1,355 years of volunteering dedication celebrated at Brooklands Museum Long Service Awards
5th Nov 2026
Brooklands Museum in Weybridge, Surrey, is celebrating the remarkable dedication of 101 volunteers who have collectively contributed an astonishing 1,355 years of voluntary service to one of Britain’s most significant heritage sites of the twentieth century.
The Museum's 2026 Volunteer Long Service Awards recognise the outstanding commitment of its people, from those celebrating five years of service to three individuals marking an extraordinary 35 years.
Together, their contributions span generations of Brooklands Museum history, helping to preserve the birthplace of British motorsport and aviation while inspiring hundreds of thousands of visitors through the stories, collections and experiences that make the Museum so special.
This year's volunteer awards recognise:
28 people celebrating five years
30 marking a decade
15 reaching 15 years
14 celebrating two decades of service
Five are being recognised for 25 years
Six for 30 years
Three for an exceptional 35 years.
Behind these remarkable milestones are countless stories of dedication, friendship and shared passion. From welcoming visitors and caring for historic collections to restoring extraordinary machines, supporting events and bringing the history of Brooklands to life, each individual has played a part in the Museum's continuing success.
Alex Patterson, CEO at Brooklands Museum, said:
“One thousand, three hundred and fifty-five years of combined service is a truly extraordinary achievement, but what makes it so special is the people behind that number.”
“Brooklands is a place built on remarkable achievements, pioneering ideas and the determination of people who dared to do things differently. Today, that same passion lives on through the people who volunteer here, dedicating their time, knowledge and enthusiasm to keeping its history alive.”
Nick Panteli, Volunteer Programme Manager at Brooklands Museum, said:
“Whether someone has been volunteering at Brooklands Museum for five years or 35 years, their contribution matters enormously. Our Museum simply wouldn't be the place it is today without their commitment, generosity and friendship.”
“These awards are our opportunity to say a heartfelt thank you to everyone being recognised, and to celebrate the extraordinary difference they continue to make.”
Brooklands holds a unique place in British history. Established in 1907 as the world's first purpose-built motor racing circuit, it went on to become a centre of pioneering aviation and engineering, with generations of innovators pushing the boundaries of speed, flight and technology.
Today, Brooklands Museum continues that legacy, preserving the site's remarkable history and sharing it with new generations. Its dedicated team of staff and volunteers are central to that mission, bringing the collections, buildings and stories to life for visitors from across the UK and around the world.
As the Museum reflects on a landmark year celebrating the centenary of Britain's first Grand Prix, the Volunteer Long Service Awards offer another opportunity to recognise the people whose dedication makes it possible to preserve the past while inspiring the future.
