Fans of the BBC motoring show Top Gear will soon have the chance to own a piece of television history, as a collection of rare memorabilia is set to be auctioned off. The items, which include a unique Stig helmet signed by former presenter Jeremy Clarkson, are being sold by a member of the production team who lost his job following a highly publicised incident in 2015.
The auction comes after a dramatic episode that led to Clarkson’s departure from the show and the abandonment of the Top Gear studio. The altercation involved Clarkson and Irish producer Oisín Tymon, which sparked widespread media coverage and ultimately changed the course of the beloved series.
Among the items being sold is the Stig helmet, believed to be signed specifically for Tymon. The helmet features a blunt and unapologetic message from Clarkson, reading, “F**k Off,” while the mysterious racing driver, The Stig, added a more congenial touch with his note: “To the Main Man Osh!! Stay Speedy Brother.” Fellow presenter James May also contributed to the helmet’s charm with his quip, “Go Slow!”
In addition to the helmet, the auction will feature other Top Gear memorabilia, including access-all-areas lanyards and a USB drive containing plans for a never-produced Australian tour. Also up for bid are photographic negatives of Clarkson, including behind-the-scenes images from the BBC’s This is Your Life.
The auction will take place live on Thursday, 10th October, at Eastbourne Auctions. Jeannette May, Senior Valuer at the auction house, expressed her excitement for the event, stating that she hopes Top Gear fans from around the world will be eager to participate in this unique opportunity to acquire a piece of television history.
“The Top Gear series has captivated audiences with its fast cars, breathtaking stunts, and memorable moments,” May said. “This auction represents a rare chance to own items that reflect the show’s impact and legacy.”
Fans of the show will undoubtedly be excited to see the items available for bid. The auction presents a rare opportunity for collectors and enthusiasts to acquire memorabilia that is unlikely to be reproduced.
The collection stands as a testament to the show’s storied past and the enduring appeal of its charismatic hosts. Clarkson, Tymon, and May have all left their mark on Top Gear, and the items up for auction are reminders of both the highs and lows of the series.
For those interested in participating in the auction or viewing the complete list of lots, further information is available on the Eastbourne Auctions website at www.eastbourneauction.com. This event is expected to attract significant attention from Top Gear fans and memorabilia collectors alike, ensuring that these unique pieces of television history find new homes.