by: Matt Franey Race of the rich Italy gone mad Not a gentle stroll Police on your side Everybody's out Best Brits

The policemen love it, too. Although the event is no longer a race, for three days those charged with enforcing traffic laws do more than turn a blind eye, they actively encourage you to get a move on. Northern Italy is the centre of the Italian automotive industry and with the factories of Ferrari, Maserati and Lamborghini on their doorstep, everyone seems to know someone who works for one of the great Italian marques.

Consequently, there is a passion for cars that simply cannot be explained until you have seen Italian motorcycle police acting as impromptu outriders to Mille Miglia competitors, charging down the road at three-figure speeds, clearing oncoming traffic out of the way. It just wouldn't happen on the M25.

A gullwing Mercedes 300SL awaits a time stamp

The Italians turn out to see not just the cars but the stars in them, too. Part of the Mille Miglia's revival strategy has been to coax famous names from all walks of life to take part. This year motor racing fans were treated to the sight of former F1 world champion Mika Hakkinen in a Mercedes 300SL, while 1970s Grand Prix star and Le Mans winner Jochen Mass drove Stirling Moss's 1955 winner. His passenger was the highest bidder in an eBay charity auction for a place in the Mercedes' jump seat. Rumour had it he spent roughly £20 a mile for privilege.