Hazel Chapman Memorial Garden Party

Hazel and Colin Chapman were the co-founders of the Lotus car marque, originally established in 1952 as the Lotus Engineering Co., in North London and a collection of early Lotus cars with which Hazel was closely associated with in the early days of Lotus, were gathered outside for guests to appreciate. Before starting a family Hazel was known for competing successfully in speed trials and circuit races, under the enthusiastic encouragement of Colin.

The Memorial guests were invited to wander through the wonderful grounds of the Manor, before gathering in the marquee on the front lawn, for afternoon tea and a toast to Hazel. The gardening team was led by Head Gardener of 30 years service, Trevor Jacobs, joined by Adam Crook and Martin Gray. 

Lotus Cars was represented by Executive Officer Matt Windle and the memorial was the ideal opportunity for him to make the announcement of the naming of Hazel Chapman Way on the Lotus Cars site at Hethel as a fitting tribute to Hazel.

Classic Team Lotus Team Manager Chris Dinnage was there with a number of his long serving colleagues. A number of key figures from Team Lotus history were also in attendance as well as a host of family friends including acquaintances of both Hazel and her children and grandchildren. All of who have enjoyed the numerous events which have been hosted on the Estate since 1970.

Over many years Hazel played an active role in the Norfolk Fund Raisers, the committee of which was well represented. In her twilight years, Hazel benefitted from the able attention of many generous care professionals, including from Cringleford Surgery – represented by Dr Siobahn Rowe – and carers Samantha Jackson and Susannah Tyrrell.

Hazel’s son Clive made a speech about his mother’s wonderful life, recalling some of her many achievements and adventures along the way. Clive commented “My parents achieved extraordinary things, together, which benefitted thousands of people both worldwide and in Norfolk, in particular. It was fitting to welcome so many guests to the beautiful gardens that my mother created, and for us all to remember her together. She was most proud of her seven grandchildren – all of whom were present – and it is lovely that the recently-arrived first of the 4^th generation has been named Martha Hazel.” 

Lotus Cars relocated to Norfolk in 1966, leading Hazel and Colin to the derelict East Carleton Manor Estate, which had become a pig farm, with a large haystack in place of the original manor house. Whilst Colin concentrated on the state-of-the-art factory at Hethel, Hazel set-to with building a new manor house out of the haystack and creating this beautiful garden out of the muddy fields.

Hazel took to garden design in much the same way as Colin designed racing cars.  She gathered together a dedicated team of builders, groundsmen and gardeners and led from the front, inspiring the team to achieve great things. She worked especially closely with Ted Perrett, the foreman, and head gardeners Seymour Blacklock followed by Trevor Jacobs. Her mantra was ‘Plant! Plant! Plant!’ and over the course of 50 years she created a garden of significance, which is recognized as one of the leading garden of England. 

Hazel was heavily involved with the early days of Lotus, until she took on the role of raising the family; Jane, Sarah and Clive. When Colin died suddenly, in 1982, Hazel was thrust back into the Lotus business, securing a future for the car company and deciding to continue the family involvement with the Formula One team. Never one to be intimidated, she faced this challenge, together with Colin’s colleagues, and made sure that Lotus would overcome the loss of its inspirational leader. Fred Bushell, Tony Rudd, Mike Kimberley and Peter Warr gave her special support when Colin died.

Hazel passed away on the 13th December 2021. Peacefully, at home, with family.  Aged 94, it was 39 years after Colin died, since when she lived alone, with her family close at hand. The family funeral was on 23rd December at St Mary’s church, East Carleton.

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