relatively short-lived existence.

The majority of pictures were taken during a race meeting in January 1978. If you have any photos email bygones@nqnw.co.uk