J.B.S. stands for James Bottoms and Son. Developed by Alf Bottoms, a former speedway rider from London, the J.B.S. 500 was developed from the Cowlan Special of Coward and Lang. The first prototype was built in 1950 for Andre Loens, it features all round independent suspension using unequal length wishbones, a multi tubular chassis and mid mounted engine. Alf, himself became the lead driver and was joined in early '51 by Ron "Curly" Dryden. The pair achieved a one-two at at the Earl of March Trophy in March effectively giving notice of the car's potential.

About 20 cars were built and they became highly competitive and looked set to present a consistent challenge to the Coopers. Tragically, the project lost much of it's momentum when Alf was killed at the Luxembourg Grand Prix in 1951. This was followed by Dryden's death at Castle Combe in October.

Alf Bottoms at speed

The most notable drivers were Peter Collins Don Parker and Frank Aikens. Les Leston ran a JBS though 1951 which was then modified with swing axle rear suspension by Ray Martin to become the Leston Special. Between them they racked up over 120 podiums during 1951.

Richard Utley's JBS at Cadwell Park, June 2004

Brands Hatch in August 1952. Photo courtesy of John Furlong.

Richard Utley's JBS at Goodwood in 2008

As reviewed in Iota February 1951

Hakan Sandberg's car at Cadwell Park, 2004

Snetterton in 1952

Don Parker at Brough. Photo supplied by Michael Aikey.

Richard Utley at the Monterey Historic 2006, photo courtesy Llew Kinst.