Peter interviews Harry Barton  Words and pictures by Peter Baker

Festival of Speed 2025
A quick catch-up with Harry Barton at Goodwood's Festival of Speed 2025, where Harry tasks the Barton Racing Lister Storm on Goodwood's famous hill, taking it out of its natural comfort zone of circuit racing.

Good morning Harry. Festival of Speed, driving the iconic Lister Storm, aged only 22, how does it feel?
Absolutely unbelievable. To be here, in front of all these people, and driving up this famous hill climb, it's such a privilege.

What's it like in the car with temperatures of over 30 degrees?
The Lister Storm was designed to be a winning race car with the engine and gearbox right back in the chassis, only an inch from my body, even worse, the exhaust passes right under my seat. There is no air con and the side window forms part of the aerodynamics, so not much fresh air. And there is a lot of waiting around so engine temperatures are exceeding 120 degrees. Yes, it's, shall we say, uncomfortable. Dehydration is a problem.

There are huge crowds here at Goodwood. Does that bother you?
Not in the least. I can't believe how many people remember the Lister Storm in period, telling me new stories and filling in many gaps in the car's history. The team hasn't stopped chatting since getting here on Wednesday. It was popular in 2001, winning first time out at Monza, and taking pole at Silverstone in front of a record crowd. And it is as popular today. Even the commentators love it, probably because it's a bit different, very fast, and very noisy.'

So, all-in-all, you're glad you came?
Without doubt. The organisers are so friendly and helpful, and the marshals make sure you know where to be, and at what time. There is nothing in the world that compares with Goodwood Festival of Speed.

Any final thoughts?
Just to say a big thank you to everyone, especially Nigel Bridger and the rest of the guys at Retro Engineering. We came here at short notice and the car is fresh from its two-year overhaul with little chance of testing, but the car hasn't missed a beat. I'm going to have to buy them more than a few beers. And, oh, we will be racing at Silverstone Festival, almost 25 years on from its appearance in 2001. So, please, follow us at www.barton-racing, and come to Silverstone next month to cheer us on.