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Both drivers were re-united with 1.5 Rileys almost identical to those in which they contested a two-part race that ultimately crowned Sears as inaugural Champion by a matter of just 1.8 seconds.

The race, consisting of two five-lap sprints, was required as Sears and Sopwith had tied on points after dominating their respective classes (Sears in an Austin Westminster and Sopwith in a 3.4 Jaguar).

Just as in 1958, the two drivers today lined up on the exact same spot on Brands Hatch's start-finish straight (as can be seen in the Image gallery) prior to re-enacing their memorable battle.

Sears even tucked in his tie just as he had done 50 years earlier - in his words "so it wouldn't get in the way of the steering wheel'."

Unlike 1958, the weather today remained dry. But one thing very definitely still in evidence was both drivers’ great enthusiasm for the BTCC and their respect of one another.

Today’s event was a fitting way in which to start the celebrations for what is the BTCC’s golden anniversary year – indeed, the 2008 season will begin back at Brands Hatch in just over a fortnight’s time on Sunday 30 March.

The Kent circuit is, for many, the spiritual home of the BTCC – the championship’s first-ever race was held there in April 1958 and then came the Sears-Sopwith title-decider. As well, Brands is the only circuit to have staged rounds of the BTCC in every one of those 50 years and, as a consequence, has hosted more championship races than any other venue.

Sears, who added a second BTCC crown in 1963, told BTCC.net: “It’s brought it all flooding back – a truly amazing experience. Setting off from the line in those two Rileys… just fantastic.”