Safety Fast! November 2015

£3.50 Volume 59 Number 11

inside Vantastic – Another one saved

AWC Abingdon to Abingdon 85th Anniversary Run

MGA 60th Anniversary Tour

Snetterton meeting closes a great season’s racing

THE MARQUE OF FRIENDSHIP

this month

NOVEMBER 2015

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www.mgcc.co.uk NOVEMBER 2015 5

16 So you’re buying classic vehicle insurance Peter Best on the questions you should ask when buying Classic Insurance

18 Vantastic – Another one saved Pt 1 The MG Car Club MG Express

24 MG Midget Diaries 2015 The story of Theo Snudden’s 1972 MG Midget

35 BTCC 2015 Reports from the Silverstone and Brands Hatch rounds

38 The 2015 MGA 60th Anniversary Land’s End to John o’Groats Tour Report on the prestigious 1552 mile MGA Anniversary Tour

60 Fabulous Autumn Snetterton meeting closes a great season’s racing Martin Price reports on all the action from the finalMGCCracemeetingof2015

46 MGB Newsletter Persistence Pays!, Technical Issues, MGB Register Chairman’s notes and more

52 MGF Newsletter Not Another Anniversary?, Collecting cars and data, The ‘Zip’ Files and more

7 Editor’s Welcome A summary from Andy Knott

9 From the Chair Club Matters from Bill Silcock

10 News British Motor Heritage B Bodies, December photo competition and more

12 Kimber House News Club breaks ground on archive extension

14 Book Review The Mighty MG Magnettes of 33, written by Perth based author, Graeme Cocks

28 Event Reports AWC Abingdon to Abingdon 85th Anniversary Run and Midget Register Road Run

56 Race Torque A2015MGCCracingroundupby Ron Gammons

58 MGs on Track Fun at Castle Combe

59 Luffield Championship Latest news from the MGCC LuffieldSpeedChampionship

64 Out and About Photos from MG events from around the world

67 Overseas News A report on GOF Central 37

68 Overseas Review Safety Fast! keeps tabs on the overseas action

70 Centre Updates News from the MGCC Regional Centres

82 Register Updates News from the MGCC Registers

91 Looking Back A selection of snippets from the MGCC archives

92 Classifieds Cars and Spares offered for sale

this

Newsletters

issueInside

November 2015

The MG TF of David Smith with navigator heads out of The Westwood Hotel on the MG Car Club AWC Abingdon to Abingdon 85th Anniversary Run. Photo: Malcolm Bailey

Regulars



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NOVEMBER 2015 7www.mgcc.co.uk

WELCOME

@mgcarclubThe MG Car Club,

Kimber House, PO Box 251, Abingdon, Oxon, OX14 1FFTel: 01235 555552 Fax: 01235 533755

E-mail: [email protected] www.mgcc.co.uk

If visiting The MG Car Club using Sat Nav please use OX14 1AS

The official publication of The MG Car ClubIncorporating ‘The M.G. Magazine’, ‘The Sports Car’

and ‘Brooklands Track and Air’, Safety Fast! Copyright MG Car Club 2015 Andy

KnottEditor

Words from

The MG Car Club, Kimber House, PO Box 251, Abingdon, Oxon, OX14 1FF

Tel: 01235 555552 Fax: 01235 533755E-mail: [email protected] www.mgcc.co.uk

If visiting The MG Car Club using Sat Nav please use OX14 1AS

Editor: Andy Knott 01235 849730 / 01235 555552 [email protected]

Deputy Editor: Colin Grant 01235 849733 [email protected]

Editorial Committee: William Ball, Dennis Wharf, Colin Grant, Victor Smith, Adam Sloman

Regular Contributors: Alwyn Morgan

PR and Communications: Lauran Gallacher 01235 849735, Chris Kynoch 01235 849731

Advertising: Hine Marketing 01452 730770

Published by: Hine Marketing, Hill Farm Studios, Wainlodes Lane, Bishops Norton Glos, GL2 9LN. Tel: 01452 730770

Printed by: Precision Colour Printing. Haldane, Halesfield 1, Telford, Shropshire TF7 4QQ Tel: 01952 585585

President: John Day

Vice Presidents: Ron Gammons, Don Hayter, Peter Best.

Chairman: Ian Quarrington

Vice Chairman: George Wilder

Treasurer: Richard Colston

Directors: Dave Saunders, Paul Plummer, William Ball, George Wilder, Dave Tynan and Peter Cook

Company Secretary: Colin Grant

Staff Members: Adam Sloman (General Manager 01235 849732), John Hutchison (Competitions Secretary 01235 849738), Andy Knott (01235 849730), Liz Allsworth (Membership Secretary 01235 849734), John Inness (Exhibitions 01235 849737), Colin Grant (01235 849733), Lauran Gallacher (01235 849735), Gerry McGreevy (Finance Officer 01235 849736) and Chris Kynoch (01235 849731)

Honorary Members: Michael Allison, Ron Gammons, Peter Best, Don Hayter, John Quenby, Sir Stirling Moss, Paddy Hopkirk, Norman Ewing, Rob Oldaker, Steve Hanegan, Gerry McGovern, June Wallis, Ann Hawke, John Dutton, John Day.

Company limited by guaranteeThe Club, as a corporate body established as the MG Car Club Limited, is a company limited by guarantee. Every member of the Club undertakes to contribute to the assets of the Club in the event of its being wound up while he is a member, or within one year after he ceases to be a member, for payment of the debts and liabilities of the Club contracted before he ceases to be a member, and the costs, charges and expenses of winding up, and for the adjustment of the rights of the contributors among themselves, such amount as may be required, not exceeding one pound.

Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of information at the time of going to press, neither The Publisher (herein referred to as Hine Marketing), the Editor, nor the MG Car Club can accept any responsibility or loss occasioned to any person acting or refraining from action as a result of any material in the publication. The opinions of authors are their own and Hine Marketing, the Editor and the MG Car Club are not bound to agree with opinions expressed herein. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. Safety Fast! and The MG Car Club badge are protected through trademark registration in the UK and in the foreign countries where Safety Fast! circulates. Readers are warned that if they attempt any mechanical or other modifications or methods referred to herein, they do so at their own risk and no liability will attach to the MG Car Club, the Editor nor Hine Marketing. Neither shall the MG Car Club, the Editor nor Hine Marketing have any responsibility for the accuracy of the content of the editorial, neither the content of any advertisement published in Safety Fast!

It should be noted that neither Hine Marketing, the Editor, nor the MG Car Club make any recommendation in respect of any goods and/or services advertised or featured in this issue. It is the responsibility of readers to satisfy themselves that the goods or services offered or referred to are bona fide and in no instance shall Hine Marketing, the Editor or the MG Car Club be held responsible for the quality or suitability of any such items.

The official publication of The MG Car ClubIncorporating ‘The M.G. Magazine’, ‘The Sports Car’

and ‘Brooklands Track and Air’, Safety Fast! Copyright MG Car Club 2015 Andy

KnottEditor

@mgcarclub

As we head into the darker winter months it’s time to reflect on a year of great events and anniversaries, from MGLive!, AWC 85th Birthday Run through to MGF20, held at Gaydon to celebrate the MGF’s 20th anniversary. The MGA Register celebrate their 60th anniversary this year, and within the pages of this magazine is a report from their premier event, the Land’s End to John o’Groats tour. With over two years in the planning it was great to see that 77 MGAs participated in some of the sections of the tour, with 46 cars joining to do the whole 1,552 miles. In next month’s issue we’ll bring you a report from the MGA Register’s return to Dundrod, another special anniversary event that will be remembered for years to come by all who participated and those that had the chance to see the MGAs around Northern Ireland.

Don’t put your MG away just yet as the UK’s biggest Classic Car Show held at the NEC is fast approaching, November 13-15, and as an MG Car Club member you can benefit by getting the entry tickets at a discounted rate by quoting either CSCMS15 for a single ticket or CFCMS15 for a family one, on the phone booking line 0871 230 1088 or via their website www.necclassicmotorshow.com You can also help the MGCC by handing in the ticket stub at the MG Car Club stand 565 located in hall four; every ticket stub handed in earns your Club £1.

With Christmas fast approaching, within this magazine are a few ideas of MG merchandise available from the Club, including MG related Christmas cards, and covers, battery conditioners etc for those of you who garage your MG over the winter months. You can order any of the products on our website www.mgcc.com or directly from the MG Car Club on 01235 555552.

During the construction work, parking here at Kimber House will be reduced thanks to the various plant machinery required by such a project.

As you’ll see on the Kimber House News page this month, work has started on the new archive extension; as ever, visitors remain welcome at Kimber House, however we would ask that anyone visiting, especially large groups, please give us prior warning to allow us to accommodate you during this time as car park space will be limited and parts of the building may be inaccessible.

Until next month, drive safely


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BillSilcockClub Matters

from


THE CHAIRFROM

Club Matters from

“No need to rush, Jack: We’re in plenty of time for the fi rework party!”

As is normal at this time of year I let you know what I have presented to Council as my twice yearly report.

The Club is in good health but we have been going through a period of evolution, and this will continue over the next year. Financially the Club is in a good position and there is no requirement to raise subscription rates at this time, but as always the Board keeps this under periodic review.

Our relationship with MG Motor and SAIC continues to fl ourish, and a contract is in place for 2015 at the same sort of level as in previous years; we anticipate that this relationship will continue into the foreseeable future.

We have started construction of the new archive. June Wallis cut the fi rst turf at a ceremony at Kimber House onOctober 6, and we intend to keep you up to date with progress in Safety Fast! and on the Club’s website. We expect to complete the building and fi tting out before Easter next year.

As I announced at last Council I have stood down after four years as your

Chairman, and I have also retired from the Board. We have had a succession plan in place for some time, and in line with this Ian Quarrington has taken over as Chairman. Richard Colston has agreed to stay on as Treasurer for another year to provide continuity.

Both Richard Martin and Peter Skipper have retired from the Board; Dave Tynan and Peter Cook have replaced them.

Turning to Kimber House staff, Julian White has retired from his post as General Manager and is now acting as a consultant, resident part time at Kimber House, until the end of the year. He leaves with our thanks for his contribution to the Club over the past six and a half years, and our best wishes for the future.

I can now announce formally that we have appointed Adam Sloman as our new General Manager after a trial period acting as Julian’s assistant. Adam has the full support of the Board and the staff of Kimber House. With Adam moving into the General Manager’s seat we needed to augment our PR side, and we have found another young person, Chris Kynoch, to fi ll this demanding

role which needs someone who can keep us up to date with the changing face of the technology we use.

The team at Kimber House remains strong and active and a fair bit younger than it was a few years ago.

This leads me on to a new activity which we will be undertaking. That is an initiative to actively search out young people to join the Club as we need to fi nd more young blood or we will not have an active Club in 20 years time.

We had a successful racing season including a very successful MGLive!.

You may have seen that the F1 Grand Prix dates have moved from those previously announced: in consultation with Silverstone we are currently maintaining the previously published provisional date of June 4-5 for our 66th running of our event at Silverstone.

Finally I would like thank the Board of Directors and the staff at Kimber House for their support throughout my time as your chairman, and especially John Day for his wise counsel on more than one occasion.

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anything from an oil change to a full rebuildWe are also approved hood and screen � tters for MG Mania

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NEWSLETTERNEWS


December photo competition Win a Meguiar’s NXT Generation Wash and Wax Kit

We’re on the lookout for a photo of an MG in the snow for the festive issue of Safety Fast!. if you have one of your MG that you think would look great on a front cover, why not send it to [email protected] or post it to The MG Car Club, Kimber House, 12 Cemetery Road, Abingdon, Oxon, OX14 1AS. The lucky winner will not only have their picture featured on the cover of the December 2015 Safety Fast! but will also win a Meguiar’s Wash and Wax Kit. Closing date for entries is November 15 2015.

British Motor Heritage B BodiesBritish Motor Heritage Limited was established in 1975 to support owners and the marketplace by putting genuine components for classic British cars back into manufacture. With access to unparalleled knowledge, authentic production information and original drawings and patterns, the company manufactures previously unobtainable body parts for British classic cars.

British Motor Heritage is currently producing a run of 11 MGB bodyshells, their second run of B bodyshells this year. With over 30 man hours going into each shell and over

1,000 spot welds, it is an incredible process to watch, as an American customer found out. One of the bodyshells in production is a left hand drive one, destined to become a Frontline MG Abingdon car that will be heading out to its new home in Washington DC once complete. The customer was lucky enough to see the shell being manufactured and hopes to follow the build process to its conclusion.

The shells aren’t available to purchase directly from British Motor Heritage, but are available from their Heritage approved specialists; a full list is published at www.bmh-ltd.com/directory.htm

MG 635 Register AGM Date: December 5 2015 Time: 15.00 Venue: MG Sales Centre, Lowhill Lane, Longbridge, Birmingham, B31 2BQAgendaOpening Address Apologies Minutes of 2014 Meeting Chairman’s Address Secretary’s report Treasurer’s report Election of new committee AOBGuest Speaker – Andy KitsonAny queries please contact Secretary Mark Cropper on 0121 384 5562 or [email protected]

MG6 is named a class winner by caravanners In September the MG6 S scooped the ‘Under £17,500’ class winner award at the Caravan

Club Towcar of the Year event.During rigorous testing, that took place in July at the Millbrook Proving Ground, the

MG6 wowed judges and was named winner of its class. Judges’ comments were: “This keenly-priced, front wheel drive MG surprised a few judges with its ‘more-than-capable’ towing performance around the challenging Millbrook course. It boasts a generous 100kg noseweight limit and impressive boot space. The hill start was very good for a front wheel drive car.”

Manufacturers were invited to submit, for testing, any vehicle that was capable of towing a trailer over 750kg and on sale on October 1 2015. The cars entered were pushed to their limits in a series of tests. Five expert drivers assessed each car’s towing characteristics including acceleration, braking and the ability to cope with demanding hill starts. A further two driving judges performed mid-range 30-60mph and 40-60mph acceleration tests on each vehicle. An additional two judges then evaluated each entrant’s usability in terms of everyday caravanning, for example would it carry a set of awning poles and is the caravanner required to get on the floor to connect the caravan electrics.

The results of the competition were announced at The Caravan Club Towcar of the Year Awards ceremony, held at the Royal Automobile Club in London.

South East Centre AGMThe SE Centre will hold its AGM on Saturday November 21 2015, starting at 12 noon, with free refreshments provided beforehand.Venue: The Three Horseshoes, Sidlow, Surrey, RH2 8PT.

Agenda1. Welcome and apologies for absence2. Approval of the minutes of the 2014 AGM3. Matters arising from the above4. Chairman’s Report5. Treasurer’s Report and adoption of

accounts6. Secretary’s Report7. Election of Officers8. Election of Committee Members9. Any Other Business

Nominations for election to the Committee and/or Officers should be submitted to the Chairman, Derek Edwards, 143 Carlton Road, Reigate, RH2 0JG, or email [email protected], to be received by November 7 2015.



NEWSLETTERNEWS


SocialMedia

Round Up

NewsKimber House

Club breaks ground on archive extension – The Bill Wallis WingThe MG Car Club has begun work on the latest development to its Kimber House headquarters – the Bill Wallis Wing.

The new wing will house a bespoke archive for the Club, with state of the art storage facilities for the Club’s priceless collection of production records, photographs and artefacts.

The Wing is named in honour of former MG Car Club Chairman and President, Bill Wallis. Bill joined the MGCC in the late 1940s and went on to found the Midlands Centre.

Bill dedicated much of his life to the MG Car Club and is warmly remembered by many Club Members for his incredible contribution to the Club and the wider MG community, and the new extension will provide a fi tting tribute to him.

His widow, June Wallis, with Club President John Day, Club Chairman Bill Silcock and the Mayor of Abingdon, Helen Pighills, were on hand to break ground.

Adam Sloman, a spokesman for the Club, said: “It was only natural for us to think of Bill when it came to naming the extension. So many people have fond memories of Bill and I think it’s a wonderful way to honour someone who did so much for the Club.”

The new rooms will be used to store items as various as production records for MGs from the 1930s, through to unique items such as a coat owned by Cecil Kimber himself, the father of MG. With a continually growing collection, the Club’s current archive is no longer fi t-for-purpose, hence the new extension.

Construction on the Bill Wallis Wing is scheduled to be completed in March 2016, and the Club will be issuing further updates, via the Club’s social media feeds, web site and here in Safety Fast!.

October 12 saw the Club celebrate its 85th Birthday – with members and fans from across the world fl ooding us with birthday wishes. A special logo was created for all of our channels too, which proved to be very popular. Just over a week before that, we released details of the construction work that has begun here at Kimber House with our new archive extension being erected. Ground-breaking for the aptly named Bill Wallis Wing was shown across social media, and regular updates are ongoing.

It’s been a great month for pictures – an MGB showcasing autumn and another fantastic racing selection from club photographer Colin Murrell. But what threw us most was the amount of attention one member of staff’s MGF mug received whilst it balanced precariously on the top of the landing staircase. 250 likes!

Our MGCC racing video was uploaded to the club’s YouTube, so go and check that out if you haven’t seen it yet. Instagram has once again been fi lled with a variety of images – including Jack Goff and Andrew Jordan’s second placed cars from the British Touring Car Championship weekend at Silverstone. Periscope was also used at the home of British Motor Racing to show the world what great support the MG works team was given.

And fi nally, TV presenter Ant Anstead was delighted to hear over Twitter that we will be serving cake at the NEC. So join us for a fantastic weekend of cars, our 85th Birthday celebrations, and a ‘professional cake eating celebrity’ doing his best Bruce Bogtrotter impression.

F: www.facebook.com/MGCarClub T: @MGCarClub I: @MGCarClubThe Kimber House Archive extension underway.

FOR DETAILS OR TO BOOK YOUR PLACES 01732 879153OR SEE OUR WEBSITE - WWW.SCENICCARTOURS.COM

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DARLING BUDS OF MAY TOUR 1st to 4th July 2016

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LAKE DISTRICT June & September 2015/164 Days, 3 Nights From £229.00 Per Person


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SCOTTISH ISLANDS & HIGHLANDS 15th to 24th July 2016

LAKE COMO & STELVIO PASS June & September 2015/16



ANGOULEME ‘CIRCUIT DES REMPARTS’ September 2015/166 Days, 5 Nights From £489.00 Per Person

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HONFLEUR & the LOIRE VALLEY

CLASSIC CHAMPAGNE TOUR May & Sept 2015/164 Days, 3 Nights From £299.00 Per Person

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COTSWOLDS, CHEDDAR & BATH June & October 2015/16

DARLING BUDS OF MAY TOUR 1st to 4th July 2016

ROME, SORRENTO & AMALFI June & Sept 2015/16

2016 LAON HISTORIQUE 13th to 16th May 2016

D-DAY LANDINGS & ATLANTIC WALL Sept 2015 & May/Sept 2016

IRELAND’S CAUSEWAY COAST June, July & Sept 2015/16


THE WILD ATLANTIC WAY June, July & Sept 2015/16

3 Days, 2 Nights or 4 days, 3 Nights From £159.00


4 Days, 3 Nights From £139.00 - £329.00 Per Person




ENCHANTING BLACK FOREST June & September 2015/16

LAKE DISTRICT June & September 2015/164 Days, 3 Nights From £229.00 Per Person


THE ISLE OF MAN June, July & Sept 2015/165 Days, 4 Nights From £359.00 Per Person

SCOTTISH ISLANDS & HIGHLANDS 15th to 24th July 2016

LAKE COMO & STELVIO PASS June & September 2015/16



ANGOULEME ‘CIRCUIT DES REMPARTS’ September 2015/166 Days, 5 Nights From £489.00 Per Person

MORE EXCITING TOURS

10 Days, 9 Nights Dates and Prices to be con� rmed

THE BELGIAN DELIGHTS April to September 2015/16 2 or 3 Nights From £149.00 Per Person

WW1 100th ANNIVERSARY TOURS May & Oct 2015/164 Days, 3 Nights From £239.00 Per Person

Lake Garda & the Stelvio Pass

10 Days From £799.00 Per PersonJune, July & Sept Departures 2015/16

8 Days, 7 Nights From £699.00May, June & September Deparures 2015/16

WONDERS OF TUSCANY June & September 2015/16 14 Days, 13 Nights From £1199.00 Per Person

DUTCH WINDMILLS & WATERWAYS April & Sept 2015/164 Days, 3 Nights From £289.00 Per Person

12 Days From £999.00 Per PersonFriday 16th to Tuesday 27th Sept 2016

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CLASSIC CHAMPAGNE TOUR May & Sept 2015/164 Days, 3 Nights From £299.00 Per Person

20 Days From £3995.00 Per PersonMondy 6th to Saturday 25th June 2016

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LE MANS CLASSIC2016

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3rd to 7th June 2016Incl: Irish Ferry CrossingHotel, Meals and EntryFrom £479.00

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Monaco HistoriqueGrand Prix

SCCT September 2016 MG Ad.indd 1 26/08/2015 18:20:57MG Safety Fast November15 03-50.indd 13 26/10/2015 17:06


BOOK REVIEW

In a world already well populated by literature about the legendary MG K3 model, this eagerly awaited publication

by Graham Cocks nevertheless earns an important place by focusing its attention on the two prototype cars and on the three cars which competed in the Mille Miglia race of 1933.

The product of several years of painstaking research, the 464 pages of this new and impressive volume, illustrated with more than 500 photographs and images – some not previously published – provide a fascinating insight into the evolution and development of the MG K3, the planning and execution of the Mille Miglia race and the subsequent fate of the prototypes and the cars that competed in it.

Inevitably, more than 80 years having elapsed since the race, the author has had to frame his account of events on evidence gathered from contemporary writers and observers, many of whom are no longer alive – indeed, some of whose evidence he challenges and corrects. If the book teaches us anything, it must surely be the importance of harvesting reliable information at the time of such events, even if those recounting the facts see little importance in them!

Happily the author has also been able to draw on information readily available from those such as Triple-M Register President Mike Allison and Gerhard Maier, both of whom have offered interesting recent insights and opinions especially in relation to the car that provides the book’s main focus: K3003. This is the car that was driven to a class win in the Mille Miglia by the team of George Eyston and Count ‘Johnny’ Lurani and which went on to win the 1933 Ulster TT at Ards, piloted by Tazio Nuvolari.

Mr Cocks offers an even-handed account of the circumstances surrounding this ‘Nuvolari’ car, which was stated to have been sold by the Works in late 1933 to a previously unknown competitor in Germany, Theodor Fork. However, as the book recounts, contemporary and recent evidence points to the possibility that the car that went to Germany was a Works recreation of the Mille Miglia-winning car rather than the ‘original’ race winner – the latter remaining in the UK before entering a twilight existence. Although there is no incontrovertible proof of this, the German car is thought to have been destroyed, whereas the UK-resident vehicle re-emerged,

The Mighty MG Magnettes of 33The Cars, The Drivers, The MysteryAuthor: Graeme CocksISBN 9780987280800

its chassis identity rendered partially visible through forensic testing of the filed-down chassis knuckle. Now restored to its original specification, the car resides in Australia where it is part of a collection owned by Peter Briggs and is often seen in competition in its adopted homeland and abroad.

The two prototype cars and the three Mille Miglia cars are discussed in detail. Here the author treads a delicate path, although this reviewer could not escape noticing that one car is dismissed relatively briefly with phrases including “The current K3001” (the ex-Earl Howe car, sic) “owes little to its predecessor”.

Lest it be thought that Graham Cocks’ book is concerned solely with esoteric issues relating to identity, this is only one element of the wider picture which he recounts in graphic detail. Indeed there is something for everybody: the evolution and birth of the K3 is described in detail, as also is the disassembly and restoration of K3003 in 2012. The meticulous planning of the 1933 Mille Miglia race is analysed in minute detail, underlining the contribution which engineering reliability and preparation made to the success of the mission. The life and times of the drivers are also charted at length; and of course there is the running of the race – even though we all know beforehand what the outcome is to be, this remains a “ripping yarn” of the highest order.

Inevitably a publication of this size does not escape a few minor glitches, so it might be unfair to make much of the author’s reference to the Whitworth screw thread and its development in the MG motor car, or of some missing dimensions for blower pipe and dashboard in Chapter 19! Equally,

some may quibble about Richard Knudson’s reported assertion on viewing K3003 at Silverstone in 1975 that “My take on it is that the car’s status [and that of several other historic MGs] depends on who the current owner is.”

All this, however, is of no consequence when weighed against the entirety of this impressive work. The author goes to great lengths to examine often-asked questions: What degree of political patronage enabled the Magnettes to gain access to the Mille Miglia? Just who was Theodor Fork? Was his a ‘Nom de Course?’ Was he a Doppelgänger for a high-ranking Nazi official? Was William Morris’s stance towards MG racing ambiguous? How did the factory deal with identity issues? What did the race mechanics know about the identity of the cars in which they competed? How did the cars compare in performance terms? The reader will have to read and judge these issues for himself.

One overriding theme remains: One can place the achievements of 1933 against the context of the 2013 Mille Miglia in which K3003 participated over part of the route. “How did they do it in 1933?” writes the author. “How was it possible to average 80mph for 1,000 miles? It seems like an almost impossible feat. It seems that it was almost a miracle that it [K3003] won in 1933.” One can only stand in awe of the achievements of the creators and developers of the MG K3 and those who coaxed the maximum potential out of this newly-emerged racing machine. This story belongs to them and those who drove, rode with and maintained the cars. Graham Cocks’ narrative is a worthy tribute to them all.

Cultor humilis.


Y O U R P R I D E & J O Y , O U R T O P P R I O R I T Y

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TMS Car Storage is a new Premium Car Storage facility for classic, vintage and prestige cars. Our custom designed facility will

provide the best storage solution for your MG during the winter months and beyond. We provide an all-inclusive service which covers valeting, protective vehicle covers, regular battery checks, plus car collection/delivery at your request. Your pride & joy is our top priority.

We believe that customer service is key to our success and therefore aim to ensure your prized possession is our number one priority. Our three Priority objectives are: “Premium. Professional. Protected.” Hence all vehicles are stored in

a designated storage bay, subject to daily checks, provided with protective covers, fully insured, connected to a CTEK battery conditioner, and securely monitored 24/7.

Our founder Gordon Matthew (CEO, Trend Management Services Limited) is a keen car enthusiast and former non-professional race driver in the Caterham and Porsche Open series. He understands the importance of prestige vehicle maintenance, particularly in the winter months when there may be long periods of non-use. Together with his son, Glen Matthew, he has therefore focused on developing a storage facility which aims to cherish cars in optimal conditions.

Our in house valeting team are

fully trained by Autoglym in all the latest products and techniques. Our new ‘state of the art’ valet bay allows us to spend all the time needed to ensure your MG looks its best at all times.

We are ideally placed at a discreet location within close proximity to Stratford-upon-Avon, with easy access to the Midlands motorway networks and mainline train services.

TMS Car Storage believe in providing a premium customer driven service for you and your vehicle. We are currently offering exclusive introductory prices for all MG Car Club members as we want to make sure your car is cared for professionally, safely and securely this winter and beyond.

For further information please contact [email protected], or visit our website www.tmscarstorage.co.uk

Car Storage




FEATURE

Within motor insurance today, the prospective buyer normally has a wide choice. This is as true for classic vehicle insurance as it is for your ‘everyday’ vehicle.

Here are some points you should look out for when getting quotes for your classic.1. Quotation – get the paperwork fi rstThe quotation must show the premium, insurance premium tax, any ‘add ons’ such as motor legal expenses insurance, roadside assistance and recovery, whether UK only or UK and EU (if not in the policy as standard), also policy fee/service charge (which could today be upwards of £50). If you can pay by direct debit there should be a clear explanation of the monthly payments.2. Costs that could occur during the policyBrokers or direct insurers may charge heavy fees for a mid-term adjustment to the policy or a premature cancellation. What you get back in the event of cancellation should be explained in your policy document, but the intermediary’s charges – which could be another £50 – should be in the Terms of Business, which you should read before it is too late!3. Agreed ValueCheck if there is a charge for any agreed valuation – and how much and how often does the vehicle value need to be reconsidered. This could be £15 or more each time.

So you’re buying classic vehicle insuranceBy Peter Best

4. Limited MileageMost schemes offer a choice of limited mileage options. If you decide you want more mileage mid-term, can this be done easily and is there any extraordinary cost, apart from the charge for the increased mileage?5. Choice of InsurerRemember it is not your broker who is carrying the underwriting risk, it is the insurer. Most insurance companies are rated for their fi nancial strength, e.g. Standard and Poor’s, A.M. Best (no relation!), who award ratings generally A and B. The leading companies may be AA or A+ followed by BBB etc.

Some companies or intermediaries selling insurance in the UK are ‘passported in’ under EU rules from other EU countries. These companies will not have had the same vetting procedure as their UK based competitors and there have been some failures in recent years.

The moral of the above is: check what you are getting for your money. You should be looking for a quality insurer with a good claims paying record. Don’t be afraid to ask your broker or intermediary what the various charges are – not just at the outset.Remember the old adage – if the quote looks too good to be true, it probably is. After all, the broker has to earn a fee or commission to stay in business, he cannot work for nothing so his income must be in there somewhere! Make certain it is fair and reasonable and transparent.




FEATURE

The MG Express was launched in 2003, but this wasn’t MG’s first foray into the world of vans. On

January 14 1930, Mr M D’Oyly Carte, relative of Richard D’Oyly Carte famed for building two of London’s theatres and a hotel empire which included the Savoy Hotel, purchased a blue M Type Midget sports two seater (chassis number 773) from University Motors Limited, London. Mr D’Oyly Carte suffered an accident in the M Type a few months after purchasing it and the car was sent back to the MG factory at Abingdon for assessment for the insurance company, to see whether it would be economical to repair or if not, the factory was to supply a new car. The car reached MG at Abingdon on May 6 1930; the service manager wrote back to D’Oyly Carte advising him that they would strip the chassis and prepare an estimate, but the car was very badly damaged and would need to be completely dismantled. The car was deemed beyond repair, so

Vantastic – Another one saved

the damaged M Type 773 was squirreled away in the confines of the Abingdon buildings until Cecil Kimber had the vision to create a promotional vehicle for The MG Car Company Ltd. On October 28 1930 George Propert ordered the repairs on behalf of the MG Car Co on the Ex D’Oyly Carte M Type. His memo read: ‘Rebuild chassis for works van. All old material to be used wherever possible and when replacements are needed apply first to Experimental Dept, Unit Shop etc for surplus used material. Costs all to be kept to minimum’. And so the High Speed M Type Service Van was born. Unfortunately the M Type Van became something of a laughing-stock; the MG Car Co hadn’t taken into account the 30mph speed restrictions which affected commercial vehicles in the 1930s. Because of this, the life of the van was short lived.

Later on in the 1930s MG once again built a special commercial vehicle, this time a pick up based on an MG SA saloon. The

SA started life as BRM 70, which Tommy and Elsie Wisdom drove as the only British entrant in the 1937 Mille Miglia, prepared with works assistance and fitted among other items with a special 22 gallon petrol tank. During the Mille Miglia the car skidded on a wet road near Florence and crashed. BRM 70 was converted to a pickup and ended up as a works hack which land speed record breaker Goldie Gardner found very useful, transferring parts and spares around Europe during his record breaking attempts. The SA was eventually scrapped.

It wasn’t until 1947 that the MG Car Company built another van, this time based on an MG TC. In 1949 another two TC vans were built. These were used to pick up parts and spares; MG Car Co employee Jack Lodge would often be dispatched in one of the vans to head up to the West Midlands to pick up vital parts required by the Abingdon factory. The TC vans seemed to attract the attention of

The MG Car Club MG Express

The MGCC Express arrives at Kimber House


To order any of the products please visit www.mgcc.co.uk/shop or

phone 01235 555552

CLUBMERCHANDISE

MGB - The complete storyThis well-researched book covers this popular car in detail from � rst sketches to the very end, and it also describes the gestations and production of the six-cylinder MGC and the MGB GT V8. It

includes full speci� cations of every model, and information on buying and running an MGB.

£17.00 plus post and packaging

MG Twin Cam - The first 50 years

This meticulously researched book includes previously unseen factory documentation and leading Twin Cam specialists are also featured.

Contributions have come in from all parts of the World covering engineering aspects, owners’

experiences, famous competition cars and the history of the Twin Cam in far � ung locations.


MGA - The complete storyThis informative and well-researched book covers

one of the prettiest cars to have emerged from Abingdon, and provides virtually everything that

a fan of the A could want.


MGF and TFThis remarkable book written by one of the

leading world authorities on modern MG history, David Knowles is crammed full of wonderful

material, much of which will be new to even the most dedicated of MGF and MG TF enthusiast.

Much of the information is newly - uncovered – using extensive � rst hand interviews- and a great

many of the images have never been seen in print before.


The Hawke History of MMM Competition Cars

Edited by Karl Wiessmann and published in Germany this softback book is 244 pages of facts

and � gures. Building on previous research by Mike Hawke and many others (and dedicated to Mike) this book covers the M12/12,”C”,”J3″,”J4″,”QA”,”RA”,”K3″,”NE”,”EX” and the Musketeers

as produced by the MG Car Company between 1929 and 1936. An unmissable addition to any

Triple M enthusiasts library.£20.00 plus post and packaging

BMC 1100 1300 Guide including MG Variants

A Model Guide to all the BMC 1100 & 1300’s. Written by James Taylor and includes many

photo’s. The Book covers the story from design to close of production. The Guide covers all the various di� erent variants, the MG model was of course the sporty version and there is

a whole chapter in the book dedicated to this. It also includes models from Wolsey, Riley and the overseas companies that built them under

licence. Overall a fascinating and enjoyable read and a must for any MG enthusiast who is

interested in the history of MG.£16.99 plus post and packaging

Call it MGA Second EditionTo mark the 60th

Anniversary of the MGA, The

MGA Register has commissioned a

second edition of the book, � rst published

in 2005. Piers Hubbard and Roger

Martin have updated their original work

with many newly discovered facts together with the evolving stories from the past 10 years. The second edition is now in a larger full colour

format and includes three new chapters. £25.00 plus post and packaging

MG War Time ActivitiesThis spiral bound book, edited by Colin Grant, is a reproduction of a book called the War Time Activities of the MG Car Company

Limited Abingdon.As the content of the book covered many magni� cent topics from that era, the MG Car Club, led by Colin Grant, decided to reproduce the book in its entirety for others to enjoy, with just

some light editing and additional material.As the book carried no reference to the author or publisher, one

can only speculate who wrote itA must read for any MG enthusiast!





FEATURE

the local constabulary, acquiring quite a few speeding tickets, much to the annoyance of the MG Factory. In the early 1950s the MG Car Co had decided enough was enough, and re-bodied the TCs with sports car bodies and sold them on. This was to be the last foray in to the world of commercial vehicles by the MG Car Co.

It wasn’t until 2003 when in the hands of MG Rover that an Octagon was to adorn the front of another commercial vehicle, this time created from the hugely successful MG ZR hot hatch. MG Rover Group’s strategy was to open up the marque to the niche markets with new and exciting products. This was to be the first time an MG van derived from a car would be available to the public. This commercial van bought the number of vehicles in production at the Longbridge factory in 2003 to 11. The ZR van, christened the MG Express, was available in three different derivatives, the 105 petrol 1.4, 101ps turbo diesel and the range topping 1.8 VVC 160ps. All had a high specification with an interior that included a fully flat rear lined loadspace, making it easy to fill up and offload, a partial steel bulkhead and secure lashing points. The MG Express was aimed squarely at the demands of individuals

and small business users, and with the loadspace the best in class it was bound to be a best seller, or was it?

XPart Ltd, a division of Phoenix Venture Holdings and a sister company to MG Rover Group, was one of the first companies to take delivery of the MG Express van. The attractive Anthracite 160 MG Express van carried the MG Rover Parts livery and when appropriate was used to convey parts taken from the production line to the repairing dealer, harking back to the 1930s M Type; don’t they say good business travels fast!

MG Rover took the MG Express one step further to create a one off MG Express HSSV (High Speed Service Van) for the 2003 commercial vehicle show. The HSSV ran a race-tuned K Series engine, generating 220Ps from its lightweight construction with a rally proven specification. Square-cut gears, Xtrac differential and 195Nm of torque produced a very fast vehicle capable of reaching 60mph from standstill in 6.2 seconds and on to 100mph in 12 seconds, to a geared maximum of 135mph.

The M Type High Speed Service Van

The SA pickup, built using the chassis and parts from the crashed 1937 Mille Miglia MG SA.




FEATURE

The life of the MG Express was to be relatively short. Launched in 2003 and built until the demise of MG Rover in 2005, only 337 ever saw the light of day, making it quite a rare vehicle by today’s standards.

The MGCC ExpressThe MGCC recently had the opportunity to acquire a 2003 range topping Starlight Silver MG Express 160, one of 71 MG Express 160s produced during the three year production period. Many have had a hard life over the 10 plus years they’ve been in existence, to the point that there are now only 35 160 Expresses road legal in the UK. When picking up the MGCC Express a cursory glance over the vehicle proved that this one was no exception to the above statement, and had seemingly had an unloved hard life as a builder’s van. The bodywork had the odd battle scar and it was filthy inside and under the bonnet. Checking the oil and fluids also revealed it was in desperate need of a thorough service. The Express was bought back to Abingdon and then a few days later headed up to Silverstone for the BTCC Meeting, proving its usefulness by carrying the MGCC marquee and boxes of magazines etc. Interestingly, two other MG 160 Express owners were at Silverstone and were immediately drawn to the MGCC Express. As there was little history with the MG Express, a local Trade Member, Trevor Broadbent Auto Engineers (01869 351176), offered to take a proper look at it at his premises. We apprehensively dropped it off with Trevor and are currently awaiting his phone call for the good, or bad, news.

The MGCC Express under inspection at Trevor Broadbent Auto Engineers

The MG Express HSSV, built for the 2003 commercial vehicle show

The X Part MG 160 Express

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Untitled-2 1 27/08/2015 10:48:29MG Safety Fast November15 03-50.indd 23 26/10/2015 17:06


FEATURE

Purchase Theo has always been interested in the workings of cars and had picked up a few skills whilst working with his dad, Graham, on the restoration of a classic Land Rover. His grandad is the owner of an MG Midget and so classic cars have been a strong interest in the family for many generations. When Theo had just turned 16, his dad bought a 1275 1972 MG Midget for just £500 on eBay, having never seen the car before the purchase. The aim was to restore the Midget as a joint project between them; however Theo soon took over the project by himself as his dad’s other workloads increased.

The Midget hadn’t been on the road for a few years and the shell was completely rusted through and unusable. The previous owner had bought a better shell but hadn’t gotten round to starting the restoration. Sixteen-year-old Theo had hoped that he could restore the Midget, using the less rusted of the shells, to an acceptable standard within the year so that he would be able to drive it around straight after passing his driving test. However, the car proved to be a bigger challenge than initially thought and this, combined with Theo’s perfectionism, meant that restoration was a much slower process than planned!

MG Midget Diaries 2015 Theo Snudden and Danielle Holmes

Restoration The better shell was shot blasted to remove the rust, and Theo spent many months applying body filler and sanding the shell down before it could be sprayed. He had managed to get the car running around the garden and it seemed mechanically sound. The old car was taken apart and each part was slowly and carefully fixed and cleaned before attaching them onto the freshly-sprayed shell. A new hood, carpets and wheels (one of several Midget-related birthday presents!) were purchased and fitted.

After three years of Theo’s hard perseverance, the Midget was able to pass its MOT. It took Theo another two years, alongside being a full time university student and rower, to ensure that the car was in tip top working condition for its long journey to Spain. Last minute additions included headrests, a heater, a radio and speakers; all highly important for in-journey comfort! Disaster struck one week before the departure date… Theo managed to strip the threads on the track rod end ball joints by over-tightening a bolt due to not having his torque wrench set up properly. This had to be fixed or new parts would have to be ordered to make the car drivable again before it was booked in to get tuned. Theo figured out that

when he fitted the new wheels last year he had to chop off the top of the ball joint bolt which left a sharp edge that wasn’t filed down well. When he put the nut on, it slightly stripped, which caused the thread to be completely stripped when he went to tighten it up as part of last minute checks. He then tried to recut the thread with an imperial die before realising that the new track rod ends he had ordered previously had a metric thread; this made the situation much worse! He had to try and find a metric die to sort out the thread and a metric nut that would fit. Otherwise, new track rod ends would be needed and the steering would need aligning which wouldn’t be able to be done before the car was booked in for tuning. Difficulty was had trying to find the right sized die for the job in the shops, and so he went to his university’s engineering department to fix the track rod ends. Things were looking up! However, replacement nuts were needed before the wheels could be fitted. Luckily, the right sized nuts could be found and the car was able to be taken in for tuning. It was running well and had 75BHP at the wheels. Replacement track rod ends were purchased in the end as he wanted peace of mind that the car was as safe as

FEATURE

Theo and his dad with the Midget undergoing a restoration


FEATURE


it possibly could be. These were fitted, cut to size with an angle grinder, the wheels were replaced and the steering was aligned. Theo realised he was spending too much time in his garage when he had a dream about finding lots of rust on the metal heater parts, the night before our departure. He was going to spend all night trying to get it fixed, whilst I slept, to get the car ready for the morning!

After the track rod end saga had been resolved, Theo decided to take the car for a test drive with his dad. This resulted in his day turning into a nightmare… One of the wheel bearings went, and this was only two days before the departure date! A replacement had to be found in order for the trip to be possible. It was Saturday morning and so hopes were running low that any shops which sold classic car bearings would be open. Luckily, they made it to the bearing shop in town with only five minutes to spare before closing time, but they still thought the chances were slim for the shop stocking the right bearings! The shop owner pulled out some bearings in packaging that looked at least 40 years old and they nervously took them home to try fitting them. Miraculously, they fitted and the car was up and running as good as new!

Long Journey (~2000 total miles) We set off early in the morning on Monday September 7 2015, filled with excitement and confidence in the Midget! Theo’s dad had squeezed a 20L jerry can into the tightly-packed boot after having a dream the night before about us not managing to reach the next nearest petrol station along the French highway with the Midget’s short range.

Day 1: The car drove nicely from Bury St Edmunds to Dover, where we boarded the ferry to Calais. We had a friendly chat with a Caterham driver who had parked next to us on the ferry in the ‘Sports Car Lane’. After a few stops along the way, enjoying the cheaper French petrol stations, we made it to Paris late that night after having problems navigating the busy ring road and falling out with the satnav man every time he said “Make a U-turn if possible”. The spacious and secure underground car park

was certainly the best bonus of the hotel! We enjoyed the sights of Paris, walking around the centre until the early hours of the morning.

Day 2: We thought it would be a fun idea to attempt driving around the centre of Paris that afternoon. We were having a great time driving past famous landmarks, such as the Notre Dame, and attracting lots of attention from the tourists in the MG. Even the aggressive French drivers and confusing road layout with few painted lines couldn’t dampen the mood! We wanted to try parking on the Champs-Élysées to have lunch near the centre. We ended up in the busiest underground car park I had ever seen, just to the side of the famous street. The ramp was a steep spiral that we followed five floors down to try to find a space. Braking using the engine and the foot pedal simultaneously whilst in first gear was applied to navigate these treacherously steep turns. When we arrived at an empty space, we found with dismay that the gear stick was stubbornly jammed in first gear! We decided to let things cool off by having lunch and a beer whilst trying to forget about what was buried five floors beneath us and the prospect of having to drive out of the busy centre of Paris with only first gear. Upon our return to the stuffy dungeon with the eerie music playing on repeat, Theo tried brute force and jacking up the rear end of the car to wobble the back wheel, whilst I pulled on the gear stick to try to dislodge it. Neither of these methods worked and we were getting more desperate to leave with the rising car park fee. Theo had the idea to get me to push the car so it rolled backwards down a ramp,, then for him to lift the clutch when it was up to speed

so the back wheels would have enough momentum to turn the gearbox round the other way to unjam it. To my great surprise this method worked! We drove out of the car park overjoyed, with a full set of gears. We had a celebratory lap round the Arc de Triomphe roundabout (a stressful situation for Theo with the signs ‘Vous n’avez pas la priorité’ and many lanes of traffic merging without painted lines) and drove out of Paris. About 100km south of Paris, near Orleans, we broke down again! Just when we thought that our luck couldn’t get any worse, the rev counter started fluctuating erratically as the ignition had started to misfire. We crawled along and found a safe place to pull over. After some time of sticking his head under the bonnet, Theo found that the surface of

Shell shot blasted, filled, primed and ready for painting.

Theo and Danielle enjoying the road trip. A selfie on the journey with a scenic backdrop



FEATURE

the ignition points was corroded slightly. He took them out and gave them a clean with an old rag, and that seemed to do the trick! We successfully drove to Limoges with only a few stutters up the hills.

Day 3: We set off at a relatively early time in the morning and took a detour from the highways to drive around some winding country roads in the beautiful region of Dordogne. Theo said it was the best driving he had ever done in the Midget and I enjoyed the sunshine and stunning views. We stopped off in a picturesque village called Rocamadour for lunch before reluctantly heading back to the highways. We made good progress and stopped off near Narbonne in the south of France for dinner. It was getting late but we were determined to make it to our destination of Blanes in Spain (just north of Barcelona) that night. We drove across the Spanish border feeling hopeful despite the ever increasing misfi ring of the ignition due to the points that had not been cleaned properly. Theo didn’t want to risk dropping any parts or making the problem worse in the dark and so we pushed on until we reached our destination at around 1am. We couldn’t quite believe that we had made it so far and were so relieved at the prospect of relaxing in Blanes for four days.

Day 4: Between enjoying ourselves at various beaches and local restaurants, Theo managed to purchase some sandpaper in order to give the points a proper clean. However, what he really needed was a feeler gauge to be able to accurately set the distance between the points after some more rigorous cleaning. His Spanish translation of this tool left the shop owner very confused and we were doubtful that we would be able to locate one before our journey home.

Day 5: After snorkelling that afternoon, Theo had the sudden realisation that he had packed some new points in his car’s toolbox two years ago. He was hoping that his former self had been clever enough to pack a feeler gauge as well; otherwise

the new points would have been useless. Luckily enough, the feeler gauge had been travelling with us in the boot all along! Theo happily set to work replacing the points in the garage.

Day 6: After some sunbathing and delicious paella cooking, we decided it would be a good idea to test the car before our long journey home after the recent alterations. We had made it to Barcelona (in the rain with the roof down) when the engine started to lose power dramatically and we had to crawl into another busy underground car park with eerie music; which by now was becoming a sign of misfortune! The engine was running on two cylinders and Theo determined that there was a problem with one of the carburettors by running the engine and removing various combinations of the four spark plugs. It seemed like the fuel jet was blocked by a bit of dirt in the fuel. However, Theo didn’t know enough about carburettors to be confi dent about opening it up and cleaning the fuel jet without causing more damage. After two hours of trying various things with no success, it seemed like we were truly stumped this time. Theo went outside to get signal and have a google of the problem to look for inspiration to prevent us being towed away by the breakdown van. He found the clever idea of removing the air fi lter and blocking the air intake whilst I revved the engine. This formed a vacuum which successfully sucked the dirt out of the fuel jet! We fi nally got to look around Barcelona and drove back to Blanes with both the car and ourselves happy.

Day 7: We had another relaxing day, mentally preparing ourselves for the journey home. The car performed well on its drive to the supermarket but this was hardly a long distance trip!

Day 8: We left Blanes that afternoon, having decided the route to take only minutes before. We had dinner in Avignon and saw the famous bridge, and didn’t make it that much further north before we pulled in for the night. We were both very impressed that the MG was running smoothly.

Day 9: After a scenic walk around Lyon and some lunch, we drove to Dijon for some steak and famous mustard for dinner. We decided to get an early night so we could set off early in the morning. However, we were very unlucky fi nding hotels after many were either full, closed or too expensive. After driving to the outskirts of Dijon and getting turned away from another hotel we fi nally found a place to sleep. Quote Theo: “I felt like Joseph and Mary trying to fi nd a room at an inn”.

So we didn’t get to sleep early in the end, despite the very long distance we had to cover the next day.

Day 10: The ferry was booked for 8pm that evening in Calais and so we had to make good progress this day and pray for no more breakdowns. Unfortunately, it rained constantly as we passed through many storms. The Midget’s hood was no match for the dense rain with the water leaking in from all corners above, and managing to soak the carpets by spraying in through the vents below. The worries of wires that were not properly insulated and of electrical faults loomed over us all day. The small windscreen wipers were having little effect on clearing the view ahead and on many occasions we were almost forced to pull over due to terrible vision. Theo was using my socks to wipe the drips and steam from the inside of the windscreen. It was a very miserable day to drive the 670km home but miraculously the car never skipped a beat with all of its components functioning correctly. We arrived home with stiff legs and ringing ears and slept very well after the exhausting trip. It was certainly a once-in-a-lifetime experience that will be hard to forget. We both had a lot of fun, and I certainly developed an appreciation for classic cars, however it will be a few days before we will want to be driving around in the Midget again!

Hood down enjoying the Sun

Theo sorting a blocked jet

Theo at the wheel of XUX 877K



CLUBMERCHANDISE

1

To order any of the cards please visit www.mgcc.co.uk/shop/category/cards/ or phone 01235 555552

Christmas Cards available from the MG Car Club

2

4

51. Catching the Post Christmas Card A R Wheatland design Christmas card measuring 12.5cm x 17.5cm

featuring an MG PA Airline Coupe £1.50 each + 50p P&P each

2. The Railway Crossing Christmas Card A single Kevin Walsh design Christmas card measuring 17.5cm x 12.5cm featuring

an MGA £1.50 each + 50p P&P each

3. MG ZR Christmas Card Pack of fi ve cards featuring the Tony Jardine and Kevin Piper MG ZR 160.

Message inside the card reads ‘With Best Wishes for Christmas and New Year’£3.50 per pack + £2.00 P&P

4. Christmas Eve at the Station Christmas Card A Kevin Walsh design Christmas card measuring 12.5cm x 17.5cm featuring an MG YA

£1.50 each + 50p P&P each

5. Christmas Dinner at the Bell Christmas Card A Kevin Walsh design Christmas card measuring 12.5cm x 17.5cm featuring

an MG TD £1.50 each + 50p P&P each

We also stock a wide variety of cards for any occasion

3



EVENT REPORT

It was no coincidence that 85 cars lined up at the Westwood Hotel on Hinksey Hill near Abingdon on

October 4 as this was to be the AWC’s special way of celebrating the club’s 85th anniversary.

Following signing on, manned by Gill Martin and Sarah Davies, bacon baps, tea and coffee welcomed all the participants, some of whom had travelled many miles to take part. Twenty-five counties of the UK were represented by the good cross section of MGs from Bob Walker’s 1932 F type Magna to AWC Treasurer Gill Martin’s 2011 MG6. Only two of the early T types were in evidence but no fewer than five of

the rarer TFs. Sadly none of the 80s fwd saloons were on show. The MGB/C with all its variants was the most popular car present with the MGF/TF models next.

Some well researched and interesting background notes to the inception of the club back in October 1930 were included in the excellent road book issued to each driver. Rally plates were given out and thanks go to Summit Motors of Maidenhead for sponsoring these.

Cars set off, initially in sunshine, all waved off by Club President John Day using the treasured Union Flag so often used to start events by our dearly missed ex president Bill Wallis.

The early sunshine disappeared as we headed north then west to travel the roads used by club members of the past for trials in the Cotswolds. These roads at the time offered an excellent combination of steep hills and difficult terrain for the members to test their cars. The first Abingdon to Abingdon Trial was organised by John Thornley and journalist Harold Hastings and took place on May 7 1932, starting and finishing at the MG works; 46 cars took part, and here we were replicating that run 83 years later.

Cloudy skies and thick mist engulfed us mid morning, calling for lights on for some miles. The ever popular market town

AWC Abingdon to Abingdon85th Anniversary Runby Pete Macwaters Photos by Malcolm Bailey

Malcolm Bailey’s V8 MGB GT alongside Noel Lindford’s TF 85th Edition L-R: Stephen Gray’s 1955 TF, Roger Thomas’s 1934 P Type and Bob Walker’s 1932 F Type Magna

Stephen Gray’s TF being flagged off by MGCC President John Day



EVENTREPORT

of Burford was, as usual, very busy as the cars travelled through the High Street. The sun reappeared about midday as many used the various pub stops listed in the road book to enjoy Sunday lunch. Glorious Cotswold villages welcomed the parade of cars as we reached the furthest point west at Chalford in Gloucestershire before heading back via more picturesque villages. A fast six mile stretch on the A419 was welcomed to give the cars a chance to stretch their legs, followed by more minor roads through villages and hamlets north of Swindon. The last part of the run went through the west of Abingdon past the old factory site but avoided the town centre due to the setting up for the annual Michaelmas Street Fair.

Cars started arriving back at the Westwood Hotel from about 3pm, still bathed in autumnal sunshine. Toasted teacakes, tea and coffee were on offer to all the crews, who started exchanging the usual ‘who went wrong where’ stories.

An 85th anniversary celebration cake had been baked by organiser Richard Martin’s 90-year old mother, and this was presented to the driver of the car that had travelled the furthest to the event.

This went to Noel Lindford in his entirely applicable 85th anniversary MG TF who had come all the way from Peterlee in County Durham.

Various bottles of ‘MG’ wine were presented, first to the driver who had covered the most miles on the 118 mile run which went to Paul Hetschkun and his wife Sharon, who covered 146 miles in their Old Speckled Hen MGB. The same couple were celebrating their wedding anniversary which was deemed worthy of yet another bottle!

The hotel manager surveyed the cars in the car park and chose an MGA coupe as his ‘most desirable car’, and owner Paul Reader was rewarded with another bottle of wine. Lastly, the ‘most deserving’ prize, in the opinion of the organisers, went to Deb Comber who was presented with the final bottle of wine.

All entrants were given two cans of our favourite beer, Old Speckled Hen, to take home and drink in remembrance

of this historic run. A round of applause and huge thanks went to Richard and Gill for organising the run, and their thanks went to Pete and Sarah Davies for the invaluable help on the day.

Chris McBean’s 1955 TF heads out on the run as Jane Parry’s 1995 MGF arrives.

Richard Martin directing Alan Keane’s 1969 BGT to parking space in the busy Westwood Hotel

Toasted teacakes, tea and coffee on offer at The Westwood Hotel

A selection of MGs ready for the start of the Abingdon to Abingdon run

A good selection of MGs parked by The Westwood Hotel

Gill Martin with the anniversary cake





Text from Dad: Hi B, do you want to go on the road run in the Midget next Sunday?

Now, before I go into what this invitation meant to me, let me introduce my dad. My dad is Pete Chaundy, owner of a 1961 Ice Blue Midget, lovingly restored from a dirty old shell over the course of 21 years. He is, quite rightly, very proud of his little car, which has been his baby for even longer than I have!

To be asked along to the annual road run with Dad was an honour. I’ve been in it before of course, but only for the odd quick spin. This was the real deal – a whole day of good old fashioned motoring. Not even the mention of an early start could put me off… I too am proud of the Midget, which, let’s be honest, is more like my better looking sibling than any old car.

We were up at the crack of dawn. A slow start for me; it was a very fresh September morning and I couldn’t remember the last time I’d seen this side of 7am. As I sleepily fumbled to arrange

Midget Register Road Run by Bryony Chaundy

my hat, gloves and blanket Dad got the engine going and we began the two-hour journey to Eastnor Castle where we were due to meet the rest of the MG Enthusiasts at 9am. After a brief pit stop to pick up our convoy we were well and truly on the way, cruising at a steady 50-55mph (she’s an old girl) and enjoying the beautiful scenery on the country roads all the way to Ledbury, Herefordshire.

When we arrived the sun was just coming up over the castle, the silhouette was simply stunning. The tearoom, which the owners had very kindly agreed to open early, was also a welcome sight. By now we were all chilled through, wind-swept to varying degrees and thoroughly in need of a hot beverage.

As the remaining 60-odd MGs participating in the run pulled into the castle’s impressive driveway, the sun continued to rise and cast its autumnal morning light on the extensive and well kept grounds. On arrival everyone was asked to sign in and attach their rally

plaque to their cars, which everyone duly did, between catching up with their fellow MG fanatics and taking a punt on the raffle.

Before long it was about time to think about heading out on the run, which was to be around 42 miles in and around the glorious Forest of Dean. After a crash course on Tulips, which would be signaling our route, and re-wrapping myself in my blanket (as it turned out I wouldn’t need it) I hunkered back down into the passenger seat, ready for the off.

I was pleased to see other daughters out with their dads – they too had probably lost many a Sunday afternoon with their dad to ‘the cause’. I spotted that one was even allowed to drive! Even if I had passed my test, I doubt my dad would ever let me near the wheel of the Midget. Still, I was just happy to be there and to finally be able to share the experience with my dad.

The first stop on our route was a cluster of benches overlooking the River

Eastnor Castle with the MG’s parked in front of the main entrance

Pete Chaundy driving with his daughter Bryony (author) in the passenger seat.

Red MGF of Martin Saunders, The Gloucestershire Route Liaison Officer, who joined us for the Run, parked in front of Eastnor Castle with a good selection of other MGs for company.

EVENTREPORT



EVENT REPORT

Severn. The low tide meant there was an opportunity for dogs to paddle (not those intended for the back of a classic car, I hasten to add) and since the sun had now chased off the last of the morning chill I took my chance to bundle my blanket in the boot.

Having forgotten a packed lunch, Dad and I were relieved to find that Dave and Anne, one third of our convoy, had overdone it on the sausage roll front. We all agreed that we’d stop off at the next idyllic picnic spot for a bite to eat, since it was still a bit too early for lunch. Sunglasses on and spirits up, another quick ogle at the other Midgets and we were off again.

On this leg of the journey we regularly passed by other MGs pulled up here and there, stopping for lunch, or taking in the scenery. A little toot of the horn from Dad and a big wave from me, I reckon I’m part of the gang now…

At another point we passed a couple breakfasting outside their home. Looking on happily as we all zoomed by, the lady told us she was thrilled to see us because her dad used to work for MG’s and he would have loved to see the cars going by. It was a nice feeling, knowing that the sight of us all had roused some very happy memories. I’m sure I’ll remember this day for a long time too.

Having found a great place to stop for lunch, we unloaded the picnic blankets and clambered up a little mound. We sat in the sun for half an hour or so, occasionally hearing another old MG roar by. Some of us felt we were beginning to get sunburnt so we ambled back to the cars and began the last stretch of the run back to the castle. It had turned out to be such a beautiful day; a good job too, as it turns out most classic MGs are hardly waterproof…

By the time we got back, most of the rally had already returned. The visitors to Eastnor Castle on that day certainly got more than they bargained for. Their faces were a mixture of joy and bewilderment as a swarm of classic cars drove through the costumed reenactment of a historical battle they had been watching… I’d seen that look a lot today.

Having parked up alongside the others, Dad and I hopped out and wandered between the rows of MGs, old and new. Besides his, my favourites were a red MGA and a dark green Midget with tan leather seats. Everyone was so pleased to talk to you about his or her car; of course Dad was in his element and it wasn’t long before he was summoned to investigate a faulty boot lid. Honestly, like a pig in muck.

The afternoon was getting on, the raffle had been drawn and the MGs were slowly beginning to trickle out. Dad and I had a quick amble around the castle garden, which was breathtaking – a most fairytale-like setting. Besides the rest of the day, it was worth it just to see this. Back around the front, our convoy was ready to head home so after a few quick goodbyes and see-ya-next-times we were back in the Midget and on the road again.

A week or so on, having now fully recovered all the flies from my hair, all that remains of the day are happy memories and perhaps one or two of the chocolates from the box we won in the raffle. I’d like to thank everyone who was involved in organising the day and everyone else there, who made a newcomer feel so welcome and part of the MG gang and especially to my dad for the exclusive invite – it is only a two-seater after all. ’Til next year.

Neil Thomas’ Old English White Frogeye in the foreground with our President’s, John Day’s blue Midget. to the fore parked on the forecourt of the Castle

MGA of Mary Billingham ready to head off on the run

Mr M Sawyer’s Midget returning to the Castle forecourt after the Run.

Getting ready for the start of the 2015 September Midget Road Run.



Moltex Outdoor Car CoversFully breathable to avoid condensation, can be put on a wet car Internal FLEECE lining to comfort your car in all weather conditions 99.9% waterproof Semi Tailored Shape for excellent fitting to all models. Over 20 different sizes Elasticated ends & two sewn in straps for secure fitting UV protection avoids paint fade & deterioration of rubber sealsDefinitely one of the best outdoor covers available and excellent value compared to some more expensive covers. The Moltex material provides FOUR layers of protection providing total rain resistance without condensation as the material is similar in design to gortex.All covers are supplied with a storage bag.Prices start from RRP £150.00 plus post and packing.

MGCC Members price from £135.50 plus £11.00 P&P UK

CTEK 0.8 Battery ConditionerThe conditioner constantly monitors the voltage after it has charged the battery to 14.4v and then only pulse’s the battery when the voltage drops due to alarms or natural drainage.

This eliminates the danger of overcharging the battery allowing it to be left connected for many months at a time. The CTEK 0.8 will charge the battery to 95% at 0.8amps, it will then reduce its input current to 0.4 amps to slowly bring the battery to its maximum voltage before turning off and waiting for the battery to fall to 95% efficiency (approx 12.9v) when it will turn on again and condition the battery back to 100%.RRP £44.95 plus post and packagingMGCC Members price £40.45 plus £4.50 P&P UK

Tyre Trainers• Prevents flat spots on tyres • Reduces side wall cracking on older tyres • Slot together design for use on wider profile tyres • Suitable for cars, trailers, caravans etc • Possible garage stop position markers

For tyres over 205 profile we recommend slotting two tyre trainers together. The tyre trainer can also be used as a marker for parking a car in the correct position in a tight garage as corner holes allow it to be screwed in place.Sold in pairs in storage case.RRP £16.00 plus post and packagingMGCC Members price £14.40 plus £7.50 P&P UK

Supertex semi tailored indoor cover• 100% Dustproof • Super soft Fleece interior lining • Very breathable eliminating condensation • Supertex is also water resistant and is perfect in carports and barns • Available in Red, Blue & Green, supplied with storage bag Prices start from RRP £105.00 plus post and packing. MGCC Members price from £90.00 £11.00 P&P UK

MGF/TF Convertible Top CoverWaterproof and Breathable Straps to wheels and under body Semi tailored shape for close fitting Eliminate moisture getting into your classic Silver Grey in colour to reflect UV and Heat RRP £49.95 plus post and packaging

MGCC Members price £44.95 plus £7.50 P&P UK

Colour of the Tyre Trainers supplied may vary from that

shown in the photo.

Car Dehumidifying CrystalsRechargable pack of moisture absorbing crystals. Simply place on a dash or centre console and the crystals will absorb any excess moisture.

The blue indicator will turn pink when fully absorbed, simply put in a microwave or oven for a few minutes and the pink indicator will turn back to blue ready to be re-used.

MGCC Members price £10.75 plus £2.50 P&P UK

To order any of the products please visit www.mgcc.co.uk/shop or

phone 01235 555552

CLUBMERCHANDISE



P R OT E C T YO U R I N V E S T M E N T. .

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Vehicle Rustproo� ng Procedure

The � rst thing we’ll do upon your arrival is to give your vehicle an initial inspection and assessment while you are present. We know it can be scary leaving your pride and joy with someone else! We will also answer any questions that you may have.

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Detailed preparation is the key to good and lasting protection.

Brakes and exhausts are carefully masked up before it is coated with durable, black, rust inhibiting underbody wax. Cavity wax is also injected into all the crossmembers.

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EVENTREPORT BTCC

There is a long tradition of Silverstone Circuit being the venue for the penultimate meeting of the

season. Championships have been decided at the venue many times, sometimes in controversial circumstances. The Dunlop MSA British Touring Car Championship drivers race on the very short national circuit. This means that the start line is in the traditional place with Copse being the first corner. The cars then go through Beckets and Maggots, onto the Wellington Straight, through the Brooklands/Luffield complex and then round Woodcote to complete the lap. A good grid position for the first race is essential because there aren’t many overtaking places and the cars are always very evenly matched.

Observing track limits is a major issue at Silverstone. In 2014 many drivers were warned, and some had time penalties added to their race time, for drifting

outside the defined track, particularly at Copse. The two MG 888 drivers Andrew Jordan and Jack Goff were already out of the championship race and the team were behind Honda in the Manufacturer’s Championship. This meant that their tactics would be around achieving podium positions.

The weather was set fair for the whole weekend so the wet weather tyres would stay in the Dunlop truck. The MG6 drivers were very competitive in the two free testing sessions on Saturday morning with Jack being fourth and second and Andrew eighth and eighth. The performance of the different makes of car was incredibly close with Andrew’s places being achieved with just a couple of tenths gap from the fastest times. These were being set by the Motorbase Ford Focus driven by Matt Jackson.

Official qualifying confirmed the pace of the Ford with Matt taking pole position. The session was disrupted and so all the quickest times came in the last few minutes. Andrew achieved fourth on the grid, set on his 18th lap, with Jack a few places back in ninth.

Race one of the day started in glorious weather watched by a large and enthusiastic crowd. Matt Jackson got a great start and was never challenged, going on to take victory. Initially, Andrew was fourth, but two great passes on Sam Tordoff’s BMW and Gordon Sheddon’s Honda saw him up to second which he held to the flag despite extreme pressure

from Sheddon. Meanwhile, Jack made a pit stop and then resumed on a clear track. His fastest time would give him second place on the race two grid behind Andy Priaulx in his BMW. Andrew also managed a competitive time to clinch fifth spot for race two.

The pole winner, Matt Jackson, did not win race two with Andy Priaulx taking an unexpected win for BMW at a circuit where they hadn’t achieved much in previous years. Jack drove a superb race to second place, holding off a determined charge from Aaron Smith in the quickest of the VW CC cars. The two friends had a few close calls, one of which sent Jack into a lurid slide from which he recovered by using all his skill. Andrew was also in a competitive position, but a puncture on the last lap resulted in him limping across the line in 19th place with the remains of the tyre tread being thrown from the MG6 as he crossed the line.

None of this was good news for race three for the MG 888 drivers. The reverse grid draw put Jack back to ninth place and Andrew had to start 19th, his finishing place from race two. Sadly, Jack’s race didn’t last long as contact resulted in a pit visit and retirement. Andrew battled hard in the mid-field and was able to improve from 19th to 12th by the time that the chequered flag was waved. Some consolation is that both the MG6 drivers will start the final meeting at Brands Hatch with no success weight ballast.

Andrew left Silverstone in fifth place in the championship with Jack in ninth. Consistent performance by Gordon Shedden, now the clear championship leader, and Matt Neal racked up the points in the Manufacturer’s Championship with Honda now 64 points ahead of MG 888.

SilverstoneBy Paul Goodman Photos btcc.net



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MONACO HISTORIC GRAND PRIX May 7th-16th8 day tour to watch the historic racing in Monaco with 4 nights in Villefranche-sur-Mer.

MILLE MIGLIA /ITALIAN LAKES May 16th-23rd7 day tour to watch the 2016 Mille Miglia classic rally/historic re-run with a week in the Italian Lakes including 5 nights on Lake Garda.

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LOIRE VALLEY August 1st-8th7 day tour to France’s Loire Valley visiting historic chateaux, gardens, wine caves and fascinating museums staying throughout in a stunning 4 star chateau hotel.

DORDOGNE August 14th-23rd9 day tour to France’s pretty Dordogne region visiting 12 of France’s most beautiful villages plus Rocamadour, Brantome, Aubeterre and Sarlat.

ANGOULEME CIRCUIT DES REMPARTS September 14th-19th5 day tour to watch the unique Circuit des Remparts classic car races in Angouleme including 3 days in the scenic Dordogne region.

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EVENTREPORT BTCC

Brands HatchBy Paul Goodman Photos btcc.net

The teams arrived at Brands Hatch for the final three races of the Dunlop MSA British Touring Car

Championship on October 10. Not many meetings are allowed to use the full grand prix circuit, but the BTCC drivers are given the opportunity once a year at the season closing meeting. Five drivers still had a mathematical chance of becoming champion including Pirtek sponsored Andrew Jordan in the 888 MG6. A first race win for MG has eluded Andrew, but consistent finishing has kept him in the championship. Meanwhile Jack Goff has experienced his first race win. The performances of the two young drivers meant that MG could still retain the Manufacturers Championship although Honda was ahead on points.

Jason Plato in the VW CC and Gordon Shedden driving the Yuasa Honda were the drivers most likely to win the championship, but Matt Jackson’s Ford Focus was likely to be quick at Brands although not in contention.

Young Josh Cook had already won the Jack Sears Trophy as best newcomer and so he was allowing his car to be used as a test bed for some of the new suspension components that will be available for the teams to use in 2016.

The two testing sessions on Saturday were used by the teams to set up their cars and to go on long runs to investigate the potential life of the Dunlop tyres. Things looked good for the two MG6 drivers with both Andrew and Jack being well inside the top ten in both periods.

The qualifying session for race one was very frenetic with the quickest times changing frequently. At one stage it looked as if both MG6s would be in the top ten, but when the chequered flag fell, Jack was best but only in 11th place. Andrew was two places behind. This meant that it would be very difficult for both drivers to establish quick lap times in race one which would get them near to the front of the starting grid for race two.

Race one of the day started in perfect conditions. As the 30 cars came round to form up on the grid for the start, the two MG6s headed for the pit lane. This was a disappointment for the watching MG fans, but a pragmatic decision by the team to get the fast lap times by sending the cars out after the start. Sadly, the safety car had to be deployed early in the race which closed the cars up on the track and made fast times hard to produce. Matt Jackson won the race with the MG6s well back. Jack managed fifth fastest time, but Andrew would be back in 11th for race two.

The championship would be decided between Jason Plato and Gordon Shedden over the final two races. When the red light went out, Jack got a great start and then battled at the front with some of the other ‘young guns’ to finish fifth with Jackson winning the race. Jason Plato outscored

Gordon Shedden who finished near the back of the field, having to carry maximum ballast. Andrew tried hard, but couldn’t make progress and finished 11th.

The draw for grid positions for race three elevated Jack to third starting spot, with Andrew having to start 11th. The early part of the race was neutralised by safety car periods, but the final nine laps were an exciting and fitting end to the season. Jack was involved in the action at the front, showing that he is now one of the top touring car drivers. Jason Plato ran away from the race to take the win with Matt Jackson coming through to second place. Meanwhile, Gordon Shedden was scything through the pack overtaking car after car in the Yuasa Honda. Jack was battling with Matt Neal and Adam Morgan in the Mercedes and went from third to fifth and back to third in just a few corners. Shedden had done enough to be champion, but Matt Neal let him through on the last lap and this ensured that Jack would finish third. Andrew made some progress taking eighth place.

So Gordon Shedden was awarded the Dunlop MSA British Touring Car Championship. Andrew Jordan finished in fifth spot in the championship with Jack taking ninth. The 888 MG Team were not able to retain the Manufacturer’s Championship, being defeated by Yuasa Honda by 73 points.

Everything is in place for another great season in 2016. There will be new cars using the revised suspension components being manufactured by RML and an improved ‘TOCA’ power unit. The Ford Focus has been the form car in the latter part of the season, making Matt Jackson a future title contender. Some of the drivers signed multi year deals, but others are likely to move teams. Much of this will only become clear when the pre-season media day is held at Donington Park in March. Gordon Shedden, 2015 BTCC Champion



FEATURE

Two years in the planning, and to celebrate the 60th Anniversary of the MGA, Stuart Mumby, George

Dutton and others, on behalf of the MGCC MGA Register, organised a tour from Land’s End to John o’Groats. From September 7-17 a total of 77 MGAs participated in some of the sections with 46 cars joining to do the whole 1,552 mile planned route, of which 45 made it.

This report is designed to put on record the key points of the Tour but necessarily

The 2015 MGA 60th Anniversary Land’s End to John o’Groats TourBy Edward Vandyk

cannot cover in any depth the many and varied places visited, the many stories about the people involved, the friends they made, the pleasures they encountered or the challenges they faced. Stuart needs to write the book as he did with the MGA 50th Anniversary Round Britain Tour!

Doug Wallace from Bali kept an excellent blog from which I have drawn, with many photos, on his personal perspective of the Tour which he drove with Derek Simpson. This is available at http://douglasrpwallace.com. They did the Tour in the ‘White Lady’, 768 PMK, with its 1840cc five main bearing engine and five-speed gearbox, out for the first proper drive in 26 years.

Participants came from afar including 21 couples from Australia who shipped 18 MGAs over in containers, from Madeira and, of course, Doug from Bali.

David and Laurel Godwin from Queensland, who have recently driven their MGA from the southern tip of South America to Alaska, left their car in Vancouver and borrowed a car from Geoff Barron in the UK.

Initially it was thought that 60 cars might participate but this number was soon overtaken, leading to the necessity of arranging additional hotels. In the event there was only one night when it proved impossible to accommodate all participants in one town or village. On that occasion the group was divided between Dundonnell and Ullapool, some 25 miles apart.

The Tour involved travelling the country from one end to the other without using motorways or major A roads and incorporating many of the great scenic highlights that Great Britain has to offer.

The route was suggested, not mandatory, and there was no element of competition. The road book was divided into days with both a route, with alternates in some cases, and a description of key features relevant for each day.

The Tour was supported by a number of sponsors including NTG Services and Peter Best Insurance. Support and assistance was

provided by Classic Car Safe LLP, our car storage company, along with our mechanic, Dave Cook, assisted by his wife Mandy, who followed the Tour from hotel to hotel with van and car trailer, dispensing advice, maintenance and a parts package supplied by Brown & Gammons. During the whole trip they only had to recover one car although the list of repairs included numerous coils, dynamos, a master cylinder change and the like.

Sunset over MGAs at Land’s End



FEATURE

Getting to Land’s End was down to each participant but on the evening of September 6 and in glorious weather, in stark contrast to the miserable August the UK had suffered, some 50 MGAs were on display at the Land’s End Hotel, with Stuart handing out the Tour packs and selling ferry tickets for the crossing of the Firth of Clyde.

There had been two casualties at this stage. Russell and Barbara Anderson’s car shipped from Perth, Australia broke its crankshaft the day after arrival in the UK. It ended up being repaired by Martin Cawte of Classic MG Services in Fareham and joined the Tour for day four; they participated in a modern Audi hire car until then. Darryl Robins and Ralph King’s car suffered clutch failure on arrival at Land’s End, the car subsequently being transported to Brown & Gammons for repair and able to re-join the Tour later. Colyn Firth’s wife, Chris, had the misfortune to break her ankle at the Land’s End Hotel but after a three hour wait at Penzance Hospital and the application of a plaster cast they just carried on.

Land’s End also saw the first of many convivial dinners with noise levels routinely a challenge to those of us with impaired hearing. I wonder how many nonsensical responses were made to half heard conversations? The first dinner also lead to Stuart’s edict of at least one non-Aussie per table.

The itinerary below attempts, in few words, to give the highlights, flavours and anecdotes for each day. It is in part necessarily both incomplete and personal and draws on stories from others.

Day 1. Land’s End to Barnstable. September 7. 132 miles. Clear blue skies, sunny and warm.

A leisurely ‘start when you want’ set the tone for the Tour, with MGAs being packed up and cars moving out when their crews were ready for the road. The coastal drive from Land’s End up the north west coast of Cornwall started on tiny roads with passing places. Superb sea views and old tin mines illustrate Cornwall’s past.

This was an area we knew and the route took us past such well known places as St Ives, Newquay and when we reached Wadebridge we decided to visit Padstow for lunch.

We knew that parking in Padstow was likely to be challenging. The MGA in fact came to the rescue! There was one car park space on the quay which was too narrow for anyone to get into. We saw people try, succeed and then be unable to get out of their car. In we went and out we got from both doors; lack of size has its advantages. So now to lunch, it being nearly 2pm. Padstow is dominated in restaurant terms, and in many other ways, by Rick

Stein, and bookings for the restaurants have to be made weeks if not months ahead. We saw a restaurant right opposite the car park which appeared empty so we walked in and asked for a table. Our request seemed to cause some surprise and we were given the last two seats at the bar. It was only when I saw the menu and the servers’ aprons with discreet Rick Stein signatures that I realised we had somehow blagged a table at his premier venue.

A great start for us and on to Barnstable! The route skirted Bodmin Moor and we decided, because of the length of our lunch, to stick with the A39 rather than take the recommended route, and thus we went past Clovelly and along the north facing coast of Bideford Bay, re-joining the route near Bideford.

The first day’s casualties included a water pump which turned out to simply be a gasket issue, and a dynamo, the first of three.

One of our Australian contingent managed to run out of fuel near Bude, the only time to my knowledge this happened. He was rescued by the local postman who went and got fuel and in his hurry to return nearly drove another MGA off the road.

Day 2. Barnstable to Congresbury. September 8. 146.8 miles. Again sunny and warm, however near the coasts there was a cold sea fret.

Today saw us continuing down the north Devon coast and crossing Exmoor. We then went inland into north Somerset across the Somerset Levels and through Cheddar in the Mendips before the ending at the Hilton at Cadbury House, Congresbury. Casualties today included a brake failure in Minehead. Brake light switches also started to fail.

First we had a Toll Road in the middle of a forest where there is an honesty box into which you drop your two pound coins, before proceeding gingerly along a road with cliffs to the sea on one side, forest on the other. This

Last minute repairs?

MGAs on parade before the ‘Off’



FEATURE

was Woody Bay! The Valley of Rocks may be one of the most spectacular sights in this part of England with its rugged landscape of rocky outcrops and awe-inspiring sea views.

The Lynton to Lynmouth railway on the North Exmoor coast was interesting both mechanically, being water driven, and climatically, Lynton being warm and sunny, Lynmouth cold and damp. Lynmouth still commemorates the tragedy of 1952 when it was devastated by flooding. After the clear skies of the coastal stretch, the route took us up steep and narrow roads into the Exmoor Forest, the weather changing dramatically from cool and mist-covered moorland to desolate and far-reaching heather-covered highlands. On past Dunkery Beacon, the highest point on Exmoor and into Somerset. Following up on our gastronomic serendipity the previous day we thought we would try Minehead for lunch, a family resort not, to my knowledge, renowned for its fine cuisine. In the event the food was honest and value for money but it gave us a classic Fawlty Towers moment when my son Tom asked

for his BLT bap as a sandwich. The rather imposing woman in the café on the seafront put her hands on her hips, looked us both up and down disapprovingly for what seemed an eternity and then simply said ‘no’. You cannot argue with that.

There was then the option to visit the Haynes Motor Museum. After finding what could only be described as a real tea shop in Glastonbury to have a cream tea, this left quite a way to go through the Cheddar Gorge with not that much time remaining, especially as we got lost by missing a Y junction. Hence we arrived rather late at Cadbury House where we then had to join the end of a long queue for beer, as the hotel had seemingly only allocated one server at the bar for the evening.

Doug made best use of the day to nurture the White Lady, teaming up with David and Laurel Godwin to go and see Terry Drinkwater. Terry very kindly agreed to give the White Lady an oil change as she had just completed 1,000 miles on the rebuilt engine.

Day 3. Congresbury to Telford. September 9. 170.9 miles. Dry with some cloud and sunny spells.

This would be the longest day’s driving yet, 170 miles, likely slow going as many of today’s roads were some of the smallest so far. Today’s route took us over Brunel’s Clifton Suspension Bridge, with an option to visit the SS Great Britain. Over the bridge and just past the zoo we got lost again. The next time we recognised anything we were in the gorge under the suspension bridge on a road that allowed no U turns. A ten mile detour got us back on track and thence into Wales over the old bridge. Down the Wye Valley and past the ruined Tintern Abbey to a stop at Tintern’s excellent if unexpected bookshop. Tintern also had a railway station, now long disused, which is a tourist attraction providing worthwhile refreshment and where we met other MGAs. We then went back into

England and on arriving at Symonds Yat Rock found an MGA with bonnet up and with its dynamo, which had been running loose, being extracted. Through some dramatic scenery in the Black Mountains to Hay on Wye and its bookshops which we pillaged for every Jenkins published P G Wodehouse in the town, as my wife is an avid collector. Then after a too leisurely afternoon tea the realisation that once again we had no chance of following the route and getting to dinner on time.

Today’s casualties included Doug! The White Lady decided enough for today at the day’s end, and stopped! The loss of power looked very much like a fuel pump and Dave was called. He was at

Lynton to Lynmouth Railway

Through the Cheddar Gorge

Tour Assistance in action

Tintern Station

Down the road to Hay-on-Wye



FEATURE

the roadside within 15 minutes with van and spares, and quickly diagnosed a loose electrical connection on the SU pump – problem solved.

Day 4. Telford to Ainley Top, Elland. September 10. 102.2 miles. Overcast to start with but then sunny.

Our drive today was much easier than yesterday, just 102 miles, but with wonderful scenery passing through the Peak District National Park.

First we had to retrace our steps and see the Ironbridge, then through some spectacular scenery and on to the highlight of today’s drive, the Georgian spa town of Buxton.

Buxton seems to be a town with at least two personalities. We started out at the poorer end by the town hall and, indeed, for a while despaired of finding anything smarter. The pubs served no food and the (fish and) chippy brought me a moving personal experience – my first, and I suspect only,

deep fried Mars bar. An opera house, no less, and the largest unsupported dome in Europe, The Devonshire Dome, built in 1779 by the 5th Duke of Devonshire. The dome (145ft) is larger than The Pantheon in Rome (142ft), and is bigger than St Peter’s in Rome (138ft) and St Paul’s in London (112ft). There are 122 steel support arms in the Dome. All this a long way from anywhere. Our drive after Buxton cut through the stunning scenery of Pennine Yorkshire, culminating in the border at the summit of Holme Moss. Then through some of the more industrialised, yet still rural Yorkshire, and to our hotel. Tonight was the first evening we were exposed to a brief after-dinner performance honouring the day’s Tour and the MGA. The rhyming couplets were of high order, the harmonising less so. However I think this was performed with full insight and all credit to John and Pamela Boult.

Day 5. Ainley Top, Elland to Wetheral. September 11. 151.2 miles. Again overcast to start with but then dry and sunny from about 11.30.

Today gave us a combination of the Forest of Bowland and the Lake District. Two routes were offered, one being the tough option of driving over the famous Hardknott and Wrynose Passes in the Lake District. Stuart, in his briefing the previous evening, gave the impression that the harder option was too tough. Surprisingly, it was later revealed that of the six cars taking that option, two involved more stoic crews: Beth Corbett driving solo in her Coupe, and Colyn and Chris Firth, Chris having had her plaster cast replaced in Doncaster. We intended to take the tough route ourselves but unfortunately it took us directly past the gates of a long-standing friend’s farm on the southern edge of the Lake District. I had intended to drive on by but as the day wore on we realised something was missing –

lunch. A phone call procured us the promise of a sandwich so up his drive we went to get it, imagining it would be a hand out of the window, a plastic bag with goodies, and thank you and goodbye. We were wrong and decided after the stop that even going the short way through the Lake District would present a challenge in getting to dinner on time. Nevertheless with some spirited driving we retraced our steps and made it via the easier route to the Crown at Wetheral. We were treated there to more post-prandial melodious rhyming couplets.

Day 6. Wetheral to Irvine. September 12. 153.9 miles. Rain to start but this cleared by late morning leading to an initially overcast but later brighter afternoon.

Today we crossed the border into Scotland and discovered that the, or at least our, MGA Coupe leaked in quite spectacular

The Australians

Procession through Buxton

Beth Corbett crests Hardknot Pass

Head-on in Straiton

Haworth in the Pennines



FEATURE

fashion albeit from places entirely different from the roadster. I don’t think it had ever been out in real rain before. After Gretna we chose to visit the Devil’s Porridge Museum rather than the Savings Bank Museum at Ruthwell. We then followed the Solway Coast Heritage trail to Dumfries, on to New Galloway, past Clatteringshaws Loch and through the wonderfully scenic Galloway Forest Park.

Just after the forest we found an excellent tea room in Staiton, a one road village of weavers’ cottages, hence the wide front doors, soon to have the beautiful rolling backdrop bedecked with 120 wind turbines. After Dalrymple and Prestwick Airport, on to our hotel. At dinner we learnt about the prize to be given for a recommendation of the best story on the Tour, and also that the MGA was apparently the first British sports car into China after the revolution, coming in from Hong Kong.

Day 7. Irvine to Pitlochry. September 13. 182.2 miles. Initially overcast with some lengthy sunny spells later.

Today’s drive would be 182 miles over Scottish A, B and unclassified roads, the longest on the Tour to date. The first hurdle was to cross the Firth of Clyde by ferry at McInroy’s Point, over to Hunter’s Quay.

After alighting back on to dry land at the Holy Loch, the first section was through the narrow glen of the Argyll Forest Park to Strachur. The next section was on small B roads to the ‘Rest And Be Thankful’ site where motoring clubs use the old section of the road for hill-climb events. This was

named after military personnel in the 1700s who stopped there, having marched for enormous distances. Passing the shores of Loch Fyne and on to the picturesque town of Inverary, a wonderful drive followed through Glen Aray to Dalmally, then on B roads through Glen Orchy to Bridge of Orchy and onwards to Tyndrum and Crianlarich. After Killin and the rushing waters of the Falls of Dochart, the road followed the shores of Loch Tay. Again there was the choice of two routes, we chose the shorter but Doug chose the longer section over the isolated and unclassified road through the mountains of the Ben Lawers National Nature Reserve. The road climbed very steeply from the banks of Loch Tay with initially low gears needed. This road is as remote as one finds but the view back down to the loch is awe-inspiring. Then past the churchyard at Fortingall with the Fortingall Yew, believed to be between 3,000 to 9,000 years old. Doug reported that the route to Tummel Bridge proved as challenging as any yet on the Tour, with sharp bends, steep hills and undulating curves.

Today was the day we broke down, only a coil and correctly diagnosed. Problem was we did not have one, they were all in Dave’s van. Lady Luck smiled on us as Roger and Tom Martin were the next car along and well equipped with spares, including a coil. Beth Corbett’s clutch went today and a repair was organised in Inverness, with her rejoining the Tour on 15th.

Day 8. Pitlochry to Strathpeffer. September 14. 148.6 miles. Sunny to start with and at the end of the day but overcast in between.

Today was notable in part because kippers appeared on the menu for the first time. The route for today started north towards Blair Atholl, past Killiecrankie and past the House of Bruar retail outlet. Onwards north passing the scenic Glen Garry to The Dalwhinnie Distillery which is Scotland’s highest distillery, making Highland

malt whisky. Some Tour participants had pre-booked guided tours of this famous distillery with everyone being offered a nip of Dalwhinnie 15-year old malt.

Our road after Dalwhinnie continued to Loch Laggan and through Glen Spean, where the mountainous landscape changed again, now with higher mountains in the far distance, Loch Laggan close by the road on our left, with patches of snow on the upper peaks, left from last winter. Arriving at Spean Bridge, a must see was the Commando Memorial looking out over the confluence of the glens with a vast mountain vista as a backdrop. This much-visited imposing bronze statue of three Commandos is to honour all the Commandos who lost their lives during the Second World War, 1939–1945. This part of the Highlands of Scotland was where the first Commandos endured their tough and rigorous training. After Spean Bridge our route turned north, the picturesque road following the banks of Loch Lochy and then Loch Ness, to Fort Augustus, Invermoriston and reaching

It’s the coil!

Crossing the Firth of Clyde

Rest And Be Thankful

Commando Memorial at Spean Bridge



FEATURE

Urquhart Castle at Drumnadrochit. The Tour route after Drumnadrochit took us to Beauly. The first couple of miles resembled more a competitive hill climb than a normal road!

Through Beauly and on to Muir of Ord, and then a final sprint to Strathpeffer for our night’s stop.

Day 9. Strathpeffer to Dundonnell or Ullapool. September 15. 180.2 miles to Ullapool. Dry to start with then hours of drizzle. However the day’s end was dry and sunny.

This was the day when some of us were going to end up 20 miles away in Ullapool, the other side of the loch. Our drive today was perhaps the most challenging of the Tour to date. Leaving Strathpeffer, our route passed Achnasheen to Lochcarron and on to the peninsula where Applecross looks over the Inner Sound to the island of Raasay. To reach Applecross one has to cross some of Scotland’s most inhospitable country. Road signs advise drivers not to attempt this route in wintry conditions. Today was not winter, however low cloud cover hung over the mountains and as we ascended higher towards the Pass of the Cattle, heavy drizzle and dense mist reduced visibility to 50 metres. The Roadbook described this road as one of the few in Scotland that is engineered similarly to the mountain passes of the Alps, with tight hairpin bends that switch back and

forth up the mountain. This road boasts the Beinn Eighe mountain complex. At Poolewe we stopped to visit the world famous sub-tropical Inverewe Gardens, a very worthwhile experience. The last 25 miles in the late afternoon skirted the shores of Little Loch Broom until we reached our night’s hostelry at the Dundonnell Hotel.

Today was also the day when the Jebbs encountered Scottish road rage on a single track road with passing places, which may well have been an ‘A’ road in the north of Scotland. A big 4x4 driver seemingly was fed up with other MGAs holding him up on the single track road, so decided to drive the innocent party off the road when he was frustrated by what he saw as possibly a further delay. However north Scotland’s single track road with passing places are a bit like Melbourne’s hook right turns in that the passing places are counter-intuitively designated not only for passing traffic coming the other way but also for overtaking slower vehicles. Nevertheless, apart from the shock, no harm done thankfully.

What a beautiful setting at Dundonnell with the sun setting over the loch a sight to behold. Then to bed before the last whole day of the Tour with the sound of a wonderful rendition of Waltzing Matilda by all the Australian contingent in the bar after dinner still fresh in the memory. But the midges! I had heard about them and even warned about them but this was the first time I saw them. Luckily I was wearing a long-sleeved shirt because 48 hours later my head and hands had taken on a rather more mottled look and texture, still not completely gone a week later.

Day 10. Ullapool to Thurso. September 16. 162.5 miles. A beautiful sunny morning but cold and overcast later.

First we had to catch up at Ullapool and this involved a stop at Corrieshalloch Gorge and the Falls of Measach first. A brisk walk through the pine trees helped to clear the head and then crossing the small

suspension bridge we gaped in awe at the incredibly deep gorge with thunderous waterfalls over the steep rock face.

The main route today took us deep into spectacular Assynt, set amidst some of the wildest and most remote mountain and coastal scenery. Having passed Ullapool we then followed the tiny unclassified coastal road with seemingly unending rugged mountains and small lochs, devoid of habitation. We came to Lochinver, on to Unapool then skirting more mountains to Scourie and Laxford Bridge. The true north coast was sighted at Durness, passing Loch Eriboll to Tongue. Today George Dutton broke down on the very last leg of the day to Thurso, about 60 miles out. We sailed past him with bonnet up, he waved in what we took to be a positive sort of way, and we spent the next 15 miles debating whether the wave was positive or anguished and whether we should go back for him. Happily when we got to Thurso we learnt that George had arranged recovery prior to our drive-by.

As this was the last evening before finally arriving at our destination, John o’Groats, all participants who completed the Tour met for drinks, dinner and presentations at the Royal Hotel, Thurso. More than 120 in total!

MGA Register Chairman Peter Morgan thanked all those who had supported

Swing bridge over the Great Glen Derek Simpson at the Pass of the Cattle on the way to Applecross

Urquhart Castle

Sunset at Dundonnell



FEATURE

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this magnificent event, especially George Dutton for making all the hotel arrangements, Dave the mechanic who had gallantly helped so many cars and drivers, and numerous others who have given their help.

Stuart Mumby was given a resounding thank you for his outstanding efforts over the past two years, planning from scratch and bringing so many MGA enthusiasts together, especially the large Australian brigade who had made the event truly international. Ian Prior led the Australians in a special rendition of Waltzing Matilda with an MG theme. The piper who played Flower of Scotland, Scotland the Brave and other tunes was arranged on the initiative of the Australian, John Crighton.

Beth Corbett won the prize of an MGA beer engine label as nominator, or was it nominee, of the best story.

All that remained was to down one more wee dram then turn in, before the morning drive to John o’Groats.

Day 11. Thurso to John o’Groats. September 17. 21.6 miles. Dry and generally sunny.

This then was it, the finale. George had been recovered and was busy in the hotel car park putting in a new cylinder head gasket. Everyone else was off to John o’Groats for a 10am photo shoot

and then on our way. The Australians, as ever up for more, were going even further north the next day to Orkney. There was a general scrum around the iconic signpost as we managed to get many of the MGAs up there right next to it before and after we had the big group photograph.

The man who made it all happen, Stuart Mumby, was asked to stand in front of the vast collection of MGAs and accept the accolades of all the participants.

We were then off to Wick and a flight home whilst Dave and Mandy had the long trip south with the MGA in the trailer and one overnight stop in Glasgow.

Thus ended a truly amazing experience, making good friends and pushing our MGAs to the limit. Luckily our sturdy steeds were generally more than up to the task. The MGA was a truly revolutionary design 60 years ago and was, in my opinion, the first MG that could really keep up with modern traffic and keep going. It proved it once again! On to the 75th anniversary.

POSTSCRIPT – I met up with the Australians again when I took the unused spares back to Brown & Gammons. Here is Ron Gammons helping out an unfortunate Antipodean who had somehow got diesel in his MGA

Our saviours on Day 7, Roger and Tom Martin

This was also an ‘A’ Road

The Australians Waltzing Matilda at the last night at Thurso

Triumphant shepherd, Stuart Mumby, in front of his flock The Jebbs in their MGA 50 Round Britain T shirts at John o’Groats

How did that happen?

This was an ‘A’ Road!

George Dutton with MGA head gasket.



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phase4_a4.indd 1 03/02/2015 16:20:50MG Safety Fast November15 03-50.indd 45 26/10/2015 17:08

NEWSLETTER


Roger Boys • 01635-253699 • [email protected] • www.mgb-register.orgMGB

NewsletterWelcome to theMGB

So here we go again with another four pages. There is a slight difference this time as it’s my last! I have been involved with the MGB Register Committee now for 15 years and compiled this four page spread for you for 10 of those years. I have enjoyed both roles very much during this time. However, I have reached the conclusion that enough is enough, so have decided to step down and as the politicians say ‘spend more time with my family’. Look out Nicky and Paddy, I will be under your feet more! At this point I must say a huge thank you to all of the contributors who over the years have provided articles for me to publish, without you there would not have been the almost 200 pages of MGB stories. Do I have any regrets? Yes one: despite sending 10 fantastic photos of the Boneshaker (1964 MGB) to Andy I have never managed to get it featured on the cover. This was an objective when I set out, hey ho you can’t win them all!

The role of Safety Fast! MGB Editor for the future is in safe hands, you will be pleased to know, because good friend and MGB nut David Broadhurst has volunteered to take over. So you are not off the hook, as David, like me, will be reliant on your stories. Please contact him on the email address shown above, he will be only too pleased to hear from you.

This month we have a main contribution from John Watson, our Chairman, who will bring you all up to date with all the progress being made with the Jean Denton MGB Marathon car, which will be on display in its current condition at the Classic Car Show on the MGCC stand in November. He has also explained how you can get involved in this exciting project.

Staying with the MGB Marathon car for just a moment, here is a story about getting involved. It was wonderful to receive a phone call from Pat Jerome who runs Pat Jerome Car Care, Lavernock Road, (www.lavernockgarage.co.uk) in Penarth, South Wales, CF64 5UP, who has very kindly offered to rebuild the SU carburetors for us. Pat got to hear about our requirement after the protracted correspondence with the main SU experts in Salisbury requesting assistance had been declined. I had mentioned our needs to a friend, Paul Bullock, who through his work has extensive contacts in the Motor Trade throughout Wales, and is also an MGB enthusiast; Paul drew the matter to the attention of Pat. Then, hey presto, Pat was on the phone offering to

complete the work, with no charge. This is a very generous offer that is much appreciated. Incidentally, Pat, who was involved in the Rally scene, knew Lady Denton back in the late 60s/early 70s.

In addition, we have a varied array of articles for you to enjoy this month including a technical tip from Richard Seale, a great story of persistence from Keith Wynn, and Graham Wilkins has pitched in and told of us his enjoyable trip to Goodwood’s excellent breakfast get-together.

One last very simple word of advice, well more of a reminder for you all: please make sure you have a working torch in your car. You never know when you will need it. Recently a pal was returning from an MG event late at night when he hit one of the great hazards found on UK roads, a monster pothole. He hit it and badly damaged the front nearside wheel, managed to control the car and pulled into a small layby. Then he realised how unbelievably dark a country road can be! Not having a torch, changing a wheel was not going to be easy so he called me, the wonders of mobile phones. I also did not have a torch, BMW have always provided a torch but not any more, the new car does not have one; so as I was near home I was able to call in and get one and returned. The moral is making sure you and your loved ones have a working torch in the car, NOW.

Many of you know of the MGB Forum www.mgbforum.mgb-register.org and have used it, but I guess lots have not. It’s simple to use and can be a mine of information so log on and register. Currently we have 287 registered members who have asked 388 general questions and 404 technical ones. John Watson has answered or commented on loads of the general questions along with George Wilder. Pete Creswell answers lots of the technical queries along with Graham Dix. It’s designed with you in mind so just have a go and discover a new way of enjoying MGBs through the dark days of winter.

That’s me done after 10 years, I hope you have enjoyed some of the stories that I have brought to you over this period. You will never know what the Boneshaker gets for Christmas in 2015! We, that is Nicky, Paddy the Westie and I, will still be about at the many MG events taking place, so please come and say hello.

It’s all yours, David – enjoy.Roger Boys

Technical Issue!I thought readers may be interested in a misfiring problem that I had with DHM15V. Pulling off the plug leads in turn suggested number one cylinder was the cause of the problems (removal of the others having more of an effect on idling). A bit more delving identified that number ones cylinder’s aluminium contact in the distributor (that allows the HT spark to pass from the coil, into the distributor cap, through the rotor arm and out onto number one cylinders ignition lead) had twisted slightly in the distributor cap (I guess when the leads were connected to the distributor cap / later checked for tightness), meaning the ‘flat’ was not concentric with the rotor arm, and resulted in one of the D’s nibs protruding towards the rotor, thereby shortening the spark gap and resulting in a weak spark passing to number one cylinder’s spark plug. A successful temporary fix was made, proving that I was on the correct track, and a new distributor cap ordered just to be certain it wouldn’t happen again.

Richard Seale


NEWSLETTER


MGBRoger Boys • 01635-253699 • [email protected] • www.mgb-register.org

Goodwood Breakfast Club.Optimistically I registered my 1966 MGB GT for consideration of an invitation from the Goodwood Breakfast Club. The chances of this looked to be fairly slim as I was informed that, due to oversubscription, it would be most unlikely that I would be lucky enough to obtain an invite. Also, and probably more importantly, cars of a unique or distinct character stand more of a chance of an invite. Imagine my surprise when against these odds I received by email an invitation to attend Thoroughbred Sunday on Sunday August 2.

Come the day it was an early start, as I live about two hours’ drive from the Goodwood circuit. The weather forecast boded well for the day, but the early morning mists fogged up the interior of my early GT (no heated rear screen), but happily the uprated heater soon cleared the windscreen. On the A27 near Lewes a spiritedly driven MGA appeared in front and we drove in convoy to the circuit. Expecting to park on the start/finish line, we were directed by the marshals to park under cover in the pit bays along with a very eclectic mix of mainly British sports cars. Pleasingly there were many MGs present, including T types, MGAs, Z Magnettes, a Y type and a Midget. Parked on the circuit were two B roadsters, although their owners were elsewhere, probably getting their breakfast.

By now the weather had really improved and the circuit quickly filled up with cars and spectators, many of whom park

in the general car parks and come to enjoy a free classic car show. The wise ones had brought thermos flasks and their own breakfast and we soon found out why, when two coffees and two flapjacks cost over £11.00. The atmosphere and the car display however are free, and a very pleasant couple of hours were spent perusing the interesting vehicles, although some could hardly be called thoroughbred. A Rat Rod VW Beetle doesn’t quite fit this description in my opinion.

Would I go to another Goodwood Breakfast Club? Yes, probably, but I would make sure the weather is fine and take my own refreshments. How many MGB GTs were there? One and it was mine. Ubiquitous, MGB GT, not at a Goodwood Breakfast they’re not!

Graham Wilkins

Three other MGs at Goodwood for the early August Breakfast Club

The MGB GT undercover at Goodwood

Persistence Pays!Back in 1966 I was fresh out of Technical College and landed a job at a publishing company in Bletchley. The company had been newly set up by a certain Robert Maxwell – later to become notoriously infamous – because he was standing for parliament in North Bucks on the promise of bringing employment to the area. Well paid and with not much else to spend my money on, I soon spotted an Old English White MGB fitted with a Bermuda hardtop on the forecourt of the local MG dealers. It was a demonstrator and had low mileage and of course no purchase tax as a second-hand car. I had to have it.

The company was closed down as soon as Maxwell didn’t win the seat, but I kept the car he helped me buy and I moved back to work in London, until eventually the MGB started losing reliability for the daily commute. From the day I part-exchanged it for an Austin Healey I regretted selling the MGB.

When I retired I decided to try and find my old love. First port of call was the DVLA website where I discovered the MGB was still

on the road, but now green. On three occasions I wrote a letter to the owner via the DVLA, saying if ever the car was up for sale to let me know. I sent the letters to the DVLA in an unsealed envelope so that they could check that there was nothing offensive, with a request for them to forward it in the stamped envelope provided. My letter was returned on each occasion.

On the advice of Chris Wilkins, MGB Registrar at the MGCC, I tried some advertisements in Safety Fast! and other MG car clubs and yet again with the DVLA who were still spectacularly unhelpful, but with no success, so last year I contacted Classic Cars Magazine for advice, telling them the story! They took the project to heart and agreed to run an article on their website Classic Cars For Sale; they took some notes over the phone (so some of the facts got turned round, original colour etc) and they did a mock-up photo of how the car would look now.

Following that late November article I was contacted by a couple of enthusiasts in about February/March this year, who were willing to try and help me (as it turned out, for free) and one


NEWSLETTER



of them – by sheer coincidence owner of an MGB with Bermuda hardtop – came up trumps. The owner lived in Kent, and I now had his address. A short letter and hold my breath. Eventually an email was received, non-committal, but after several months of exchanges with the owner, I eventually heard from him that he had decided that he would sell me the car, so I wrote back and asked him to get a local classic car dealer to give him a valuation, and that I would like an expert to have a chance to see it too, in order to have something to negotiate on. He then replied as follows, “I spoke with the garage that has MOT’d the car for the last 13 years and they agree with me that I should hope to achieve around £4,500 for the car. I have an agreed insurance for £5,500 but I would not achieve this fi gure” and I was just so sure he was being honest, because no-one who was dishonest would pitch the value too low in these circumstances, that I took the plunge. So without even seeing it I made him an offer of £5,000, which is mid-way between the two values and is about what seems to be the starting price for running MGB projects. He replied that he accepted the offer, and was happy to sell the car to me.

So on a recent trip we went to see the owner and his charming wife, and of course the car. We all got on well and instead of a half hour exchange of money and papers we spent the whole day with them, which makes for a nice feeling on both sides. And the MGB, well, it was good, solid, running nicely and the wrong colour, but the purchase price means that I can afford to put it all back to the original specifi cation. At my age, no more home restoration projects for me, I have done more than I care to remember; I am going to have the car completely professionally rebuilt, with a brand new Heritage body and reconditioning all the original running gear. So, I have got my old car back, or rather I will get it back, just as it was when it left the factory, Old English White and red upholstery, white piping, in April next year. Complete with the Bermuda hardtop that I have. Just changing the roof panels to the deep blue as on my original one.

So by next Spring I hope OPP 199D will be back on the road in Old English White, looking just as she did the fi rst time I set eyes on her in Bletchley nearly 50 years ago.

Keith Wynn

North HertfordshireMid Life Crisis Driving Club


North HertfordshireMid Life Crisis Driving Club


NEWSLETTER



MGB Register Chairman’s notesThe 1968 London to Sydney Marathon MGB is progressing well and will be displayed on the MG Car Club stand at the NEC Classic Car Show this month, although it is a long way from completion as you will see from the pictures.

I am sure you read the words written by Robert Connor in last month’s Safety Fast! on the life of Tom Boyce who passed away in August. Tom was so instrumental in building this special MGB for Jean Denton and him to compete in the adventure. The other person who helped Tom was Pete Smith, who was recently told about the car being saved. He contacted me and we met at Kimber House in September. Pete gave us some fantastic extra information on the special features fitted; we then took him to Abingdon Car Restorations where the MGB is at the present and he was amazed as to how original it still is. Pete has agreed to assist us as a special advisor to the project.

With the kind support of British Motor Heritage we have the required body panels which are needed to get the car ready for the MOT check and as mentioned in previous notes the engine and gearbox have been removed and are being checked over.

More help came from MGB owner Bob Burley who offered to produce the ‘Roo-bars’ for the front and rear of the car. We also had some Cibie lamps donated by MGB owner Brian Wyld. We cannot say how much we appreciate the personal help and enthusiasm we are receiving from everyone.

To see photographs of the car on the event and in its current condition go to our website www.mgb-register.org and follow the link.

As with this type of project we do not have a bottomless pit of pound notes so as announced at MGLive! we are asking members and others who would like to support the rebuild by donating a minimum of £25 per name to the project. For this your name will be displayed with the car on completion of the restoration. This can be done by visiting www.mgb-register.org and following the link as to how to make a bank transfer and to submit a donation form. If you wish you can send a cheque made payable to ‘MGB Marathon’ and post to the MGB Register Treasurer, Geoff Edwards, 25 Hayters Way, Alderholt, Fordingbridge, SP6 3AX, together with a note of your name, address and email address with contact telephone numbers. We must also thank the MG traders and suppliers who have also offered help with products and services. These are Abingdon Car Restorations, BMH, Moss Europe, Steve Illing, Bob Burley, Pat Jerome, Brian Wyld, Malcolm Sayers, David Cato and Pete Smith; I am sure this list will increase as we still have many more things to complete, such as new tyres, a wiring loom, competition driving seat, new discs and brakes etc etc. And a respray in the original gold colour the car was when competing on the 1968 event.

Sales of our new MGB Register grille badge are going well, and if you have yet to purchase one go to our website for bank payment details, or send a cheque for £19 payable to MGB Register MGCC and post with your name and address to Roger Boys, 11 Fairacre, Woolton Hill, Newbury RG20 9UF.

Your committee are working hard to organise MGB Register events for 2016 and the first will be our Spring Run to take place on Sunday April 10. Full details will be published on our website and in Safety Fast!.

Please also put Sunday March 13 in your diary; this will be the annual MGB Register AGM to be held at Kimber House in Abingdon. The timing and agenda are still to be finalised.

This will be my last AGM as Chairman so please come and support the new MGB Register Chairman. We need supporters and volunteers if you want more MGB events to be organised by the Register, so please call me, Mobile 07770 575236 or email [email protected] for more information.

John Watson

New cross member to be installed, kindly donated by British Motor Heritage

The new MGB Register Grille Badge

The new front ‘Roo-bars’ built by Bob Burley fitted to the MGB

Bob Burley behind with Pete Smith to the fore inspecting the 1968 Marathon Car recently at Abingdon Car Restorations

Pete Smith, Tom Boyce and Jean Denton with the MGB to the right taken in 1970.




NewsletterWelcome to theMGF

Not Another Anniversary?We end the 20th Anniversary year of the MGF and, by default, the MGF Register, by celebrating yet another anniversary. We reach the 40th issue of our own Register magazine FasTForward this month, which means that as a quarterly periodical that is ten years’ worth of articles about the Register and the F/TF!

In this special 10th birthday edition we take a look back at the genesis of the magazine and the Register publications that preceded it. Without spoiling too much of the story, it came about because of two things – one was MGF10 and a need to record that event in print form, two follows on and was to create a historical record of the Register activities for our archives replacing the nascent Yearbook, of which there had been one edition previously in 2005. The first edition of FTF was published in February 2006 and we officially launched it at the MG International Show at Stoneleigh with the MG Enthusiast editor, Martyn Wise, cutting the ceremonial ribbon. That first edition featured a lengthy report, as expected, on MGF10

alongside features that would remain as the blueprint for the next ten years – F People (called Members’ Cars back then), Regional Reports, International Reports, technical features and archive features alongside a little humour and news and views from the world of the MGF.

On the WebWhat must be remembered is that back in 2006, social media was still quite young; yes we had a small website and used the MG Enthusiast BBS for limited online

conversations. The big one though, Facebook, was still confined to US Universities only and it would be some years before it became the world’s number one social media site. So a printed publication was ideal for us and provided a permanent archive for the Register as well as an outlet for the material we couldn’t print in Safety Fast!. It still fulfils that function today when so much online communication is ephemeral and disappears into the ether. However Facebook is now an important part of our marketing strategy and the MGF Register have their own page where much conversation and posting goes on. However, alongside the main page many of our Regions also have their own pages – the South East, Devon & Cornwall, Kent MGF/TF, Thames Valley, Hertfordshire, South Wales. Now with all these separate pages plus the myriad of non MG Car Club pages

it can be difficult for newcomers to the MGF online scene to navigate their way around. That is why we retain our Internet forum linked to the MGFRegister.org website, and that is where you will find all the Regions together, as well as separate General, Technical and Announcement boards. This is where you will find all the information you need from around the country and our Overseas groups, first and fast.

Are you an IT expert?With a strong online presence there can sometimes come problems and we have experienced some of those this year, which resulted in a large amount of spam emails being sent from our server and then a serious infection on the website itself. We have managed to keep the forum running with a new format but the website has been down for a while whilst it is being thoroughly cleansed and then rebuilt. This is taking a lot of time as you can understand. Our webmaster James Curgenven has been working very hard to eradicate all the little nasties on our servers, which is really good of him as he hasn’t actually owned an MGF/TF for many years now. That brings us to another request – are there any IT experts amongst our Membership who would like

FasTForward First Edition February 2006

Editor Tim (right) and Martyn Wise at the Stoneleigh launch

Front Cover of the 40th Edition features the 39 previous covers!

NEWSLETTER MGF Tim Morris 01932 882467 • [email protected] • www.mgfregister.org



to get involved and take over the technical side of things for us? You would need to be a lot more technical savvy than most of the committee members (that shouldn’t be too hard!) and able to manage website building software as well as being able to delve into the underbelly to eradicate any infections, just as James is doing now. We know he’ll be a hard act to follow but we’re sure there is someone out there who would be able to help us – if you’re interested, please contact Chairman Keith for more details.

Collecting cars and dataOver the years we have featured many individual members’ cars and that is still an important part of FasTForward magazine. We are always on the lookout for cars to feature, be they modified, restored or have interesting stories or visited interesting places – if you would like to see yours in print then please get in touch with Editor Tim at [email protected].

The Register is dedicated to collecting data relating to the F/TF and we hold a substantial archive of vehicle details which we believe is more accurate than those details which can now be found available on the internet. This has been an ongoing project since the Register began in 1995 and today there are a number of Members who aid in collecting data and information on the cars from around the world. MGF20 was a great chance to collect more information about the cars and we asked everyone applying for tickets to provide their VIN numbers and car details – most of you did this and for that we thank you. It all goes in to the great melting pot and in years to come the

archive will only improve and provide an authoritative historical research database. One result of this data collection is a great series of articles currently being featured in FasTForwad called Focus On… where Adrian Clifford takes an indepth look at specific models of F/TF. The anniversary issue features the Monogram cars and includes part one of a complete list of every Monogram car ever produced by MG Rover, the result of many tireless hours of research. We can also provide MGF Register Heritage certificates for your car – simply contact our Registrar at [email protected].

Remembering MGF20 and a Zip carIn this four pager we take a look at a recently restored pre-production MGF belonging to Jane and Rob Parry. Originally a press car which was converted in to a race car with a distinctive Zip paint scheme, the car has now been restored in full Amaranth colour. Adrian Clifford spoke to the Parrys at MGLive! and the story of ‘Zip’ is presented here.

Any opportunity to revisit MGF20 is welcome as it was such a brilliant event, and Yutaro Sekimoto has provided us with just such an opportunity. We awarded him the Furthest Travelled Trophy at the event as he had fl own to the UK from Yokohama in Japan specifi cally for MGF20 itself, even going so far as to bring his own camping gear in a suitcase with him so he could stay on site overnight. He has since been in regular contact with the Register and has now been appointed our offi cial ‘Rep’ in Japan; we look forward to more updates from him about MGF life in Japan in the future.

Monogram car tries out the skidpan on the Niederrhein Tour

NEWSLETTERMGFTim Morris 01932 882467 • [email protected] • www.mgfregister.org



My MGF20 feelings Hello, I’m the furthest travelled man at MGF20!

Let me introduce myself. I am Yutaro Sekimoto, a 28 year old Japanese MGF enthusiast who has owned a 1998 Japanese MGF in Anthracite for the past five years. I should firstly say why I own an MGF… but instead I would like to write my feelings about the MGF20 event.

I always wanted to attend the UK MGF event when I bought the F and I know that this year is the 20th anniversary for the MGF. I checked the MGF Resister website continuously and when I saw the announcement of when MGF20 would be held I felt that ‘I should attend this event”. I then bought tickets for full attendance at MGF20 straight away. But, to be honest, my current job has very tight schedules to take holidays for the event. That is why my attendance at the event was uncertain until just one week to go before the event was held. Luckily I could take my holiday and my attendance had turned out clear, so I reserved the air ticket and some tickets to get to the Heritage Motor Centre plus some hotel bookings… but only for myself. It was a tight schedule for me but somehow I got the airplane at midnight on July 30 from Haneda airport with my baggage (which had my camping items in it ready for the Gaydon campsite…).

When I reached MGF20 I firstly felt that “This is my expected event”. In Japan, the most MGFs I saw was about ten at one local event but at Gaydon at this event there were about 600 Fs and TFs gathering in one place. It was simply amazing for me and other Japanese F and TFers back home.

It was fun to look at the models which weren’t introduced to the Japanese market, for example the Trophy 160, Freestyle, Steptronic and LE500… especially some French TFers who were showing their Vintage Racing special editions which are the favourite TF amongst the Japanese F and TFers.

I was very surprised to see the MGF which was shown at the Tokyo Motor Show in 1995. Usually Japanese car manufacturers scrapped their show cars except for their limited

models, but Rover in Japan saved this ‘rare’ model. It was great to know that Rover think a great deal of the car and heritage.

I really enjoyed the event from the beginning of the day to the party which finished at midnight on Saturday.

I would say that the highlight of my trip was that I was given the ‘Furthest Travelled’ trophy by the Register, it was a great experience for me. Currently the trophy can be spotted at the entrance to my home.

The Sunday run was amazing for me. The set route was great to be able to feel the British countryside and with some fine British weather. I’d like to say thanks to Mark-san who took me to the Longbridge factory as a co-driver in his TF.

Finally, it is my pleasure to be able to join the MGF Resister as a representative in Japan. I will be reporting on the Japanese MGF enthusiast events and people and hopefully some will also join the club.

A Japanese MGF20 event will be held around the Mt. Fuji area at the end of November. It will be a great event. Please keep your eyes on FasTForward magazine for more reports from Japan!

Yutaro Sekimoto

Regional flags at the entrance to Gaydon

The 1995 Tokyo Motor Show Car

Yutaro with a French Vintage Racing car

Julian White presenting Yutaro with his Trophy

NEWSLETTER MGF Tim Morris 01932 882467 • [email protected] • www.mgfregister.org



The ‘Zip’ Files. Based on a chat with Jane and Rob Parry

During my few moments of free time at MGLive! this year I met a lovely couple, Jane and Rob Parry, who told me of the work they were doing to get a pre-production MGF back on the road. Naturally this got my interest as these cars are now so rare and I love the efforts some people make to keep these cars running. However the car in mention N823SVC was not just a normal press car (as most N8..SVCs were), this car was born to be a racer!

The car’s name is ‘Zip’ and as you will see from the picture, which was taken at Spa in 2003 while being driven by Tim Lewis, it had a half silver / half Amaranth paint scheme. The car was built on July 27 1995 and it was the last pre-production MGF VVC built. It was registered on September 1 1995 where it began doing the rounds with the many motoring journalists at the time. This car was hand built with the body number 0000009 and a strange QP8 body code; normally QP, in MGF terms, relates to ‘Quality Proving’ but these cars were much earlier (see FasTForward 38 page 22). ‘Zip’ should be an AV (Advanced Volume) car as they were the ones produced directly before production. Its VIN number of 000095 confirms these facts and it was finished in KMN Amaranth (which it is back to now) with LQP Ash/Green fabric trim.

The car was purchased by a Management Consultant for Rover, Lloyd Tredell, on the proviso that ‘Zip’ was to be used for racing purposes only. Due to an accident at MIRA’s test track which damaged one side, the offside was painted in silver with a large zip decal being applied down the middle of the car which led to the car, from then on, becoming affectionately known as ‘Zip’ for the rest of its racing career. The car was also featured as one of the original 1998 MGCC Abingdon Trophy series cars.

Rob had known about ‘Zip’ for many years and had considered buying it previously but the cost had always put him off, that was until June last year! Rob saw it advertised and started talking to the owner in the hope that a deal could be reached because it was

still too expensive. Sadly it was not to be on that occasion and they lost the deal. After some time wasting by ‘Zip’s potential buyer, the seller re-contacted Rob and Jane and the deal to buy the car was finally struck; ‘Zip’ now had two new caring owners. ‘Zip’ made his way home on July 19 2014 and the restoration began.

It was to be a full bare metal restoration as the car had been painted red at some stage using cellulose paint. It’s now painted in the latest technology water based paint (to replicate original specification).

Mechanically it took a long time, as one would expect; the front subframe had to be replaced and the new one has been seam welded with strengthening bars fitted. Damaged polybushes were replaced, much of the wiring loom has been modified along with a MEMS3 ECU. The Electronic Power Assisted Steering has been re-introduced (it had been removed for racing) and new suspension knuckles keep it at the right height.

The racing heritage, however, has not been lost as ‘Zip’ retains its racing steering wheel, bonnet and boot lid pins and tow strap. The roll cage had to be removed as the hood could not be used and matt black roll hoops will be fitted in time.

The current picture shows a beautiful car fitted with a race tuned Trophy 160 engine because the original standard VVC unit was replaced by the Trophy series racing spec K series engine. It is planned that the vinyl Zip will be put back on the car at some stage in the future to help return to its heritage features. It’s a shame that ‘Zip’ missed MGLive! this year (there will be others) but the little rascal was also not quite ready for MGF20, that was even more of a shame.

There has been blood, sweat and tears during the journey but now ‘Zip’ is back and, with a first MOT pass since 2008, he will definitely be a keeper!

Adrian Clifford

NEWSLETTERMGFTim Morris 01932 882467 • [email protected] • www.mgfregister.org

A sorry sight as it is loaded on the trailer

Zip in action in 2003 at Spa Rubbed down in preparation of new paint

Zip today restored and with a fresh coat of Amaranth



RACE TORQUERACE TORQUE

The Club’s final race meeting of the year concluded at Snetterton on the weekend of October 10-11. It was certainly a weekend to remember: fine weather, a light breeze and some stunning racing.

Championships were won and lost but despite the pressures on drivers there were very few incidents throughout the two days. Indeed the Club’s normally hard working Safety Car wasn’t called into action once! Not once over the two days! That is unique in my experience. It has to be said that there were two race stoppages, one race where on the very first corner one car managed to get rather wide and caused a melee, and the other where an unfortunate had a major engine mishap, stopping in the middle of the track under the bridge in a pool of oil! Other than that, nothing of real note.

Indeed the track limit restrictions mentioned last month, controlled by sensors linked to cameras at all MSV circuits, were again hardly challenged and the operator was there for two days with virtually nothing to do at all. A major contrast to the BTCC weekend when he printed out over 900 pictures of cars exceeding the track limits. Yes 900, you read it right! Clearly the hopes that the efforts made to contain the cars within the white lines bordering every track have been taken to heart by our drivers.

The excellent club racing atmosphere throughout the weekend carried through to the British Motor Heritage sponsored Four Hour Classic Relay, our closing event, and there was almost a euphoric feeling amongst the competitors who attended the prizegiving in the Club’s hospitality suite as dusk fell. The prizegiving was hosted by John Horton in his usual inimitable style; allowing everybody a chance to say a few words on the microphone really brought the Club’s racing year to a graceful end. John has worked with the Club for a number of years now and brought the prizegivings for each race to a fine art, appreciated by one and all. Also providing the Club an excellent service is Steph Gammons, often assisted by Michael Gammons her second son, who operate the hospitality unit at every race event. Forgive the family connection, but we are all proud of the service and what they do for the Club.

We are also proud to have a number of competitors who have started with the Club at a young age: Jack Goff who raced in Trophy and is now in BTCC and has taken his first win in that most competitive of series, appropriately in a MG6; Paul Streather is doing extremely well in the Renault Clios and no doubt has his eyes on the next level. This year we have had five competitors under 21, no doubt encouraged by the Club’s half price entry fee for them. Take a bow Elliott Patterson, Jack Roberts, Kyla Birdseye, Jordan Spencer and Guy Samuels, we are delighted to have you racing with the MG Car Club.

RaceTorque

by Ron Gammons

So now to next year. As you will appreciate, the planning for the following year starts long before the conclusion of the present one, and we already have what is a provisional 2016 calendar to hand. However I have to emphasise that once again this year it is provisional, since the F1 calendar is in doubt (again!) and has already been changed once, and may change again. Well what is that to do with us I hear you ask, sadly everything cascades down from the major events and we are basically at the end of the food chain!

The present plans are that the 2016 season will open at Donington on April 3, Brands Hatch will be April 30 and May 1 (Bank Holiday weekend), MGLive! at Silverstone on the Grand Prix Circuit is currently June 4-5 and we visit Mallory on July 3. Our meeting at Oulton will follow on Saturday September 3 and the Club’s finale will be at Snetterton on October 1-2. These may change, we hope not, since it’s a really well balanced calendar, but we will of course keep everybody up to date as best we can.

We are already deeply into populating the programmes so that we can run the events at breakeven or better, and we have some exciting grids in the offing. Watch this space!

In closing this report I would like to thank all of the people who do so much to make the Club’s motor racing such a success. We enjoy a great deal of respect among the marshals and other officials and they repay that with their unstinting support. It would be difficult to name everybody, and I’d be sure to miss somebody! but both my own thanks and that of our competitors and supporters for all that you do.

Now to the sack cloth and ashes department: last month in listing the members of the Race Sub Committee somehow I missed Pete Macwaters out. Pete, who is the hardworking Trophy Championship Co-ordinator and brings much experience to the committee, and now runs one of the most competitive Championships we have. My apologies Pete!

The start of the British Motor Heritage sponsored Four Hour Classic Relay. Photo: Dickon Siddall

Alex Flower lifts and locks a wheel at Snetterton Photo: Dickon Siddall




MGs ON TRACK Sponsored by

• To book places you need to be registered with MGoT on our website www.mgs-on-track.com• All registered members will receive an email about a week prior to the event opening for sale

December 7 – Brands Hatch Indy Our last event this year at only £99 for Car Club members!MGs

trackon

Come and visit us at the Classic Car Show, NEC, 13th – 15th NovemberThis is our very first time at the Classic Car Show and very proud to be exhibiting amongst a fine array of Classic Cars.Come and meet the team, find out what track days are all about and how you can participate in your everyday MG. Join us and enjoy the ‘on and off track’ camaraderie alongside like minded MG owners on the UK’s finest circuits.

On our stand we have one very special and rare MG for you to see, an MG SVR. A very short production run makes these cars almost unique.

To find out more about the MG SV and of course MG track days, come and enjoy a warm welcome at our stand # 3-452.

It’s about the driving, not racing If I said track day to you, what would you think of? Testosterone fuelled 20 something year-old ‘boy racers’ speeding their souped-up machines round a circuit with no consideration for anybody but themselves? The perception has never been awe inspiring, but the reality is far different from what you would expect.

I pulled up to the Castle Combe car park in my red ZS not knowing what I was in for. It was a soggy and dull Monday morning – not exactly great conditions for driving, but once

I’d opened the café doors (where everyone had met) the mood couldn’t have been brighter. The enthusiasm was infectious. After signing up on the passenger sheet (I wanted to take a slightly backward step and get a feeling for the entire event, so opted not to drive this time), I was surprised that the single biggest cliché for track days didn’t exist. Everyone was older than me, with only one other person in his 20s. After a brief chat with some of the drivers – the majority taking a day off work to

be here – it dawned on me that this was a social event that wouldn’t have looked out of place in any other section of the club.

Committee Member Nigel Silman kindly took me round in his TF during the practice session, which was a great way to learn a track I had only previously visited once before. As we cruised up Avon Rise at what I thought was a fast 70mph, and through ‘Britain’s most notorious bend’, Quarry, Nigel reminded me that on a dry day we’d be doing speeds of up to 90mph through that section, gulp! I may not have been driving, and some could argue I didn’t get the ‘full experience’, and I’d tend to agree with them, but the thrill of going round was exhilarating nonetheless.

After I’d completed some filming (getting

by Chris Kynoch

The MGB GT V8 of Doug Bond enjoying the Castle Combe circuit


• To book places you need to be registered with MGoT on our website www.mgs-on-track.com• All registered members will receive an email about a week prior to the event opening for sale

December 7 – Brands Hatch Indy Our last event this year at only £99 for Car Club members!

MGon track

LUFFIELD

LuffieldJohn Wilman, Beechfield, Fern Bank, Chapel-en-le-Frith,

High Peak. SK23 0JJ. Tel: 07778 165186 • www.mgspeed.net

Championship

NOVEMBER 2015 59

Steve Brand [email protected]

www.mgs-on-track.com

By the time you read this yet another season will be over. Where does the time go? Particularly when you are dragged reluctantly into what they call the third age. As predicted the Championship lead is fluctuating after each event and it is still not possible to pick a clear winner at this time. A list of award winners will be forthcoming in next month’s notes.

The front runners are made up of motors from a wide range of classes from standard Group 1 cars to the highly modified variety. The beauty of our target time scoring system is that everyone has a chance and large amounts of money thrown at it will not necessarily buy you a win. As a system, it has its detractors and there is no doubt that sometimes in the past people have picked cars that had ‘soft’ target times. The opportunities for this are now becoming limited, as all the cars and classes have had a go and the target times have hardened up considerably.

There follows a report by David Coulthard on the recent visit to Harewood Hillclimb.

The Harewood Speed Hillclimb, north of Leeds, was looking resplendent in the early autumn sunshine. The Luffield competitors were split into the usual three Harewood classes for the two day meeting, with the Standard cars leading the way. Championship contender Ian Benningfield endured a ‘difficult’ morning, after the 1500 Midget refused to start. A carb strip-down and rebuild cured the problem and Ian went on to set a handsome new record of 80.86 seconds, scoring a healthy 99.46 championship points. Helen Waddington in her ZR160 was only 0.16s adrift of second-placed John Wilman, in his TF160. John’s best was a 73.52, some 1.5 seconds behind David Coulthard’s class winning time in the ZR160.

In the Modified Class, the TF135 of Chris England just about had the legs of the V6 ZS of Tim Kirkham. Both drivers set their fastest times on the first of the three runs, with Chris posting a 72.83 and Tim a quarter of a second slower. Meanwhile, in the Specials Class, David Tandy appeared to be enjoying his trip ‘Up North’ in the left-hooker Frogeye, as he headed towards low 80s times. The battle of the weekend was between the Midgets of Stephen Collier and Richard Watkinson. After the first ascent, Richard led the way, but Stephen put in a quicker run next time round. Just 0.04 separated the two drivers – Stephen on top with 67.19. The B V8 of Andy Walker strolled to an easy win, on 63.70.

Day two brought a change of conditions, with fog postponing the start of the meeting by over an hour. Despite this, BARC Yorkshire still managed to offer three timed runs to the 150 assembled competitors. Ian Benningfield went even quicker, bagging 99.62 points to take firm control of the Championship. Another Standard class win for David Coulthard (71.95), with Helen Waddington following him home in second place. Chris England set a new TF record of 72.24 to beat Tim Kirkham in the Modified Class.

David Tandy continued to improve, taking a second off his previous day’s best, and battle resumed between Stephen Collier and Richard Watkinson. On the first run of the day, Richard smashed the old ‘Racing Specials to 1500cc’ record with a 65.94, only for Richard to strike back on run two with 65.62. Andy Walker’s Class win in the B V8 was less straightforward. A broken throttle cable on run one (DNF) required adjustment on run two (80.62), before a 64.26 third run took the class.

www.mgcc.co.uk

drenched in the process), and had a spot of lunch, I took a few minutes admiring the car park and used the time wisely to record a Periscope video. I was pleasantly surprised to see such a wide range of MGs – once again proving my cliché wrong. The one car that stood out to me though was Peter Kuruber’s RV8GT. It was great to see such a unique example in a stunning Trophy blue-like colour.

As the late afternoon sessions began, the wet patches on the circuit dried up and everyone was eager to get back out on track. MGoT Publicity Officer Steve Brand’s passenger seat in his MGF Trophy was next up for me. Those 90mph speeds through Avon Rise that Nigel discussed before were now upon us with the track dry, as well as some incredible grip going through Quarry, and flying through ‘The Esses’. After a few fast laps and careful overtaking, I understood the importance of the etiquette that MGs on Track pride themselves on.

Everybody respects one another, overtaking is done via indication of the driver being passed, and nobody is in a race scenario – you go as fast or as slow as you like. For novices, one of the team will act as a mentor to guide them through the day – teaching them about the safety and rules they must abide by. If anybody does overstep their mark (something nobody did whilst I was there), they are asked to come off the track and are given a stern warning that eventually leads to a ban if dangerous driving persists. An open pit lane was introduced for the first time at Castle Combe, after members requesting that it should be tested, and it was a real success – highlighting the flexibility that commercial track day organisers wouldn’t give you. And all of this is offered to members for £150 or under – a bargain compared to competitors that don’t have the driving etiquette or the social aspect that MGOT gives you in abundance. I got a sense during the day that Chairman Dave Pearce and everyone else who helps run the operation were so passionate about what they do and offer across the country to MGCC members. A special mention needs to go to all of them who were fantastic on the day, and welcomed me with open arms.

So if you’ve been sitting on the fence for a while, or perhaps it hadn’t crossed your mind until now, check out what MGs on Track can offer you.



COMPETITIONSCOMPETITIONS

At last, a beautiful, dry and sunny race meeting, the fi rst and last of 2015. Club racing moved to Norfolk and the challenging and demanding Snetterton 200 circuit for our fi nal track action of the year, with much to be decided in several championships.

First on track was a round of the Morgan Sports Car Club Aero Racing Morgan Challenge and

this saw a magnifi cent 36 cars come out to the grid. Keith Ahlers had dominated qualifying, taking pole position by over two seconds from Tim Harrison. As the lights went out, Ahlers made a great start and headed the rest up to Riches and Montreal and down the Bentley Straight. Knight was holding second place, ahead of Thompson, McCarty, Harrison and Andrew. However, as the race began to pan out, it was clear that Ahlers’ name was already on the winner’s trophy, eventually taking the chequered fl ag by over 44 seconds. Knight took second spot, half a minute in front of Thompson.

Our second event was the fi rst of two rounds of the Christine Siddall Memorial MG Trophy. For this meeting, sponsorship was kindly provided by Dickon Siddall, one of the Club’s leading race photographers,

meeting closes a great season’s racingBy Martin Price

Fabulous Autumn

Snettertonin memory of his late wife, Christine, who battled so bravely for many years against cancer, until earlier this year. Ross Makar took pole position, narrowly, from Jake Fraser-Burns, with Cody Hill and Jason Burgess on row two. Paul Luti was on row three, the fastest of the Class C drivers, just out performing Richard Marsh. As the lights went out, the pack surged up to Riches, but unfortunately Walker spun, resulting in Bellamy and Martin meeting head on as they tried to take avoiding action. The red fl ag was shown and there was quite a wait, whilst the damaged vehicles were removed and the oil spillage was dealt with.

When the action resumed, there were two green fl ag laps and immediately both Hill and Perkins pitted. Hill’s problem turned out to be terminal, but Perkins rejoined, starting from the end of the pit lane after his tyres were checked. Makar made the best of the restart, but Fraser-Burns briefl y

took the lead. However, Makar pulled off a great passing manoeuvre on the Bentley Straight to head Fraser-Burns, Cole and Burgess into their second tour. Cole had an uncharacteristic spin, dropping him down to 15th place. The Class C battle was superb as Molloy and Luti put on some very exciting action, Luti going ahead on lap four but dropping to second on their eighth tour, by which time Cole had joined in, until he spun again. A little further down the order was another fi erce scrap between Marsh, Campbell, Roberts and Ashton, just over a second and a half splitting the four of them. Makar took the fl ag by just two seconds from Fraser-Burns, with Burgess a rather distant third. The Class C battle took the fl ag next, Molloy beating Luti by less than a second, with Marsh third.

Their second encounter saw another superb getaway by Fraser-Burns, as he headed Makar and Burgess on their opening lap. However, Makar took the lead on lap three and Burgess inherited second spot, as Fraser-Burns lost it at Murrays. Immediately, Fraser-Burns fought back and took second place on lap seven. We were

Rob Spencer (90) leads a gaggle of MGB V8s during the MGCC Avalanche Motorsport

BCV8 Championship race



COMPETITIONS

then treated to an epic battle for the lead between Makar and Fraser-Burns, often only a tenth or two splitting them. Makar took the fl ag from Fraser-Burns by just 0.8sec, as Burgess fi nished third, almost half a minute after the leading pair, with Cole up to fourth. The Class C scrap eventually ended in Luti’s favour, after several dropped out with mechanical problems. With four laps to go, an incident involving four cars saw Molloy off into the Armco and Marsh retired on the following lap, gifting the class lead to Luti. We had only one runner in Class D, following Martin’s demise in their opening race. However, class victory was suffi cient to give the overall championship win to John Gil, in his fi rst season in the Trophy; very well done.

The MGCC Avalanche Motorsport BCV8 Championship was next and a very healthy 27 cars went out to qualify. The McCarthy brothers dominated the session, with Russell claiming pole by half a second from Spencer. Row two found Neil Fowler and Rob Spencer. However, as the lights went out, it was Rob Spencer who rocketed off the second row, edging himself into the lead by Montreal. Spencer McCarthy was in second place, just ahead of Neil Fowler and Russell McCarthy. Next time round, Russell took third place and then set about attacking his brother for second. He managed this on lap four, when he then began a bid for the lead. However, Rob Spencer was having none of it and fi nally took the fl ag by just 0.6sec from Russell McCarthy, with James Wheeler having to settle for third place. The pace of this race was so fast and furious, that less than two seconds split the fi rst six over the fi nish line. This was BCV8 racing at its very best. Andrew Young won Class C in his familiar Primrose yellow MGCGT, from Ken Deamer’s V8. The Class B victory went to Babak Farsian from Mark Scott, both driving MGB Roadsters, and Class AB was taken by Simon Tinklert.

The fi rst of two races in the MGCC Drayton Manor Park MG Metro Cup was on track next, and qualifying had seen

a fantastic fi ght for pole position, resulting in Tom Sanderson pipping Ben Rushworth by just 0.001sec. The second row found Mike Williams and Dick Trevett, ahead of Jack Ashton and Tony Howe. However, on examination Sanderson’s car was found to be under weight and he was forced to start from the back of the grid. It was Rushworth who made the best start, as he headed Williams, Trevett, Ashton, Howe and Garrard through Riches, Montreal and down the Bentley Straight on their opening lap. However, on their second tour, Williams took charge for a couple of laps, until Rushworth again claimed the lead. This was exciting stuff, as only a tenth or two split them lap after lap. By now, Sanderson had worked his way through the fi eld and had passed Trevett for third place, but he was unable to do anything about the pace of the leading pair. He needed to bag a lot of points this weekend to do his title chances any good. Unfortunately, on lap nine Sanderson slowed in a cloud of smoke, retiring to the pits. This allowed Ashton to inherit third place, which he held to the fl ag. Meanwhile, back at the front, Rushworth was doing everything he could to fend off the challenges from Williams, but on the fi nal lap Williams managed to put his nose in front and took the fl ag by just 0.38sec. Ashton crossed the line in third, ahead of Davies, Connell and Garrard.

Their second race saw another close battle between Williams and Rushworth. This time, despite extreme pressure, Williams made it a lights to fl ag victory.

Trevett, who had held third place on the opening couple of laps, expired on the straight between Riches and Montreal, allowing Ashton to move up a place, until Sanderson, who again started from the back of the grid, overtook him on lap seven. On the run down the Bentley Straight, one of the middle order cars blew its engine, depositing oil on the track and coming to a rest just before Brundle. It was decided to red fl ag the race after 12 laps, giving the race victory to Williams by 0.2 sec from Rushworth. Sanderson was third, ahead of Howe, Ashton and Garrard. In Class B, Philip Gough took the win over Mark Eales and Tony Connell to be crowned 2015 championship winner.

It was the turn of the MGCC Lackford Engineering MG Midget and Sprite Challenge next, in the fi rst of two races this weekend, and qualifying saw James Dunkley take pole, 1.5sec quicker than Paul Sibley. Row two found the pretty Lenham Midget of the current championship leader, Andy Southcott, with Ed Reeve. Despite a good start from Dunkley, it was Sibley who took control of the opening lap, with Dunkley, Reeve, Chris Southcott, Andy Southcott and Richard Wildman in line astern. Dunkley continued to put Sibley under pressure, but was unable to make a passing move stick. Reeve was rapidly becoming a distant third, with Andy Southcott holding onto fourth place before he was forced to retire with mechanical problems on lap seven, doing his title hopes no good at all. This allowed Wildman to briefl y move up to fourth, before Chris Southcott overhauled him, holding the place to the fl ag. Meanwhile, back at the front, Sibley took the fl ag 1.3sec ahead of Dunkley with Reeve way back in third. The Class B victory went to Chris Southcott, Class D was won by John Bridge from Martyn Clews, and Class E went to Richard Perry, from Pippa Cow.

Their second race was on Sunday morning and again Sibley took charge from the start, with Dunkley, Wildman, Perry, Andy Southcott and Chris Southcott in close contention. On lap two, Andy Southcott moved up to fourth, ahead of Perry, but next time round we lost Chris Southcott The Burble B’s pushing hard during the British Motor Heritage 4 Hour Relay Race

Russell McCarthy (93) leading brother Spencer McCarthy (92) and Neil Fowler (86)



COMPETITIONSCOMPETITIONS

with a mechanical problem. By now, his dad, Andy, was embroiled in a great battle with Richard Wildman for third place, these two swapping places on a regular basis and having little daylight between them for several laps. James Dunkley pulled off a great move to take the lead from Paul Sibley and, as time went on, it was evident that Sibley was having a problem. Andy Southcott needed a good result in this race to take the championship title, but a blown gearbox on lap 11 put paid to that, as he was sadly sidelined. Dunkley went on to take the flag by over ten seconds from Sibley, but it became apparent that Sibley’s problem was with his throttle, which was sticking open, causing him to have to cut the engine in order to brake for the corners! He finished a fine second place, and with it took the overall championship title – well done, Paul. Ed Reeve finished third, ahead of Class B winner Richard Wildman, with winner of Class E and fifth overall, Richard Perry; next was Carl Chadwick, ahead of Pippa Cow. For the second time of the weekend, the Class D honours went to John Bridge, who beat Nigel Lackford.

We were treated to a round of the MGCC Motoring Classics Thoroughbred Sportscar series next, and a good entry went out to qualify. It was those two McCarthy brothers who fought it out for pole, with Spencer beating

Russell by a tenth. The second row found Rob Spencer and Neil Fowler and the third row saw Simon Cripps and James Wheeler. However, it was that man Rob Spencer who was in determined mood again, following his BCV8 race success, as he took the immediate lead from Fowler, Wheeler and the two McCarthys. On lap three, Neil Fowler made a tiny mistake and allowed the McCarthys and Wheeler to move up a place each. Russell McCarthy then began a great scrap for the lead with Rob Spencer. On lap six, Spencer McCarthy dropped to sixth place and Wheeler joined in the leader’s battle, so much so, that on lap eight he stole second place off Russell McCarthy. The leading trio held their positions to the flag, whilst Fowler retook fourth spot from Spencer McCarthy. Running in a brilliant sixth place overall was the Class D winner Ken Deamer, who kept ahead of Barry Holmes, and in Class B Peter Samuels beat Mark Scott. The Class C honours went to Paul Khouri, who beat Kathy Sherry and Alan House.

Over the weekend we had three rounds of the MGCC Peter Best Insurance Challenge, as they had lost a round at a previous meeting. This is the Club’s only championship for which every model of MG is eligible and it always provides great racing. Ed Davies took pole in his ZR, from the similar machine of Richard Buckley.

Row two saw the beautiful MGC GT of Shaun Holmes with Iain Dower alongside him, in a ZR, and the third row found Tom Diment and David Brown, also piloting ZRs. As the lights went out, Buckley took the immediate lead from Brown, Dowler and Davies, following Holmes’ poor start. Diment suffered early contact and needed to pit, in order to pull the front wing off the wheel. He rejoined and made good progress through the field. On lap two, Dowler stole second spot from Brown and Holmes recovered much of his lost ground, as he moved up to fourth place and then took second by the end of the third lap, finally passing Buckley for the lead on lap five. This order remained unchanged, despite a first rate scrap for third place between Dowler and Davies. Everything looked set for a Holmes victory, but he threw it all away on the final lap, giving the win to Buckley and dropping himself to tenth place. Paul Eales took the Class A victory over Clive Jones and Richard Wilson.

Their second encounter saw the winner of their first race, Richard Buckley, take the early lead, ahead of Paul Eales, Clive Jones, Richard Wilson and Oliver Coles. On their second lap, Jones and Coles cashed in as Eales dropped to fourth. Coles then began to challenge Buckley for the lead, as mere tenths split them. On lap six, Coles made his move stick and took the lead, but Buckley was not giving up without a fight. Dowler joined in the scrap and eventually, on lap ten, took second place away from Buckley, but it wasn’t to last as Buckley reasserted himself on lap 12, holding onto second place to the flag and narrowly missing the race win. Coles hung on and took the flag by just 0.113sec. Holmes did better in this race, working himself up to fourth place. Class A saw a second win for Paul Eales, this time from Richard Wilson and David Strike.

Their final race of the season saw Holmes make the best start and he headed Buckley, Davies, Brown and Diment on their opening tour. Buckley took the lead next time round, but Holmes recaptured it

Ross Makar (3), Jake Fraser-Burns (17) and Doug Cole battle out in Class B of The Christine Siddall Memorial MG Trophy Race

The ZR of Ed Davies being chased by the MGB GT of Paul Eales in the MGCC Peter Best Insurance Challenge

Ben Rushworth (48) leading the two wheeling Metro of Mike Williams (28)



COMPETITIONS

on lap five. Diment had been going well in third place but he lost it to Davies at the half way point. Coles had pulled back some ground after a poor opening lap and was up to fifth by the end of lap seven. The scrap for the lead was hotting up in the closing stages of the race and little separated Holmes and Buckley, but on lap ten Buckley took the lead as Holmes failed to brake at Montreal, overshot and headed across the grass for the hedgerow, just managing to turn in time, taking no further part in the race. Buckley managed to hold onto the lead until the flag, with Davies finishing in a fine second place. Clive Jones was the Class A victor, finishing in front of David Strike and Richard Wilson. This class win was sufficient to give Jones the overall 2015 championship crown, and very well deserved it was too.

The final action of the weekend, and indeed the season, was the British Motoring Heritage four Hour Relay Race, which attracted 21 teams. So, how does this race work? Teams can have up to six members, each driver qualifies in one of five sessions and there is a handicap applied to every team, based on previous results and the performance of the cars in that team. The next team member cannot go out to race until their incoming team mate has driven past them in the pit lane; this is to make sure that only one member of a team is on the track at a time, however, it doesn’t always work out like that!

Qualifying had seen the V8 Wideboys take pole position, with a team of BMWs next to them called Grumpy, Baldy and

Small Pants. Row two found more BMWs in the form of M Sport Racing and Morgan Magic +1, and on the third row were another team of Morgans, Aero Racing, and High Speed, Low Cost, a team of quick little kit cars.

When the lights went out for the final time this season, Grumpy, Baldy and Small Pants took the immediate lead from the V8 Wideboys, Aero Racing, M Sport Racing and High Speed, Low Cost. However, next time round, the V8 Wideboys took the lead and began to build a useful cushion. At the half hour point, the V8 Wideboys still held the lead from Aero Racing, Morgan Magic +1, Grumpy, Baldy and Small Pants and M Sport Racing. A couple of lap later, Morgan Magic +1 moved into second place. By now, teams were beginning to pit in order to carry out driver changes, and it is always difficult to work out the exact positions. At quarter distance there was a good battle between the Wideboys and Morgan Magic, the Wideboys taking the lead again on lap 60. The order of the leading six cars remained unaltered past the hour and a half mark, but when the Wideboys pitted on lap 80, Morgan Magic took the lead again. The Wideboys were further hindered when they were caught speeding in the pit lane and had to serve a ‘drive through’ penalty. After two hours Morgan Magic were well in control, with Grumpy, Baldy and Small Pants in second and M Sport Racing in third.

On lap 110, Morgan Magic pitted and this allowed Grumpy, Baldy and Small Pants to go to the front, with a good scrap developing between Morgan Magic and M Sport Racing for second spot; Aero Racing were still going well in fourth, ahead of Williams Morgan Racing. At three quarter

distance, Grumpy and his mates were a lap up on M Sport Racing and Morgan Magic. Aero Racing enjoyed a brief spell in third place but Morgan Magic pushed them back down in the last half hour of the race.

As the flag was waved to mark the finish of this epic race, Grumpy, Baldy and Small Pants were first, ahead of M Sport Racing, just 45 seconds adrift after 167 laps. In third place were Morgan Magic +1, followed by Aero Morgan and Williams Morgan Racing. The V8 Wideboys were sixth and the winning MG team on track. This, it must be remembered, was the finishing order on the road, before the handicap was applied. However, when all the calculations were completed, victory went to Williams Morgan racing, with Guten Morgans in second place. Aero Racing were third and the highest placed MG team, Burble B’s, consisting of Simon Tinkler, John Wreghitt and Babak Farsian, were fourth.

So ended another great season of club motor racing, despite seeing more than our fair share of rain at our meetings since March. Snetterton was a fitting finale; excellent competition, good grids, the usual slick organisation and the customary MG Car Club spirit. We must never forget the enormous contribution made by our huge voluntary work force, who make these race meetings possible. We must say a huge thank you to all of you; we cannot go out to play without you.

Paul Sibley (5) leading James Dunkley (12) in Class A of the MGCC Lackford Engineering MG Midget and Sprite Challenge

The pretty Austin Healey Sprite of John Bridge (33) pushing hard during the MGCC Lackford Engineering MG Midget and Sprite Challenge

Andrew Ashton leading a group of ZR 170s during The Christine Siddall Memorial MG Trophy



FEATUREOUT & ABOUT

AboutOut&

Peter Worrell from Spain won the MGC Register weekend ‘furthest travelled’ award this year. He drove from his home town near Vigo, across northern Spain, up from the south of France to the Channel port and then on to the weekend venue, clocking up some 1,300 miles, in his British Racing Green MGC GT with his wife Pilar. A very well deserved trophy I would think in anyone’s book!

Peter Kerr’s 1947 MG TC special pictured at a wet Queensland Raceway national circuit.

Rob and Linda Thomas in their Midget on the chain ferry between west and east Cowes during the recent Midget Register trip to the Isle of Wight. Photo: Neil Thomas

Brian Woodham’s MGB GT on its 48th birthday, pictured in the hotel car park on the MGB Register Weekend in Llandrindod Wells – 553 miles with only a puncture. Photo: Brian Woodhams

The MGs having a well earned rest during a lunchtime break at a recent Abingdon Works Centre Natter run. Photo: Richard Martin

The Club’s Y Type, Little Gem, in amongst a good collection of Classics taking part in The Royal British Legion’s Battle of Britain Classic Car Run. Photo: John Hutchison



FEATUREOUT & ABOUT

Photo taken at the MGF Register’s 4th Niederrhein Tour. The participants had tutorage and use of a skid pan for four hours in their MGFs and TFs; they learnt a lot and had so much fun. Photo: Adrian Clifford

The MG6 belonging to Chad Ryan, Durban, South Africa. Chad is very impressed with the MG6, few and far between in South Africa. Chad does a lot of driving and the distances travelled are very high; the 6 makes him smile every day, thanks MG. Photo: Chad Ryan

As part of the South East Centre Summer Gathering, the SE Centre invited the Stella Hancock RDA disabled carriage drivers group to the event and to compete against MGs in a Gymkhana. The photo shows Gwen Davies of the SE Centre (on the left) handing over a donation to Judi Ralls, Stella Hancock Driving Group RDA Chairman.

Ewa Brander’s, Chairman of the MG Car Club Sweden, 1965 MGB on a sunny nice September evening in Sweden. Photo: Ewa Brander

This MGB was spotted cruising the streets of Tehran, Iran, by MG employee Chris Chen

Peter Skipper’s MG ZT-T with (l–r) Bill Silcock, Geoff Hirst, John Thompson, and Peter Skipper at the MG Saloon Day earlier this year. Photo: Kelvin Fagan



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OtherTubular long branch exhaust Oselli cast rocker cover £175

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OVERSEASNEWS

GOF Central 37, held July 15 to 18 2015, was a great success. The location was Carmel, Indiana, a

suburb of Indianapolis. More than 150 MGs were registered. The highlight of the event was two laps around the famous Indianapolis 500 track. The sight of almost 150 MGs on the track is a memory few will forget. Our only wish was to go faster. The pace truck kept the speed at 35mph. Driving the high-banked turns at 35mph was a bit tricky.

The workshops focused primarily on MG history and culture rather than how-to-do topics. Mike Sherrell spoke about All Things TC – MGs in Australia, Carolee Snyder presented a talk on The Gardens of England, Peter Ross discussed Racing MGs in America in the 1930s, and Tom Wilson spoke on Tanks and TCs, a history of the MG factory during the war years.

The ladies were not forgotten. The Ladies’ Luncheon was in an authentic English Tearoom.

GOF Central 37 By Reed Tarwater

The First Timers’ Show and Picnic was on the grounds of The American Legion Post. The event was scheduled to be outside, but high winds, heavy rain and lightning forced everyone to run for cover. Cars were quickly put back in trailers, covered with rainproof covers, or just got wet. The response of the members of the Legion was wonderful. Within 30 minutes they had moved the food inside and had seating for 250 ready.

The Indianapolis Executive Airport was the site for the car show. More than 150 MGs were on display; in addition there were several vintage airplanes that fl ew in for the event. A special event at the car show was MGs Thru Time. All models of MGs were present, starting with an M Type through to an MGB.

Hagerty Insurance sponsored a youth judging event, to encourage young people to get involved in MGs. The group judged a few selected cars and awarded their

own trophy. The owners of the cars were present to discuss the details of their cars with the youth judges. It was great to see how interested the young people were.

A highlight of the show was a TC Spitfi re, complete with wings, propeller and a sound system that replicated the sound of a Rolls Royce Merlin engine and machine guns.

The Funkhana was called the Spitfire Funkhana, to match the theme of the GOF, Wheels & Wings. Each car was to emulate a 1940 Supermarine Spitfire airplane. Forward motion always had to be maintained. The cars flew a horizontal Split S, Immelmann and loop around pylons, dropped bombs, strafed a target with the picture of Leonard Lord with Nerf bullets and then flew under London Bridge.

GOF Central 37 ended on Saturday evening with the banquet for over 250 people followed by the awards.

London Bridge is falling down! a T Type fails to clear ‘London Bridge’ during the funkhana

strafi ng a target with Nerf bullets

MG’s gather for a lap around the Indianapolis 500 track The famous Indianapolis 500 track

The First Timers’ Show and Picnic, held on the grounds of The American Legion Post.

TC Spitfi re, complete with wings, propeller and a sound system that replicated the sound of a Rolls Royce Merlin engine and machine guns

MGs Thru Time lineupHagerty Insurance sponsored a youth judging event.



OVERSEAS REVIEW

Overseas ReviewA monthly look through a few of the overseas magazines we receive at Kimber House. Reviewed by David Coulthard

As the year draws to a close, the various anniversaries which MG enthusiasts have been celebrating

also come to an end. MG Nieuws from Belgium MG Car Club features a review of the MGA, which is celebrating its 60th anniversary. Models from the 1500 right through to the end of production and the 1600 Mk. II deluxe get the full photographic treatment. MG-Nieuws, this time from the MGCC Holland, also run a similar photo spread, plus a quick whizz through the car’s competition history. It includes a picture of no fewer than fi ve twin cam engines side-by-side!

The seemingly unnamed magazine of the MGCC Denmark reproduces an original article from 1960. It features a fascinating insight into the MGA production line at Abingdon. At the other end of the spectrum, Norway’s MGCC magazine, MG Magasinet, features an MGA on its cover which appears to have only just made it to 60…

It never fails to impress me that overseas MG drivers love to bring their cars to Britain. The Time Machine, from Australia’s Gold Coast MGCC, reports that no fewer than 18 MGAs made the trip from ‘down under’ to tour Britain. The cars were air freighted to London Heathrow, before embarking on a route from Lands End to John O’Groats, via Goodwood and

Brooklands amongst other venues. The Australians were in the company of over 60 MGAs. A photo-montage of the event is provided by Wheel Spin from the Victoria MGCC.

Meanwhile, the MGF celebrated its 20th birthday recently. Belgium’s MG Nieuws reported on the MGF Kempenrit Revival. The Kempenrit was a legendary meeting of MGF drivers, but has not been on the calendar for a number of years. Therefore it was good to see the Belgium MGCC bringing back the event, as a fi tting tribute to the mid-engined sports car. The Time Machine, from Australia’s Gold Coast MGCC, details the story of the MGF from concept to the end of production. The magazine also provides this interesting little fact: the bore and stroke measurements of the 1.8-litre K-series engine were all but identical to the B-series found in the MGB – 80.0mm x 89.3mm compared with 80.3mm x 88.9mm. The Octagon, the magazine of the MGCC Western Australia, provides readers with a very detailed (seven pages!) buying guide to the F and TF. Fortunately, head gasket issues ‘only’ take up a page and a half! Pictures from the launch of the MGF feature on the cover of Brittisportti from the Finland’s MGCC.

It is nice to see the MG SV and its big brother the SV-R taking a more active role in the MG scene. The MGCC Denmark magazine and MG Magasinet from Norway both feature the V8 supercar taking part in runs and events.

Finally, I was interested to note that I received two copies of MG Nieuws from Belgium. One was a printed version, no colour, just black and white photos, printed on plain paper. The second was an ‘electronic’ version, in full, glorious Technicolor! A hint of the future, perhaps?

A fi ne lineup of Twin Cam Engines

MGAs at Goodwood

The MGAs arrive at Heathrow

The MGA lineup at Brooklands

Y Type and MG SV V8 Supercar.


The 2016 Tour will be based in the Macdonald Aviemore Resort in the newly refurbished and renamed four star Morlich Hotel.

The Tour will leave from the historic Scone Palace Perth, taking us north through Glenshee to Braemar and Royal Deeside for lunch and then onto the famous Cockbridge to Tomintoul road before we circle round through Glenmore to our Hotel.

Day Two will be a run to explore the Black Isle. For those who would like to do their own thing a number of attractions are available such as the Funicular Railway to the Ptarmigan restaurant in the Cairngorm mountains, the Strathspey Steam Railway to Grantown on Spey, or the Whisky Trail up the scenic Spey valley to Fochabers the home of Baxters Foods visitors centre. There are so many things to mention but we are sure there will be something to suit everyone.

The final day’s route takes us from Aviemore heading south through some of the finest scenery down to Loch Tay to the lunch stop at the side of the loch next to the Crannog Centre or Kenmore which hosts a few other places to eat. From there we make our way past the famous Gleneagles Golf Course, the scene of the last Ryder Cup, then heading down to Alloa via Glen Devon to the finish at the Inglewood Hotel where Tea, Coffee, sandwiches and scones will be provided before departing for home.

The Entry Fee will be £70 per car, driver and passenger - £45 per car driver only. Accommodation at the Macdonald Aviemore Morlich 4 Star Hotel will be £180 per person dinner bed and breakfast sharing a double room. Single rooms will be £250.

You can now book through our web site at www.mgcaledonian.com or contact David Reid at [email protected] or telephone 01383 727695 for an entry form.

MGCC Caledonian Centre - May Three Day

HIGHLAND FLING Saturday 30th April to Monday 2nd May 2016

Entry Form

I would like to attend the Norfolk Riviera Run on Wednesday December 30 2015

Name................................................................................................................................

Address:...........................................................................................................................

.................................................................................................Postcode...........................

Telephone.......................................................email........................................................

Car make......................................Reg no.............................. Colour..............................

Total number of people in car..............................

I/we would like.............................bacon butties at The crown Inn

I/we would like.............................lunches at Pensthorpe Fakenham

Please return this form by December 6 2015

Any enquiries email: [email protected]

Start: The Crown Inn, Lynn Road, Gayton, Kings Lynn PE32 1PAMeeting from 9.00 am with cars away between 10.00 and 10.30am. Coffee and bacon butties available from 9.00am - Please advise if required.

Finish: Fakenham Norfolk Lunches will be available at the � nish please advise if required.

Entry: Voluntary contribution of £2.00 will be collected on the day of which at least 50% will be donated to a local charity.

Please return details on the entry form to help us with catering arrangements at start and � nish. All food to be paid for by you on the day.

Forms can be downloaded from www.mgcc.co.uk/anglia

Entries to Steve Atkinson, Longcroft Cottage, Station Road, Foulsham, Dereham, Norfolk, NR20 5RD. or emailed to [email protected]

NORFOLK RIVIERA RUN 2015Wednesday December 30 2015




ANGLIARob Muir 01206 862619 [email protected] www.mgcc.co.uk/anglia

CENTRE

ABINGDON WORKSMarcus Smith [email protected] www.mgabingdon.co.uk

CENTREOnce again we fi nd ourselves on the run down to Christmas. Where has the summer gone? I hope you have all had a good year with your cars and all has gone well.

On Sunday September 27 we had a tulip run to Chavenage House which is near Tetbury. The 23 cars that took part started from Milletts Farm and we all enjoyed a fi ne Indian Summer’s day. We were taken around the house, which is ‘Trenwith’ in Poldark, by George Lowsley-Williams, son of the current owner, David. George entertained us with stories of the house and its history, his family and growing up in this beautiful Elizabethan home.

As we approach the end of year, we’re perhaps looking for indoor events or locations so why not check out the Natter closest to you to see what they have to offer. The Aylesbury Natter are having a quiz at their December 7 meeting and the Four Points Christmas meal is Wednesday December 2. The Abingdon Natter are currently planning the annual Boxing Day run which, as usual, will start from the Market Square Abingdon; what are others doing over the winter months?

At this time of year the Centre Committee are busy planning a series of events for 2016 and would welcome any new members to the Committee who could perhaps contribute to the success of the AWC and bring forward some new

venues / ideas for our activities. Your Centre Needs You!

WebsitePlease visit the AWC website at www.mgabingdon.co.uk from where you can access various links. We are always looking for a ‘Car of the Month’ so if you have not been featured yet, please complete our form or contact our

webmaster Malcolm Bailey on [email protected] to send him some photos of your car and wait for it to appear.

New Members Welcome to all new members from the AWC – we hope to see you at some future events. Please come and introduce yourselves, so that we are able to put a face to your name.

Participants on the Chairman’s Run parked in front of Chavenage House. Photo: Malcolm Bailey

Committee ChangesAt The Anglia Centre AGM we had some changes to the committee. Dave Tynan stood down as Chairman following his fi ve year tenure, many thanks Dave for the sterling work. Peter Skipper was duly elected as Chairman. Roger Moran was elected as Secretary following Michael Murkin taking up his new post as MGF Register secretary. Tony Batson was formally elected Events Co-ordinator and Mike Pelling became new Vice Chairman along with his position as Competition Secretary.

Peter CouchFollowing the recent sad passing of much loved and devoted MG enthusiast Peter Couch, Terry Starkey of The Burblers Natter has started a fund in memory of Peter to be donated to the Cancer Research charity.

To get the ball rolling Terry donated £100.00 from the sale of his RV8 badges to the cause. This was supported with a further £110.00 collected from members at a recent Needham Natter club night, and a further £60.00 was collected at Snetterton during the Saturday race meeting, making a total of £270.00 in just three days.

Terry intends to keep the appeal going until the Burblers Xmas lunch on December

12 when a total figure can be announced. Please support this worthy cause so we

can beat cancer. Donations can be paid via Terry, email [email protected] for details, or given to your Natter leader for forwarding.

SnettertonAt a thrilling race meeting last weekend Simon Tinkler was crowned as 2015 MGCC Avalanche Motorsport BCV8 Champion.

The race was an absolute humdinger, with Rob Spencer taking a narrow victory in his 400 BHP MG V8 followed by Russell McCarthy and James Wheeler.

James, who won last time out at Oulton Park, made his way up from fi fth on the grid and was right on the tail of Rob Spencer as a fi ve car train of thundering V8s entered Murrays Bend for the fi nal time.

As they approached the chequered fl ag Russell pulled out of the slipstream and pipped James for second by 0.14 of a second. In fact at the fi nish the fi rst fi ve cars were covered by just 1.909 seconds. As Murray walker would have said, “Fantastic.”

Anglia Committee MeetingNovember 21 at ‘The Limes’, Needham

Market. Contact secretary Roger Moran 01502 722122 if you would like to attend.

AutotestIn conjunction with WSMC at Debden on November 9. Contact Mike Pelling 01366 386944.

2015 BCV8 Champion Simon Tinkler in holding area before race

CENTRES



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The MG European Event Of The Year 2016

Le Touquet-Paris-Plage, from 8th. to 12th. June 2016

Take part in the biggest MG event ever

done in France, and experience

the emotion of the event.

Take part to the biggest MG event ever done

in France!

Programme of oPtions to satisfy everyone.The options that we offer are as following:

D Arrive Wednesday the 8th. June or Friday morning the 10th. June D A choice between the 5 rallies D Souvenirs

a choice of accommodation for the ParticiPants in hotels in le touquet and surrounding areas.We have selected hotels in Le Touquet and the surrounding area. The accommodation must be booked through the Tourist Office, once your registration to the EEOTY is confirmed. The accommodation is to be booked through the Tourist Office in Le Touquet. Reservations must be made after confirmation of registration.

Confirmation of registration will be given one week later. Once confirmation is received, it will be necessary to confirm your participation by paying for your entry by the following methods: cheque, direct transfer or credit card.You can visit the website to look at the full programme.

Parking guarded at night for the mgs and Parking area for trailersOvernight parking is provided at the racecourse. A security service is provided throughout the event. An area for trailers is also available.

registration will be oPen from the 1st. october 2015The registrations for the MG European Event of the Year 2016 will be open from the 1st October 2015. Participants will be able to choose the option that they prefer.Registrations will be made on the website:

http://mgevent2016.mgclubdefrance.com

http://www.mgclubdefrance.com/



CALEDONIANBob MacGillivray 07870 407111 [email protected] www.mgcaledonian.com

CENTRE

DEVON & CORNWALLGranny Janner [email protected] www.mgcc.co.uk/devon-cornwall-centre/

CENTRE

It’s been a quick season and we have now completed our fi nal show and fi nal run. Plans for next year are afoot! Don’t forget that we are looking for suggestions for topics for our technical sessions at Dreadnought Garage. I already have a few but would appreciate more.

The fi nal show was the Ingliston Revival which as an event showed promise and hopefully it will be repeated next year. Personally I thought that it was one of our better stands as we had a good sized area of level ground with short grass which allowed us to show the cars etc. properly rather than just parking them. The Centre again won the Best Stand Award, making fi ve fi rsts this year out of seven shows entered… Not bad Eh!

Last weekend Tony and Isobel Smith guided us around the delights of south Lanarkshire to a lunch at the narrowest hotel in the UK, the Star Hotel in Moffat. Excellent weather and company made for a fi tting end to a great season.

Only one event in November, the lunch in Perth on November 22. If you intend going please book early through the website. Oh! And don’t forget

the Chilly Willy on January 1. Again details on the interweb.

This issue of Safety Fast! carries an ad for next year’s three Day Tour which will be based in Aviemore. Demand for places will be high so once again BOOK EARLY! And details of our 2016 fi ve Day tour which will be based in the Scottish Borders will be available very shortly.

I mentioned last time that Barclay Henderson has a supply of windscreen stickers with the new logo… What I did not say is that they are available at a price of three for £5 so you can have one on all your cars! Contact Barclay for info and also for details of his limited edition Christmas goodies!

Regarding the French EEOTY, could everyone who has entered let me know please and we can try and co-ordinate travel and hotel arrangements. Some of us will be at Silverstone the previous weekend so will probably stay south but others may be at Thirlestane or elsewhere, but it would be good to co-ordinate things.

And fi nally a wee word of congratulations to our Chairman David Reid! It has been a personal quest

The Centre trophies from Bo’ness and Ingliston

of his to get a Caledonian photo on the Safety Fast! cover. As you will have noticed, Douglas Arthur’s RV8 graced the cover last month but the pic was taken by David. So well done… I understand that Douglas has bought all the remaining stocks of that issue of Safety Fast! and his friends will be receiving framed copies for Christmas…… But for David it’s something off the bucket list!

The sun was very low in the sky and it was a fresh and warm morning, so hoods were down for the start of this year’s Cornish Riviera Run, although heavy rain was forecast for later in the afternoon! As the 51 cars arrived for the start, the Tavistock Town Crier undertook the job of choosing his favourite car and period outfi t. He gave a lovely cry, no need for speakers or microphones.

Into Cornwall, driving past the seaside at Downderry and Seaton and on to Looe and Polperro to the fi rst check point; en-route, one of our members was fi lming the cars coming up his lane. Hope you all waved for the camera!

The lunch stop halt was at The Lost Gardens of Heligan, where the marshals punched tickets,

crossed off numbers and parked the cars. The lunch was prepared from the Gardens’ own produce, which was excellent. Back to the cars for another tour of Cornish lanes to end at the Healey Cyder Farm, with Jon Healey in attendance.

Healey’s was a busy place but a section was roped off for us to park. First a tour seeing the Cyder being made and an explanation, a tractor ride around the farm and afterwards a cream tea. Not all partook of everything on offer as the clouds were forming. The formal presentation of prizes did not happen so people were found and told where to collect their prize, a fl agon of Cyder. All the results and more photos are on the website. Photos Jean Quartley

Events for the DiaryNovember 14 – Inter-Natter Skittles at the Fox & Hounds, Bridestow. Contact Barry Smith [email protected] to let him know your food requirements and to make several teams; a good evening expected.

May 28 to June 4 2016 – Janner Week. Make a note of the dates now!

We are aware of the clash with MGLive! but the Committee have decided to continue with the traditional Bank Holiday dates. This is based on a previous occasion when anyone who wanted to go to Silverstone either left on the Friday or very early on the Saturday morning. It is realised that this is not ideal but being the very last Janner Week it is hoped that people will still come. In 2017 it is intended to hold a Weekend in a hotel somewhere outside of Devon & Cornwall and not over a Bank Holiday weekend to help with the cost. More later.

The start of the 2015 Cornish Riviera Run. Photo: Jean Quartley The Tavistock Town Crier. Photo: Jean Quartley

CENTRES

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*All cover is subject to insurers terms and conditions, which is available upon request. **Premium example based on: 1978 MG Midget. Value: £2000. Value: £2800. Main policy only and does not include any FJ+ cover options. All premiums assume the vehicle is not the main car and includes Insurance Premium Tax. Male driver aged over 25 years old, 2000 annual limited mileage, and full clean driving licence with no claims or convictions. Member of associated club. Postcode OX10, vehicle garaged with no modifi cations. Includes a £10 arrangement fee.Footman James is a trading name of Towergate Underwriting Group Limited. Registered in England No.4043759. Registered Address: Towergate House, Eclipse Park, Sittingbourne Road, Maidstone, Kent ME14 3EN. Authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Telephone calls may be recorded. FP ADCLC205.11.14

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Classic Car | Classic Bike | Modern Car | Modern Bike | Kit Car | Collectors | Classic Motor Trade | Household

*All cover is subject to insurers terms and conditions, which is available upon request. **Premium example based on: 1978 MG Midget. Value: £2000. Value: £2800. Main policy only and does not include any FJ+ cover options. All premiums assume the vehicle is not the main car and includes Insurance Premium Tax. Male driver aged over 25 years old, 2000 annual limited mileage, and full clean driving licence with no claims or convictions. Member of associated club. Postcode OX10, vehicle garaged with no modifi cations. Includes a £10 arrangement fee.Footman James is a trading name of Towergate Underwriting Group Limited. Registered in England No.4043759. Registered Address: Towergate House, Eclipse Park, Sittingbourne Road, Maidstone, Kent ME14 3EN. Authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Telephone calls may be recorded. FP ADCLC205.11.14

Salvage retention

Driving other classics

Drive to work

Track day cover

Wedding hire cover

and many more

Agreed value

Shows and events

Spare parts (up to a limit of £250)

European motoring (up to 35 days per trip)

Breakdown with options to include European cover and Homestart

Specialist rates for club members

Cover options*:

Part of the Towergate Group



CENTRES

LINCOLNSHIREJohn Hebb tel 01522 [email protected] www.mgcclincolnshire.co.uk

CENTRE

MIDLANDSPaul Hollingworth [email protected] www.mg-cars.org.uk mgccmidlandcentre/

CENTRE

November NattersSwallow Wednesday 4; Lincolnshire Poacher Friday 6; Abbey Lodge Monday 9; Wishing Well Wednesday 11; Three Horseshoes Thursday 19; Admiral Nelson Thursday 26.Luncheon ClubWednesday 18.Early December NattersSwallow Wednesday 2 (Christmas Meal); Lincolnshire Poacher Friday 4 (Christmas Meal).

The Autumn Autotest took place on September 13 at the usual East Kirkby venue. Bryan Pack achieved the Fastest Time of the Day in his MGF. First in the LWB Class was Robert Taylor in his MGA. Second was Oliver Wild, making a welcome return to Lincolnshire, in an MX5 and third was Sarah Barnes in the same MX5. The SWB Class was won by Geoff Hirst with Bob Welch second and Nigel Pack third, all in Midgets. First in the Saloon Class was Simon Goldsworthy in his MG Metro. Thanks to

our Competition team and all the Marshals and Timekeepers who make these events possible. On the 16th, 23 members of the Luncheon Club enjoyed a meal at a new venue, the Three Kings Inn at Threekingham. On the 20th we had another social drive, this time to Spalding, organised by Len and Sue Hartley. Some gathered at the Lancaster Brasserie in Woodhall Spa for coffee and bacon rolls before following the route south to the 15th century (and later) Ayscoughfee Hall, joining those who had travelled direct, in all some 20 cars with crews. We had a conducted tour of the hall by Robin, one of the guides; a picnic in the extensive gardens; and some then took a water taxi to Springfi elds Garden Centre. A very enjoyable day – the sun shone as well! The sun also shone at Silverstone for the BTCC race meeting. A full report will be elsewhere, suffi ce to say that we saw two podium fi nishes for the MGs and a good turnout of MG3s and 6s in our parking area. Also on the racing scene, a good

win for Tom Sanderson in the Drayton Manor Park Metro race at Oulton Park, mixed fortunes for Adam Key at Croft in the Cockshoot Cup; a class win in race one but a series of incidents in race two resulted in a DNF and a somewhat modifi ed MGF. The photo shows some members in the gallery at Ayscoughfee.

First of all, I’m sure you will all join me in wishing our chairman Paul Hipkiss a speedy recovery from his recent surgery. Following complications it seems he may be in New Cross hospital for some time yet. If you would like to visit please arrange through Mags his wife.

The big event for the Centre this past month has been our Autumn Trial. Brian Osborn, our treasurer, informs me that this made a positive contribution to the Centre funds, pretty much offsetting the loss from the Summer Sprint. I have included Tony Lake’s report below verbatim.

What a cracking day Sunday September 27 was, wall to wall sunshine, another good entry of 30 cars and some tricky dew on the grass early on, which had all the drivers and bouncers searching for grip. But where were all the MGs? Some we know were ‘hors de combat’, both cars and drivers, but a lot of the stalwarts were missing. We’d like to see them return next year.

Steve Courts came out on top in his Imp to win the Autumn Trophy. Don and Helen Skelton in their PWA7 trials special, chased him all the way to second overall and best in class fi ve, ahead of Peter Manning and Geoff Smith in their Midget who won the Allen Trophy for the best MG. The Saxos of Ray Jacobs and Philip Buckle were nip and tuck all day, separated by a single mark at lunchtime which continued in Ray’s favour in the afternoon with a fi ve mark advantage and third overall. The Imps of Richard Tompkins and Dave Harvey tied at the end but Richard’s more exuberant driving on the special test gave him a three second advantage to come second in class four.

We had some really useful and very welcome help setting up fi rst thing from Nigel Whiten, Chris Johns and Jonathan Toulmin who drove in the event, and also from Liz and Adrian Tucker-Peake and Steve Bach. Clerk of the Course Brian Osborn said the sections had never been laid out so quickly.

David Bowlas got everybody scrutineered on time.Simon Morris, Chief Marshal was delighted

with the marshal turnout, so many thanks to Liz and Adrian Tucker-Peake, Steve Bach, John Grottick, Valerie Turner, Grosvenor Lucas, David Croskell, Bill Childs, Steve Purcell, Roger King, Vince Williams, Kelvin Mottram, Chris Ashkenny, Roger Hawkins, Brian and Daphne Davies, Adrian Higman, Alex Hedges and Rick Willoughby who crewed at the last minute for David Jackson in his Ford Pop special, you never know your luck.

That kind of support from volunteers makes the organisers’ jobs so much easier. Finally, big thanks to Jane and Fred Bury who waded through the results in record time so that pretty well everybody could hear how they had done before they left for home.

This time of year is when our Natters are organising their Christmas meals so contact the leaders if you would like to attend. A list is shown on our website. News on the Natter front – the Swan Natter has moved back to the Fox in Chaddesley Corbett. They continue to meet on the second and fourth Monday evenings of the month. To save being tied to a pub name they now wish to be known as the North Worcestershire MG Car Club.

We usually join our friends in the Morgan three wheeler club for their Holly Run around the Worcestershire countryside in early December. The provisional date for this is Sunday December 13 but watch out for next month’s notes or the website for confi rmation.

The Christmas walk will take place on the Monday bank holiday of December 28. No venue has been chosen yet so if you have any ideas or would even like to lead the walk, please let me know. Peter Manning and Geoff Smith, winners of the Allen Trophy for the best MG. Photo: Simon Morris



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The major Centre event this month is the Dinner Dance and Awards presentation being held on Saturday November 21 at the Deanwater Hotel in Woodford. There is still time to buy a ticket if you haven’t already done so by emailing David Rainsbury on [email protected]. We are hoping that most of the award winners will be there and some surprises are planned for the evening. We will also have our new display stand in use which will provide a superb backdrop for photography.

Our main indoor meeting this month is at the Plough and Flail on Tuesday November 17. Preliminary dates for a lot of events are being published and so that will be a good time to decide on those that we are going to support. The last Wednesday lunch meeting of the year will be held on November 25 at the Davenport Arms, 550, Chester Road, Woodford, SK7 1PS.

The Centre Committee have been reviewing the competitive events that were organised during the season. The good news is that they all ran well and had good competitor support. Looking forward to 2016, we hope to run two Anglesey Sprint weekends, Scammonden Dam Hillclimb and the Stowe Sprint at MGLive!. What has become noticeable is that we are attracting new competitors, but the pool of marshals and

offi cials that we draw from is getting smaller (and older!). We do have some succession planning in place, but one of our major aims in 2016 is going to be a drive to engage newcomers in learning about the administration of motor sport and developing the skills to be involved on the day in running events. Please contact me if you are interested in helping in this way.

The Cockshoot Cup race championship was fought out over the two fi nal races at Croft Circuit on September 26 and 27. When the chequered fl ag fell on Sunday, we were able to crown Jeremy Toes as champion, but only on the tie-breaker of the ninth round. Jeremy achieved the maximum score of 77 points driving his MG Midget in Class A, a feat also achieved by Gary Wetton, the winner of Class C in his MG ZR 190. David Morrison took the Class B crown

whilst Volker (Mike) Eickmeyer was the Class F victor in his MGF. A sizeable crowd of members and friends attended Croft. The Darlington and District Motor Club revived the Battle of Britain meeting and unusually solo and sidecar motorbikes raced during the day as well as the car grids.

Finally, if any Centre members are clearing garages during the winter and wish to dispose of cars or spares, please let me know.

Jeremy Toes Receives the Cockshoot Cup. Photo: Dickon Siddall

I am writing this in glorious early October sunshine, having just returned from Jon Glover’s Tour of Dartmoor and Cornwall where we enjoyed equally good weather. The trip was a great success and a tribute to his hard work as organiser. We all had a great time and all the cars behaved themselves except one, mine! I’m told that the most impressive sight of the trip was not the Eden Project nor the Lost Gardens, but the fl ames coming out of the V8’s exhaust

pipe thanks to a chronic misfi re. Fortunately, I had met these symptoms before, caused, yet again, by the premature failure of a brand new (Chinese) capacitor, and I had a spare still packed in its Lucas wrapping, so normal service was soon restored. That glitch aside, everything went splendidly well, so thanks again, Jon!

I have early warning of the Black Horse Treasure Hunt on December 6 being run by Steve Cherry, 07940 593015. Right now, I don’t know

where it’s happening so you’ll have to ring Steve to fi nd out. I do know that our Committee would be pleased and encouraged if a healthy number of Members turned up at the Three Horseshoes, Sidlow, RH2 8PT, at noon on Saturday November 21 for our AGM where a free light lunch will be provided. Do try to be there, they deserve all the support they can get!

A few months back, I reported meeting a TA owner who didn’t attend Club events because he felt his less than perfect car was denigrated by other attendees. I have now heard from another Member who has suffered exactly the same experience to the point where he will only take his car to general classic gatherings, but not MG ones. Now a sample of two is scarcely scientifi c but we would be silly not to ask ourselves if these Members don’t have a point. So, should we make more effort to cater for cars in the ‘warts an’ all’ category? Not everyone can afford the cost of restoring their cars and not everyone wants to. As for making disparaging comments about cars in their owners’ hearing, I call that simply rude! Our Committee have discussed this point and asked me what remedial suggestions I can offer. Right now, the answer is ‘none’, but I’m willing to offer a Scribe’s Prize for the best contribution to the debate from a reader, provided it’s printable, that is!

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CENTRES

TYNE TEESNoel Lindford [email protected]

CENTRE

SOUTH WESTDave Coppock 01934 834429 [email protected]

CENTREOur season of events is now complete for this year, and looking back we must gratefully remember the continued support we have received from our small but dedicated group of marshals. You know who you are, so a big thank you from all the competitors and of course from the committee. Our bigger events such as Wiscombe can require up to 30 volunteers, yet less than half can be raised from within our own club. The message is clear, so please do try to support just one event next year and help out on the day. It’s fun, friendly and the only requirement is your own enthusiasm.

The MGs on Grass event, which was re-scheduled due to appalling weather, took place on a fi ne sunny morning in early September. A small entry, but great fun for all involved at this unique fast grass venue. The times for the overall winner were a dead heat between John Delafi eld, Midget, and Chris Leverett in the TD special. A popular decision was for a shoot out using the longest test. With just over one minute of frantic slalom and opposite locks the winner was Chris Leverett by just one second.

Our annual social visit to a speed hill climb event, organised by Phil Archer, was to the wonderful Prescott near Cheltenham. This historic

venue owned by the Bugatti Owners Club since 1937 brings together the best in traditional sport plus this year the theme of American Classics, with live rock and roll bands and the oldest UK Wall of Death show, which was free to watch. This amazing spectacle was built in the 1920s and uses the original 1929 Indian motorcycles. A great day out with something for everyone to enjoy.

During the coming months your only contact with other members may be at one of our 10 monthly Natter meetings. Most Natters will be holding a festive gathering soon, so why not make it a time to catch up with friends towards the end of the year. The Christmas meal at the Ring of Bells in Compton Martin is on the fi rst Tuesday in December and Andrew Owst takes the bookings. See you there.

Despite a lot of other competing events, we had 34 cars signed up for the 8th Old Speckled Hen Run, with 30 cars making the start on a lovely early autumn day.

Keith Dunn put together a superb driving route of some 90 miles, running through Weardale, Teesdale, Northumberland and a short trip into Cumbria. The event started and fi nished at the Chatterbox Café in St. Johns Chapel. The owner, Cameron (a real character), made us very welcome and provided breakfast rolls and hot drinks at the start. The map below shows the

circular route taking the cars over smooth quiet roads through quite stunning scenery. Many chose to have lunch at Alston, with the station café a popular choice, but others decided to press on to Hartside Café for refreshment.

The event fi nished back at the Chatterbox Café, where cream teas were very welcome, as all made it safely to the fi nish. Cameron was our guest judge, and he chose David Bolton’s MGB Roadster for his favourite pre-1981 MG and Paul Guellard’s MG TF LE500 as his post 1981 MG choice. Yours truly chose Mike Leatherland’s

superb prototype Austin Healey 100/6 for the Spirit of the Event which we award to a non-MG.

Events coming up: Wednesday November 11: Visit to Aston Workshops 10.30am. A return visit to see the amazing work they can do to restore and enhance classic Aston Martins. The visit of some two hours is free, but it is compulsory to have a meal afterwards at £25 per head, at the Black Horse at Red Row, Beamish, close to the Aston Workshops. Please contact David Alexander on 01670 861178 or [email protected] asap if you would like to go. There is a minimum number of 10 people required for the visit to go ahead. Saturday December 5: Tyne-Tees Awards Dinner, to be held once again at the Gibside Hotel Wickham. Arrive 7.30pm for 8.00pm. Tickets are available at £23.50 for a four course Christmas dinner. This very enjoyable evening is open to all members, families and friends. Should you wish to make a weekend of it, overnight rooms (at an advantageous rate) including breakfast are available at the Gibside Hotel. Enquiries and bookings to: Lyn Ebdon on [email protected] or 01434 344568 There should also be a booking form on our Tyne-Tees website as shown above.Old Speckled Hen Run 2015 trophy winners. Photo: Noel Lindford

Some of the MGs that attended the SW Centre Autumn Run to Prescott. Photo: Jim LottChris Leverett in his MG TD Special on one of the tests on MGs on Grass 2. Photo: Jim Lott



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YORKSHIREDavid Copeman 07920 064585 www.mgccyorkshire.co.uk

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ULSTERCarol Willis Tel: (028) 9079 9997 or 07831 345560 Email: [email protected] Website: www.mgcculstercentre.co.uk

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North – Ken CothliffIn September we welcomed another new member, Ken Payne, owner of another red Midget. The Dales run proved to be a big success. The two ladies who bid for the RV8 rides on the run, Sue Burgess and Sue Forsyth, thoroughly enjoyed their fi rst experience as navigators, in Colin and David’s cars. 102 cars were present in fi ne Yorkshire sunshine, for a route that took in some of the most attractive parts of the Northern Dales. A report was published in last month’s magazine, and if you’d like to see more photos check our MGCC Yorkshire website: http://mgccyorkshire.co.uk/gallery/.

Although we did have members come from afar – Clackmannanshire and Norfolk – we are always hoping for more members from the south of England to join us on this fantastic run. Mike Payne introduced our new canvas NY Natter carrier bags, which were a big success.

South – Marie DobsonSeveral South Yorkshire members attended the Dales Run at the end of August, making a weekend of it by hiring a canal boat on the Bank Holiday Monday. Such a good time was had by all that plans are afoot to repeat the experience next year.September was a quiet month for us, although six of our number plus their MGs spent a fortnight in the south of France, perfect topless driving country.

Looking ahead to November, a group of us will once again be heading to Keswick to spectate on the VSCC trial.

East – Chris MooreMembers enjoyed a great relaxing weekend with lovely weather at Fort Paull Historic and Classic Vehicle Show, with six members taking their caravans to the campsite and the museum.

Results as follows: MGCC Stand: 1st Jill Thornton, MGB; 2nd Chris Moore, MGB GT; 3rd Greg Thornton, MG6. Also Steve Pountney got a 1st in the American Class and Steve Moore a 2nd in the Military Class. West – David CopemanMG only runs were a little thin on the ground during September so along with several other members we took part in local charity runs which attract many different classic car marques. It’s quite enjoyable to wander around the other entries reminiscing over cars we had owned in the past and wishing we had the foresight to have kept them.

As part of club night we had a multiple choice

quiz on road signs and their meaning which caused a great deal of discussion. Clifford had the most points but the scores were reasonably close so the consensus was we could all drive home safely

Tiger – Pete WelbournThe fi nal luncheon run for this summer was a return to the Hope and Anchor at Blacktoft, and considering the lack of organisation on my behalf was quite well attended, so thanks to those who made it and apologies to those who wondered what was going on.

The reason for the above was Mel and I were joining the MGA 60th anniversary ‘LEJOG’: not the entire route; we met the vanguard at Bristol and travelled with them to Irvine, where we took our leave and jogged home via Seahouses.

Our congratulations to all those who did the entire route, and what a route, many thanks to Stuart and the team.

On Sunday September 20 Dundrod was invaded by masses of MGAs together with all manner of MGs of varying ages. We also had other old marques on display. It was a wonderful spectacle and everybody seemed to enjoy their couple of laps of the Circuit. It was the 60th anniversary of the MGA and also 60 years since the last Dundrod race which had been hosted by the UAC and all were in great celebratory form. Gordon and Mike had commissioned a commemorative plaque which was presented to Ken Stewart of the Dundrod Circuit on behalf of the UAC, MG Car Club, MG Owners Club and the Dundrod Motor Cycle Club. Mike Armstrong had organised a couple of beautifully scenic tours – the Saturday around the Glens of Antrim and the Monday to Mountstewart and through the Mournes to entertain our visitors.

On September 24 we had invited landowners and others who had helped our Centre over the years to visit Raymond Walls Collection and it was a resounding success. We couldn’t get some to

go home so I think that says it all. No matter how often you go there is always something brought to one’s attention, not having noticed it in the past! Raymond said he had down-sized his collection but it certainly seemed to be just as extensive as on other occasions.

As I said last month, PCT venues are proving to be diffi cult to fi nd this year. The fi rst PCT was held at Cunningburn on September 19, an absolutely super site where we ran three PCTs and two Grass Slaloms. With an entry of 20 competitors we had a terrifi c day where Mark Lemon and Bailie Thompson with a score of three were our highest placed members. The Grass Slalom was won by Bailie closely followed by Roger Fynn and Mark ‘Sparkles’ Faulkner. Our second PCT was held on October 3 at Belmont and, believe it or not, the barley was cut on the Wednesday, the straw baled the evening before and the bales lifted as we were setting up the event. That was a very close shave and we still have one to go. We had 16 entrants that day with

four members achieving a zero score – Will and Bailie Thompson, Mark Brien and our newest member Brian Ballantine. We will have to see if it’s beginners luck with Brian or is he hiding his light under a bushel? The Grass Slalom was won by Will Thompson with his father Bailie hot on his heels. Congratulations to all.

Unfortunately we have had to cancel the Castle Dillon site this year as the Duck Shoot people had this date on their calendar and so we are hurriedly looking around for an alternative.

I fear the elements surrounding our events are doing their best to give me a ‘coronorary’, I don’t remember having such diffi culties with sites over the past 20 years or so.

So we just have our AutoSOLO and Mince Pie Night left to enjoy this year. Where has the year gone!

Dates for your DiaryAutoSOLO November 7 Mince Pie Night December 8

Cars gather for the start of the Yorkshire Centre MGCC 85 Run, a report will be in the next issue.

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September/October sees the end of most of the year’s events. When you read this we shall all be in our garages with our heads stuck in the engine bay doing those jobs we have promised to do throughout the year. One job in my case is to rebuild my steering wheel which did not really please my MOT examiner following a voluntary MOT.

However August saw us at a Concours d’Etat in an Oxford College all of three miles from home with the VSCC. Rodney Kettel came down for this in his MG 18/80. Interestingly the winner amongst all the posh cars was an Austin Seven Speedy, to my mind a delightful little car. We had some merriment offl oading two elegant ladies from the back of the speed model with legs akimbo, oh what fun, but getting them back in when it had started to rain was even more amusing, I am sorry I did not have a picture to publish. My next excursion was to a local village

fete where I allowed a couple of little children to sit in the car. An hour later there had been at least 60 kids sit in. Who knows, one may become an MG enthusiast one day. No damage was done and I have a master switch which kills all the electrics so the horn does not work. Really it was a very satisfying thing to see the pleasure they all seemed to get.

Anyway on to matters which are in hand for 2016. Please put the date of Sunday March 13 in your diaries. This is our well liked AGM which starts at 11am at the Shillingford Bridge Hotel, near Wallingford. It is hoped we shall see a few cars there. We have a meeting for about an hour, drinks and then lunch, after which we have a speaker who I am sure will be of interest to the ladies as well, who of course are very welcome to come. The hotel can offer rooms for those who have a long way to travel.

The next event, for which I have 15 serious

enquiries, is our Spring Event, between Monday April 18 and Friday April 22, based on Dumbleton Hall near Prescott with some very vintage type roads around, plus a good number of places to visit which I am going to sort out over the next couple of months. The cost of the hotel will be around £70 per person per night, dinner, bed and breakfast, and you can come for part of the event should you wish, paying accordingly. This is our annual Spring Event, and we are also having an event in September where we are going to Guernsey for a few days for an event organised by Marion Quarrington which sounds fabulous. If anyone wishes to join either event please let me know and I can then pass on your names.

Finally this month we welcome a new member to the Register, Fred Jenns from Amersham, who has recently purchased a 14/40. We hope he will really enjoy his new (to him) old car.

End of Season Pics:Welcome to the November MMM notes, shorter this month as I’ve squeezed in two pictures of our cars being used to the full (both from the camera of Colin Murrell). The fi rst is long time owner of C0256 Dave Cooksey “hanging it all out“ at the Autumn MGCC Castle Combe Race Meeting in the company of several other MMM enthusiasts, the racing is no doubt reported elsewhere in this issue. The second is of well known historic racer (cars that is, not he himself) Barrie Williams taking a guest drive in K3009 at this years Goodwood Revival. Colin managed to capture the car distinctly sideways coming out of the chicane, running a bit short of track. All I can say is he seems to be enjoying himself! Two cracking photos from Colin to enthuse those thinking of dipping their toe into the world of competition next season.

Get Well Soon:Unfortunately whilst over in France competing at the Angouleme Historic Races at the end of September Barry Foster and C0280 (aka “The Rat”) tangled with a back marker and the unforgiving nature of the kerbs at this (very) old style street circuit resulted in Rat and Barry upending themselves, doing varying degrees of damage to both in the process. Following repatriation of Barry and the rattus aegrotus, he is currently “post-op”, convalescing after work on his shoulder, reporting The Rat as being “tatty” and that he can only manage wine bottles with screw-tops (we all have our crosses to bear). We wish him all the best from the MMM community and hope that he’s back up and running before too long, able to open a decent bottle of red.



REGISTERS

SVWPaul Campbell [email protected] www.svwregister.co.uk

REGISTER

REGISTERT TYPEJohn Ward 01621 773606 [email protected] www.tregister.org

As you may have noted in the previous edition of Safety Fast! Anne Bush and I have taken on the role of joint Scribe, taking over from Charlie Plain-Jones who has enough work editing The SVW Review, the excellent 24th edition of which was first issued at The SVW Weekend at Chichester in early August. Last month Anne drew your attention to our joint email address above.

In June we had the pleasure of attending a friend’s wedding in Suffolk and our route took us

The 2016 SVW Weekend in Belgium was previously publicised to take place on the first weekend in June. Things have moved on owing to the change of dates for The British Grand Prix which also meant moving MGLive!. The organisers leapt into action and managed to agree new dates with the two chosen hotels. The weekend will now take place from June 14 to 16 2016 (Tuesday–Thursday), so please make a firm note of this in your new diaries. The MG European Event of the Year takes place on the previous weekend at Le Touquet in France and I’m sure quite a few of us will take in both events.

For the second time I was asked to display my VA Tourer on the airfield at The Goodwood Revival. Rather than making a special trip to collect it on the Monday, I stayed late on the Sunday and joined the racers in the paddock waiting to leave – a rather good photo opportunity!

close to Colchester, so we took the opportunity of dropping in to see Grahame Page and his lovely VA Saloon. Grahame has attended many of the annual SVW Weekends in the past but now at the age of 90 he prefers more local drives, which often means to a local MG Natter with his nephew. I can report that the VA remains in fine fettle. Many of our members will remember that Grahame’s father bought this car new in 1938, an easy transaction given he was running Pages Garage in Colchester at the time who were agents for MG Cars and other marques. It was passed to Grahame in the early 1950s so its provenance is second to none. Grahame himself was in fine form and we were delighted to see some of his albums that catalogue the history of Pages Garage and the cars they sold and indeed owned themselves.

The 2015 T Register Autumn Tour on September 11-14 to the South CotswoldsAs promised last month, a little more on this year’s Autumn Tour; you can also see a full report on the T Register website (www.tregister.org) by clicking onto the TRN link and viewing the October edition.

38 cars and crew found their way eventually to a majestic setting at the Tortworth Court Hotel near Wootton under Edge, a Victorian Gothic mansion in extensive grounds and yet boasting such facilities as a spa, fitness club, sauna and indoor swimming pool. It was little wonder that

the whole weekend was more than busy for the staff, not only coping with a few old T Types but also a wedding (or was it two?) on both Friday and Saturday, but they managed it all admirably.

Saturday saw us heading off in a 60 mile loop, first off west to Tetbury then northwards to Nailsworth and Minchinhampton, on to Stroud and up to Gloucester and its refurbished docks and shopping malls. Then back to the hotel, a quick wash and brush up before an entertainment by a traditional lot in these parts, ‘the Stroud Styx’ with pagan dress (of sorts), painted or blackened faces and all manner of music, wailing and dance, and of course the much bashing of sticks.

Sunday dawned, early for some, but then on the road again, today a longer travail through the Gloucester countryside for some 90 miles. Up to Dursley and Nympsfield, west to Chalford with stunning views west and then northwards as far as Birdlip before south again to Cirencester and ultimately west toward Tetbury, past Highgrove and onto Hawkesbury Upton and Thornbury before an interesting route to Berkeley Castle and so back to base.

Monday morning and the goodbyes, hastened this year by the weather and not a good prospect for those travelling a long way, but that is T Typing. See you all again next year in Dorset, come rain or shine!

The Saturday Gala dinner then followed its usual pattern, a splendid meal, a little wine and then the customary speeches, an ode and of course the presentation of the annual T Register Awards.

A delighted Roy Miller being presented with the Malcolm Hogg Trophy by President Mike Lugg, more than just reward for his 17 years’ dedicated services both as Historian and DVLA representative for the T Register.






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REGISTERS

Y TYPEJerry Birkbeck 01926 258691 Mob: 07855 566325 [email protected]

REGISTER

MAGNETTE Stephen Tickell 01737 760330 [email protected] www.magnette.org

REGISTER

EventsI am writing this a couple of weeks after returning from a superb break in the Loire in early September, excellently organised by Peter and Gillie Sharp. Twenty-four of us participated and there were 12 cars – 10 Ys, a TD and a Ford Focus. Chris and Annette Callaghan would have come in their YB but refurbishing of the

body shell had not quite been completed. They had elected to carry their spares and these could not fi t inside their modern MGF so hence the Focus. Ironically, there was no call on any of the spares as all the cars made it there and back home with around 550 miles in France. There will be more in the December issue, when we have our newsletter, and several photos and an

event report have been placed on the Register website.

ArticlesI receive comments and articles from a number of you and due to space limitations, these are placed on the Website and also on our Facebook page. I will include at least one of these in the end of year review. Please do continue to send in any information that you have about your Y and activities that you may have undertaken in it.

More Ys unearthedIn September I received an email from fellow scribe Edward Vandyk (MGA Register) seeking some advice about items on a YT (YT 4458) that he has recently purchased; a photograph is included next to this column. The remainder are posted on the website.

New Committee MemberWe are pleased to announce that Peter Sharp has kindly volunteered to join the Y Register Committee, and are delighted to accept his kind offer.

2017 Ys at 70!March 2017 marks the 70th Anniversary of the birth of the Y (okay it would have been launched in 1941 but was unfortunately delayed by an unforgettable event). In 1997 we celebrated the 50th Anniversary with the Birth of the Y Run which became the forerunner of the Spring Run which is being held in 2016 in the Cotswolds over the weekend of May 7-8.

We are looking for any ideas and suggestions that you may have to celebrate this event. Please contact me with your thoughts and suggestions.

New Register PresidentAlthough we’ll never be able to replace Lou Shorten and her unique style, we’re delighted that Celia Palmer has agreed to step into the gap as Register President. Celia’s fi rst guest appearance was at GP100, our 2011 event to celebrate the centenary of her father, Magnette designer Gerald Palmer. On that occasion we tracked Celia down quite easily, as she still lives in the family home in Oxford that Gerald built. Since 2011 she’s joined us at several other events, where she’s always fascinating to talk to and interested in our cars.

Celia has already had some practice presenting trophies (including at Magnette60) and apart from that her duties as President will be fairly light, but it’s a privilege to have her formally associated with the Register.

Kop Hill, September 19-20An annual fi xture since 2009, Kop Hill Climb is a non-competitive revival of an event that was run from 1910 until 1925, when an accident involving spectators led the RAC to ban racing on public roads. The original hill climb featured the likes of Malcolm Campbell, Raymond Mays and Henry Seagrave competing for the fastest run, and the hill record was set in 1924 by Count Zborowski driving a Ballot GP.

It’s a fabulous opportunity to see some wonderful cars driven very quickly. These range from pre-war cars such as ERAs and blower Bentleys through to some beautiful cars from the 1950s and 60s including a D Type Jaguar, many MGs and Italian exotica, right through to a few modern supercars such as McLarens and Ferraris.

The classic and clubs display in the paddock is outstanding with all sorts of pre-1980 cars from MGs to Triumphs, Alvis, Lotus, American muscle cars and so much more. On each day there were over 500 classics. One of the highlights of the weekend was the pre-war

record breakers display, including the amazing Napier-Railton from Brooklands with its 24 litre aero engine.

The weather was fabulous both days and the Magnette turnout was up on previous years, with seven on Saturday and six on Sunday. Anthony White drove his lovely ZA up the hill on the Saturday, while David Halliday ran his ex-Jan Pearce ZB on the Sunday. Both cars performed very well, and Anthony is now editing the footage from his front and rear-mounted video cameras which will hopefully give a good impression of the climb – look out for it on magnette.org

by David Halliday

ex-Jan Pearce ZB at Kop HillCelia Palmer at Magnette60






REGISTERS

Neil Thomas 07891 684435 [email protected] www.midgetregister.com

MIDGET REGISTER

MGAEdward Vandyk Tel: 01488 608810 [email protected]

REGISTERSeptember was the culmination of the 60th Anniversary celebrations of the launch of the MGA. The running of the Land’s End to John o’Groats Tour, the subject of a full article in this edition of Safety Fast!, went seamlessly, and was over all too quickly, in far better weather than August had led us to fear. ‘Return to Dundrod’, celebrating the MGA entries in the 1955 Tourist Trophy, was the other major event in September and here Beth Corbett in particular deserves a mention. Having completed the LEJOG Tour solo in her Coupe, and having lost her clutch two

thirds of the way through it and with it being repaired in Inverness, she got from John o’Groats on the Thursday to Dundrod, in Northern Ireland, the next day so as to participate in both events

‘Return to Dundrod’, accompanied by the fi nal part of George Dutton’s scrapbook which features pictures of the 1955 event, will be the subject of a later article.

George found a photograph of the launch of the MGA at the 1955 Frankfurt show which shows the EX179 record breaker in the background!

Terry Drinkwater has been at his winning ways again! He and Alan Atkins took fi rst and second in Pre 75 Sport Car Class in their MGA Coupe, RVJ 550, at the Prescott Autumn Classic on October 4. Competition included two Porsche 911s, E-type, C-Type (replica), Healey 3000 etc. When asked why his Coupe was so quick, Terry responded by asking why their cars were so slow, enough said! The answer may lie in 765kg, 1950cc, 170bhp, 5 speed close ratio box, limited slip differential with 4.8 fi nal drive and, of course, in Terry’s undoubted ability.

AWC Committee Member, Brian Broom, has photographs of most, if not all, the MGAs that took part on August 2, MGA Day 2015, passing through Edgehill en route between Gaydon and Upton Park. He has kindly offered to provide hard

copies in various sizes with a small charge for P&P. Brian can be contacted on [email protected]. To give you a fl avour I thought my car looked terrifi c!

Where has this last month gone? Midget ownership makes time go faster I’m sure. Last month I told you I was off to Brittany in my Midget. Well I did around 800 miles and the car went like a clock. Hood down for the 11 days, with just the tonneau on at nightime. Perfect.

As I write these notes my wife and I have just returned from the Midget Register weekend that I had organised for the club to the Isle of Wight. Seven cars took part for the Friday to Monday event and the Midgets and Sprites drew lots of attention as we toured around the island. Everyone we saw seemed to love these little cars. The hotel we stayed in at Shanklin was great and the weather superb. Top down motoring all weekend. I’m not going to give much detail as I plan to include a write up in our February Newsletter. Weekends away together are a great way to get to know one another. And I’ll be

arranging another one next year by the looks of it (see pic).

Mike, our Chairman, wanted me to mention that this year the Midget Register do not have their own stand at the NEC Classic Car Show. This is a move forced upon us by the show organisers. It is a shame but we could do nothing about it. The main club will have a stand as usual however.

I’m told that once again the Kop Hill event held on September 19 was a fantastic event with great weather to top it all. I’ve included a photo.

Our Midget Registrar, Graham, has also informed me that member Sean Leverton recently attended the Brunel Run and won car

of the event in his Midget. Sean restored the car in 2006 with a new shell and the results remain outstanding. Well done (see pic).

Well that’s it from me again this month. Speak to you again in December when Xmas will be just around the corner!

Terry Drinkwater. Photo: John Hallett Photography

Edgehill – MGA Day 2015

Midgets at Kop Hill

Sean Leverton recently attended the Brunel Run and won car of the event in his Midget Midgets enjoying the sun during the Isle of Wight Midget Register Weekend.

Frankfurt - 1955



REGISTERS

MGCGinny Cartmell 01208 821552 [email protected]

REGISTEROur trip to the Dolomites....When Marcus Brundler told Barrie and me that he was preparing another MG in the Alps for 2015, we both decided we wanted to get involved and book this tour. Early in the year we sent off our entry, hoping we would get a place, as Marcus only takes between 30 and 32 cars on this particular event. Our entry was confirmation quite soon and our place was confirmed. Then the fun started, preparing the car for the trip of its life. Although we have taken the C to America before, this was serious mountains, with multiple hairpins bends every day of an eight day tour! Weeks before leaving we booked the car into our MG Specialist, Tim Kelly in St Agnes, and he gave the car a really good going over, paying particular attention to the braking system, didn’t want any cliff hangers...!We set off from Cornwall into Devon, heading for Brittany Ferries to Roscoff. We planned a nice easy run, with many stops on the way, giving ourselves five days to travel to Italy. The C drove beautifully through France, Switzerland, Austria, taking in a little corner of Liechtenstein and then into Italy. Before the event had even started, we had clocked up 1,136 miles, without a hiccup.

The event was amazing with breathtaking scenery and fantastic roads. If you want to do something completely different, this is the trip to book. Marcus puts this event on every three years, so look out for it next time. It’s full on, great fun and will test your driving skills to the limit.

Unfortunately our car did take us out of the event on days two and three. From the start of the second day Barrie started having problems with the brakes, not the sort of thing you want on top of a mountain with 15 hairpin bends to deal with. Every time the brakes were applied the car pulled violently to the right, and bearing in mind we had climbed up to 5,000 feet at this point, it was rather hairy to say the least. We managed to get help from the support car and duly arrived at the bottom of the mountain to be advised that they thought the brake callipers needed to be replaced. We then made a call to our Cornish garage, who reacted very quickly and the parts were on DHL and the replacements arrived the very next day. Callipers were fitted along with a spare hose that Tim had put in the box; the following day we were back up the mountain enjoying the tour with the rest of the gang.

Our trip home was thankfully uneventful. Once again we enjoyed our journey over another five days of lovely sunshine, good food and splendid driving, clocking up some 2,800 miles. Not bad for a car that will be celebrating its 50th Birthday in 2017.

PS. Regarding the old callipers, they were inspected on return and found to be in working order. It was a blocked hose; so thanks for the extra part, Tim.

Peter Worrell’s Green MGC GT. Peter travelled from from Spain, clocking up some 1,300 miles, to attend the 2015 MGC Day.

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FWDTanya Field 07929 868284 tanyafi [email protected]

REGISTER

V8Victor Smith 0208 392 9434 [email protected] www.v8register.net

REGISTERChurches tour around WatlingtonThe tour began at St Katherine’s church in Chiselhampton, one of the best examples of Georgian church architecture in Oxfordshire with family links to the event organiser Charles Peers. With good weather the tour of six churches was an enjoyable and interesting day, ending

with a guided tour and tea at Ewelme church with a short organ recital by fellow member Tudur Jones. The Red Lion, an attractive pub in Chalgrove, provided a warm welcome and an excellent dinner to complete the day. For more photos see: www.v8register.net/more.htm

V8s on tour in GermanyKai Knickmann reports there was something

for everybody at the V8 Tour 2015 to Germany that took place in the fi rst week of September at Moers in the lower Rhine area. It was a popular tour organised by Brigitte and Walter Kallenberg. Most participants were V8 Register members from the UK, but there was a good following as well from Portugal, Switzerland, France, the Netherlands and Sweden. For a full report see: www.v8register.net/more.htm

This year we’re celebrating 30 years of the MG Montego Turbo – more on that shortly. Of course, each of us also has a birthday every year and while I might not always be a fan of mine, thanks to my superb cake, I’ll make an exception this year. My son Jamie and his girlfriend Sophie burnt the midnight oil making and decorating a cake of Arthur, my MG Maestro 1600. The detail was amazing down to the door mirrors, aerial and even the chrome door lock with black surround! Not only was the icing a perfect match for Zircon Blue, it also had a metallic fi nish. I would really rather not have had to cut it, but my family (most

of whom do not appreciate the wonders of classic cars) insisted that I need. I can also report that it was a very good cake – maybe classic car themed cakes should feature on the next series of the Great British Bake Off!

To help celebrate the MG Montego’s 30th, we’re very lucky that Jeff Patterson is bringing his black MG Montego Turbo, aptly named ‘Black Beauty’, to the NEC Classic Motor Show. This really is a stunning car and will be accompanied by Phil Pope’s black MG Maestro Turbo and if I can fi nd one, a black MG Metro Turbo, a display that will work beautifully with this year’s theme

of ‘She’s a Beauty’. If the plans work out, I also hope to have an ADO 16, so we will be able to represent each model on our stand. We are also hoping to be joined by Russ Swift, whom you may remember for the Montego car park advert back in 1988 where he performed several stunts. Russ is a true Montego man as it was the Montego that gave him his fi rst break into television work and other stunt driving. After the Montego Display Team, he went on to do stunt displays with Minis and Rover 200s to name but a few, and of course MG3s. Hopefully Russ with once again be at MGLive! next year.

Anyway, back to the MG Montego Turbo. Launched on April 3 1985, at the time it was the fastest four door, mass produced saloon. This was quite something back in the day with 150bhp, a top speed pushing 130mph and a 0–60 of 7.3 seconds. As standard, it came with all round electric windows, central locking, power steering, alloy wheels and an electronic stereo. Of course, it also benefi ted from a large boot and fold down rear seats, so a bit of practicality with the power. Back in 1985, MG Montego Turbos came with a special pack which comprised a polishing cloth, key ring and a VHS video which featured racing driver Steve Soper and Ian Ogilvy. It’s just a shame that so few of them remain today.



2003 (03 Reg) Finished in: Trophy Blue/Black & Blue leather. A low mileage high spec TF135. Fitted with a colour coded removable hardtop with a blue soft top, Black and blue leather sport seats, 2 tone leather steering wheel, 16” alloys, plus much more. Having covered just 41,000 miles with full service history 11 services, plus new headgasket/cambelt/water pump earlier this year and less than 1,200 miles since, with bills. Immaculate condition, £4,395

1981 (W Reg) Manual Petrol Finished in Pageant Blue/Nimbus grey leather. Fast road MGB GT. FSH + original stamped service book + all mots since 1988, Engine rebuilt to 1868cc stage 2 lead free head piper 270cam, duplex timing gear, uprated suspension, stainless exhaust, all under 10,000 miles. The bodywork restored, LE front spoiler, Minilite alloys. MGCC members car. Outstanding condition throughout. £4,695

MG TF 160vvc SPRINT (just 37,000miles)

2003 (03 Reg) Manual Petrol A rare TF160vvc Sprint ltd edition with service history. Fitted with Light grey smokestone cockpit, black leather sport seats with grey alcantara inserts, sports pack 2, chrome packs, fog lights, etc. We have just service this TF plus fi tting a new headgasket/ water pump and cambelt. Excellent condition. Supplied with our CSA Heritage Certifi cate. Hardtop available £350+vat. £3,995

MG TF 135 Spark ltd edition. (just 69,000miles)

2005 (05 Reg) Manual Petrol Finished in Xpower Grey/black half leather High spec, eg sport pack 2 with 4 pot red calipers and unmarked 16” 11 spoke alloys, chrome packs, silver interior trim and steering wheel, wind defl ector, Unmarked ‘Spark’ salt & pepper hood. New headgasket/cambelt/water pump/stainless water pipes and moted. A superb condition Spark. Hardtop available for £350+vat. £3,795

MG TF 135 Pre-production Car (just 28,000miles)

2005 (05 Reg) Finished in Starlight Silver/Black leather A very low mileage TF135. Previously supplied by us in 2010 @ 21,000 miles now just 25,400 miles. Fitted with full unmarked black leather sport seats, silver pack interior, wind defl ector, mudfl aps. Supplied with full service history and Sold with a cambelt service. Outstanding condition. £4,795

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1964 (C Reg) Pull handle model. From our Classic & Racing Car selection A superb 1964 MGB pull handle Roadster fi nished in Tartan red with black leather/red piping and wire wheels. Documented history fi le, Thousands of pounds spent. Professionally repainted in 2014. Imported from Arizona USA back in 1995 bills and mots todate, recent new tyres (5) petrol tank brake pipes and MoT. Heritage certifi cate. A superb touring MGB, Outstanding condition. £15,995

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2002 (51 Reg) Finished in Trophy Blue. A very rare MG one of the fi rst made TF’s, chassis #D000133.Supplied with Full main dealer service history (9 services), MG owned until July 2003 and then one lady owner since. Outstanding condition and very low mileage a very original MG even down to the MG/Rover number plates, a real part of MGF/TF history. Colour coded hardtop is available for £350+vat. £3,995

MG TF 135 High spec+Hardtop (just 41,000miles)

MG MGB GT Fast Road Tourer (Outstanding)

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MG TF 135 Full leather (just 25,400 miles)

MG TF 135 facelift model (just 53,000miles)

2006 (06 Reg) Manual Petrol Facelift model TF135 having covered just 53,000 miles with full service history. Heated glass rear screen, soft ride suspension, engine water level censor, full black leather sport seats, Silver interior trim, fog lights, boot rack. We offer a choice of either black or silver alloys and with or without the boot rack. Superb condition throughout. Colour coded hard top available @ £350+vat £4,295

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REGISTERS

ZRZSZTJohn Thompson 07854 275541 [email protected] www.mgcc.co.uk/zedregister

REGISTER

MG6.3.5Steve Haines [email protected] www.facebook.com/groups/MG635Register twitter.com/635register

REGISTERThe Register and the MG Car Club took advantage of club weekend tickets with infield Register parking at the Silverstone rounds of the BTCC. There was a great turn out of 6s and 3s as well as all sorts of other MGs and Registers, all parked up near the Wellington straight. It was good to catch up with friends new and old, to share experiences and modifications and to have a base to sit and chat between races. There was lots of interest in the new models, both in the Register parking and at the MG Motor stand, which was displaying Jack Goff’s MG3.

The racing was as exciting as usual, culminating in a second place for Andrew Jordan in race one and Jack Goff in race two. Race

three wasn’t such a good one for the MG/888 team! It was nice to see MG/888 winning the manufacturer’s trophy for race one as well. Seeing the champagne flying on the podium and a fantastic reception for Jack Goff for race two was really good to see and taste!

Lots of photos of the day have been posted on the Facebook pages, with some members gaining access to the pit garages and lane as well as meeting the drivers throughout the weekend. BTCC is such an accessible form of motorsport which always provides great excitement, noise and smells. If you haven’t been, it really is worth experiencing, but a warning, it can be addictive!

The weather was fantastic as usual for this

meeting, we have been really lucky over the last four years! Let’s hope MG continue in the Championship again next season so we can do it all again….

Christmas is looming and a reminder that our AGM will be held at MG Motor Sales Centre in Longbridge on Saturday December 5 at 3pm. We are lucky enough to have Andy Kitson, Vice Director for chassis at SMTC, to give us a short talk on the current developments at Longbridge. We have a large table booked for our evening meal at the Guild in Bromsgrove from 7pm, but I need numbers for this as soon as possible. Please contact me [email protected] so I can get you booked in.

Events & showsThe curtain came down on the Club’s 2015 racing calendar with two days of close competition at Snetterton over the weekend of October 10-11. Several championships were decided over the weekend in dry, cloudy weather on Saturday and brilliant sunshine on the Sunday. Zeds were well represented in several races, starting with the two final rounds of the Trophy Championship, kindly sponsored by Dickon Siddall in memory of his late wife. Ross Makar and Jake Fraser-Burns led the penultimate round away. Jason Burgess made an electric start, only to be called back as the race was red flagged after a shunt at the first corner that left two ZRs with considerable front end damage. Thankfully their drivers, Mark Bellamy and Tim Martin, were largely uninjured. On the restart Makar led Fraser-Burns with Burgess third and it stayed that way to the chequered flag.

Close racing in the 170 Class saw Paul Luti led home by Dan Malloy by under a second. John Gill in the sole surviving 160 took that class. Jake Fraser-Burns also won the Driver of the Race and Driver of the Day awards, adding to his prize of £500 towards the 2016 entry fees in the drivers draw earlier in the day. The final race of the day was also the last round of the

Trophy Championship. Front row positions were as before. Wear and tear on the cars at the end of a long season were starting to show with the retirement of no fewer than seven of the already reduced grid of 20. Ross Makar, Jake Fraser-Burns and Jason Burgess made the podium again in the 190 class with Paul Luti taking the 170 class and Driver of the Race.

The Peter Best Insurance Challenge featured three times on the programme over the two days. There is a real mixture of entries in this class with two ZRs and a ZS among others taking to the track at the same time. In the Saturday race Richard Buckley led home Iain Dowler and three other ZRs. Racing started early on Sunday morning at 9am but this seemed to suit Oliver Coles who pipped Richard Buckley by 0.1 seconds to take the win. Buckley just prevailed in the third outing, winning by 0.4 seconds, this time from Ed Davies’ ZR. The fastest laps in all three races were by Shaun Holmes’ MGC GT which looked and sounded great down the start and finish straight, only to be out-cornered by the more nimble ZRs – sorry! Sunday afternoon saw the four hour British Motor Heritage relay event. This tough event saw the leaders reach the chequered flag at 5.45pm and completed as many as 167 laps. It requires much longer stints

from the drivers than the usual 20 minute races.Finally just to mention the lunchtime parade

laps: 26 cars took part over the two days. Other than MGLive! these are free to members driving MGs. Why not come along to the circuit and take advantage of this benefit? Find us in the MGCC Hospitality Suite. Another successful season for Zeds at the MGCC race meetings has now come to an end. Many thanks to the drivers, their support teams and the organisers. We look forward to the announcement of the 2016 schedule – see you there.

Paul Luti (69) won the MG Trophy ZR 170 class and was also awarded Driver of the Race at Snetteton. Photo: Dickon Siddall

MGs at Silverstone supporting the two BTCC MG6 cars. Andrew Jordan on the podium



LOOKING BACK

LookingBack

If you can tell us more about any of these cars or the events, we are always keen to hear from you at Kimber House; contact the MGCC Archivist Pete Neal on [email protected].

This great study above of John and Caroline Price in their 6R4 with all four wheels off the ground was taken on the Tyneside Stages of the ‘Safety Devices National Rally Championship’ which we think took place in August 2000, can you tell us anymore?

The Mark Rathbone photo below of Gordon Henderson’s superb looking ZB

Magnette was taken as the combination were leaving Brooklands for the Regency Run on May 12 2002.

We think the picture top right of an MG Maestro may have featured in Safety Fast! at a much earlier date. As there are no details on the photograph, perhaps someone can tell us a little more.

This rather smart looking MG Metro Turbo, we are told, belonged to Tim Hipwell at the time the picture was taken. We’ve checked on the DVLA website and there doesn’t seem to be any record of the car; does it still survive, locked away in a barn or even a private collection?



CARS FOR SALE

MGBGT LE 1981 For repair and restoration, mainbody very solid, engine and gearboxwith overdrive in good condition,near new club sport alloy wheelswith good tyres, the roof has beencut out ready for a full Webastoroof. All body panels, brakes, sus-pension, engine compartment, cool-ing on oil and water need attention.The MGBGT LE is in need of a fullrestoration, the number plate hasbeen valued at £500 and the MG iscurrently sorn £650 ono. Tel: Steve 0776954402. (Leicestershire )

MGBGT Bought new in 1981 and has beengaraged since 1985. It has only done40,000 and is in reasonable condi-tion. Offers in excess of £1900.Telephone 01245361744(Essex)

MGTF 135 200355,500 miles. On private plate Grey.Head gasket replaced 2015. Heatedglass rear screen. Mike Satur wind-break. D.A.B radio and CD. OnSorn. To be issued with new MOT. £1850.00. Tel: 01159373756 Mobile: 07527808210(Notts)

MG MIDGET 1975 Rubber bumper. Tidy bodywork, 4-speed gearbox, minor welding workrequired on nearside front andoffside front areas. Very neat interi-or. Luggage rack. Ideal for someonelooking for not too challenging aproject. £1300 ono. Tel: 01299 4033 or email: [email protected].

1946 MG TC. Immaculate. Only 3000 miles sincetotal chassis upwards professionalrestoration. Long history since the1950s. Green with silver wheels.Aeroscreens. Original chassis,engine, coachwork and colourscheme. Perfect paintwork andchrome. New tan hood, tonneauand side screens. Leather uphol-stery. Refurbished instruments.Rear axle lip seals. Bluemells steer-ing wheel. Dunlop tyres. Drivesbeautifully. E-mail for photographspast (1950s), restoration and present. £28,950. Tel; James, 07779423847. (Surrey)

MGB Roadster 1968Snowberry White present owner22 years loads of service historymany parts renewed, wheels,splines, engine fast road, s/s exhaust,too much to list. £6950 ono. Tel 01723 374237 (N Yorks)

1959 MGA Built to 1980’s MGCC MGAModified championship regs. Body& chassis steel as original, allydoors, boot, bonnet floors etc. Fullwidth low perspex windscreen,steel roll over cage bolted to chas-sis, all removable. Race provenengine, steel crank/flywheel, modi-fied pistons/rods race cam all light-ened balanced etc, Weber carb,close ratio straight cut gears. Modified brakes, shocks etc, 6’’ steelwheels with little used Avon roadtyres plus set of wheels with oldracers etc. All standard lights etc fit-ted road legal, no MOT or taxrequired because of age. Lastrebuilt/raced 1996, stored sincewith a little road use. Owned by mesince 1977 'ish. Various spares avail-abl. £19,000 ono. Contact me EricHoult on 07872521382 [email protected](Cornwall)

How to AdvertiseMembers can advertise their carsfree of charge in Safety Fast. Theadvert will also be posted on theClub website in due course. This isfor one insertion only. To place anadvert or for additional insertionsemail Colin Grant at [email protected] with detailsof your car, around 60 words, togeth-er with an attached picture, yourcontact information, price of yourcar, the area where you live, andmembership number. Cost for non-members to advertise is £20. Alladverts should be submitted by the15th of the month for the following months issue.

CARS FOR SALE

MGBGT 1974 In Teal Blue with Webasto. One ofthe last Chrome bumpers. Needsrespray and trim update. Butmechanically sound. In daily usewith original engine. 25000 milessince overhaul in 2009. Leatherseats, new tyres and suspension A1.£1500. For more information phoneBryan Ditchman on 01189 326346(North Hampshire)

1978 MGB Race Car 1785ccFront runner, recent repaint inWorks colours. Usual modifica-tions. Spare wheels and excellenttyres. Works hardtop. Reluctantsale. £7995. Telephone: 01460 73751(Somerset)

MGC Roadster 1970 First registered 1.10.70. Two own-ers. Owned for 39 years. BRG. Billsin excess of £21,000. 111,624 milesEngine rebuild at 70,000. Full bodyrestoration & respray 2004/2005.Cream bermuda hardtop, softop &tonnau. Garaged. MOT 1 year.Condition 2/3. £18,995. Pleasecontact Colin on 01297 792538Email: [email protected] for further details.(East Devon)

MG Midget 1968 Chrome Bumper. 1275cc, Tartanred, hard top (immaculate condi-tion) reconditioned engine (leadfree) back axle, carbs, wire wheels.New Soft top, tyres, starter motor,dynamo, water pump, battery, elec-tronic ignition, thermostat, stainlesssteel rack, and exhaust. Modified oilfilter, kenlow fan, rechromed, com-pletely restored with photos.Detailed history available with bills,plus original log book. 1 years MOT.£6,000. Telephone: 07958 553003.or 01708 456595 (Essex)

WANTEDMGB Roadster 1968-9 Series II.Red. Condition 1-2. Wire wheels,overdrive, original appearance ie nowalnut dash etc. Call Jeremy Wiltonon 07775 661255 or preferablyemail: [email protected]

MGA TWINCAM Original spec UK RHD. Olderrestoration, nice panel gap, originalred leather interior. Low compres-sion engine that runs well with agood strong gear box. Chassis num-ber YM1 2061. £28500Please call for further details 01280469047 / 07816227512

ZT160 2001 2.5V6 in Trophy Yellow. Future clas-sic, reluctant sale. Two owners, withthe current owner 13 years. Mileage120,000. New cam belt 2014, newinlet manifold and recent new bat-tery. Full service history, MOT failed14th Oct (non serious items) Alloywheels, air con, glass sliding sunroof,multi disc CD player and tow bar.Best offers over £600.00Tel 07836 705630. (Newbury)









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07831 556666

www.mgsforsale.com

www.mgsforsale.com

01707 [email protected]

Do not confuse the above vehicles with cheaper inferior quality models offered elsewhere. Part exchange any make of Motor Car with generous allowances. Discounted cash purchases. Viewing by appointment only please (available evenings & weekends) no obligation to purchase. All our vehicles carry a warranty, have an MOT and are fully serviced prior to collection/delivery.

SEE OUR WEBSITE FOR A COMPLETE LISTING OF OUR STOCK

Austin Healey Sprite Mk1, 1959, fully restored utilising a Wheeler & Davies new complete steel bodyshell, stunning Red coachwork with as new Red interior trim, correct 948 engine and smooth case gearbox, delightfully detailed engine compartment with body coloured underside, little miles completed since rebuild, drives absolutely delightfully, unique opportunity, £20,995.00

MG BGT V8 Factory Car 1973, chrome bumpers, factory built October 1973, overdrive, Webastow sunroof, genuine factory car, comprehensive restoration in Glacier White with Black leather interior trim, nicely detailed engine compartment, heavy history fi le with photographic evidence of restoration, plethora of 80’s, 90’s & 00’s invoices including structural and mechanical works, old mot’s and other documentation right back to the 70’s, drives delightfully, £19,450.00

MGB Roadster Heritage Shell Rebuild 1974 (ROE771M) chrome bumpers, chrome wire wheels, overdrive, last owner 29 years, older restoration utilising a new Heritage Shell supplied by Ron Hopkinson in 1992, very good condition light British Racing Green coachwork with Black leather interior trim, Mota Lita leather steering wheel, mechanically sound with engine producing good oil pressure, history fi le containing Heritage Shell invoice, old mot’s back to 1990 & various other invoices/documentation, very nice drive, just arrived, £11,750.00

www.mgmecca.co.ukTel: +44 (0) 1953 717618 Fax: (0) 1953 717850

1979 MG MIDGET Pageant blue, black trim, superb little car, body is in excellent condition, recent respray, all new chrome conversion, new hood, new carpets, new dashboard, recovered seats. Exceptionally pretty car in excellent order. Ready for lots of summer fun. £5,995.00

1960 MGA 1600 COUPE Totally restored, Iris Blue, blue trim. Last owner since 1973. Totally restored chassis, body, mechanicals, suspension. To be fi nished from £24,500 depending on fi nal spec. £24,500.00

MGA ROADSTER 1500 For total restoration l/h/d sold as is @£7,500 or Totaly restored orig spec from : Steel wheel 1500 £29,995, Wire Wheel 1500 £30,995. Please call or mail for full spec sheets and example photos /extras etc. £7,500.00

1971 MGB ROADSTER BRG, black/green leather trim, w/w, o/drive. Reshelled 10 years ago and still superb condition. Fast road engine. Elm dash, magnolia clocks. S/S boot rack. Inertia belts. Polished screen frame. Totally restored car, better than new. Everything replaced or new, done less than 5,000 miles since rebuild. Fantastic value @ £18,995.00

1971 MGB ROADSTER Teal Blue, Autumn Leaf trim. Moto Lita wheel. Nice trim. Body excellent, some age related marks and usual minor bumping on seams. Structure excellent. Very well maintained and reliable car. Recent carpets and seats. Alloy r-cover, Kenlowe fan, refurbished wheels, new s/s rims. £7,995.00

1974 NG TC Old English White, w/w, red trim. 2L Osselli engine, o/drive. All new or refurbed MBG components. Full weather gear. Built with no expense spared. Superb car, fantastic fun. Superb condition, only used in dry weather. £9,795.00



CARS FOR SALE









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CARS FOR SALE















How to AdvertiseMembers can advertise their cars

free of charge in Safety Fast. The

advert will also be posted on the

Club website in due course. This is

for one insertion only. To place an

advert or for additional insertions

email Colin Grant at

[email protected] with details

of your car, around 60 words, togeth-

er with an attached picture, your

contact information, price of your

car, the area where you live, and

membership number. Cost for non-

members to advertise is £20. All

adverts should be submitted by the

15th of the month for the

following months issue.

CARS FOR SALE
















CARS FOR SALE








• FULL DETAILS ON OUR WEBSITE • We carry thousands of spares for the type of cars we sell • COMMISSION SALES: Our highly regraded service is always available to you.

Email: [email protected] Web: www.barrywalker.com Tel: 01789 400 181. Fax: 01789 400230. Mob: 07836 244103

MG K3/N 2-seat SPORTS RACING CAR

One of very few K3 reconstructions built to the Wilkie

Wilkinson/ Bellevue Garage 1930s modifcation using an

N Magnette chassis to take K3 axles & brakes.1400cc

engine, pre-select g’box, divided track rod steering,

Marshall supercharger and full K3 dashboard. Total

ground-up restoration that has been thoroughly sorted.

Finished in Monza Red with black leather, this awesome

100mph machine is fully MG CC & VSCC eligible for home

& International events, or just exhilarating touring. Any test

but change of underwear recommended .............£129,500

1933 S/CHARGED MG J2 to full J4 Spec

The best one to come to the open market

in years. Phoenix crank, lightened clutch,

ENV manual box, Marshall s/c. It’s a

proper rebuild. Ready for all MGCC/

VSCC events. Fabulous condition,

black with blue hide. Full weather gear,

comfortable bucket seats. ORIGINAL

registration from 1933 just secured. A

fabulous package ......................£69,500

1933 S/CHARGED J3/J4 Everything a J4 can

offer without climbing over the sides. Phoenix

heavy crank, Volumex s/c, ENV g’box, 12”

brakes. Mint condition - 2 tone red, red hide. It

is a stunning car. No offers at .............. £65,000

COMPLETELY ORIGINAL 1936 MG TA Very

rare, all matching nos. early narrow rear wing TA.

Superb restoration, everything original. Ivory,

red leather, 43 years last owner .............£32,500

1937 MG TA with XPAG-reliability Fully overhauled

by us, this lovely early TA with ftted TC eng, &

box eliminates the TA engine problems and offers

reliability & quality at a sensible price ............£29,950

1949 MG TC Wow! What a driver. A lovely all-

round example with nice patina. Deep red, beige

leather, one of the nicest TCs I’ve had ... £29,750

1954 MG TF 1250 How can nobody want an

original engined, low mileage TF with factory

wire wheels for ....................................... £22,950

Be nice if someone would at least look at it!

1933 MG J2 DE-LUXE SPORTS Built in Australia by a top MG engineer. Original UK registration secured - a stunning rebuild with c/balanced crank, deluxe dash, detailed bays and period accessories. Raven Black, Apple Green interior & all w/gear. Totally correct car. At barely restoration cost.................................................................................£46,500

1936 MG NB TOURER The 6cyl. NB is simply very rare. Powerful 1300cc engine, roomy, comfortable, and perfect for touring, be it friends, golf clubs, dogs or the wife & her luggage. Total restoration, original, 2-tone green with green leather & full black weather equipment. Try restoring this for ...£65,000!

1933 S/CHARGED MG J2 to J4 Spec Unlike the truly magnifcent J4 spec road car above, this has been race & rally prepared. A 70bhp engine with rare high geared ENV g’box, offers a truly competitive MG, or highly exciting road car. VSCC buff form, full history. Ocean Blue with black leather .........£65,000

Rarely, if ever, is there a pre-war car FOR SALE at the NEC Classic Car Show. Here is your chance:

Nov 13th-14th-15th HALL 3 - Do not miss our stand! (Ring if you want a particular car brought to view)

65_1200_BARRY_WALKER_ADVURN52724.pgs 22.10.2015 16:51 FMG-Advent



CARS FOR SALE

MGB GT 1980Bare metal re-build 10 years agoand well maintained since, 1948ccfast road cam engine O/D on 3thand 4th gears. Very nice dark blueleather interior with machting car-pet. MGB numberplate included.Rebuild cost more than the theprice of the car. 4 owners, 32,196miles. Part service history, alloywheels. Price £ 8,995.Email: [email protected] phone 07715 410724 (Beverley East Yorkshire)

MGB GT1972 But first registered January 1973.MK 3 Facelift Model. Tax Exempt.Professional Respray in original"Bronze Yellow". New Carpets,Door Cards and rebuilt Seats tooriginal spec, velour trim with bluenylon seat facings. Working over-drive. MOT July 2016New batteries, refurbished Rostylewheels and 4 new tyres. ElectronicIgnition. Dry summer use only.£2950.00. Tel: 01454 613620 (Bristol)

MGF VVC 1997 British Racing Green. 12 monthsMOT. Comprehensive historyshows head gasket, shockabsorbers, brake discs and calipersall replaced as well as headlights,alternator and radiator pipes.Complete with black hard top, 4Toyo Proxes, Mike Satur sports catand quad exhausts. In reasonablecondition for its age and mileage,which is high, hence asking £900.Contact; William 01508 471506 or07785 264016 (Norwich)

MGRV8 1994 Woodcote Green. 13860 kms.Beautiful car, immaculate condition.Japanese import to the UK in 2005,registered in France 2006. DarkStone leather trim; new full ton-neau; stainless steel luggage rack; airconditioning; new radio/CD. Hood,catalytic converter, brake pads andbattery recently renewed, MOTcompleted July 2015. Garaged allyear, occasional use only, one ownersince import. Manual transmission;petrol; 3.94 litre engine. Fly toBergerac to see it, and combine itwith a holiday in the Dordogne!Contact: 0033553730824/0033603590905

MGTD 1953Unexpectedly back on the market.Dark Red body with matching redupholstery and faded black hood.Engine rebuilt and lead free conver-sion with twin SU carburetters andstainless steel exhaust. Some workrequired to interior with new car-pets already fitted. Bodyworkrestored and resprayed in 1999.£18500 o.v.n.o. Tel 01621 788488or [email protected] (Essex)

MGBGT 1971 4.6 Litre, Guards Red. Full cage, Road, Race,Sprint, and Hillclimb. 12 monthsM.O.T, Historic Tax, some tidyingneeded, hence £10,950.00.Telephone: 07887 878455.King's Lynn, Norfolk

1980 MGB Limited EditionRoadster with overdrive.One of the last built, this car wasTectyl injected and undersealedfrom new. In a private collectionuntil taxed in 1996, a total of just12,000 miles has been covered. Hasbeen upgraded with leather seats,mohair hood, SS exhaust, fourbranch manifold, proper steeringwheel, electronic ignition. All orig-inal parts are with the car plusaround 3 kilos of Concours/ her-itage certificates, literature, write-ups etc. A unique opportunity toacquire what is probably a uniqueMGB for £20 K.Ralph Spring at 02084285919. (Harrow)































CARS FOR SALE

MGC ROADSTER 1968, mineral blue,chrome wires, nut and bolt restoration just completed, please call for

spec. £...

MGC ROADSTER 1969,UK Car with history, snowberry white with detailed engine

bay and new interior.[due in] £23,950

MIDGET 1972, round wheel arch, Bare metal respray in 2014 to show standard, new interior,

drives superbly. £6,950

MGC ROADSTER 1968, Auto, BRG with chrome wires,

older total restoration in superb condition. £20,950

MGB HERITAGE SHELL,1972,

Metallic blue with cream leather and walnut trim.

£12,450

MGB 1972,Tartan red, new alloys and tyres, motobuild

engine,older restoration in good order throughout.

£7,950

MGC GT 1969, Mineral blue with full sunroof, older

restoration in excellent condition throughout. £16,950

MGB HERITAGE SHELL,1972, Primrose, 20k miles since built, just arrived,

£12,950

MGS URGENTLY WANTED TO PURCHASE.

MGOC RecommendedMG Car club trade member

Postcombe Service Station A40 London Road, Postcombe ,Oxon,OX9 7ED

Many more available

www.former-glory.com.

NEW PREMISES IN OXFORDSHIRE

Est. 1986

Contact the Midget Specialist MIKE AUTHERS on Abingdon 07703 465 224 CHROME

BUMPERED MIDGETS in excellent condition bought up to £8,000. View current stock at www.mgmidgets.com

MIDGETS!WANTEDMGOC Recommended Workshop

and Power Steering InstallerMoT & Failures Repaired

Servicing, Welding, Restoration

M.G.A. – B – C – V8, Midget

Rear of Langley GarageLondon Road, Langley, Nr Hitchin,

Herts SG4 7PJ

01438 729288

07860 473298

M.G. in North Herts

www.mg-repairs-hertfordshire.com

SPORTSCAR METALWORKSmanufacturers and suppliers of MGA,

T/TYPE,TRIPLE M Metal Panels, Fuel Tanks and Accessories.

Bonnet Louvring for all vehicles.SAMPLE PRICES

MGA DOOR PILLARS afh1620/1621 £150.FUEL TANKS ahh5121 £155

Mild Steel £205 Stainless £235 ALLOY BUMPERS front £95 rear £85.

T/TYPE FUEL TANK £335RUNNING BOARDS £68 each,

TOOLBOX LID £28T/TYPE BODYTUBS RESKINNED

FREE PRICELIST POSTEDwww.sportscarmetalworks.com.

Phone/fax 01753 654144.Duttons Farm, Bangors Road, South Iver, Bucks.








How to AdvertiseMembers can advertise their cars

free of charge in Safety Fast. The

advert will also be posted on the

Club website in due course. This is

for one insertion only. To place an

advert or for additional insertions

email Colin Grant at

[email protected] with details

of your car, around 60 words, togeth-

er with an attached picture, your

contact information, price of your

car, the area where you live, and

membership number. Cost for non-

members to advertise is £20. All

adverts should be submitted by the

15th of the month for the

following months issue.

CARS FOR SALE








MGB Roadster For Sale– only 30,000 miles from new

£5,250ono. Tel: 07792 422209 or 07860 906032 (private sale)

MOT until 2nd August 2016 and comes with lots of old MOTs and original handbook. First registered 1st February 1980, MkIII model. Black with matching immaculate black hoodImmaculate front seats with headrests. Original umarked Rostyle wheels. Excellent condition throughout including black interior boot carpet. Crystal-clear rear vision on the hood.Being the MGB Roadster MkIII model, this ‘B’ handles excellently having benefi tted from the enhanced anti-roll bars and a revised steering rack from the previous MkII model.



SPARES FOR SALE

HOW TO ADVERTISEMembers can advertise theirspares for sale/wanted free ofcharge for items up to £250.Over £250, or for non-membersto advertise, there is a charge of£20. To submit your advertise-ment email Colin Grant at [email protected]. Pleaseremember to include your mem-bership number in all correspon-dence

MGTCOriginal Instruction manual assupplied new with car and sooften lost. Cover well used butOK inside and totally readable£35 plus P&P. Contact Phill on01792587337

MGTDOriginal MG Car Co workshopmanual, now very hard to find.Dated 1950, used but still ingood condition £35 Plus P&P.Contact Phill on 01792 587337

MGTC,TD or 1250 TFXPAGNew old stock Hepolote Britishmade, as used originally by theFactory. Standard size pistonset (not cheap reproduction) Ifyou car has been bored outoversize in the past you cannow return it to factory specifi-cation with these pistone. Anygood engine reconditioner canreadily resleave your engineback to stanndard size.It is thepistons that are hard to find.£150 plus P&P. Contact Phill on01792 587337

XL Royal Navy HarrierPilot's leather jacket Type89903. In Fleet Air Arm slateblue cowhide, size 48 (XL).Manufactured only by AviationLeathercraft of Thruxton. Pressstud pockets, brass zip front.Great for open top driving. Costme £400 new. Accept £150 plusp&p. 07887 409 044

XXL A2 USAAF WW2 AeroLeather fighter pilot's leatherjacket in oil-pull russet frontquarter horsehide, 'CBI adapted'with russet mouton wool collar,size 50 (2XL). The very bestrepro available, by AeroLeather. Matching russet knitcuffs and waist. Press stud frontpockets and collar. Epaulettes.Conmar zip front. Great for win-ter driving. Cost me £550 new.Accept £240 plus p&p. 07887409 044

MGB PartsSeat Diaphragm, new and SeatFoam as shown. £35.00 collec-tion in Oxford or mutuallyarranged delivery. (Moss price£78) MGB Handbrake complete withworking ratchet, shot-blastedready for painting as shown.£40.00 Free p&p.Tel: 01865 863297

Brian James, LightWeight, Twin Axle,Clubman Trailer.One owner, very little use,Gross cap 1,380kg, Load cap1,000 kg. Bed size 3.3m (11ft )by 1.65m (5ft 5in), manualwinch, high security hitch lock,H/D jockey wheel, spare wheel.£1,600 ovno. Tel 01366 386944,[email protected](Norfolk)

Grille / bar badgesUniversity of London, colourfuland heavy chrome and perspex,vgc, £20. City of London coat ofarms, colurful chrome and plas-tic, £18. Institute of AdvancedMotorists IAM, unusual plainsolid chrome, badge No.G3809,superb condition, £18. Wouldmake great Christmas presents.All plus p&p. 07887 409044.

MG TC New black mohair hood £350.MGA new short tonneau red£60.ZT 260 exhaust boxes by Zerohardly used £200.Telephone: 01293 871477(West Sussex)

Safety Fast magazines1986/7 - 11 loose copies,1980 - 1987 loose, most yearscomplete.1988 - 2006 in binders, all yearscomplete.Free, collect from nearStow-on-the-Wold.Telephone 01451 824223 or e-mail [email protected]

MGB Garage clearoutOverdrive unit, Lightweight fly-wheel, clutch assembly com-plete spare driven plate, valvesprings set, Clutch centeringtool, Weber 45DCOE carburet-tor, Pair Corbeau ProSport raceseats and runners, Luke raceharness, S.S. rear silencerConrods set, Clarke EngineStand, Steering gaiters, Leafspring U bolts, Fresh air chromescuttle grille, Fresh air ventdoor, Demister hoses, nozzles +chrome escutcheons,Dash switches, instrumentbezels, cylinder head gasket,leather bonnet strap,Glass fuel bowl,+filter element,roll of crash rail vinyl cloth ,s.s.w/screen wipers, Various MGBbootlid badges, interiorrearview mirror, contact beakerset, Pedal rubbers, s.s. acceler-ator pedal, various light fittings -H/Lamp chrome surrounds, No.plate lights, indicator lights, rearlights lenses etc, Standardspare wheel holdown assembly,etc,etc. Offers on above toContact 07585 223292. Collector post and packing by arrange-ment.(Guildford Area)

MGAMGA n/s front wing. Someminor repairs but in sound con-dition overall. Finished in primer.£250. Call John 01428 604753(Hants/Surrey)

MGCSWAP low mileage.Wire wheel axle and front hubsand five good repainted wirewheels for steel wheel axle andfront hubsAxle fitted with remanufactured3.0:1 crown wheel and pinionThis unit is without back plates,drums etc. I can supply backplates in exchange for your ownif needed. Unit stripped forinspection. Lockheed servo with bracket forMGC. Large lockheed servo .Servos can be bench run oncollection. MGC KONI Adjustable shocksabsorbers front and rear fromlowered car. Front closed 9.5”open 13”. Rear closed 9.25”open 12.5”, all in excellent con-dition. £60 each set £100 thepair please collect if possible.Vertical rear mounting bracketscan be made if required.FREE MGBGT / MGCGT reartailgate plain glass just collectFREE FOR ALL MGB/MGC.Stainless sill covers plate. Twosets. Please collect, carriageextra if needed.Tel: 01737551141 mobile 07831701028(Coulsdon Surrey )

MGTF Second hand interior trim kit inred from 1954 MG TF incl. tankside panels & bits of bodyframe. Left over from rebuild.No seat parts! Also, full set8inch hydraulic brake set MMM,incl. 4 drums, back plates, pipesunions etc. Reasonable offersplease! Phone 01236 823210 [email protected]

Reg No: 2739 MGOn sale for £4000Contact mike 0033 450 692515or email [email protected]

Early Midget SparesOne seat frame non adjustable.Pair chrome bumpers and twooveriders. All rust free andundamaged condition, but mayneed rechroming.Two door hinges.Two headlamp rims.Two chrome door handles.Two interior door handles.One wiper motor plinth.Two window winders.Set of new rear brake shoes(GBS834AF)Two sidelight lenses and onechrome rim.Two grille side finishers.Offers required, but will need tocollect or pay post and packing.Tel: John on 02083935381(Epsom area)

MGA/MGB Parts MGA Twin Cam banjo axle £75. MGAdifferential (4.3, good condition)£100. MGA front bumber (goodcondition) £40. Bumber springbar (right hand) £10. MGA seatframes £35 each. Two originalMGA spot/fog lights £40. MGAbadge bar £25. MGA Twin Camfront grille (new) £175. MGB exhaust manifold £40.Pair of newly refurbished HIF4carbs £60. MGB anti-roll bar(new) £75. Weber manifold forMGB £30. Plus: steel low profile jack £50.2 x tool cabinets: Halfords 5draw £50, half-size Snap-Oncabinet £50. 6 axle stands £10each. Email Paul at [email protected] call 01794 341214.

MGBSet of 4 MGB 60 spoke wirewheels in vgc having been gritblasted and silver powder coat-ed. No rim 'dings'.Shod with 4 X165X 14 tyres ( 1 PirelliCinturato & 3 Firestone with +5mm tread on all) Reason forsale-fitted Minilites instead ofwires.£250 buyer collects.Tel02392632599 or email [email protected](Hambledon Hampshire)

MGBGT Below spares from a 1979MGBGT.Tailgate, colour vermillion £40,drivers door £30, or £50 thepair.Twin 1 1/2 SU carbs with inlet &exhaust manifolds also comeswith the filters, £80 the lot.Contact Mick 07775 860450

MGF Genuine hard top silver, verygood condition, heated rearscreen. £300 Ono.Contact Lesley 07872307614or email: [email protected](Ramsgate Kent)

CLASSIFIEDS



MG ZS/Rover 45 Haynes manual 1999 to 2005cars in unused condition. £7 +p&p.Contact Lynden 01606784690/07900305747.

MG Magnette Workshop Manual AKD573A .Unmarked except finger printson gearbox section £18 plusp&p.MG Magnette Diff unit ratio 4.5510 spline only changed toupgrade to 3.9 unit £150 buyercollects.Wolf 1 ton Block and Tackleunused £50 buyer collects.Telephone 01747 838375(Dorset).

MGRV8Hard top for RV8. Preferablywoodcote green but any colouror condition considered, ContactTony on 07866059627

MGTC 1948Fuel Tank wanted. Tel; 07836 376508 or 01944768658. Email [email protected]

Lucas 45D4Distributor plus matching 12vcoil.Tel: 07746871967.

WANTED

MGF/TF Boot RackOriginal MG Rover item in goodcondition, complete with fittings.£100. Collection from MGCCKimber House or at the NECClassic Car Show. Tel: John atthe MGCC on 01235 555552

MG BooksThe Immortal T Series byChris Harvey. 1977 edition.£12.50 plus 3.80 P&P. MG ByMcComb by Wilson McComb,1978 edition £12.50 plus £3.80.P&P. Both books in very goodcondition with no cover damageetc. Contact Colin at the MGCC01235 555552 or mobile

MG ZS/Rover 45 Haynes manual 1999 to 2005cars in unused condition. £7 +p&p.Contact Lynden 01606784690/07900305747.

MG Magnette Workshop Manual AKD573A .Unmarked except finger printson gearbox section £18 plusp&p.MG Magnette Diff unit ratio 4.5510 spline only changed toupgrade to 3.9 unit £150 buyercollects.Wolf 1 ton Block and Tackleunused £50 buyer collects.Telephone 01747 838375(Dorset).

MGRV8Hard top for RV8. Preferablywoodcote green but any colouror condition considered, ContactTony on 07866059627

MGTC 1948Fuel Tank wanted. Tel; 07836 376508 or 01944768658. Email [email protected]

Lucas 45D4Distributor plus matching 12vcoil.Tel: 07746871967.

WANTED

MGF/TF Boot RackOriginal MG Rover item in goodcondition, complete with fittings.£100. Collection from MGCCKimber House or at the NECClassic Car Show. Tel: John atthe MGCC on 01235 555552

MG BooksThe Immortal T Series byChris Harvey. 1977 edition.£12.50 plus 3.80 P&P. MG ByMcComb by Wilson McComb,1978 edition £12.50 plus £3.80.P&P. Both books in very goodcondition with no cover damageetc. Contact Colin at the MGCC01235 555552 or mobile

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1936/7 Ashley Cleave Brooklands/Shelsey SpecialAs previously said my Ashley Cleave special,as raced at Brooklands in 37, is still for sale. It can be bought as is or I can complete it. It is a

recognised Brooklands competitor. Shelley Special, dominant in trials, circuits sprints, h/c and with over 500 awards. Reviewed by BillBoddy in Motor Sport. It is eligible for many varied and coveted races and events. It starts at 35k as is with the rolling chassis restored and

the rest negotiable. I've had it for 23 years. Or you could be a real anorak and buy ano telligible for anything pointy tail pub car for 50k.Price according to spec when finished, starting at £35k but make me an offer

Built in the 30s by Corsica, body makers for Bentley, Mercedes, Sunbeam, etc. Thistime warp 4 seater

touring body is authentic and not a re creation. It iscomplete with seats, hood,hood bag, wings. Superb foldflat screen all origi-nal. Not a collection of bits. To have it

made now would be 40k ish. Be authentic for £8,250.

MGTD/C. This is one of the very rare competition models, with bigger valves, carbs, and twin shocks. About 1200 of these were built. This one is LHD, easyto change, its interior is good and correct, the paint has a few chips and scrapes, and it drives very well. These are very sought after cars and |’m not

asking the usual top dollar. £22,995.My Porsche 924 turbo has a new interior, lovely body, new tank, and a nice story. Runs but needs further work. £2,250

MG T-Types and complete collections purchased in any condition. Garage clearouts. Many parts for sale. Collection and delivery arranged world-wide. Advice free, and I hope, correct. If not, try someone else.

Barrie CarterMG TA fittedwith an TCXPAG engineand box,Thomkinssteeringconversion andlater TC wheels.It is a local car

and being sold for its owner. I sold this about 4 years agoand it is used regularly at local shows. Nicely pattinated, [Ihate that word] and with excellent weather equipmentincluding a full tonneau. Essentially a TB in spec. Notexpensive £25,995

MG TA trials car fittedwith highly attractive trialsbody work, a fun andpurposeful TA. I’ve ownedbefore and used it. Itsbody is beautifully craftedin aluminium including thebody, wings and doors.The engine is a TD XPAG

and it is fitted with a 5 speed box and VW steering upgrade. All thesensible improvements that make its price very attractive. Theweather equipment includes a full tonneau and is in good condition.The car carries many attendance plaques of past events and it hasbeen used for fun and trials. You could do the same. £24,250

1939 TB with a lovelycycle winged body. Thiscar was built manyyears ago in Australiaand is well known tomthe TB register. Ibought it for me, butI’ve too many toys. Itsits in my garage at

home while I play with it. The car that is.... It is a lovely TB fittedwith a mildly modified XPAG engine and steering upgrade, it drovefast and well when I last used it. Our local auction house valued itat £35K which is par for the course for a TB, and this is unique.I’m not fussed if it goes, but ring if you are interested.

B11 - Barrie Carter_D MIDDLETON 22/10/2015 11:47 Page 1

ADVERTISERS’ INDEXAdrian Flux..................................................87 Airflow ........................................................75 Barrie Carter ..............................................97 Barry Walker ..............................................93 Beech Hill Garage..................................... 94 Brian Brown Classics .................................95British Motor Heritage ............................IFCBrown and Gammons..............................11Bucks Sports and Classic Car Centre ..... 84Carole Nash Insurance ...............................3 Chertsey Minors........................................81 Church Square Autos............................... 89 Classic & Sports Cars (Essex) ..............OBCClassic Car Tours International .................36 Colin Groom Vehicle Storage ................. 84 Colne Classics ............................................81 Crown Classic Cars ...................................36 Dennis Welch ............................................81 Distributor Doctor ................................... 79 Don Trimming .......................................... 89 EJW Classic and sports ..............................87 Fishers Services ..........................................71 Footman James ......................................... 73 Former Glory ............................................95 Frontline ......................................................57 Get Patina ...................................................21 Halls Garage .............................................. 79 Heathrow Transmission ...........................81 Hindsight.................................................... 84 Hoyle Suspension..................................... 30 Just Right Autos Ltd ......................................8 Kimble Engineering Ltd .............................87 Lake District Hotels ...................................49 Luffield Cars Limited .................................36 Lycian Events ..............................................75Manor Garage .......................................... 84 Martin Smith Used MGTF Spares .......... 89 MG Garage (EMGC) ...............................77

MG Mecca .................................................92 MG Motorsport ....................................... 79 MG Sales Centre .......................................17 MGB Roadster ..........................................95 MGF Mania ............................................... 66 Midland Classic Restoration ........................3 Midland Wheel Ltd ....................................81 Mike Authurs Classics ................................95 Mike Satur..................................................77 MJS Auto Marine .........................................6 Moss Europe Ltd ........................................6 Naylor Brothers ........................................ 98 Norton Insurance ......................................45 NTG Services ............................................51 Oselli Ltd .................................................... 66 Peter Best ..................................... IBC,81,84Prestige MG ...............................................75 Rees Bros .................................................. 79 Retro Lifestyle ........................................... 30 Rimmer Bros Ltd ...................................... 34 RJJ Car Shipping and Transportation ...... 84 Robin Lackford Motor Engineering ..........71 Scenic Car Tours .......................................13 Scenic Car Tours China Tour .................. 23SMR ............................................................92 Sports and Vintage ....................................81 Sportscar Metalworks ...............................95 Steve McKie Sports Cars ......................... 89 Surrey Sports & Classics ...........................81 Sussex Classic Car Parts ..............................4 The Hutson Motor Co Ltd ........................4 The Tool Bag Co ...................................... 84 TMS Storage ..............................................15 Trickett Welding ........................................ 34 Vitesse Global Ltd .....................................77


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Tel: +44 (0) 1274 585161 Fax: +44 (0) 1274 532772 Direct workshop line: +44 (0)7804 077 849 [email protected] or [email protected]


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In House Body shop and Paint Facilities• Fixed price servicing

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MG PARTSWe stock a wide range of parts for the

MG T-Series, MGA and MGBWe stock parts for the:

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S E R V I C I N G | R E S T O R A T I O N | R A C E P R E P | B O D Y R E F I N I S H I N GUnit 2 to 6 Woodside, High Easter Road, Leaden Roding, Essex CM6 1QQ.

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Unit 2 to 6 Woodside, High Easter Road, Leaden Roding, Essex CM6 1QQ.Email: [email protected]: www.classicandsportscarsessex.co.uk

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Classic Car Specialists focusing on Servicing, Sales Restoration, Modifi cation and bespoke refi nishing work to a wide range of classic MG’s

Tel: 01376 569355

Unit 9, Broadfi elds Farm, Dunmow Road, Rayne, Braintree, Essex. CM77 6SA

Black TF £27,995.00 Family owned since 2003 this MG TF is in beautiful condition,

it’s a local car to ourselves so we have had the luxury of servicing and looking after it for many years now. Specifi cation; Black, Biscuit Brown Interior Trim,

Black Carpet, Full Tan Weather Gear Including Tonneau,Moto-Lita Steering Wheel, Painted Wire Wheels,

Luggage Rack, Heater,

MG TA £44,995.00 The opportunity has come up to purchase this very special MG TA,

This car has been owned by the same owner since 1964 and as you can see it’s had no expense spared through the whole of its life having up to

£70,000 spent on it. The period style modifi cations make it such a pleasure to drive

even on the modern roads of today. It has been on many Classic & historic rallies in the UK and to SpainI have many special photos and history of the car through its rallies and life to date What also makes this car special is that it was once a Police Car registered to

the Lancashire Constabulary (TA0873) Back in the year 2000 it went off to Alistair Naylor Brothers for a total rebuild and since then the

car has been kept in immaculate condition. In 2009/10 the car had a total Engine,Gearbox and Back Axle rebuild just to keep it up to the

condition the owner and car deserved.

MG TD £34,995.00A great opportunity has become available to own this near

on perfect fully restored MG TDThe car has undergone a total body off, chassis up nut and bolt rebuild along with a 5 speed gearbox conversion there

isn’t anything that hasn’t been done.Full photographic history folder of the rebuild along with

the usual history fi le of invoices is available


Documents

Safety Fast! November 2015