There really was a Hill Charley
In the reports of the 1905 events the newspapers give the name of one of the timekeepers as Hill Charely. I thought this was likely tone a misprint or error.
One of the readers of my book decided to do investigate it further and, sent me a message confirming that there is in the 1901 census a Hill Charley. He was 43 years old and a Flour Trade Manager living in 2 Tennyson Ave, Bangor and was born in Holywood (County Down). He think he is almost certainly our man.
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Discover the Thrilling World of Early Irish Motoring: Get in Touch With Robinson Books
Interested in learning more about motorsport in Northern Ireland?
Cultra - Motoring with panache, covers the period 1905 to 1911.
From Ballybannon Hill to Magilligan Strand, covers the hill climbs at Ballybannon, Craigantlet, Croft, Red Brae , the sand races at Magilligan and the cancelled 1924 Ulster MotorGrand Prix.
My next book, on the County Down Trophy races 1934 -1936 will be available no later than December 2024.