Arthur Debenham autobiography

For many rallycross fans, Arthur Debenham is the commentator and those who continue to miss that distinctive Suffolk accent at race tracks will be glad to know that he has recently published an autobiography that, of course, documents what a large part rallycross has played in his life – and, therefore, the large part that he has played in rallycross.

What became a catchphrase for Debenham, ‘Oh dear, oh dear, oh dear’ has been taken as the title for the 124-page volume that, once started, proves difficult to put down. Debenham charts his own life story, combining his agricultural employment with his involvement in motor sport in which he soon found his niche as a commentator. For fans, Debenham’s role in establishing and running the Rallycross Trust is known and acknowledged, but fewer will know that he played a key role in founding West Suffolk Motor Club in the 1960s.

All of this is wrapped up alongside a passion for his home county, his meeting Adrienne who became his wife and colleague in commentary boxes – which get an entertaining chapter of their own, dogs, heroes and much more besides.

More than once in the book Debenham makes clear that he is very much his own man and will tell things as he sees them – even if that upsets some. That’s true of his writing too and the whole cocktail makes for a volume that should be included on the shelf of all self-respecting rallycross fans.

The book costs £8 (+ £2 p&p in the UK) is available by mail order direct from Debenham at 31 St Andrews Street North, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk, IP33 1SZ. For details of overseas delivery see facebook.com/ArthurDebenham or email

[portfolio_slideshow]