Former Rally Driver Russell Brookes was the three times Circuit of Ireland winner in 1977, 1978, and 1983. British Champion 1977 and 1985. He Visited Millstreet in 2011 and 2015 with his wife, recalling stories of completing against Billy Coleman and Ger Buckley regularly that time. Famous for driving his ‘Andrews Heat for Hire’ liveried cars, has passed away last week at the age of 74. [obituary]
Below are a few photos we featured from his visit here in 2015:
A very true story i relived with John Coleman at a GAA match recently … Circuit of Ireland 1977 Billy was having a troubled rally in his Lancia Stratos in 2nd place … But Russell Brookes was out in front on course for his first circuit win. On the last day his starter Motor came loose at a stage finish … Millstreet man the late “Auti” O Keeffe One of Billy service team very kindly put a bolt in Russell’S starter motor to keep the Escort on course for a win. Great Sportsmanship … Paddy Sullivan.
There was only one Autie, God rest him. Missed every day at Colemans
Autie was a great friend and a legend at what he did. It was a pleasure to work with him for twenty three years in Colemans. May he rest in peace. John Roche.