THE MARQUE OF FRIENDSHIP
November 2017 Volume 61 Number 11 £3.95
THE
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LT D
ABINGDON-ON-THAMES FO U N D E D 193 0
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JULY 2016 SAFETY FAST! 3
www.mgcc.co.uk
NOVEMBER 2017 SAFETY FAST! 3
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Inside this issue 7
Club Matters and Kimber House News 8 News 11 Products 60 Race Torque 62 MGs on Track
63 68 80 92 98
Luffield Championship Centre Updates Register Updates Classifieds Looking Back
Features 12
The Next Generation The story of a unique MGB GT and people behind it
24
Project MGA Part III The final strip down of Wheeler Dealer Mike Brewer’s MGA
29
Mitchell’s Mongrel(s) – Part I The tale of Terry Mitchell and his exceptional creations
50
MGCC Merchandise A selection of the MG Car Club products to purchase
52
British Touring Car Championship All the action from the final races at Brands Hatch
55
Super Snetterton rounds off the season Leanne Fahy reports on the final MGCC Race meeting of the year
64
MG Car Club Luxembourg 60th Anniversary Brian Woodhams reports on the Luxembourg Anniversary event
89
Collector’s Corner ‘Blimey’ Betty. The history of Geoff James’s 1934 MG PA four-seater open tourer
24
Newsletters 34
MGA Newsletter 2017 Autumn Tour, Notable Journey Award 2016 and Looking Ahead – 2018
38
MGB Newsletter MGB Register Weekend, Register AGM and the Register Website
44
MGF Newsletter State of the Market, Essex International MGF/TF Weekend and John Harper’s MGFR
44
The MG Car Club, Kimber House, PO Box 251, Abingdon, Oxon, OX14 1FF Tel: 01235 555552 Fax: 01235 533755 E-mail: mgcc@mgcc.co.uk www.mgcc.co.uk. If visiting The MG Car Club using Sat Nav please use OX14 1AS
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4 SAFETYFAST! NOVEMBER 2017
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Welcome
The bespoke MGB GT built by SAIC interns to showcase a diverse range of technology that SAIC Motor has designed and developed. Photo: Gez Hughes
29
@mgcarclub
FO U N D E D 193 0
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The official publication of The MG Car Club Incorporating ‘The M.G. Magazine’, ‘The Sports Car’ and ‘Brooklands Track and Air’, Safety Fast! Copyright MG Car Club 2017
With the NEC Classic Car Show fast approaching, November 10-12, this is your final chance to to order your tickets using the Club code. There’s quite a substantial saving over the on-thedoor price. Tickets are available from www. necclassicmotorshow.com or the official ticket hotline 0871 230 1088. A single ticket is £21.50 (quote code CSCMS17) and a family ticket is priced at £48.00 (quote code CFCMS17). Talking of the NEC, we’ve got a great selection of cars on the MGCC stand at the show this year, including an MGC and Y Type, both celebrating significant anniversaries this year. Colin Grant’s low-mileage, limited edition MG TF, which was featured in last month’s Safety Fast! will be on display. We’re also very fortunate to have the stunning MGB GT built by the 2016/17 SAIC interns; this is no normal MGB and was converted to showcase a diverse range of the technology that SAIC Motor has designed and developed over the past decade. You can read all about this special MGB in this issue before seeing it in the metal at the NEC. For those of you who have been following the progress of Mike Brewer’s car in Safety Fast! we’ll have it on display at the NEC in its current condition. As we’ve mentioned in previous ‘Project MGA’ articles, everyone who has been involved and worked on the MG so far has been pleasantly surprised at the quality of the chassis and components. Because of this, and if all goes to plan, we hope to have the rolling chassis at the show with the new engine and gearbox fitted. I won’t say any more than that, but as ever you can read all about the progress in the magazine, or have a chat to us up at the show. As always, the NEC show promises to be a great one to round off the show season. As we enter the depths of winter in the UK, our thoughts turn to the Christmas period. The MGCC has a lot of new merchandise, ideal for the MG enthusiast in your life. Why not visit the MGCC Kimber Stores web shop at https://shop. mgcc.co.uk and take a look. Until next month, drive safely.
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CHAIRMANS NOTES BY IAN QUARRINGTON
T
ime. Again. I like the thought that our Club has simply not stood still over the recent years, or indeed since 1930, and let time simply pass us by without progress in so many ways, in either enjoying what our cars and the MG Marque and the Marque of Friendship mean to us all, so I make no apology for repeating my theme. By the time you read this, the Club will have passed its 87th birthday (the actual date is October 12) but it doesn’t seem that long ago since 2010 when we celebrated 80 years and celebrated it in some style all over the globe. Time inevitably causes change in the setup of our Club, in all its 37 CRBs and all the committees that run them and at Club HQ at Abingdon. I am pleased to tell you we have had a couple of changes on the Board and at Kimber House. First, we welcome Peter Opie to the Executive Committee. Peter has come in to help support our IT project with David Tynan to ensure this critical task keeps up to date with the inevitable
O
change of time and technology, and of course the wishes of our Members whom we serve. Peter hails from the West Country. Julian White stood down earlier this year in order to more enjoy his post-General Manager role at Kimber House and we wish him well. William Ball has retired after many long years on the Board, not only supporting Andy Knott as Editor of this magazine but being instrumental with the Editorial Sub-Committee in bringing Safety Fast! to the top quality publication it is today. In addition, William took all the minutes from the Board meetings without a single word of complaint, despite the often difficult nature of this task. In typical style for him, William is now actively involved with the Anglia Centre Committee. Finally, on EC matters it is a case of if you want a job doing, ask a busy person. Debbie Brading, currently V8 Register Secretary and Vintage Register Chairman, has agreed to take minutes for Board meetings as well as for our biannual Council meetings, although
she does not form part of the EC. We welcome Jeff Ruggles to the staff at Kimber House. Jeff has had a number of years’ experience within the Mini Club world and been very active with one of its major magazines and thus brings to us a wealth of Car Club knowledge as well as journalistic and PR experience. Let us not be shy about this: PR and marketing in any organisation is a most difficult task and it takes a special blend of person and personality to get it right, plus the ability to communicate with every part of the organisation you serve. If you are planning to come to the Classic Car Show at the NEC this month please come and meet Jeff and talk with him and all the staff over that weekend. You are assured of a welcome on the stand as always. During the late autumn I know that your Centre, Register and Branch will be actively making plans, as we are on the Board and at Kimber House to help you, our members, get the most enjoyment out of our Club and the time scale for the events we have planned for you. My own diary for 2018 is beginning to fill up with MG-related activities; I am very much looking forward to next year already.
KIMBER HOUSE NEWS
Branch which has made a significant n Saturday contribution to the Club throughout October 21 the year. This year it was awarded to delegates Ginny and Barrie Cartmell and the gathered MGC Register for their incredible from the 50th anniversary events they’ve MGCC Centres, Registers been organising this year. As the and Branches for the Darren Allsworth with biannual Council Meeting, his Member of the Year dinner guests enjoyed their evening, a second presentation was made, this year being held at the Trophy the Member of the Year Trophy. This was De Vere Hotel located in Daventry. Our awarded to the hard-working Darren Chairman will report on the meeting next Allsworth. The final award of the evening month. Following the meeting, the Club was the Kimber Fellowship award. This held a gala dinner in the County suite of is a new award presented to a person the hotel. As dinner guests gathered in who has dedicated a lot of time to the the bar, Ian Quarrington made the first Club and made a significant contribution. of three important presentations of the The first recipient was the well-respected evening. The first was the Nuffield Gold MGCC Director, Dave Saunders. The gala Cup, awarded to a Centre, Register or
www.mgcc.co.uk
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MGC Register members with the Gold Cup
Dave Saunders being congratulated after receiving his Kimber Fellowship award.
dinner was a wonderful event. You can read a more detailed report and enjoy many more photos from the evening on our website.
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NEWS
Trophy Racers pull together for Gianni Following the incidents for Adrian Wray and Gianni Picone at the previous round of the MG Car Club at Oulton Park, the schedule was tight as to whether they would make it out for the final round at Snetterton. Unfortunately Adrian is still recovering, having to wear his neck brace for a little while longer, but Gianni was cleared to race. However, now without a car, Gianni was under the impression his 4G team were on the look-out for a spare, but Ali Montgomery had other ideas. Immediately after Oulton Park, unbeknown to Gianni, Ali contacted all MGCC drivers, asking for any help possible with parts, which would enable him to rebuild Gianni’s MG ZR race car. In true MGCC style, everyone came together, supplying enough parts for the car to be rebuilt. Upon arriving for the final round, Gianni was presented with what he thought was a spare car, only to be told it was his car. With Ali’s secret revealed, Gianni was overwhelmed at the amount of support his fellow drivers had demonstrated. The list of thanks includes, but is not limited to: Iain Dowler for supplying wheels, Robin Walker for a roll cage, Malcolm Gammons donated a windscreen, as well as a discount for other parts from Brown & Gammons. Gianni’s father and uncle also donated a large amount of money to the project. The level of dedication and support really goes to show the strong family atmosphere portrayed by the MG Car Club.
The end of an era The MG Car Club’s MG Trophy Championship’s final rounds of the 2017 season were held at Snetterton over the weekend of September 30 and October 1. Trophy Co-ordinator, Pete Macwaters, said: “These were my final two races after 10 years as championship co-ordinator and it was great to see another ‘best ever’ grid at Snetterton. This year we’ve had record grids at every round and with the championship going down to the wire for the 10th consecutive year, I couldn’t have hoped for a better finale.” The new MG Trophy Co-ordinator, Bruce Woods, has started his role and
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MGB Wins its 100th Race! On August 5, at the Bentley Drivers Club meeting at Silverstone, Tom Smith in his Historic FIA MGB, 297 EFU prepared by MG Motorsport, won the 100th race in this venerable 1963 car. Tom and the car have been racing together since 2003 and have clocked up 158 races, this latest victory finally reaching win number 100 for the car and win number 107 for its driver. Together they have held 45 fastest laps and 13 lap records with numerous second places. In all this time they have only failed to finish 10 times. Along the way, in 2011 Tom and the MG won the Guards Trophy outright, and in 2016 they won the up to two litre GTS11 class in the prestigious Spa Six Hour race in Belgium. This is a milestone for both car and driver. Tom has no plans to retire yet. Is this a record for MGB victories or is there another contender? Let us know. MG 635 Register AGM Date: December 2 2017 Time: 3.00pm Venue: MG Motor Conference Centre, Lowhill Lane, Longbridge, Birmingham, B31 2BQ
Pete Macwaters (right) and Heather Macwaters being presented with thank you gifts by MGCC Vice President Bill Silcock
will shadow Macwaters one more time before taking up the post on a fulltime basis from January 1 2018. “I will stay on as championship chairman to assist Bruce in his first year to ensure a seamless handover,” concluded Macwaters.
Agenda 1. Opening Address 2. Apologies 3. Minutes of 2016 Meeting 4. Chairman’s Address 5. Secretary’s Report 6. Treasurer’s Report 7. Election of new committee 8. AOB Guest Speaker – TBC Any queries please contact Secretary Andy Littler sportingfiat929@gmail.com
www.mgcc.co.uk
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NEWS
MG SV Celebrates birthday in style
WE HAVE A DEDICATED DEPARTMENT FOR
GROUP TOURS
On Sunday September 24, no fewer than 13 of the MG Rover Supercars, the MG SV together with a selection of V8 powered ZTs and ZT-Ts gathered at Shelsley Walsh to celebrate the 15th birthday of the SV. With runs up Shelsley Walsh and presentations from those involved in the design and production of the SV it was a wonderful way to celebrate the anniversary. We’ll bring you a full report next month.
North West Natters The North West Centre holds two Natter evenings each month, plus a ‘roving’ lunchtime meet – and the Natter leaders, Laurie Kennard and Mike Haughton, would like to see more of you MGCC members come along to these meetings! The Natter at the Plough and Flail, near Mobberley – between Wilmslow and Knutsford – caters for a wide area roughly east of the M6 in Cheshire, and is near to Manchester, and also close to the Peak District. And the Old Hall Farm Natter, near Cheshire Oaks shopping outlet, covers an area of Cheshire to the west of the M6, and is within easy reach of Chester and surrounding areas, and has easy access to the Wirral and North East Wales. Both Natters are also within reach of Liverpool, and even north Shropshire and Staffordshire. www.mgcc.co.uk/north-west-centre/pub-meets/ Laurie and Mike would be pleased to see MGCC members old and new – and stress that they also extend a warm welcome to ‘younger’ members, both cars and people! They will also be more than happy to hear ideas and suggestions for events, driving destinations, and even what format Natter nights can take. Even if you can’t make the meetings, they would like to hear from MGCC members in the North West, who may wish to join in with weekend events.
As the preferred tour operator for 5 Major UK Car Clubs, we have a ‘Dedicated Groups Department’ to help Anyone to arrange a group driving tour or group event. Groups can be as low as 3 or 4 cars and there is no limit to the number of cars, subject to availability of course. You don’t have to belong to a club, your group can simply be a group of friends who want to go on a driving holiday together. “I have been working with Scenic & Continental Car Tours for about six years now, in that time I have worked with Bob and Kieran in the planning of eight Rallies for the Rolls-Royce Enthusiasts’ Club, both in the UK and in Europe. Whilst I retain overall control of each rally, Scenic & Continental have become invaluable partners. They understand what I need to keep the members happy, suggesting suitable hotels with suitable car-parking, quality facilities and bedrooms. Every car club is different and they know the RREC can be a picky crowd but I have yet to catch them out. They are the consummate professionals who know when I need support and when to stand back. I would recommend them to any car club Tour or Rally Organiser, use them once and you may wonder why you did not do so years ago!” Stephen Fabman-Beker, Chairman RREC South Eastern Section.
SO WHO IS OUR MAIN COMPETITOR? Believe it or not, our main competitors are the people or clubs who enjoy organising tours or events themselves and are reluctant, for whatever reason to seek help from a company like ourselves as they feel they may lose control of the arrangements or things won’t get done in the way they want. The truth is in fact that we are more than happy to allow you to retain as much or as little control as you want. We simply become your back office, your secretary, your booking agent - we are there to help you in any way. WHAT WE CAN INCLUDE: Full financial protection for you and your members • An amazing selection of hotels at great prices • The choice of ferry crossings from the UK to Europe & Ireland • Tailor-made tours & itineraries • No financial commitments • An optional Booking Service with the facility to pay by credit or debit card • A No surcharge guarantee • Marketing support including e-leaflets, presentations at your club, etc • 24 Hour Emergency back up. CAN WE DO IT CHEAPER THAN YOU? In most cases, yes, but we can’t guarantee it. As a commercial tour operator we do not apologise for having to make a profit to survive, however one thing we do guarantee is we will give you a first class service and great value for money. We really would like to help you to organise your next group tour. We are currently making group reservations as far ahead as 2019 tours. The earlier you plan your next group the better, there’s no financial commitment.
SO WHAT HAVE YOU GOT TO LOSE? www.sceniccartours.com/clubgroup-tours
CALL KIERAN IN OUR DEDICATED GROUPS DEPARTMENT ON: 01732 879172 OR EMAIL: Kieran.line@sceniccartours.com
www.mgcc.co.uk
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GROUP TOUR HALF PAGE MG SAFETY FAST NOV 2017.indd 1 NOVEMBER 2017
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NEWS
Coast-to-Coast August 18 2018
ZS Sales Success
The event being planned next year will follow a route from Morecambe to Scarborough. It’s planned to leave from the Midland Hotel, Morecambe, between 8.00am and 10.00am on Saturday. The Midland Hotel is the art deco hotel recently renovated at huge cost. The route will be through the Yorkshire Dales and the North York Moors, using as many B and unclassified roads and avoiding the towns where possible. The average speed will be relatively low to accommodate those with older cars. There will be a stop for mid-morning tea/coffee (and cake!), lunch at a pub and mid-afternoon tea/coffee, (and more cake). Final numbers will be set by May 2018 and a £10.00 non-returnable deposit will be required. This will be deducted from the lunchtime meal so, in effect, the trip will be free other than meals and hotels, if required. To register interest email: norman@frenchblat.com
Ahead of its UK launch at the end of this month, MG’s new compact SUV, the ZS has been hailed a sales success in China. Since its production began at the start of 2017, over 60,000 ZS’ have been produced by the Pukou plant, making it the most successful MG in modern history. With other markets set to see the ZS launch in the coming months, that success looks set to continue. You’ll be able to find a full roadtest of the car in next month’s Safety Fast!
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PRODUCTS IF YOU HAVE A NEW PRODUCT THAT WOULD BE OF INTEREST TO OUR MEMBERS, AND WOULD LIKE TO SEE IT IN SAFET Y FAST! WHY NOT CONTACT COLIN GRANT AT COLINGRANT@MGCC.CO.UK
MOTOR WHEEL SERVICES FROM MOSS
EXTRA-LONG ALLOY WHEEL NUT SOCKETS FROM LASER TOOLS
If you take care of your car you will also take care of your alloy wheels, and that means using proper alloy wheel nut sockets when removing or tightening the wheel nuts. But sometimes clearance can be a bit tight and we certainly don’t want to scrape the edge of the wing with the torque wrench! These extra-long, alloy wheel nut sockets from Laser Tools (part number 6866) solve this problem. Their 150 millimetre length keeps the torque wrench safely out of the way of the bodywork, and their thin-walled design and protective nylon sleeve looks after both the alloy wheel and the wheel nut. The sockets are manufactured from chrome molybdenum steel for excellent strength and wear resistance. The set of three includes 17, 19 and 21 millimetre sockets, and they are presented in a sturdy blow mould case to keep them clean and secure. Available now from your Laser Tools stockist at a typical price of £72.84 (price includes VAT). Also available separately are 130mm versions: 17mm (part number 6908 – £18.89), 19mm (part number 6909 – £18.89) and 21mm (part number 6910 – £19.34). Remember to check for the best price and special offers. More details from www.lasertools.co.uk
www.mgcc.co.uk
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Renowned worldwide for the manufacture and restoration of veteran, vintage and classic wire wheels since 1927. MWS has been run by the same family since 1947 and over the years there is one thing that has not changed: the commitment to provide the best quality and service possible. MWS wire wheels are available in chrome, painted or stainless steel and are all manufactured using state-ofthe-art technology and finished in the highest quality. These wire wheel and
tyre packages remove the hassle of purchasing and fitting your own tyres, whilst offering great value tyre options. For more information go to: http://www.moss-europe.co.uk/ motor-wheel-services
ZS 4.2.1. MANIFOLD FROM MIKE SATUR The stainless steel, mandrel bent, ZS 1.8 manifold is new, although Mike first produced one 14 years ago as a one-off for his ZS. Now redeveloped in conjunction with Piper Exhausts as an exclusive part. Has the same development as the MGF/TF manifolds they sell and works extremely well with guaranteed torque and BHP improvements on the K series engine it was designed for. Fits all variants with A/C or non A/C. They are currently looking at making a slightly modified version that will fit the ZR as well. Price
is £345 plus VAT and delivery. For more information contact Mike Satur at sales@mikesatur.com or phone 01782 373547. web: www.mikesatur.co.uk
MG CAR CLUB CHRISTMAS CARDS The 2017 MG Car Club Christmas card is a bespoke design by the English artist Martha Mitchell. She has designed this classic, though contemporary Christmas card of the MG Heritage in Abingdon on Thames. Printed on luxury paper, and includes envelope. Message inside; Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year Price £2 each or a pack of 6 for £10 plus P&P. To order phone Ineke on 01235 849737
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THE NEXT GENERATION By Adam Sloman Photos by Gez Hughes
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www.mgcc.co.uk
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Longbridge has been home to some of the most talented engineers in the UK – engineers with a proven track record of producing cars that have delivered everything an MG should. Now, to train the next generation of talent, they turned to that quintessential MG, the MGB. www.mgcc.co.uk
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FEATURE
T
I FOUND THE CAR ON EBAY. IT HAD DONE 65,000 MILES AND DIDN’T NEED ANY MAJOR WELDING, WHICH WAS IMPORTANT www.mgcc.co.uk
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here must be something in the water at Longbridge – as the home of MG in the UK since 1982, the plant has developed some pretty special MGs, cars like the Metro Turbo, MGF and the MG ‘Zed’ range right through to today’s 3s, 6s and GSs – all have input from the teams in Birmingham to thank for the ride, handling and performance. There’s a core of engineers and designers who just get what an MG is supposed to deliver – a fun and engaging car that aims to make you smile. SMTC UK – the technical arm of MG Motor – was born in 2005 with the vast majority of staff being former MG Rover employees, some with history that stretched back even to the days of Austin Rover. Cut them in half and you’ll find the MG octagon running through them. Combine this passion for the marque with the type of ingenuity that saw the likes of the Rover 45 transformed into the MG ZS and you quickly get an idea of the calibre of engineers and designers working at the plant. But how do you transfer that MG ‘DNA’ to the people that will be charged with making tomorrow’s MGs? Steve Jones, Senior HR Manager at SMTC UK, explains: “We started talking to universities about five years ago. I visited Bath University and we were able to get our first group of interns on board and things have grown from there. Each year we have given the interns a group project to help them develop their teamwork, project management and technical skills.” For 2017 the team at Longbridge had something bigger in mind – something that would not only allow the interns to demonstrate their understanding of engineering and packing principles, but also connect them with the latest technology being developed at Longbridge, together with the history and heritage of the marque. Seven interns, six from Bath University and one from Oxford
Brookes, were selected for the programme, but what would the project be? IT BEGINS WITH ‘B’ Arguably the best-known, and certainly the most popular MG to date, everyone knows the MGB, so when the team at Longbridge were thinking of a base for the 2017 intern project, thoughts obviously turned to the B. Could the team make a classic B feel like a modern sportscar by fitting new MG technology, designed and developed in the UK, such as the 2.0 turbo engine, ABS and power steering? While chrome bumper roadsters’ values continue to rise, the later GTs remain affordable, which is where Adrian Guyll, a Senior Engineer at SMTC, began. The project car dates from 1981, meaning it was built right at the end of the B’s production just as the Abingdon factory was preparing to close. Adrian recalls: “I found the car on eBay. It had done 65,000 miles, there was some surface rust, as you’d expect, but it didn’t need any major welding, which was important.” The interns had no idea what was in store for them, as Tom Ruddell remembers. “We had been told that we would be working on a group project, which was very exciting, but had absolutely no idea what it would be. We came into the meeting room and our mentor, Steve Jones from HR, presented this project that had come from the work idea Dave Lindley, the MD of the company, had, to develop a sprint car for use by the SMTC UK after hours racing club. Some work had already been done by Andy Kitson, from the chassis department, and Peter Andrews in Design (among many others) to investigate what attributes an MG should have and how it should make a driver feel. They wanted us to produce a vehicle that would demonstrate the modern technology SAIC has developed with a reference to the heritage of the brand.”
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IT WAS FANTASTIC THAT THE PROJECT WAS SO LARGE IT MEANT THE COMPANY SAW THE INTERN SCHEME AS IMPORTANT
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Unlike his fellow interns, Tom had perhaps the strongest connection to the brand. “My family home is very near Abingdon, where the MGB was built and now the home of the MG Car Club, so I’ve been aware of MG from a young age. The frequent sight of a beautifully maintained classic MG driving around my local roads has left an impression on me, and I’ve always seen the BGT as one of the great icons of British automotive design. When we talked about it afterwards we were saying: ‘This is amazing! But can we do it?’ But there was definitely an overwhelming feeling of excitement!” Tom’s colleague, Ben Dunster, shared his trepidation, but was up for the challenge. “I was both excited to be working on such an interesting project and nervous about the scale of the task. Having completed two years at university, we had been mostly working on mathematics and engineering theory. There were a few design projects but nothing to prepare us for this project, or related to cars.” Uvindu Wijesinghe, the only electrical engineering intern in the team, had similar concerns, “I was overwhelmed! It sounded like a massive undertaking and I wasn’t sure how a group of fresh interns, with no real experience, could complete such a
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task. I was also aware of the fact that I was the only intern with an electrical engineering background, with everyone else studying mechanical engineering or a similar degree. I didn’t comprehend what some of the mechanical challenges would be, and I also realised that there was a massive electrical engineering undertaking ahead, where I couldn’t realistically expect a lot of support from the very busy electrical team!” Damon Elson was also excited about the project. “I was buzzing with excitement!” he says. “The scope of the project and the seniority of the people overseeing its progress clearly showed that the assignment was an exceptional learning opportunity and had the ability to kickstart my career in the event of a successful outcome.” AN IMPORTANT PROJECT Fellow intern Will Taylor shared his colleague’s sense of caution, but was excited by the level of trust, time and investment SMTC UK were placing in the group. “This project was far larger than anything ever done at University, I only had a little experience of classic cars, but it was fantastic that the project was so large because it meant the company clearly saw the intern scheme as important.”
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The first job for the team was to benchmark the B against more modern machinery and identify the areas for improvement – chiefly the engine, braking and steering. The team were taken to Curborough Sprint track for a day’s benchmarking with the MGB GT, an MGB roadster, a MG GS with the 2.0L Turbo engine and, arguably the modern answer to the MGB GT, the Toyota GT86 and then given four weeks to develop their proposals. “The aim of this day was to understand the pitfalls and strengths of the MGB GT and stimulate ideas for modifications,” says Ben. There was less than year to complete the project, meaning there was no time to resurrect a rotten bodyshell. “To overhaul an older vehicle and to introduce modern technology into it is not straightforward!” says Adrian. The team were tasked with selecting parts from within the SAIC Group (MG’s parent company) that would address the B’s shortcomings that had been found during its headto-head with other cars. Proposals were then put forward by the team to suggest how to breathe new life into the BGT, but the group would first need to evaluate the B to see how the car would measure up. Once the upgrades were identified, the B was
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then stripped back to a bare shell, not only to remove the old components, but also to remove any rust and ensure the shell was solid. Then the car was treated to a full scan, meaning the body could be rendered in a CAD (Computer Aided Design) programme. “We scanned the engine bay, wheel arches, and underbody of the car to give us a holistic model to work with during the design and packaging stages of the project,” says Ben. A lot has changed in automotive packaging principles between 1962 and 2017, and this created some interesting challenges for Will. “I used the CAD data to package the engine and transmission into the vehicle. It was difficult as the car was made with a very small engine in mind, so a number of compromises had to be made to fit the engine into the bay. Alongside positioning the engine, I also had to consider other parts of the package at the same time by running smaller studies to ensure that there was enough clearance for the exhaust and the inlet pipe into the manifold. Then I designed the mounts for the engine.” Ultimately, the height of the engine meant the team had to opt for an MGC bonnet, the raised profile of which gave the extra clearance required. “The engine was so tall,” says Ben. “The MGC bonnet gives a bit more clearance, but we also modified
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the front cross member to give us some extra space. The positioning of the engine and gearbox took us a good few weeks.” The B required serious modification and strengthening to allow the engine to sit low enough. Elsewhere, the transmission tunnel required surgery to allow the LT77 gearbox to be mated to the new power unit. MERGING OLD WITH NEW Despite the use of cutting-edge technology, the team still needed plenty of traditional skills when it came to installing the 2.0 litre turbo. “Even after all of the work in CAD, the engine position was still subject to some changes when the engine was lowered into the car. It really showed me the challenges of merging old with new,” notes Ben. “Once we had the engine positioned, the main bulk of the design work could begin,” says Ben. He continues: “Design work began on the engine mounts, engine-gearbox adaptor plate, custom oil-coolant cover plate, custom drive belt run, brakes, steering system and much more. Suppliers for custom designs were contacted, parts made and delivered to site. An electric water pump was selected and procured at this stage to
replace the mechanical module that had to be removed to package the engine into the bay.” It was at this point the team’s donor GS was sourced and its engine removed and then the car proceeded to what is known as the ‘dry build’ phase. Here, the engine and gearbox are mounted, along with several other engine bay components. With most of the components in the car including the radiator, intercooler and electric water pump, the cooling and intake system piping could be designed. The schematic diagram of the new cooling system for our application was used and the pipe runs were designed in situ with limited packaging space remaining. The hoses were then ordered, cut to length and assembled in car. During the dry build, the team identified the suspension modifications for the car, opting for Bilstein dampers and stiffer, lower springs all round. The setting of the suspension then allowed them to calculate things like steering lock and wheel offset. BRAKING FROM TRADITION While Will and Ben focussed on the engine, Tom and Sam were charged
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FEATURE
with an equally important area of improvement – the brakes. While the BGT’s disc/drum combo is sufficient for the 95bhp 1800cc B-Series, the new engine would develop over twice that amount of power and so would require a sufficient improvement in stopping power, as the brief had included a requirement for the car to be equipped with anti-lock brakes. “My responsibility was to scope, design and build the brake system on the car. I’d never had the chance to work on a car before, so I really had a lot to learn!” recalls Tom. “Certain things were closer to what I’ve learnt at university, like using CAD modelling and designing solutions to a problem and testing their structural integrity, so the crossmember modifications and the calliper mounts were more familiar.” The duo’s biggest challenge was the front brakes. “I had so many different considerations to balance. Using larger discs to increase stopping power meant that we needed bigger rims to fit the callipers in, and increasing the wheel width to improve traction meant I had to make sure we wouldn’t rub on the wheel arch. Sam and I worked closely to make sure the wheel offset gave the right track, so as not to alter the steering geometry – and to ensure the callipers had clearance to the wheel carrier from lock to lock. Using the original hubs meant I had to work with a specific BCD to mount the discs, and designing the positioning of the toothed reluctor rings and wheel speed sensors for the ABS had to be very precise. As anyone who has worked on cars will know, all these decisions impact on each other, so I had to work methodically to prevent surprises (of the bad kind) later.” As well as upgrades to the engine and the brakes, another key area identified for improvement was the steering, with the choice made to implement power assisted steering into the build. The BGT uses a prototype MG power steering column, with
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Sam finding the installation of the column to be quite a task. “Routing and mounting the new electric power steering system through the bulkhead and down to the steering gear was a significant package and manufacturing challenge of mine.” Despite the many challenges, the team kept pushing ahead and as the summer drew to a close, the car was approaching completion. The engine bay was cleaned thoroughly and the whole body was sanded down. With the rubber bumpers not required, front and rear Sebring valances were added to give the car a purposeful, racing look, before being sprayed in a classic shade of British Racing Green. Just as Uvindu had suspected, the B needed significant electrical work to bring all the new components together. “A CAN (Controller Area Network) was designed to allow the Engine Management System (EMS), Electric Power Assisted Steering (EPAS) and the ABS kit to work. This involved obtaining the signal specifications for each of the systems and designing a gateway ECU that could take CAN messages from one system and
then relay them to another system, converting them to the correct format to ensure compatibility between the different systems and prevent signal conflicts,” explains Ben. The power steering proved particularly challenging. “It was obtained from a current MG and as a result it expected a lot of signals from the rest of the car. The gateway ECU was programmed to simulate these signals to make the EPAS system think that it’s still in one and not throw any errors!” says Ben, adding: “The wheel speeds obtained from the ABS kit were also relayed to the EPAS system by the gateway ECU to allow the amount of steering assistance provided to vary with the vehicle speed, allowing assistance to be high at low speeds (such as when parking) but low at high speeds (such as motorway driving).” New systems meant new wiring and under the guidance of electrical engineer and MGB enthusiast, Tony Linney, the team designed a new loom and then laid it out to ensure everything was correct before installing it into the car. A new fusebox was also designed to accommodate the new
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FEATURE
TECH SPEC ENGINE SAIC, 4-cylinder 2.0 NLE turbo 220 bhp 350 Nm torque Electric cooling pump MGB V8 alloy radiator Cone air filter BTCC spec intercooler CHASSIS Lowered suspension front and rear Bilstein telescopic dampers front and rear Suspension bush upgrade Uprated front and rear springs Panhard rod kit Bespoke alloy wheels STEERING Quick rack Prototype MG electric steering column BRAKES MG GS front brake discs and callipers MG GS rear brake discs and callipers (274mm front and 250mm rear) Bosch motorsport ABS system modified Aeroquip brake lines MG3 brake booster and master cylinder DIFFERENTIAL Quaife auto torque biasing differential EXHAUST Bespoke stainless-steel exhaust system
systems that were installed. Despite all the new kit, parts of the old loom were kept for items such as the lighting. With the car painted, the car progressed to final build, and before
long it was ready to be started for the first time. “The most rewarding part of the project was hearing the engine fire up for the first time,” says Ben.
TRANSMISSION Designed in house adaptor plate Concentric clutch actuation LT77 gearbox Bespoke propshaft
HEARING IT START FOR THE FIRST TIME, WHICH WAS ONLY A WEEK BEFORE THE DEADLINE, REALLY MOTIVATED EVERYONE AND IT WAS THE POINT WHEN EVERYTHING CAME TOGETHER AND WE KNEW IT WAS GOING TO WORK www.mgcc.co.uk
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THEY ARE A GREAT GROUP OF YOUNG ENGINEERS AND I HOPE THAT THE PROJECT AND THE SUPPORT OF SMTC UK COMPANY WILL SERVE THEM WELL IN THEIR FUTURE CAREERS “We had accomplished so much already; however the engine was the centrepiece of the car and it’s not really a car if it doesn’t move. Hearing it start for the first time, which was only a week before the deadline, really motivated everyone and it was the point when everything came together and we knew it was going to work. It was good to see the hard work that we had all done come together and work. It was also a relief to see no coolant leak, as this was an area Ben and I had spent a long time putting together.” The car was completed in September and made a low-key debut at the Silverstone round of the British Touring Car Championship ahead of a full, public showing at this year’s NEC Classic Motor Show. “I feel an immense amount of pride in the car,” says Adrian. “The car was carefully thought out and the
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result is a showcase for the talents of young engineering graduates. They are a great group of young engineers and I hope that the project and the support of SMTC UK company will serve them well in their future careers. The result is a drivable classic car with a modern twist, produced to show-car standards.” Steve Jones agrees: “The results are fantastic. It demonstrates that the knowledge can be successfully passed on to future generations of engineers in a challenging and exciting way. Everyone wanted to get involved in this project and we are left with a fantastic product for future employees and interns to enjoy.” Tom shares Adrian’s sense of pride, especially with his brakes! “The feeling at the end of the project was just amazing. For me, seeing the completed brake system working perfectly and looking great made all
the planning, engineering and late nights worthwhile. The build is very unique, too, because I’m certain no other MGB has the same brakes – or ABS! Working alongside my friends and overcoming numerous ‘showstopping’ problems along the way was just a fantastic experience all round.” The finished car exists not only as testament to the next generation of automotive engineering talent here in the UK, but also to underline the importance of MG’s enviable history and heritage within the hearts and minds of those designing and engineering tomorrow’s MGs. THE TEAM: SMTC UK Mentors: Steve Jones, Adrian Guyll, Ian Tilsley, Iain Fleming, Andy Kitson, Peter Andrews, George Haigh The Intern Team: University of Bath: Uvindu Wijesinghe, Will Taylor, Ben Dunster, Sam Gray, Damon Elson, Tom Ruddell; Oxford Brookes University: Harry Pryke Special Thanks to: Chris Brace, University of Bath, Alison Ukleja, University of Bath, Rob Breckon, University of Bath, Andy King. Oxford Brookes University
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CHRISTMAS GIFT IDEAS
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PROJECT MGA PART III
Time to strip the chassis and remove the engine, Ben and his colleagues, Josh and Brooke, start the next stage of the restoration.
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aving assessed the condition of the bodywork, which is in amazing condition, it came as no surprise to find the strip down of the chassis went well with all the suspension parts coming apart with ease. The chassis itself was virtually rust-free, the only issue being the battery holders. It had been decided to convert the car to a single 12 volt battery, doing away with the troublesome 6 volts. So one of the battery frame holders was removed and cannibalised to repair the other.
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Engine after being removed from the chassis NOVEMBER 2017 SAFETY FAST! 25
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Engine ancillaries being removed
The frame was also slightly widened to accommodate the replacement battery. Most of the screws holding the wooden floor in place had to be drilled out, though, but having removed the floor boards it was found that the floor locating rails were in excellent condition when normally they can be
very corroded. Obviously, coming from the dry American state of California was again contributing to its overall good condition. The engine was left in place whilst the front suspension was stripped, as Ben has found the weight of the engine helps when removing the front springs.
Ben removes rear springs
Prop-shaft being removed
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Gearbox cover about to be lifted off
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With the oil fully drained the engine is nearly ready for removal.
Next came the removal of the engine. A hoist was set up to do this and lift hooks and chain were bolted to the top of the engine. Next Josh and Brooke removed the ancillaries from the engine, being carbs, exhaust manifold, dynamo, etc, while Ben removed the prop shaft, exhaust, rear springs and axle. Ben felt that
Grinding out the unwanted battery carrier
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the rear springs and shock absorbers could be renovated and reused on the rebuild as, like the front items, they were in very good condition. The axle will be checked, refurbed if necessary, and powder coated. The splined hubs were also in amazingly good condition and could easily be reused. Brooke also removed the
Ready and poised with the welder
remote control on the gearbox to ease the removal process. The hoist was attached to the engine lifting chain and once the mounting bolts were removed the engine/gearbox was literally pulled away from the chassis. This engine, which was a replacement and not the original engine, will not be reused as a ‘B’
Welding the battery carrier
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Engine about to be removed.
SUPPORTED BY
Engine being guided away from the chassis
series engine with a Mazda 5-speed gearbox conversion will be fitted. This will enhance its drivability, particularly as once completed it will participate in charity events up and down the country and be exhibited here at the Club and other locations. The next stage will be to get the chassis and ancillary items shot blasted
and then powder coated together with the painting of the bodywork. As RPS does not undertake this type of work two local firms have been commissioned to do this. Mike is being kept up-to-date with the car’s progress and we asked him why he chose RPS to carry out the restoration work on his car. “I have
used RPS before to carry out work for me and have found their professional approach linked with a ‘no problem too great’ attitude is confidenceinspiring. This, backed up by their experienced mechanics, means they turn out top-quality work”. We continue with part four of Project MGA next month.
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Preparation is everything and that good results start when the car first arrives into their workshop. From their custom-designed premises, Rally Preparation Services concentrate on ensuring that the competition cars they work on are prepared with the kind of attention to detail that can only come from enthusiasts with the engineering skills to build vehicles designed for success. They also offer a service helping the driver and navigator with training and support to get ready for their event, making it a complete rally preparation package.
They do have more strings to their bow than just rally prep and rebuilds. Classic and vintage car restoration is also their forte. The Rally Preparation Services team boasts some of the best restorers in the business – be it a Great British sports car, Pre-war American or a retro rally car. RPS has an enviable reputation in restoring classic and competition cars of any marque. Other services on offer are maintenance, car storage, sales and shipping, and even tracking services. For more details contact RPS on 01993 358009 or visit their website at www.rpsrally.com
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Terry with his ‘Mitchell Special’ in the factory yard
MITCHELL’S MONGREL(S) -PART I
I
n cash-strapped and car-hungry post-war Britain (with the government ruling that the great majority of new car production must go for export) many of the young men of the day, with a modicum of engineering know-how but little in the way of finances, resorted to building their own ‘specials’. Based on pre-war Fords, Austins or whatever they could get their hands on for the minimum outlay, they were able to ‘customise’ them to their own requirements. One such individual was 30-year-old Terence Henry Mitchell. Terry had harboured a yearning from an early age to work as a design engineer for the Great Western Railway. Steam
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By Peter Neal locomotives held a special fascination for him and although he would never realise his original ambition, he would never lose his love of railways. His main leisure activity throughout his life (after motor cars) entailed the construction of highly accurate, working large-scale models of GWR steam locomotives. At the commencement of World War II Terry volunteered for flying duties with the Royal Air Force, only to find that his less-than-perfect eyesight had ruled him out of such activities. Instead, he would find himself based in Egypt as an RAF flight mechanic servicing Merlin engines for Spitfires, an experience that left a lasting impression on him. Once hostilities
Terry poses with his ‘speed iron’ in Egypt – Xmas 1945
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FEATURE
Terry off duty and ‘off the leash’ in Egypt
had come to an end Terry once more pursued his burning ambition, even to the point of doing a stint in the ticket office of his local railway station (where he perfected his beautiful copper plate handwriting) in the hope of using this as a stepping-stone to greater things. Unfortunately the GWR did not share his unbridled enthusiasm and he once more drew a blank. Undaunted, Terry widened his search at this point to include the motor industry where he eventually found an opportunity to train as a design draughtsman with Morris Motors in Oxford. At this juncture fate took a hand and Terry was directed into the MG and Riley office at Cowley, where he soon became a proficient draughtsman, initially working on brake and suspension systems for the Riley Pathfinder. Most of Terry’s motoring up to this time had been on two wheels but he now felt the moment had come to upgrade to four. He was lodging in Oxford with a colleague at this time and managed to persuade him that his garden shed would be suitable for the construction of a ‘sports car’. This took the shape of a Ford Ten special: stripping the donor car down to its bare essentials and fitting it with a rather spartan home-made body. Whilst this sufficed for a little while, Terry began to think in terms of something that would test his ability as an engineer rather more. So began the construction (in the same shed) of his first proper special. This consisted of a tubular steel (RAF
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surplus) frame, which he designed and welded up himself, into which he planted a Morris Ten engine. The front suspension was Morris Minor, but in place of torsion bars Terry used coil springs for which he fabricated new bottom wishbones. The rear suspension was a unique design utilising a de Dion tube, located fore and aft by radius arms, and laterally by a ball and slide arrangement coupled with a single transverse leaf spring. The
differential came from an old Vauxhall 12 to which he welded mounting brackets to take Minor brakes. Drive to the rear wheels was achieved using Hardy Spicer joints on intermediate half-shafts. These he made by turning down shafts from a Bedford lorry! For this Terry was unapologetic. “They suited my purpose admirably and I will probably do the same on my next car,” he told a reporter in an interview for the Nuffield Organisation house magazine Teamwork. Clothed in a twoseater body, which must be described as functional rather than beautiful, the whole thing had taken three years of evenings and weekends to complete. It was, incidentally, during this interview that Terry remarked: “I’m afraid she’s a bit of a mongrel”. The name stuck and thereafter the car became known as ‘Mitchell’s Mongrel’! Once on the road, Terry invited a work colleague of his, Allan Webb, to accompany
Terry with his first (Ford based?) special c.1940
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The ‘Mongrel’ nears completion, with Terry’s wife Dorothy at the wheel
Rear view of the ‘Mongrel’
Terry and the ‘Mongrel’ pose for the Teamwork article
him one lunchtime for a ride in the ‘special’ along the Garsington Road that skirted the Cowley factory. This, however, didn’t turn out to be quite the experience Allan was expecting. Once out in the car, Terry asked him to position himself behind the seats and standing on the exposed chassis (no floor!) he was required to observe the action of the rear axle and suspension assembly as Terry drove along the road. Allan, who went on to work with Alec Issigonis on the design of the BMC 1100 series, never quite forgot that hair-raising drive with Terry that day! Not long after the car was on the road, Terry was recruited by John Thornley (who was a fairly regular visitor to the Cowley works) to spend a few weeks on loan at Abingdon. It was explained that he would be assisting Syd Enever in the design of the bodyshell for a new recordbreaker (EX179) that they were building based on a prototype MGA chassis and powered by an XPEG engine. Terry jumped at the chance of getting involved with such a project and was soon beavering away in the somewhat makeshift drawing office,
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attempting to meet Syd’s demand for a body that was in his words “like the one on Goldie Gardner’s car only different”! Needless to say, his efforts were successful and this temporary arrangement proved to be the precursor to opening up, in the summer of 1954, a full-time design office at Abingdon. After a brief return to Cowley, Terry, plus a couple of other Morris colleagues (Jim O’Neill
and Harry White), was transferred to the MG factory on a permanent basis. Their immediate task was to complete the engineering for the MGA, which had just been given the go-ahead. Never one to do things by half measures, Syd Enever, aided and abetted by well-known record-breaker George Eyston, had also embarked on a new record-breaker project (EX181) to attack the up to1500cc class records. This was a task that Terry would become deeply involved in over the next couple of years as the car’s principal designer. With such a workload most people would be happy to go home at the end of the day and put their feet up. Not Terry, however. He had started planning his next (and possibly most successful) special, a task that would occupy him for much of the next six years. Incidentally, it was the ‘Mongrel’ that almost cost Terry his blossoming career at MG, almost before it had really begun. He used it as everyday transport and everyone (particularly after the Teamwork article) recognised
Front view of new special. Note four-branch exhaust
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FEATURE
Side view. Note plywood fascia in situ
it as his car. Abingdon’s director at that time, S.V. Smith, had seen Terry racing to work on a number of occasions at well past eight o’clock in the morning (the Abingdon factory’s starting time for staff then was 8.00am) and assumed Terry was regularly late for work. A stickler for discipline, he phoned Thornley to tell him to dispense with Terry’s services forthwith. Terry’s defence was that when he transferred to MG he’d been given special dispensation to continue starting work at 8.30am which had been his previous starting time at Cowley. Fortunately, Syd Enever saved his bacon by giving him his backing on this occasion, but from that day on Terry began his working day at 8.00am along with everybody else! By the time that he’d started on the construction of his next car, Terry had married and settled in a bungalow on the outskirts of Abingdon with his new wife. He wasted no time in building a large wooden workshop in his back garden to house his latest project. The first task was to produce the tubular chassis frame. This time, Terry planned to build sufficient strength and rigidity into the chassis to support an open two-seater sports car without the need to resort to a coupé structure as he had needed to do in his previous car. Terry cut and shaped all of the various pieces (he had, of course, made a scale drawing of the chassis first) and then took them into the factory one Saturday morning to have them welded up by the development shop’s Harold Wiggins, one of the best metal workers in the business. Next came the suspension. The front would utilise
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more or less standard MGA units with, of course, rack and pinion steering, whilst the rear would once again be a unique de Dion-style arrangement along similar lines to the Mongrel. This time, however, Terry opted for torsion bars (Morris Minor) as the springing medium, with the axle located laterally by a Watts linkage. This set-up also had the drum brakes positioned inboard. It is perhaps noteworthy that the front and rear suspension of the record-breaker EX181, that Terry would have been working on at this time, featured similar suspension systems, and a comparable de Dion rear suspension arrangement was later proposed for the MGB but abandoned on grounds of cost. Ever aware that his own costs must be kept strictly under control, Terry had managed to obtain an obsolete XPAG engine from the company. This wasn’t any old engine but in fact EX173/1, one of two specially prepared
(and used) for Goldie Gardner’s blown EX135 record car in which he successfully attacked International class F records on the Utah salt flats in 1951. In 1952 this engine again made the trip to Utah, this time as the spare engine. A further planned record attempt in 1953 was unfortunately called off due to Goldie’s failing health and not long after that the car was retired from active service. Engine No. EX173/2 remained in the car and EX173/1, fortunately for Terry, became surplus to requirements. Once acquired and installed in his new special, he began to fabricate a fourbranch exhaust manifold feeding into a side-mounted silencer in the sill area below the driver’s door. This would be covered by the bodywork with the tail pipe emerging just forward of the right-hand rear wheel. The installation of the radiator also followed previous MG record-breaker practice, being mounted on outriggers and tilted forward thus achieving a good airflow coupled with a low bonnet line. So far everything had gone to plan and it now remained for Terry to design a body that would complement the degree of engineering effort that he had already put into the design of this car. Next month we will take a look at what he managed to achieve.
Rear view. Awaiting body panels. Note ‘bubble car’ in background (more of which next month)
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MGA NEWSLET TER Edward Vandyk Tel: 01488 608810 mgascribe@vandyk.co.uk
WELCOME TO THE MGA NEWSLETTER I don’t need to share with you this year’s weather because you will have experienced it, but as the MGA Historian I spend a fair amount of time going through old copies of Safety Fast! and prior to that Motoring, the Nuffield house magazine that contained MGCC news up until 1959, researching the history of the MGA.
Contemporary weather reports add a flavour to the factual articles and put them into context so, if anyone picks up this article in later years, I would sum up 2017 as being full of hope at the start with its climax at the, probably too hot, MGLive! at Silverstone and downhill, disappointing and damp thereafter.
At the Potters Heron
2017 AUTUMN TOUR The season’s finale, so to speak, was the MGA Register Autumn Tour, brilliantly organised by the Register Chairman, Peter Morgan, and based at the Potters Heron Hotel, near Romsey in Hampshire, on the South Coast adjacent to the New Forest. The first day took in a tour of the New Forest and the second day the picturesque countryside of East
Milford on Sea 34 SAFETY FAST! NOVEMBER 2017
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Hampshire. 44 cars were entered and despite the overcast weather, the majority managed both days ‘top-down’. Highlight of day one was the hamlet of Buckler’s Hard, where many of Nelson’s fleet were built and which played a leading part in the manufacture of the Mulberry Harbour pontoons used for D-Day landings. Some took advantage of
the 30-minute boat trip down to the mouth of the Beaulieu River, giving great views of the fabulous properties which back onto the river, including the Rothschild family’s Exbury Estate. The tour continued through Lymington and Milford on Sea with its splendid views of the Needles, before returning to the Forest through Burley, Fordingbridge and Cadnam and thence back to Romsey. The evening Gala Dinner contained some unusual ‘turns’ which were possibly affected by the demon drink! Day two, planned by Graham and Jill Eke, set off east taking in the option of a train ride on the Watercress Line, before moving on to Jane Austen’s house at Chawton. The tour continued through Selbourne and the picturesque villages of the Meon Valley before climbing Portsdown Hill with its splendid views of the Solent and the
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Isle of Wight. You could just make out the new aircraft carrier moored at Portsmouth through the mist, but only if you’d visited Specsavers beforehand! Passing the Armouries Museum with its fine display
of naval guns and other artefacts, the route returned to Romsey through the Hambledon and Itchen Valleys. Everyone claimed to have had a great weekend meeting old friends and
making new ones, despite the weather. Our thanks to all the participants for supporting this, our 11th Autumn Tour. Watch the website for details of the 2018 event.
THE EAGLE SEPTEMBER 9 1955 Members who were at MGA Day will have seen a framed picture depicting the EX182 hanging from a tree in the orchard picnic area. This picture has been loaned to the MGA Register by Ian Green with a view to reproducing this unique page, the first publication in the world to report the introduction of the MGA which was officially launched at the Frankfurt Motor show on September 22 1955. Eagle always had a full-colour centre spread featuring a cut-away drawing of a train, boat, plane or other engineering marvel, together with the latest episode of a thriller serial. On September 9 the story was Earthquake Island, starring Sergeant “Tough” Luck of the French Foreign Legion. Following the advance publicity in our E-Newsletter and at the Autumn Tour, we have 40 advance orders and can confirm that a limited run of 101 copies of this page will be printed as a poster, size A2 (594 x 420mm). The image will be the same size as the original comic, (534 x 380mm).
Eagle MGA Poster
Price is £10.00 per poster plus £3.60 postage to a UK, please check for rest of the World. For more information see www. mgcc.co.uk/mga-register/ When the poster is in stock, it will be added to our online merchandise catalogue, where you will find all the information to place an order. For those who have already reserved a copy, we will contact you by email; there is no need to re-confirm your interest.
NOTABLE JOURNEY AWARD 2016 The MGA Register Notable Journey Award for 2016 was presented by Chairman Pete Morgan to Brian and Moyra Goodban at MGLive! on June 17. This is the second time the award has gone to Brian and Moyra, showing that they use their MGA to the full, as it was intended. This time, their journey took them from Calais via Spa and Luxembourg and on to the Black Forest. From there they entered Switzerland where they tackled the St. Gotthard Pass. Next, the Autostrada took them south through Italy, taking in Lake Como and onward to visit the monastery at Monte Cassino, made famous during
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Brian and Moyra’s MGA by the Targa Florio pit wall. Photo: Brian Goodban
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World War II. A drive along the famous Amalfi Coast came next and finally on to Sicily to spend two weeks in a rented villa. During this time a drive around part of the Targa Florio road race circuit was undertaken, including a visit to the race pits. For the return journey they took the overnight ferry from Sicily to Genoa, where they met up with Midget Register committee member, Dave Storer, who took Moyra’s place as navigator, she having arranged to fly home from there. Brian and Dave then continued northwards over the Alps and through the Black Forest to Baden Baden and finally through France. The MGA suffered only a couple of
Peter Morgan presenting the award
minor electrical glitches during the whole trip and delivered Brian and Dave safely home after an epic 3,458 miles.
LOOKING AHEAD – 2018 2018 MGA Register Spring Tour Friday 11–Monday May 14 2018 This year it is to be organised by committee member Ian Wilson, who is putting together a weekend of touring in the spectacular Yorkshire Dales National Park. The Register has held our Spring Weekend in this part of the country twice before, in 2008 and 2009, and it was decided it was time to return. The 2018 tour will explore territory new to some members, in the southern part of the beautiful National Park and will be based at the Craiglands Hotel in Ilkley www.craiglands.co.uk/where 53 rooms have been reserved at the competitive rate of £60.00 per person per night for dinner, bed and breakfast. A £20 supplement will apply for single occupancy. The rate includes the traditional Saturday gala dinner, which will be held in the St Bernard ballroom. Non-residents will be welcome at the gala dinner at £25 per person. Booking for the Tour and the hotel are now open and rooms are filling up quickly. Visit the website at www.mgcc.co.uk/mga-register/
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for more details and to download a booking form.
The Picos Tour This is not an MGA only event but one organised by the amazingly enterprising Beth Corbett, whom some of you may know as the ‘Grey Mare’. Beth completed the Land End to John O’ Groats trip in 2015 single handed in her 1961 MGA 1600 Coupe ‘Mavis’ which has featured in this column before. The proposal is for a notfor-profit event as an organised, but informal, tour for a limited number of classic cars from October 7-18 2018
We now await submissions of Notable Journeys undertaken during 2017. Let’s hear from you.
taking the ferry route to Santander and then exploring the Picos de Europa Natural Park, a beautiful and dramatic mountainous wilderness area with dramatic scenery and roads. It will be based around seven nights at a four starhotel in Ribadesella. Beth discovered the area by chance when returning from the MG European Event of the Year in Porto in August of this year. As Beth says it herself – it will not be cheap! There is a link to a flyer for the event below and Beth’s contact details are at the foot of the flyer. https://www.dropbox.com/s/ d468std71ab2i97/Picos%20Tour. pdf?dl=0
Here’s a road to try…..
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TRIVIA
I have been a keen fan of not allowing the original single window hood, which I feel has been somewhat overtaken by time if not by events, to completely disappear from view. It was, of course, accompanied in period by the original side screens with the lower flap. Neither of these items were particularly practical and probably deserved to be replaced. Roger Martin reminded me that there was an excellent photo of both in the latest edition of “Call It MGA” (on page 23) of Brian Norris shipping his MGA to Sweden. However, I came across another picture recently in Motoring. Would you believe this photograph above, and it has not been cropped, was in fact illustrating an advertisement for the luggage rack! .
The Performance Equipment Co. Ltd of Liverpool, probably better known by the brand name PECO, announced they had agreed a marketing arrangement with Judson and that the supercharger for the AH Sprite would be £73, the MGA £98, the VW Beetle £69 and the Mercedes 190SL £149. Mark Hester, the MGA Twin Cam Group Chairman, came across this fascinating 1955 video of the MGA destined for the Frankfurt Motor Show being loaded in the UK prior to being air freighted to Germany https://youtu.be/8Y4Zrm2f_FY using the “Speedpack”, also known as the “Car By Air”, shipping method. Worth a watch, thanks Mark. It looks like an MGA in a boat and it did not catch on! I came across the final piece of trivia in the Oxfordshire History Centre which has many period documents from the Abingdon factory, including capital expenditure requests, asset disposal schedules and maintenance memos. These show just how financially tight things were at the factory. For example, in the winter of 1961/1962 the factory was down to less than half a day’s oil supply, yet the
capital expenditure request for more oil storage was kicked into touch by John Thornley himself, saying there was no budget for it, it would not get approved at BMC level and the factory would just have to take its chances! However, the trivia I refer to is the maintenance memo reproduced below and signed by John Thornley. Dated prior to the launch of the MGA it envisages production at 150 MGAs a month, which equates to about 7,500 vehicles a year. In fact this was quite a leap forward from the 9,602 MG TFs produced between 1953 and 1955. However 1959, the MGA’s best year, saw production of over 23,000 cars. It looks like the success of the MGA took MG somewhat by surprise.
I also came across the origins of the availability in the UK of the Judson Supercharger for the MGA. This was a rare piece of kit which included a bespoke rocker cover incorporating the lubricator dispensing the Marvel Miracle Oil which lubricated the supercharger itself. In February 1961
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MGB NEWSLET TER David Broadhurst 01209 614704 newsletter-editor@mgb-register.org • www.mgb-register.org • mgbforum.mgb-register.org
WELCOME TO THE MGB NEWSLETTER As I write this in early October, I note that the government has announced sweeping changes to the MOT requirements for older vehicles. The changes are relevant to this Register because, as of May 2018, all but the last couple of years of MGB production will be not only exempt from motor tax but also the requirement to have annual MOT tests. This will be a rolling programme affecting cars and motorcycles as they successively achieve 40 years since first registration. This exemption has applied to pre-1960 vehicles for some time. Is this necessarily a good thing, I ask. I suspect that it is because, as my MOT tester informs me, there are changes on the way for the testing of vehicles, particularly to reflect the changes we have seen in cars in recent times; changes
that just plain don’t apply to our old cars. Simpler then to abolish the need for a test rather than have multiple standards. But, hang on, were I an insurance company I would want to know that the risk that I was insuring was fit for purpose. I would want an assurance from a qualified motor engineer to that effect. So, no matter how carefully you maintain your MG, or any other vehicle, an MOT certificate gives some guarantee that, at the time of examination, the appropriate conditions for the vehicle did apply. We must watch this with interest. Heather Charlton went on the Register weekend with Bill. She has kindly sent in the following write-up of a somewhat damp, but enjoyable, time.
MGB REGISTER WEEKEND Its September, the trees are putting on their colourful autumn coats, the days are getting shorter and 25 MGBs, one MGA, one MG RV8 and two MG3s found their way to Louth in Lincolnshire to explore a different part of the UK (well, we haven’t been to Lincolnshire since 2004!). Clive and Vera Wilday and David Stonehouse, from the Lincolnshire Centre, had put in a lot of work to give the rest of us a memorable weekend.
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The weather leading up to the event had been sunshine and showers and this pattern continued throughout the weekend. By Friday afternoon everybody had arrived at the Kenwick Park Hotel for the next three nights. The Hotel provided a golf course, a swimming pool and a spa for our use, but we were more interested in finding our rooms, signing on, and coming down to enjoy an excellent dinner followed by a presentation by David
Stonehouse on the routes for the next two days. Saturday’s route was largely a dedication to the RAF 617 Squadron ‘The Dambusters’ and Sunday to admire the Lincolnshire countryside. A quick look at Saturday’s route told us that we could choose a long or short run, a question to be answered after lunch? The route to East Kirkby, our lunch stop and home of the Lancaster Bomber, was interesting, taking us through villages with impressive churches like the one at Louth with the highest church spire in England, the home of Alfred Lord Tennyson, Poet Laureate, the lovely village of Horncastle and of course Woodhall Spa which was created as a dream village in the 19th Century. It was the home of the Dambusters during WWII, and also the Dambusters monument and the quaint ‘Kinema in the Woods’. On arrival at the airfield we were allowed to park inside the white gates, actually on the airfield. Here we found the Lancaster proudly standing ready for its two taxi runs during the afternoon, the museum dedicated to
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MGB NEWSLET TER
MGBs by Just Jane
the remains (however small) of parts of aeroplanes that crashed during the war, the Mosquito aircraft with still quite a lot of work to be carried out on it, the front fuselage of a Canberra which the children loved exploring while the rest of us wondered how three grown men could fit into such a small place, military vehicles and one MG – the only one of its type, being a modified T Type – and the NAAFI where we could get a selection of food and drink for lunch. At about 1.30pm it began to rain but about 100 people stayed outside to experience the noise and sight of the Lancaster taxiing down the runway. We had to wait until 4.00pm for the next taxi run to be completed, then the MGs were allowed to park in front of the aircraft for a photo shoot – for some, the pinnacle of the weekend. Those MGs that had not waited for the photo shoot could, and some did, take the long way back to the hotel. This route took them to Skegness where, along the way, they passed numerous nature reserves before getting back to the hotel and dinner. After dinner
Rain pours as Henry Cole helps taxi the bomber. 40 SAFETY FAST! NOVEMBER 2017
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People braved the weather to hear the Lancaster
there was a talk by Steve Hall of Hall’s Garage, an MG specialist garage, and a raffle to raise money towards the Marathon MGB. Sunday was a day of contrasts. First thing the sun was shining, so many took down their hoods before heading off towards Louth and then to Ludborough to see the heritage steam railway which had some smart railway carriages but no engine! From
here we carried on, passing a war memorial to RAF 625 Squadron and a WWII airfield, before reaching Tealby where quite a few MGs stopped for refreshments. Others carried on to Caistor lakes. However, just before the lakes, suddenly the heavens opened and a deluge of rain caused immediate flooding on the road! Fortunately, most MGs had their roofs up. Others further from the lakes did not even
The well known Lancaster Just Jane. www.mgcc.co.uk
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One of the trawlers spotted whilst on the Lincolnshire roads
A selection of MGs at East Kirkby
know it had rained. In contrast to all the lovely churches along the route, we were directed to a church at Whaite. The first impression of a broken gate and the church hiding behind some trees was not very good, but when the church was entered and the light switch found the interior was just amazing. This ended an interesting run, so back to the hotel for dinner. Every evening during our meal a selection of photos which had been taken by various members were
shown on a screen. On this last night we had an additional set of photos, those of the marathon MGB, with John Watson giving a short review of the state of the MG which belongs to the MGB Register. Our evening ended with thanks to all those that had contributed to the enjoyment of the rest of us. On Monday morning we all said our goodbyes, and headed in different directions to our homes. Heather Charlton
REGISTER WEBSITE I am attempting the supervision and editing of the Register website. This is a slow process as systems have changed considerably since I was teaching children how to write code, so please bear with me if the site is not what you would hope for. However, I can point out that there are lots of possibilities for Christmas presents‌sorry about that!
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MGBs out on the road in Lincolnshire
Paddy and his beer allowance
REGISTER AGM I am asked to remind you all that the MGB Register will be holding its AGM at Kimber House on February 17 at 10.30am. Contact for more details is Neil Hyett, Register Secretary, who can be contacted by email at neilhyett54@btinternet.com or phone 07768 414 641 should you have some point you wish to be raised or if you would like to step up and help to run your Register.
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THE MGB Register Spring Run 2018
Supported by British Motor Heritage ALL MG MODELS ARE WELCOME TO ENTER This year on Sunday 15th April we will be starting and finishing at the award winning Haynes Motor Museum in Sparkford Somerset
Entry is £28 to include a full route book, rally plaque and entry to the museum on your return as well as a cream tea. The event is limited to 100 MG’s online booking is available at www.mgb-register.org in the events section, from Oct 1st 2017.
OR - complete the form below and post with a cheque for £28 made payable to:- MGCC – MGB Register Closing date for entries will be Friday 30th March.
Any enquires or questions email to springrun@mgb-register.org Postal entries to go to Roger Cooper 74 Great Bowden Road, Market Harborough LE16 7DG Tel 01858-463417 – If you have not included an email please enclose a stamped addressed envelope
POSTAL ENTRY FORM FOR THE 2018 MGB SPRING RUN Driver’s Name Co-drivers Name
MGCC membership number if a member Telephone / Mobile
Address
MG Model Registration Number
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MGF NEWSLET TER Tim Morris 01932 882467 scribe@mgfregister.org • www.mgfregister.org
WELCOME TO THE MGF NEWSLETTER STATE OF THE MARKET If we discount the X-Power 500, which was optimistically offered for sale in France for just under 300,000 euros, the Fs and TFs commanding higher premiums seem to be the 160hp variety, monogram paintworks and some special editions (but not all) such as the 85th Anniversary which is distinguished by its rarity at just 50 models being made. Both privately and with specialist dealers these models
are commanding prices which are arguably commensurate with their true value. We’ve seen low-mileage Trophy 160s for around £10,000 and a virtually no mileage 80th Anniversary for £15,000, whilst at the other end of the scale there are still hundreds of F/TFs that are pretty ropey and can be had for a tin of beans and a bit of string – or a couple of hundred English pounds, anyway. Most
MODDING The low prices of the majority of cars does mean that they are great for modding and we have seen many cars with modified bodywork and other creations using the MGF as a base. Modifying MGFs is not particularly new and some early examples, such as Andy Phillips’s Scarlet Fever, are still with us in modified form whilst others have fallen by the wayside – Gerry Hiorns’s Goldenwheels Honda powered MGF springs immediately to mind. We have featured many modified MGFs and TFs in our quarterly periodical FasTForward over the years, and in this newsletter we bring wider attention to one that has appeared recently in that magazine and was spotted at the Brooklands Autumn
of these end up as scrap or broken for parts at a voracious rate as the cost of repair is way above the market value of the car as a whole. However, there are also enthusiasts willing to spend on them and restore them to their former glories, regardless of cost. We are in a better position than a few years ago when all F/TFs were selling for ridiculously low amounts, but there is now a growing divide between those top and desirable cars and the also-rans, or probably don’t run anymore.
CHRISTMAS IS ON ITS WAY!
Some modifications are more extreme than others – there is an MGF under here somewhere!
Motorsport Day in October – John Harper’s MGF R. Whilst modding may not be everyone’s cup of tea, Gerry McGovern certainly didn’t approve, there is no denying that stamping your personality on a car can bring some stunning results.
Christmas is on its way and now is the time to start to think about getting your MGF/TF fan some logo clothing. Fleeces, polos, sweatshirts, etc, are all available from the Register’s online shop and other gift items can be found on our website, including keyrings, stickers, badges, pens, tote bags, etc – in other words ideal stocking-fillers for the MGF/ TF enthusiast. You can find it all at www. mgfregister.org/shop The Regional Christmas ‘dos’ will be coming up next month, so keep an eye out for those on the various Facebook pages and on the Regional boards on the main Register Internet forum. They are a great way to end the year and also, if you are new, to meet local people in your area ready for next year’s Fun.
2017 PHOTO COMPETITION If you haven’t entered our annual Photo Competition yet then there is still time to do so – the closing date is Monday November 13. The rules are still the same – you can send up to three digital photos to tim.morris@mgfregister.org which have been taken in the past 12 months and feature an MGF or TF in some form or another. They can be edited and
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improved but have no “additions” so please don’t transplant your MGF to the middle of the Sahara Desert or on top of Everest. The top 12 will feature in the MGF Register calendar for 2018 and the overall winner will be this year’s recipient of the Photographic Cup.
www.mgcc.co.uk
24/10/2017 14:58
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A handful of 2017 events from around the country : Clockwise from top left: Multi-Region meet at Uxbridge Classic Car Show; Llanerchindda Farmhouse, South East Regional Weekender; Jersey National Register weekend; Central group meet Fuzz Townsend; Stoneleigh International MG & Triumph Show; SE Register at Clandon Classic Car Show; Central at Middleton Hall Classic Car Show; Thames Valley group at Arundel Castle; Start of the Essex International Weekend; Flagging away cars from Abingdon Market Square on the Chairman’s weekend; Awards being handed out at the Register’s annual dinner; South Wales Group on a summer run
REGISTER EVENTS The MGF Register took the decision to go down the route of a more social group with the formation of Regions in 2003 and now we have around 16 of those around the country, all of which organise a staggering amount of events, runs and meets throughout the year. We now count up about 150 MGF Register events a year, from large national events such as the recent Essex International Weekender and our trip to Jersey, to local meets down the pub or curry house. We have had some good multi-regional meets this year, which included Brooklands MG Day, Uxbridge Classic Car Show and more recently a meet at the Black Country Museum, near Birmingham. We will be hoping to arrange more of these for the 2018 season, but in this column Adrian and Christine Benson from our Yorkshire Region take a look back just a few weeks to when cars from all over the UK and Europe
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descended on Southend for the Essex weekend. This event also featured a new way of navigating, away from the usual tulip diagrams to using co-ordinates punched into your satnav. Never say that the MGF Register does not try new things – in fact, we are doing so all the time! Our first Pre-Christmas Country House Overnighter takes place on November 25-26 at the Cricklade House Hotel in Wiltshire. Around 30 rooms have been booked by Club members and it is promising to be a nice end-ofseason gathering with good food and convivial company – but no organised runs! This is another first – an MGF event which concentrates on the people rather than the cars. It might not be too late to book in if you’re quick – just check out the MGF Register internet forum or Facebook page for all the facts you need.
www.mgcc.co.uk
24/10/2017 14:58
The View from the hotel bar on Sunday morning. Photo: Pam Lofthouse
Register logo and rally plate at the Museum of Power, Langford. Photo: Pam Lofthouse
ESSEX INTERNATIONAL MGF/TF WEEKEND One MGF and two MG TFs set off for Southend-on-Sea on September 8 to join with the Essex Register group who were hosting their International Weekend Event. Cars joined us at the Holiday Inn, by Southend Airport, from various locations in Great Britain and there were also cars from over the Channel – France, Belgium, Germany and Norway. We all met up that Friday evening to enjoy a buffet meal, introduce ourselves over drinks with pleasant company, everyone being very welcoming and friendly. We left the hotel the next morning (Saturday) to make our way to ‘British Legends’ Garage where we met up with others who were joining us for the day. We had been given our route books for the two days, which contained seven different routes, all marked by GPS settings on our satnavs, crisscrossing Essex through some lovely countryside. We passed and followed fellow MGF/ TF owners to sites where we answered questions relevant to the locations, e.g. how much water did the reservoir we
Bart Simpson turned up in the form of Tim Rowe
www.mgcc.co.uk
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visited hold? How high was the Rayleigh windmill? How many stones were there? And so on. I’m sure you get the gist of it. We also visited many sites where we reported to the Essex team and undertook a challenge. The challenges on Saturday and Sunday included throwing four hoops and being given points if we successfully hit the target, identifying European flags, car badges and UNESCO sites, guessing how many apples in a basket and taking out and replacing spark plugs from a K-series cylinder head. Each evening we returned to the hotel where we met up for a buffet supper and to share our day’s experiences. On Saturday evening the Mayor of Southend visited us after supper. She was proud of her origins, coming from Yorkshire. On Sunday evening after supper the Yorkshire contingent decided that an ice-cream was necessary to complete our weekend. As Tim, our esteemed leader, had been born
and brought up in Southend and had a photo of his dad on the promenade, we and several other MG owners followed him onto Southend sea front through rain and wind and watched the sea pounding onto the beach. Probably not quite so ideal ice-cream weather, but we managed to walk so far along the seafront before giving in to the elements and entering the beckoning café offering delicious ice-creams in the dry. We returned to the hotel very windswept but happy, having enjoyed good company and an excellent weekend. Unfortunately we had missed the scores on the doors and did not know the total points we had all gained over the weekend. Australia against Yorkshire equated to the Ashes. We later found that Australia had beaten the Yorkshire party. Monday saw us going our own way home, hoping that we could all attend a future event after experiencing the excellent organisation skills and hospitality of the Essex Region of the MGF Register. Many thanks to Adrian Clifford and his team of hard-working helpers. Adrian and Christine
Yorkshire contingent at St Nicholas Church, Canewdon. Photo: Pam Lofthouse
Adrian Benson gets to grips with a spark plug spanner. Photo: Pam Lofthouse
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MGF NEWSLET TER
Doing some demonstration laps at Mercedes-Benz World as part of Brooklands Autumn Motorsport Day. Photo: Tim Morris
Quadruple spotlight covers create a distinctive front end. Photo: Tim Morris
MGFR John Harper’s MGF is certainly eyecatching, as could be seen by the admiring glances at the Brooklands Autumn Motorsport Day in October could testify, where it was rubbing shoulders with genuine race and rally cars including a Metro 6R4. The car’s four spotlights emblazoned with red on white MG logos are striking in their appearance. John explains how he came to create this car: “The FR fulfils a childhood dream of owning a rally car. As a boy my favourite toys were
made by Matchbox, Dinky and Corgi and some of these represented the sport. I was always consumed by how things looked but could rarely grasp how they actually worked”. This goes to explain that whilst the car has the appearance of a rally car, it is actually a standard unmodified 1.8i underneath. It still put in a good performance on the Mercedes-Benz World track and up the famous Test Hill, although a little quieter, perhaps, than some of the big engine cars.
John Harper at Brooklands with his MGFR. Photo: Tim Morris
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It was also a way of keeping two red MGFs that John had acquired: by modifying one he had the excuse, and marital approval, to keep both. The car’s colour scheme is a homage to its ancestry by being the BMC Heritage colours. John says: “In the perfect World that exists possibly in my own head, an MGF in Competitions Department livery would have upheld British honour in rallying and given a boost to the image and sales success of what turned out to be the last real MG”. He added: “I also mourn deeply the passing of the truly British Motor Industry and still can’t come to terms with how we once had it all and just threw it away”. The car does bear a resemblance to the Supersports concept California Show car and Team Longbridge rally cars. The latter were used for rallying but not under the official MG Rover banner; they were created and competed by MG Rover engineers. It succeeds by the direct contrast of the large white number pots, white hard top, white wheels, side pods and mud flaps. It is all set off by the BMC stickers in the front wings. In case you were wondering what Harpers Hunt means – John organises a series of charity treasure hunts in September and October each year in aid of charity and he is a big fan of singer Lynsey de Paul, hence the roof stickers!
Side shot shows the BMC Heritage colour scheme. Photo: Tim Morris
www.mgcc.co.uk
24/10/2017 14:59
H1 - CLIVE WHEATLEY_H7 - CLIVE WHEATLEY 29/06/2017 15:23 Page 1
New Replacement MG RV8 Heatshield Fits above catalysts on the underside of the car. Stops heat ingress and paint burning on underside of car £119.50
RV8 front radiator cover Black £199.50 Part Carbon Fibre £227.80
Genuine RV8 heater valve (ZKC 5119 - the correct one) £54.95
genuine & conversion parts Tel: +44 (0)1746 710810 Fax: 01746 710999 email: sales@mgv8parts.com Callers by appointment only at Highgrosvenor, Worfield, WV15 5PN (between Bridgnorth & Wolverhampton)
OVERSEAS MAIL ORDER AVAILABLE Full workshop facilities: servicing, repairs, MoT and prep. RV8 wood refurbishment & mail order services worldwide. Catering for all MGB, V8, V8 conversions & RV8 vehicles. ALL PRICES INCLUDE VAT
RV8 Main header rail and filler. £59.95
RV8 Petrol Tank Sender with Seal & Locking Ring. £59.95
www.mgv8parts.com RV8 Expansion tank £79.95
RV8 New Polyurethane rear anti-roll bar bushes. £16.70 for the pair
V8 Engine Steady Bar This is the best you can buy for the money! £50.60
BRAND NEW high torque starter motor. British made £252
HERITAGE APPROVED
RV8 boot stays. £30.20 each
RV8 cars available for sale - please call
RV8 Spax Krypton filled dampers
Adjustable on car through 28 different stages £129.00 each (front) £142.25 each (rear) full set £522 - save £20.50
CM08.17/H1/p
NEW All Alloy 15 inch Replacement Wheels for the GTV8 With an alloy centre and a highly polished alloy rim. Weighs approx 2kg lighter. No further rusting. £399.60
New, better quality, harder wearing replacement overmats. Original patterns, colour & embroidered with MG logo. Pair RV8 mats £99.50
URGENT PROOF Please check this proof carefully for errors in style, content and layout. Although every care is exercised in preparing your advert, we cannot hold ourselves responsible for any inaccuracies you may overlook. SHOULD YOU REQUIRE ANY ALTERATIONS TO THIS PROOF PLEASE TELEPHONE BEFORE _ _ _ _ _ _ _ AND QUOTE ADVERT NO. _ _ _ _ _
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MG-SafetyFast_Nov2017_49-100.indd 49
NOVEMBER 2017 SAFETY FAST! 49
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‘MG Only!’ Doormat £15.00
Vehicle Document Binder £35.00
Christmas MG Bauble £6.50
1:43 MGB Model £30.00
MG Car Club Clipboard £7.50
MGCC Christmas Card £2.00
MG Car Club Tea £5.00
MG Car Club Tie £16.50
MG Car Club Top Trumps £5.00
Small MG Parts Only Box £20.00
MGCC Le�er Opener £7.50
MG Union Jack Pen £7.50
All prices quoted plus Post and packaging, which is charged at a flat rate: £4.95 UK, £7.95 EU, £14.95 rest of world
To order any of the merchandise please visit Shop.mgcc.co.uk or call Ineke on 01235 849737
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MG Benji Racing Driver (ltd edi�on) £12.50 MG Benji with hoody and blue trousers £10.00
MG Mugs £8.00 (each) Various designs available, from MMM to ZS
Ladies MG Polo Shirt £25.00 A cerise MG tone on tone embroidered polo
Handmade Wooden Car £40.00 Available in a selec�on of colours
MG Clock £30.00 Various designs available, from MGA to MGF
MG Admin Block Coasters £9.00 A set of four showing an iconic Abingdon photo
MG Ladies Pom Pom Hat £12.00 Embroidered with the MG logo in pink
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KIMBER STORES
MGCC Small shopping bag £5.50 Suitable also as a lunch bag
24/10/2017 16:21
BRITISH TOURING CAR CHAMPIONSHIP
B
rands Hatch is always the final venue in the season for the Dunlop MSA British Touring Car Championship. With the autumn tints showing on the trees around the circuit, 31 drivers arrived on September 30 to compete on the demanding and spectacular Grand Prix Circuit. The Championship would be decided between 2016 MG driver, Ash Sutton, in his Subaru and Colin Turkington, former champion and MG driver in the days of the ZS. Both would have support from team mates, three in the case of Ash and two BMWs for Colin. The 888MG team were determined to end the season on a high after experiencing a very mixed season. Both Aron Taylor-Smith and Josh Cook would be free of success ballast and believed that the characteristics of the MG6s would suit the long, flowing nature of Brands. None of the teams had tested the new style Dunlop tyres on the GP circuit so both performance and longevity were completely unknown. As usual, two warm-up sessions had been timetabled for the teams on Saturday to fine-tune their cars before another hectic qualifying took place later in the day. The track was dry for both periods of activity, with the long lap meaning a restricted number or runs. Aron finished an encouraging fourth followed by 21st, with Josh struggling more with his car in 27th and 20th places. The official weather for qualifying was “changeable” with drizzle and damp making for a treacherous circuit and no ‘best’ tyre to use. Sadly, Josh had a problem early on which would mean starting from the back of the grid. Aron just couldn’t break into the top 20 and would start the first race in 21st place. Former MG Trophy racer Jack Goff, in his Honda, took a stunning pole position during the damper part of the session from Aiden Moffat’s Mercedes and Ash Sutton chasing the championship in his Subaru.
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ROUND 10
O GRAND PRIX CIRCUIT OVS STS
BRANDS HATCH By Paul Goodman. Photos: btcc.net
The first race on Sunday followed rain with the track drying as it went on. Tyre choice was a problem with some using dry weather rubber and others opting for a treaded tyre. The MG6s didn’t shine because of this, with both Aron and Josh battling in the mid-field finishing 23rd and 25th. Aiden Moffat clinched the victory, followed closely by Tom Ingram’s Toyota and Ash Sutton who strengthened his championship challenge by finishing on the podium. A rare dry interlude followed and so the second race of the day was conducted on a dry track. An incredible drive from Colin Turkington from 15th to first had all the spectators on the edge of their seats. This would mean that the championship would be decided by the final, 30th, round. The two Hondas of Gordon Shedden and Matt Neal made up the rest of the podium. Aron and Josh put on a fine display of driving, showing some great pace to finish 13th and 26th. So, it came to the third race of the day which would decide the championship. Wet conditions had returned and the tyre choice was now clear. Sadly, for the huge crowd, Colin Turkington was forced into retirement early in the race, meaning that Ash Sutton, the 2016 MG driver, was Dunlop MSA British Touring Car Champion. The winner of the race was
Rob Austin in a Toyota for the final time, with his team running an Alfa Romeo in 2018. Jack Goff was second, with the new champion third. It was a quiet end to the season for 888MG, with Aron coming home 20th and Josh not finishing the race. So, as the sky darkened and the lights came on, Ash Sutton received the winner’s trophy. Tom Ingram celebrated finishing third and winning the Independents Trophy, with the best rookie Jack Sears Trophy going to young Senna Proctor. After another brilliant year of racing the teams packed away their equipment ready for winter testing and a return to Brands Hatch in April 2018, when it will all begin again.
SA
www.mgcc.co.uk
24/10/2017 16:22
September 2017
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Since the closure of MG Rover operations in 2005, Rimmer Bros has been buying up vast quantities of MG Rover stock to secure the long term availability of parts. We now need to have a bit of a clear-out to make room for further stock arriving. So take advantage now and grab a bargain Since the closure of MG Rover operations in 2005, Rimmer Bros has been at special prices! Most of the stock featured is ex-MG Rover factory buying production up vast quantities of(Original MG Rover stockManufacturer), to secure the term stock or OEM Equipment solong you can be assured of ďŹ tWe and now quality. availability of parts. need to have a bit of a clear-out to make
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Mixed grid of the Peter Best MG Cup
SUPER SNETTERTON ROUNDS OFF THE SEASON
S
By Leanne Fahy Photos by Dickon Siddall
netterton arrived once again, and with it came the end of another season. A mixture of weather across the two days made for interesting racing conditions, yet the entertainment was as thrilling as ever. As well as our usual array of MGCC championships and series, we were joined once again by the MSCC Aero Racing Morgan Challenge for what was a tantalising showdown. The Boganmoor MG Trophy With a championship title to be decided, all eyes were on the MG Trophy grid for the first of their two races. Ross Makar succeeded in the penultimate race of the 2017 MG Trophy season, in what was an abrupt end, due to a red flag with just 1 minute 30 seconds left on the clock As the race began, it was Paul Luti who stormed to the head of the field, as pole sitter Doug Cole spun out of contention. After landing at the back of the field, we were set to witness an outstanding performance from Cole, as he negotiated his way through the pack.
www.mgcc.co.uk
MG-SafetyFast_Nov2017_49-100.indd 55
As the 29-car field circled the Snetterton 200 circuit, Makar saw his opportunity to edge past Luti for the lead. Once ahead, he managed to secure enough of an advantage to claim another race win. Behind, attentions turned to another exciting Class B tussle. With Luti ahead, he soon entered defence mode, as a train of rivals tried their utmost to muscle their way ahead. As the final lap came into sight, the red flag robbed us of a nail-biting finish, when a car needed recovering from a dangerous position near Nelson’s. As the action ended, Luti held onto his Class B victory, ahead of Ollie Coles, Ryan Firth and Ollie Hood. First lap woes were not enough to dampen Cole’s efforts, when he finished second overall, just over three seconds adrift of Makar. Gary Wetton claimed third overall. Andy Spencer proved victorious in Class C, ahead of Matthew Turnbull and Paul Croker. A sterling performance from Adam Jackson saw him crowned as Driver of the Race, after steering his way from 19th on the grid to a ninth-place
finish. Our commentary team also deemed him worthy of the Driver of the Day award on Saturday. In true MG Trophy style, the championship battle went right down to the wire. The final 20-minute race of the 2017 season would be the one to crown our new champion. It was a familiar sight at the head of the field, as Makar fended off Cole for the duration. With the pair separated by little over an inch, it was a race-long tussle that saw Makar take the final victory of the season, ahead of Cole. Despite missing out on the race win, Cole’s performance saw him awarded the Driver of the Race. With Class A decided, attentions again turned to the Class B battle, which was as frantic as ever. Ollie Coles held the focus this time, as he led the way, hounded by Luti. As the pair circled, a late braking manoeuvre into Nelson’s from the latter launched Luti ahead, at least for a little while. Determined to seal victory, it wasn’t long before Coles fought back and surpassed for the Class B lead once again. From here, the duo engulfed themselves in a furiously entertaining scrap that eventually saw Coles secure the spoils, ahead of Luti and Tom Butler.
Andy Firth at speed in his ZR170
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Ian Prior ahead of James McBrien in the BCV8 race
Andy Spencer doubled his success in race two, with another commanding victory. Paul Croker claimed the runner-up spot this time, ahead of Joe Cruttenden. In what has been a fantastic season of racing once again, we are pleased to confirm your 2017 MG Trophy Champion as Matthew Turnbull, also the Class C Champion. Ross Makar claimed Class A championship spoils, whilst Paul Luti was crowned Class B Champion. MGCC WES BCV8 Championship Neil Fowler demonstrated a commanding performance in the first of two BCV8 Championship races. After gaining the lead immediately, Fowler extended his advantage to an eventual 15-second advantage. Unable to make a dent in Fowler’s lead, Ian Prior steered his way to a solitary second place, ahead of James Wheeler in third. Jim Bryan claimed Class C honours from fourth place overall, whilst fellow class winner Ben White and Ollie Neaves completed the top 10. John Wreghitt’s performance deemed him worthy of the coveted Driver of the Race award. Just 0.6 seconds separated Ian Prior and James Wheeler at the end of the second outing, after a race-long battle that saw Prior finish ahead.
Drama at the 11th hour for pole sitter Fowler saw his MGB GT V8 machine extracted from the grid by way of marshal power, as everyone else slotted into place. As the race began without him, it was a two-horse race at the front between Prior and Wheeler for the duration. Despite immense pressure from the striking yellow machine of Wheeler, Prior secured a victorious end to his 2017 BCV8 Championship, also claiming the Driver of the Race award. Ollie Neaves originally held third place; however as Jim Bryan stormed his way through the pack, the pair swapped positions. Bryan claimed a third place finish, ahead of Neaves, Ben White, Ben Tovey and Stephen Mckie. MGCC Peter Best Insurance MG Cup Alan Brooke sidelined his Oulton Park woes, to claim an opening race victory at Snetterton. After an early race challenge against Matthew Simpson and his Rover Tomcat, Brooke came through to triumph. As the red lights diminished, it was Simpson’s fast-starting Tomcat that led the way, as Brooke followed. Brooke isn’t one to hang about, and with championship points in his sights he mounted a challenge, which saw him surpass Simpson and take the lead.
A cluster of Metros with Richard Garrard getting the better of Dan Williams and Tim Davies
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Simpson held on for a second place finish, whilst Richard Buckley completed the top three. A rain shower before the start made for a wet race two, confirming conditions on circuit as somewhat treacherous. An equally strong getaway for Brooke and Simpson from the front row of the grid saw Simpson manage to sneak ahead. With little between them, the top two edged away, renewing their two-car race from Saturday. As the pair diced, problems evolved for Brooke when he spun at Murray’s whilst lapping a backmarker. After quick composure, he rejoined, albeit down in eighth place. With a safety gap between him and nearest challenger, Iain Dowler, Simpson steered his way to victory by over four seconds. Dowler held on for second place, ahead of Joshua Wright. A superb performance for the Class A entrant saw him progress from 10th on the grid to third overall and first in class. An outstanding display that saw him rewarded with the Driver of the Race accolade. MGCC Lackford Engineering MG Midget and Sprite Challenge It was a lights-to-flag triumph for Stephen Collier, in the first of two MG Midget and Sprite Challenge outings. Pole position gave him the ideal advantage, as his MG Midget fired its way towards turn one. Once ahead, it was a steady race for Collier, as places changed behind him.
Neil Fowler heads up Ben White in the BCV8 race
www.mgcc.co.uk
24/10/2017 16:22
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Ed Reeve acted as rear gunner early on. However as the race progressed, it was Stephen Watkins who edged ahead, to claim an eventual second place finish and Driver of the Race. Reeve’s efforts saw him hold on for a third place result, whilst Paul Campfield secured fourth place, and a Class E victory. Collier emulated his race-winning performance in race two, albeit in somewhat different conditions. A wet outing meant Collier enjoyed a comfortable race win, an astounding 57 seconds ahead of nearest challenger, Reeve. Reeve made second place his own for the duration of the 20-minute outing, in what was a solitary performance. Treacherous conditions on circuit made for an interesting outcome, as third place changed hands a number of times. As the chequered flag fell, it was Bruce Carter who settled in third place, ahead of Carl Chadwick. MGCC Drayton Manor Park MG Metro Cup A change in weather conditions part way through the first MG Metro Cup race made for an interesting outcome, as the lead changed hands in the final moments. Mike Williams was the man to watch, as he stormed towards turn one ahead of the chasing pack. As a plethora of Metros hunted him down, Williams was unfazed, as he held his ground lap after lap.
Leading the pack Oliver Coles in his ZR170
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Class A Midget with Steve Collier driving
Separated by inches, Williams soon found himself hounded by an Ashton-Connell quartet, with Andrew ahead of Lee Connell, Jack Ashton and Tony Connell. As Andrew edged ever closer to Williams, a sudden slide saw him drop to third place, causing for a reshuffle of the order. A late rain shower, which covered part of the circuit, made for an interesting end, and with a recovery drive on the cards from Andrew it was set for a showdown. With the chequered flag in sight, it was Andrew Ashton who recovered to take victory, narrowly ahead of Williams, Lee Connell and Jack Ashton. Early morning rain declared race two a wet race. Another championship decided in the final race of the season, there was everything to play for. After 20 minutes of solid entertainment, it was Mike Williams who mastered the conditions, to be crowned race winner. Williams fended off fierce attention from Andrew Ashton early on once again. However, when a sudden engine issue reared its head, Andrew was forced out of contention. Unaffected by the conditions, Williams held on for a dominant race win, ahead of Lee Connell, Dick Trevett, Tony Connell and Jack Ashton.
MGCC British Motor Heritage Four Hour Relay Race It was all about the Morgans in the four-hour relay race. Morgan Mustangs dominated on the road, ahead of Aero Racing. The only team not to have a handicap applied, Morgan Mustangs had a lot of work to do. As the final lap came into sight, drama hit the Aero Racing team, when Tony Hirst came flooding into the pits with a left rear puncture. In a lastminute change, a swift manoeuvre saw them launch a reserve into the race for the final tour. The Matthew Bentley Racing team tried their best to upset the rhythm of the Morgans, with their combination of MG ZR and trio of Lotus Elise entrants, finishing third on the road. With handicapped results applied, it was FORC Alfa Squadra Corse who were awarded top spot, ahead of Aero Racing and Morgan Mustangs. That concludes yet another season for the MG Car Club, and what a season it has been. Plans for 2018 are already being discussed and no doubt the new calendar will be with you all shortly. I would like to take this opportunity to thank you all once again; the great racing you all provide makes my job extremely easy and enjoyable.
Mike Williams in his Metro pushing hard in the MG Metro Cup race.
www.mgcc.co.uk
24/10/2017 16:22
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Please check website for full engine specs. All the above prices include VAT
Engines and Cylinder heads are sold on an exchange basis. If no exchange unit is available please add £550 to the price of a Midget engine £250 MGB. If you are looking to rebuild your own engine we also stock the full range of parts you will require from pistons to bearing, reconditioned rocker assemblies to genuine Payen Gasket Sets.
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Black Mohair Glass Screened Hoods fitted in Knutsford £400
NOVEMBER 2017 SAFETY FAST! 59
24/10/2017 16:22
RACE TORQUE
T
By Ron Gammons Photo: Dickon Siddall
he six major race meetings run by the Club in 2017 were completed at Snetterton at the turn of the month of September. The programmes were all successfully carried out, with entries at most meetings close to our targets, apart from Snetterton where our relay race fell substantially below what we had hoped for. This was due to an unfortunate clash with another relay race run on the same weekend. Negotiations are in hand to hopefully obviate this clash next year. Worth commenting that our British Motor Heritage-sponsored relay race had no less than eight teams of Morgans taking part, but despite this the event was won by the Alfa team! MGs? Well, still work in progress, sadly! So a quick review of the year is perhaps in order. We have during the year had some real bright spots: the terrific support of the MMM Register who competed at two events with the Club, Brands Hatch with two races and an excellent grid, and Cadwell Park where they put on another excellent grid and a terrific race, in doubt till the very end. The Iconics, who put on excellent grids at both Brands and Silverstone, but rather came a cropper in terms of entries at
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Cadwell, (but what a great race!) are showing signs of a revival to better numbers with the new regulations fashioned last year. The MG Trophy in Pete Macwaters’ final year as Co-ordinator really pulled the stops out with terrific grids at every meeting, close racing, but on occasion a bit too close! Pete had managed to maximise his grid, in particular taking up the half-price race entries for the under-25s, with some 10 competitors under that age. Championships please take note! Pete is handing over to Bruce Woods, but remaining as Chairman to ensure a smooth handover. Our events could have not taken place at all without the support of a number of guest Championships and Series: Porsche who have been long-time supporters, the BARC with their saloons, Masters and their pre66 saloons, Radicals who came to Silverstone, Morgans whose company we so much enjoy, and last and certainly not least the Equipe series with their pre-66 GTS, beautifully presented and very well-driven grids. The EGTS series has received much and well-deserved publicity through the year and entries have certainly not suffered from that. With over 80 entries at Silverstone it’s worth noting
that more than half were MGs, mostly MGBs to FIA specification. Autosport recently headlined an article “The historic series that’s a modern hit” when reporting on the 2017 EGTS success. They competed with us at four of our race meetings this year. Next year they are starting another series, for pre-63, without a capacity limit. Judged by the enthusiasm the announcement received, it will be another hit, and we hope to retain their custom. We have, of course, also enjoyed much support from all of the other Championships run by the Club’s Branches: Cockshoot Cup from the NW Centre, Drayton Manor Metros, Watts Electrical BCV8, Lackford Engineering Sprite and Midgets, and last but not least the Peter Best Insurance Cup. They have all played their part in the success of the Club’s year of motor racing. British Motor Heritage have been longtime sponsors of the Club’s hospitality and prize giving, ably hosted by Mark and Kirsty Baulch who have made such a success taking over from our late friend, John Horton. Mention must sadly be made of the very great loss of Nikki Saunders in the middle of the year from a brain tumour, very bravely fought to the very end. Nikki dealt with the competitors in Race Administration, signing on and handling other enquiries, always with a smile and ready welcome. A very sadly and muchmissed member of the team. In closing, a massive vote of thanks to all of the numerous volunteers who have supported us in 2017, from the marshals right the way through to the more senior members – you are all part of one of the best teams of people in motorsport. We have, thanks to your support, managed to run our meetings well and have deservedly earned many people’s respect. Without you our motorsport will not exist as it does today. 2018 is only just a few months away, and the Club’s race programme should be announced shortly. We hope to see you all at the opening meeting.
www.mgcc.co.uk
24/10/2017 16:22
Attention MG traders
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Other Tubular long branch large bore exhaust Oselli cast rocker cover £175 Weber carb kit £695 Performance distributor £195 Head and engines supplied on an exchange basis Prices subject to VAT
www.mgcc.co.uk
MG-SafetyFast_Nov2017_49-100.indd 61
16:27
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Other Tubular long branch exhaust Oselli cast rocker cover £175 Weber carb kit £695 Performance distributor £195 Head and engines supplied on an exchange basis Prices subject to VAT
NOVEMBER 2017 SAFETY FAST! 61
24/10/2017 16:22
D U NC A N W O O D DUNCANW@MGS-ON-TRACK.CO.UK
MG on track
DONINGTON PARK
O
ur MGs on Track Donington Park event in early October took place on a bone-dry track, which was a relief to those of us who have fallen prey to the legendary aviation spirit/wet surface trap in the past. I’m not totally sure if the fuel mist falling onto the circuit from aircraft approaching East Midlands Airport is myth or reality, but it does make a plausible excuse for a spin in the wet. Anyone spinning this year would either need to be highly creative when offering a new explanation, or more honestly attribute their off-track excursions to over exuberance or a temporary desertion of raw talent! The continuous brisk breeze that kept the clouds moving was a head wind on the straights, which initially felt like a partial engine seizure to those with less powerful cars, but that also offered an unnecessary extra shove down the Craner Curves to the consternation of the brakes when approaching the Old Hairpin; still much better than driving rain, though. Initial signing-on took place in the Café (licence check, indemnity form, cup of tea, bacon roll), and was followed by the briefing held at Race Control. The chief instructor for the day was Phil Brough who gave an entertaining and informative run-down of the day’s proceedings. As always, safety is the prime concern, so the briefing covered flag signals, considerate behaviour on track, procedure in the event of a breakdown or spinning, etc, but with the reminder that the day was ultimately geared towards enjoyment. Those of us who’ve done a few track days have a pretty clear idea of what the briefing’s salient features need to be, so it is always interesting to compare the differences of style between the various presenters. In the late morning Phil hosted a question and answer session aimed primarily at novices, but even those with slightly more experience who attended gained useful knowledge about the correct ‘racing’ lines and general approach to the track that could be put to effective use for the remainder of the day. As always at MGoT events a wide spectrum of MG models was represented, from the 1960s through to almost the present
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day. As a Midget driver (car, not stature) I was particularly pleased that we had five of these all in one session. Andrew Brown’s 1972 car unfortunately broke a half shaft during the morning, so then there were four, but the sight of at least three of those circulating in formation surely made a magnificent spectacle for spectators. I was particularly interested in the 1973 Midget of John Shepherd, which has been fitted with a 1600cc Toyota twin-cam engine, and is probably one of the neatest engine swaps that I’ve seen. Although I remain in awe of the abuse that the standard A Series engine will absorb even well into its dotage, I must admit that the engine bay of John’s car was quite a sight and I confess to having a few disloyal thoughts before reason prevailed. The big engines were out in force at Donington, with around a dozen MGB V8s and RV8s. As a neutral observer, I have noticed that V8 owners generally fall into two groups at opposite ends of the scale. Many are content to use their cars in an unmodified state, enjoying effortless power for the road with a very fair turn of speed for the track. Others, however, are keen to release the full potential of all those cylinders, and power outputs possibly double the original factory figures are achieved; speeds along the straights are most impressive! Stated power figures for the V8 cars at Donington ranged from a sensible 140bhp through to an insane 407bhp, which would certainly make short work of a touring holiday in The Highlands! Will Tindall’s 1989 MG Maestro made an interesting deviation from the more normal cars. I imagine not very many of these have survived the ravages of time, but at least this one was proving to be a very able track day car. MGFs, TFs, ZSs and ZRs made up the remainder of the entry, providing a lot of fun for not a huge financial commitment. Absolutely any MG is welcome at an MGs on Track event, and whatever the model or variant it is certain to furnish you with a safe, exciting and fun circuit experience. The year draws towards its close, and you will notice from our 2017 Calendar that we only have early December’s Brands
www.mgcc.co.uk
24/10/2017 16:22
MGS ON TRACK – 2017 CALENDAR Please visit www.mgs-on-track.com to register, check
LUFFIELD CHAMPIONSHIP JOHN WILMAN, BEECHFIELD, FERN BANK, C H A P E L -E N -L E -F R I T H , H I G H P E A K . S K 23 0J J T E L : 07778 165186 W W W . M G S P E E D . N E T
availability, or to book a track day. Registered members will receive regular newsletters and notification of event opening dates.
Brands Hatch ‘Indy’ – December 4 An MGoT event in December....the only medically proven cure for the common cold!
Hatch event to come. This track is located to the south-east of London, just outside the M25, so is relatively local for many. The Indy layout is quite short so is easily learnt if it’s a first visit, and is also a very good choice for a newcomer to track days. It is an undulating circuit with some challenging corners, including the always ‘interesting’ Paddock Hill Bend which is best approached with circumspection on the initial laps; passengers may wish to allow their breakfasts to digest fully before venturing forth with a fast driver! Whilst warm sunshine is not ever guaranteed at this time of the year, there are plenty of garages available for our use, a snack bar in the paddock, and The Kentagon Restaurant for an excellent meal at the lunch break and an opportunity to warm up. All in all, a very pleasant final event of the year at a friendly circuit, so do come if you are able.
www.mgcc.co.uk
MG-SafetyFast_Nov2017_49-100.indd 63
At the time of writing, the Championship has reached a crucial stage with just two Southern events still to go: Eelmoor and Castle Combe. The Northern region had its last event on September 16-17 at Harewood Hillclimb and appears to show a clear winner in Dave Morris. Dave has had a consistent season in his MG RV8 and, as of now, is several vital points ahead of Ian Howlett. However, Dave is also in the frame to win the overall National Championship which would elevate Ian Howlett into winning the Northern Championship. The reason for this is that we do not allow anyone to win more than one major award, in order to suitably reward other competitors for their efforts. As such, the results of the last two events could alter the present situation. In other words, it will be a close-run result which is still all to play for. Of course, by the time you read this, it will be all over and the competitors will know the final results. However, I am always aware that the vast majority of Safety Fast! readers rely on this article to keep them informed of the progression of the Championship throughout the season. Our second visit of the year to Harewood Hillclimb was, as usual, a two-day meeting. Harewood is a superb venue with excellent facilities and viewing vantage points second to none. I may be biased, having started my own competition career there, but I think it is the most challenging venue in the country. Unfortunately, due to its geographical location, it does not attract the level of participation from our competitors that it deserves. On this occasion the meetings clashed with a Cockshoot Cup race, which cost us a few of our usual entrants. The weather was patchy, but on both days competitors managed to get some runs on a fairly dry track. Top scorer was the aforementioned Dave Morris, with good performances from Nick Walker in his MGB V8 and Ian Howlett’s MGF trophy.
Dave Morris in his MG RV8 NOVEMBER 2017 SAFETY FAST! 63
24/10/2017 16:22
MG CAR CLUB LUXEMBOURG 60TH ANNIVERSARY By Brian Woodhams
MGs by the River Moselle at Schengen
O
ver 100 registrants descended on Vianden, Luxembourg, which is about 50 miles north of Luxembourg City near the border with Germany, on August 23-27. The registrants were spread over four hotels in this very pretty town on the River Our with its Chateau/Castle
on the hill. We arrived in our 2002 Solar Red MG TF 160, after driving across France and Belgium into the eastern side of Luxembourg with the top down all the way, and checked into our hotel. At registration, we were given our goody bags, and the biggest and heaviest dash plaque ever – it weighed 2.5kg! We started to meet up with MG friends
old and new, and of course recognising some of the MGs from past events. Guy Maathuis was in charge of operations, and in his schoolmasterly fashion soon had the event running smoothly – you are not on holiday! We were soon to find out how true this was as we started out with our road-book on the first day’s tour which was to Luxembourg City and avoided motorways. The roads were very good MG roads and took us through some beautiful countryside, up hill and down dale, although my navigator found some of the names of the villages unpronounceable! However, with markers every fraction of a mile we didn’t get lost – much!
The Slate Quarry lunch 1936 MG TA Park Ward of Hemmo De Groot from Holland
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www.mgcc.co.uk
24/10/2017 16:23
Concours in the Place Vic Abens
Presentation to Guy
Lunch was at the Old Brauerei (brewery) and was followed by a walking tour of the City which was very interesting. Upon our return to Vianden we went up to the top of the hill overlooking the river valley by chairlift for an aperitif, with dinner at the bottom at the Hot Stone Chalet. The second day’s road-book took us to Schengen via a very scenic route through vineyards with panoramic views. Schengen is in the far south of Luxembourg on the River Moselle, and is famous for some EU agreement – my personal views are well-known, but I went and saw and it was labelled as compulsory for Brexit supporters! We were treated to a wine tasting and my navigator could not resist purchasing a case. It was on the return trip that the skies started to cloud over and a group of us came upon the supercharged 1931 MG D type of Colin Murrell and Stef, stationary by the side of the road. After going through the usual checks and listening to the engine turning over and with the rain and thunderstorm approaching, a decision to tow them back to Vianden was taken. Another vintage MG owner had also by now diagnosed a broken vertical drive, as no camshaft means no go! Hakan Sigemark, the European Manager, was towing in his TF 160 Vintage with us following as hazard warning tail gunners on the direct route. We got them back to Vianden in one piece, but I did feel sorry for them,
www.mgcc.co.uk
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1969 MG 1300 Crayford of Rolf Mobius from Germany
1931 MG D type of Colin Murrell from Bristol
they were soaked to the skin. The rain stopped for our walk to the Hotel Belle Vue for dinner, and it turned out to be a pleasant evening until the thunderstorm returned with a noisy vengeance. On Saturday our road-book took us right across Luxembourg, westwards to a slate mine for lunch. The outside caterers did us proud, and then the crews separately had to answer questions on their cars under exam-type conditions. Having four cars, I will admit I was hopeless, but my navigator did very well once she was sitting in the driver’s seat! The highlight of the return run to Vianden was a ford which produced great photo opportunities, with many cars having multiple runs through the water. The Gala Banquet in the evening was held at the Hotel Belle Vue, and our compliments must go to the chef for the fillet steak which was MaGnificent – but a bit too much for me after the large lunch! As is usual at European events, many presentations were made to Guy and the Luxembourg MGCC to celebrate their 60th Anniversary. On behalf of the MGCC UK I presented Guy with a cut-glass plaque to mark the event, and Adrian Clifford of the MGF/TF Register, and the British contingent led by Ginny Cartmell, also made presentations. It was good to see Clive Skelhorn from MGCC Belgium present after a recent illness, and also Fredry Maathuis was very much present
1936 MG SA Keller body of Bert van der Linden from Holland
in support of Guy, despite a recent accident in an MGA. The Concours was held on Sunday morning in the Place Vic Abens near the MG Bakery. In one corner was a brass band on a stage, and they certainly added to the congenial atmosphere, with some of the instrumentalists being MGCC members. Colin Murrell managed to get the broken D type out for the Concours, and it certainly produced a lot of interest. After lunch the prizegiving was held at the Hotel Belle Vue to bring a very well-organised event to a close.
MGs in the Brewery Square for lunch in Luxembourg City
NOVEMBER 2017 SAFETY FAST! 65
24/10/2017 16:23
OVERSEAS REVIEW A MONTHLY LOOK THROUGH A FEW OF THE OVERSEAS MAGAZINES WE RECEIVE AT KIMBER HOUSE REVIEWED BY DAVID COULTHARD
I
t always amazes me to see how far we are prepared to travel in support of our hobby. The recent 50th anniversary of the MGC is a case in point. ‘C’ Notes, from the North American MGC Register, reports that some 35 of their members crossed the Atlantic to enjoy the four-day event and were “…treated like queens and kings at every turn.” Due to publishing deadlines, only a short initial account was provided, with a fuller version promised in a subsequent issue. The report was supplemented by the story of C GT which belonged to Prince Charles. MG Motoring, the journal of the MGCC of South Africa, listed 14 nations represented at the event, with the furthest travelled being from New Zealand. MG Motoring also reports on a trip to the UK made by a couple of its members and the warm reception they received from MG drivers in Shropshire, including organising an ad hoc ‘pub meet’ to show off the local members’ cars to the South African visitors. Truly the marque of friendship. The Sydney MGCC magazine Opposite Lock describes the trip undertaken by its members to Iran. The author described the Iranian drivers as “… simply suicidal...”, pointing out there are “…no rules of the road as such…” whilst advising “The rate of road accidents in Iran is 20 times more than the World’s average.”. OK, I might drop Iran off the ‘To Do’ list… The magazine of the MGCC Denmark gives its readers visiting the UK a full account of the history of Aintree circuit, including a corner-bycorner analysis of the track, plus some excellent ‘then and now’ photographs. The venue is
The Aintree Motor Racing Circuit
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Busy Register car park at MGLive!
still used for motor sport and is a regular fixture in the Club’s Speed Championship. MGLive! may well have been back in June, but some of the overseas magazines are still reporting on the event. From the MGCC France comes Heritage, with pictures and reports featuring the racing (“…un franc success…”), Mike Brewer (“… presentateur fetiche de <<Wealer Dealer>>…”) and the “…nouveau…” MG ZS. Members of the MGCC Victoria, Australia, had a motoring holiday round the UK. Their adventure was reported in the club’s magazine
Welcoming the MGCs to MGC50
MGCs at Chateau Impney
Overseas Pit Stop Café Natter
MGCC Branding at the Shanghai Motor Show
Wheel Spin. Our Overseas Director, Peter Cook, met the visitors at Kimber House, for which they were most appreciative, before they visited several sites in the locality with MG or Nuffield connections. The road trip ended at MGLive! which they state was “…a revelation” and “MG Heaven!” Bulletinen from the MGCC Sweden also reports on its members’ visits to MG Live!, with the Register parking seemingly catching the photographer’s eye, together with the Overseas Natter at the Pit Stop Café. I can’t imagine it’s a short hop from New Zealand to China, but that didn’t stop The Canterbury MaG, from the Canterbury Centre of the MGCC, providing an excellent review of the recent Shanghai Motor Show, including details of the new MG E-Motion concept car. The XS also featured heavily, as did the UK MG Car Club branding in the form of the ‘welcome desk’. And finally, Bulletinen provides this month’s “I Have No Idea What Is Going On!” picture.
I have no idea what is going on! www.mgcc.co.uk
24/10/2017 16:23
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MG-SafetyFast_Nov2017_49-100.indd 67
NOVEMBER 2017 SAFETY FAST! 67
24/10/2017 16:24
CENTRES
ABINGDON WORKS
LINDA COTTER sfscribe@mgabingdon.org.uk www.mgabingdon.co.uk Although I have been a member of the AWC for several years, I only joined the committee this year. This has given me an insight into how the Centre’s events are planned and managed, and how essential member support ‘on the day’ is. The first event I have been closely involved with was our display at Yarnton Nurseries in September. Our display was from 10.00am to 4.00pm; however, cars arrived and left throughout that timeframe. We had our own dedicated parking area as well as space to display our Club merchandise. The Nursery generously offered MG drivers and passengers a discount on food and a free hot drink in the
restaurant. Unfortunately, short showers early on seemed to deter some of our older car owners until later in the day to bring out their pride and joy, but by early afternoon we had a good display of cars from T-Types to a GS, with most models in between being represented during the day. There was also good interest from the public visiting the Nursery, with some saying they’d only come along to see the cars! Many thanks also to Yarnton Nurseries for providing two sets of vouchers to be awarded to “The Car I’d most like to take home”; one set as voted for by the MG drivers and the other as voted for by visitors to the Nursery. These
ANGLIA
ROB MUIR 01206 862619 scribe@mgccanglia.com www.mgcc.co.uk/anglia-centre
Snetterton The final race weekend of the season was again a great success at the Snetterton 200 circuit. The Anglia Centre set up camp with dedicated parking for members’ cars on the enclosed grass area overlooking Murrays chicane. What a fine selection of cars were in attendance. One in particular caught my eye, in the shape of the immaculate Sebring Sprite that you can see in the accompanying photograph. The owner turned out to be Steve Nash. Steve used to be Registrar of the Midget Register and the car in question was built by him, by converting his ex-hill climb lime green competition Midget known to all as ‘Kermit.’ Steve
campaigned the famous Midget with great success in the 1980s and it was often featured in Safety Fast! at the time. Both the Peter Best Insurance MG Cup and The Watt Electrical BCV8 championships went down to the wire, producing worthy champions. Alan Brooke, champion in the Peter Best Cup driving his self-built very rapid Metro, and Russell McCarthy in his thundering MGB in BCV8. Russell is the third member of the McCarthy family to lift the title, following in father Roy’s and brother Spencer’s footsteps.
woollies for our Boxing Day run, more details of which can be found on our events site at www.mgabingdon.co.uk/events/ events-calendar/ Please also remember that Natters are still very active, so come along and join us,. Dates and venues are also on our calendar. Just time to add a warm welcome to any new members, including any who may have joined following our Yarnton display.
Presentation to John and Jenny Inness
three-day tour from Friday 21 to Sunday September 23 2018. A tour of the Suffolk and Norfolk countryside, with full-day tours visiting places of interest on the Saturday and Sunday and a base at the Ufford Park Hotel. Details will be available on the website and in Safety Fast! in a booking form to be included in the January issue. The event will be limited to 25 cars, so look out for the entry forms if you are interested as it is bound to fill up quickly. Rolling Road Technology Day We hope to be giving you the chance to visit LSD Developments who have professional race
car workshops on the Suffolk/ Cambridgeshire border, with the opportunity to have your MG power tested on the rolling road. More details will be available next month when we expect the confirmation of the date, planned for February 10. Mark the day in your diary if you would like to attend. Riviera Run The annual Norfolk Riviera Run will be on Thursday December 28 this year. See the website, or email rivierarun@mgccanglia.com for details. The booking form is also published in this issue of Safety Fast!.
East Anglian Tour 2018 As you may well be aware, the Anglia Centre is going to run a
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were presented by Yarnton’s Richard Gibb to John and Jenny Inness for their MGB and to Tony Watts for his MGB GT V8. October saw our Autumn Leaves run, with T-Types through to an MG6 and an MG3 setting out on a very rural route which finished at the Dog House ‘pub where drivers could discuss, over a pint, who had the dirtiest car! Great fun, very social and it stayed dry! Please also remember to dig out your warmest winter
www.mgcc.co.uk
24/10/2017 16:24
The Fifteenth Norfolk Riviera Run Organised by the Mid Norfolk Anglia Centre MGCC Meet
Thursday December 28 2017
START & FINISH at the Royal Sandringham Estate Visitor Centre Restaurant Sandringham, Norfolk, PE35 6EH Reserved parking area in main car park Meeting from 9.00am with cars away between 10.00 and 10.30am Tea, coffee & breakfast butties available from 9.00am. Lunches available from 12.00 until 2.30pm. Please advise if required All food to be paid for by you on the day Both will be served in a reserved area of the restaurant where you will find check-in & receive your route cards.
ENTRY: a voluntary contribution of £2 per person will be appreciated on the day, of which at least 50% will be donated to a local charity.
Please return the details requested below to assist us with the catering at the start & finish. Forms can be downloaded from www.mgcc.co.uk/angliacentre and posted to: Bernard Clark, Chalk Pit House, Docking Road, Sedgeford, Norfolk, PE36 5LR. Or emailed to rivierarun@mgccanglia.com I would like to join the Norfolk Riviera Run on Thursday December 28 2017 Name ................................................................................................................................................................ Address:............................................................................................................................................................ ................................................................................................... Postcode ....................................................... Telephone .......................................................................................email ........................................................ Car make/model.......................................................Reg no;....................................... Colour ........................ Total number of people in car........................................................................................................................ I/we would like.............................Breakfast butties at the start I/we would like.............................lunches at the finish Please return this form to the address above by December 15 2017 or email late entries to rivierarun@mgccanglia.com
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CENTRES
CALEDONIAN
BOB MACGILLIVRAY 07870 407111 mgcarsscotland@gmail.com www.mgcaledonian.com
I’m writing this with howling wind and rain around, the tail end of one of the hurricanes from the American south! But on the bright side, in a couple of months it will be a new year, new season and hopefully a summer. I mentioned Bo’ness last month. Look out for a film of this year’s event on Motorsports TV. It was on in October but is likely to be repeated and hopefully, too, there will be a DVD available. It seems to have been a quick year and the only remaining event is the lunch on November 19 at the Perth Huntingtower Hotel. This is an excellent and relaxed way to round off the season and even now you may be lucky and get
a space. Check our website for details or contact me. Then it’s the Chilly Willy on January 1! So instead of watching old films on TV on New Year’s Day why not join us for lunch in Stirling? We expect as usual to have our own room and the cost of the lunch is very reasonable. Again, details are on the website. Into the New Year, our Film Night is in January and I’m pleased to say that I have managed to acquire a couple of MG Rover films and also one from Austin Rover. None of these films will have been seen for many a long day. Just need to get them transferred onto a DVD! There will be others on the night
DEVON & CORNWALL GRANNY JANNER www.allegropeter@aol.com www.mgcc.co.uk/devon-cornwall-centre/
The day arrived for the last Cornish Riviera Run I organised, and it was a cold, rainy day which put off several cars that did not arrive at the start in Plymouth. The rain meant that there were not so many cars on the roads, though. This year there were two starts, one for the Plymouth people and one for the Cornish, with a start at the Bodmin Airfield. The smell of bacon at Bodmin Airfield
Bacon butties at Bodmin. Photo: Pete Heath
when we arrived was lovely and coupled with a welcoming cup of coffee and the wood fire roaring away was an ideal way to start the run. The marshals were there to greet the entrants and flag them away at the start. We lost a couple of cars that broke down getting to the start, poor Annie Moores always goes home in a different car, poor Terry thought he had sussed it this time in the Porsche. As there was no flying that day because of the weather, there was time for Matt from Bodmin Airfield to choose the car of his choice and the period dress, which he enjoyed and was pleased with his choice as it was the winning gentleman’s first time of entering.
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A ‘Russian’ RV8 driver
but I’m still on the lookout for other older items, so if you can help, get in touch. Details of the night are on the website – please book early! Just in time for Christmas, our new Regalia team of Tony and Lorraine have introduced several new items. There will shortly be an email going out with details and they will be available to buy at this month’s lunch or from our website. Buy now! The show sub-group has met and it looks like the main theme for next year will be a celebration of all things V8. The V8 GT is 45 years old, the RV8 25 years old and the ZT 260 is 15 years old. To do this properly we will need your support, so
look out for show details when they are available and get your entries in. For planning purposes I made a list of all the Scottish V8s I could think of, but in case I have missed any perhaps you could email or text your details so we can keep you posted on our plans. But we have also been very pleased with the number of older MGs which have supported our shows. For various reasons it’s always difficult to get pre55 cars out but hopefully that support will continue into 2018. And we are still interested in attending shows other than our usual ones of Thirlestane, Glamis and Bo’ness, so again if you have a suggestion to make then get in touch.
Teresa and Brian had the worst job of marshalling in the rain for the lunch stop at The Blue Anchor, Fraddon. The roast meal was excellent, and all were served and watered and on their way in no time. Several cars went missing, I think because of the rain, and 15 cars did not make the finish at the Gold Centre. Being wet, there were more cars from the public in the car park. Not beach weather, but we soon filled the seats for the cream teas and awards as follows: Plymouth – Wayne Flockhart, White MGA and Tamsin Coxen period dress, with a lovely fur coat all for warmth and black feathery hat. Bodmin Airfield – Peter Blackwell-Smyth, Red MGA and Peter Heath period dress!
Redruth – Adrian Nursey, Red MGB Roadster V8. Furthest Distance Award – Charles Thompson, Red MGB Roadster. Murrey Duff Award – Terry Bolt for perseverance over the years to make it home without the help of the Breakdown Lorry. The first event started in rain and this, the last, finished in rain. For 24 years in between it was mainly dry and sunny! Watch this space for news of different events. Future Events: November 11 – Skittles Evening at the Fox and Hounds, Lydford – contact Tony Short 01392 832665 antony.short7@tesco.net
Spot the odd one out? Photo: Pete Heath
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The Country Lane Tours Targa Sicilia last May, tying in with celebrations marking the 100th running of the Targa Florio and the 110th anniversary of its inception, was voted a tremendous success by all participants. The event was oversubscribed so it will run for the second and last time in 2018, with entries restricted as previously to fifty cars. Starting with the overnight ferry from Genoa, the tour begins with two nights in Villa Igiea, a stunning hotel overlooking the bay of Palermo and originally owned by the Florio family. Small car, small engine - no problem! From Palermo the tour follows the coast to halts in Mazara del Vallo, Agrigento (Valley of the Temples), Ragusa (Montalbano country!), Siracusa and Taormina before skirting Mount Etna and calling in at Autodromo di Pegusa on the way back to Cefalu and the ferry. With brilliant driving roads, including the Targa Florio itself, stunning scenery, and numerous amazing attractions, this is a holiday of a lifetime with your vintage or classic car, especially as you can drive the Targa Florio route and Automobile Club Palermo will be opening up the Floriopolis Pits and museum especially for us. To receive a full detailed information pack, including a FREE DVD of last yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s tour, email your postal address to countrylanetours@gmail.com or call Ian on 01824 790280, but hurry as entries have already been received, including one from a participant last time!
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CENTRES
LINCOLNSHIRE JOHN HEBB 01522 683541 jhebb38@virginmedia.com www.mgcclincolnshire.co.uk
November Natters: Wolds Wednesday 1; Lincolnshire Poacher Friday 3; Wishing Well Wednesday 8 (feely bag quiz); Abbey Lodge Monday 13 (quiz); Three Horseshoes Thursday 16; Red Cow Inn Thursday 23. Luncheon Club: Wednesday 15. Early December Natters: Lincolnshire Poacher Friday 1; Wolds Wednesday 6 (Christmas meal). You will see from the above that the Admiral Nelson Natter has now relocated to the Red Cow Inn, Gaysfield Road, Fishtoft, Boston PE21 0SF. The move took place in September, too late for notification to be included here earlier (but remember you can
keep up to date by keeping an eye on our web page). Further details from Geoff or Vicki on 01205 871973. The final Autotest of the year took place at East Kirkby on September 10 with Malcolm Clark winning the short wheel base class, Bryan Pack second and Geoff Hirst third. Robert Taylor won the long wheel base class with Ena Fox in second place. The Luncheon Club is proving to be as popular as ever, with 22 members this month making a return visit to the Red Lion at Raithby by Spilsby. Some time ago John Simpson organised a Breakfast/ Brunch meet on a Sunday at Ivy’s Farm Shop at Swineshead,
MIDLANDS
SIMON MORRIS simonmorrisbmmcmgcc@gmail.com www.mg-cars.org.uk/mgccmidlandcentre
I have not long returned from a weekend in Budapest with sightseeing and marshalling at the Hungaroring Classic. This was the first classic car event at the Hungaroring but showed a strong international collection of sports cars and historic race car drivers. Unfortunately there were no MGs competing; however there were two that appeared twice per day in the demonstration parades. I suspect this event will improve over the coming years, and it is certainly worth a visit. The weekend before had been MGCC Midland Centre’s last competitive event of 2017, and indeed quite possibly our last event at this venue. As mentioned many
times previously, Warwickshire County Council has blocked further motorsports events at Burton Dassett. This year’s event was damp due to earlier rain, resulting in challenging conditions for the 33 entrants. Steve Courts won in his Hillman Imp with only 69 points dropped. The best MG was Tom Bury’s with 162 points lost. Only four cars managed to stay under 100 points lost. We continue to search for an alternative venue whilst also campaigning for trials to be excluded from the local authority ban. Thank you to all competitors and volunteers that made the event happen. Looking ahead towards the end of the year, there will
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near Boston. This, too, has been very successful and the third event was held on the 24th, the lovely autumn weather ensuring another good turnout. (Again, keep on eye on the web page for details of the next meet.) On a wet Saturday night at the end of the month 23 members made their way to the Heneage Arms at Hainton for a fish and chip supper. The Heneage Arms,
next to the gates of Hainton Hall, (still the home of the Heneage family) is a community pub, open on Friday and Saturday evenings and provides excellent food with a range of cask beers. It’s well worth a visit. The photo recalls the summer sunshine of MG Live! with our cars in the assembly area before action in the California Cup.
be numerous MGCC Natter Christmas dinners for you to attend. Please contact your local Natter to get details. On Sunday December 17 the combined MGCC and Morgan three wheeler Holly Run will take place. Please contact Dave Anscombe on 01384 372307 for more information. Brian Osborn will be arranging this year’s Midland Centre committee Christmas walk. Date, time and location to be confirmed, but please ring Brian on 0121 445 4889 for more information.
Monday January 1 is the traditional date for MGCC Natters to organise a Chilly Willy Run. Contact your Natter for details. In mid-January the Midland Centre will be holding our AGM. As usual we are looking for new members to join the committee, so please keep an eye out for the invitation to attend. Finally, a date for your diary. The popular Welsh Touring Rallye will be held on May 11-13, based in Aberystwyth. More details to follow in the coming months.
The Hungaroring Classic October 2017
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CENTRES
NORTH WEST PAUL GOODMAN 01625 876300
First this month is a final reminder about the Dinner Dance and Awards presentation to be held on November 25. There is still a chance to book tickets to join us at the Deanwater Hotel by contacting David Rainsbury by email david@rainsbury.com We hope that as many members as possible will be able to attend for what should be a memorable evening. We will also be out and about at our regular pub meetings this month. The Old Hall Farm Pub gathering will be on Tuesday November 14. There will be a discussion about the shows and events which will be organised and attended in 2018.
Then a week later, at the Plough and Flail meeting on Tuesday November 21, everybody will be bringing an item (doesn’t have to be car-related) of significance to explain to the others for a couple of minutes. Finally, the last Wednesday lunchtime meeting of the year will be on November 29, at The Partridge, Tarporley Road, Stretton, WA4 4LX. Please make a diary note that the Christmas meal at the Plough and Flail will be on December 19. More information on that next month. Looking back to September, lots of you attended the EventCity show and enjoyed visiting our stand. If you have an MG that you would like to be considered for next year, then
SOUTH EAST
JO RUFFELS joruffels@gmail.com www.mg-cars.org.uk/mgccse/
Chiddingstone Castle was a great success and blessed with a fabulously sunny hot day, encouraging plenty of MGs to motor down. Some 90-plus cars made it through the gates, including an Abingdon-built Austin Healy 3000 Mk3, parking in front of the splendid castle with magnificent views over the North Downs. The Castle is an impressive
historic house dating from the early 1500s, presenting a great backdrop for the glorious MGs parked on the lawns in front. Car of the show went to Malcolm Newland with his lovely 1964 MGB. Concours and PoOs were held, with the following winners: Pride of Ownership – Steven Holmes 2003 MG TF, Premier Pride of Ownership
Car of the Show. Photo: Ray Ruffels 74 SAFETY FAST! NOVEMBER 2017
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please let us know. Over the same weekend, the Cockshoot Cup Championship was concluded at Croft with Brian Butler winning the Cup, the first time a driver in an MGF has triumphed. The classes were won by Ian Wright (A), Mike Peters (B) and Ashley Woodward (C). That meant two class wins for Midgets and one for a ZS. Prospects look excellent for next year with the drivers who have raced this year being joined by some newcomers and returnees. The dates for racing, sprinting, hillclimbing and social events for next year are gradually coming together. If you and other members are intending to display your cars at an event, then you can borrow one of our ‘feather flags’ and promote the Club and our events. We will have organised stands at the major
– Richard Clark 1954 MG TF, Concours – Richard Thorpe 2016 MG3. This year’s MGCC South East AGM will be held on Saturday November 18 2017 at the Three Horseshoes in Sidlow, RH2 8PT; all are welcome. For more details contact Philip (01483 811428). As cars are stored away in garages, MG members still have time to purchase tickets for the NEC Motor Show, Birmingham (November 10-12 2017) easily accessible by road or rail. This
Pete Bramble in his MGB at Snetterton. Photo: Mike Peters
regional shows, such as Tatton Park and the Oulton Park Gold Cup, where we will be mounting large displays. Watch out for the details in the new year. Finally, congratulations to the Cockshoot Cup Team of Ian Wright, Sean Peters, Mike Peters, Pete Bramble and Carl Chadwick for a class win in the BMH Snetterton Four Hour Relay.
year there will be over 2,500 classic cars and motorbikes – what’s not to like! Alongside this will be an auto-jumble; a haven of parts and spares, as well as 650 exhibitors offering related products and services. And for those looking for a last driving experience in December, there is the MGs on Track day December 2 2017. A great way to explore the limits of your ability with your MG without risking a speeding fine. All that is required on the day is your normal driving licence and a helmet (which can be hired at Brands Hatch). For local South East members, please note that Lenham Classic & Sport cars, fronted up by Ian and Dean, has now moved to new premises in Bexton Lane, Bredgar, Kent ME9 8HG (01795 830286).
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CENTRES
SOUTH WEST
ANDREW OWST 01761 221893 andrewowst@hotmail.com www.mgccsw.com www.facebook.com/mgccsw The South West Centre held its largest annual event on September 9 at Wiscombe Park, near Honiton, Devon. There was the usual large entry of over 130 cars and for those who have never been to this venue, the hill is located in a most delightful picturesque setting. Wiscombe has a reputation amongst seasoned hill climbers as being one of the most challenging British hill climbs and at our meeting it certainly lived up to it, as the weather was atrocious. The variation of cars which enter always makes for an interesting day, and this year was no exception. The MGs ranged from MMM through to the modern saloons and there was an excellent entry of Caterham Sevens, as well as
some single-seaters. It rained most of the morning and the organisers decided to allow only one practice run in order that the first of the two timed runs could be held before lunch. This proved a most wise decision, as during the second run in the afternoon the rain gradually became even more persistent. After three quarters of the entry had completed their second run, a competitor in a very nice-looking Mini (the Issigonis type) skidded in the Esses and inevitably hit the straw bales protecting the trees and needed a lifted tow to clear the track. This took time and with the on-going problems with the weather, the organisers decided to call it a day. Our thanks to Bruce Weston and his team of officials
TYNE TEES
NOEL LINDFORD noel.lindford@btinternet.com
Past Events 10th Tyne-Tees Old Speckled Hen Run: Sunday September10 Tony Wood planned the Herriot Road Safety Trial elements, which included picture questions at checkpoints, Checkpoint one being the start. Crews also had to observe several roadside items from route book clues, for a winning score. Three driving
accuracy tests were planned in the lunch halt car park to contest the Driving Skills Trophy. The route was a 95-mile run across three dales, with the lunch halt at Tennants Garden Rooms, Leyburn. 41 cars headed towards Richmond, and their first roadside clue. The route then went via Reeth and Gunnerside, up the Buttertubs Pass, a winding, climbing road linking Swaledale and Wensleydale, and at the top of which was Checkpoint two, where our crews came “You need to go thataway!” John Watson flags away the across marshals OSH MGB on the 10th Tyne-Tees Old Speckled Hen Run
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for all the hard work they put in organising the meeting, the many marshals who had to stand out for long hours in the rain, and finally the competitors, many of whom have supported us for many years. Next year’s Wiscombe will be held on Saturday September 8 2018. By the time this edition reaches you, all our sporting events will have finished and our next event is the Centre Dinner at Limpley Stoke Hotel, Limpley Stoke, near Bath, on Saturday February 24 2018. Please do make a note of that date now, as we all have a great time, hence the reason we continually return to the same hotel year after year. Full details will be available on the South West Centre website, along with the other events your committee are currently arranging for 2018.
By now many of you will have your MGs tucked up in the garage and no doubt sorting out a few jobs which came to the fore during the summer season. For me, this means engine out of the Midget, as the amount of blue smoke exiting the exhaust tailpipe has steadily increased over the last few years. On the last trip out to one of our Centre committee meetings, whilst it was great that the cars behind left an extremely safe distance between them and the Midget, it was obvious the time has come to do something. The photo, courtesy of Colin Murrell, shows South West Centre member, James Burmester, at Wiscombe in his 1946 Supercharged MG TC.
Tony and Tricia, braving the elements! The cars then headed via Bainbridge to the lunch halt at Tennants, where drivers attempted driving tests after lunch. The afternoon section took the cars across the Stang, meeting Tony and Tricia at Checkpoint three. The run finished at the George Hotel, Piercebridge, for cream teas in the ballroom. Steve Lidgate won the Driving Skills Test and the Steering Wheel Trophy, and Stuart Mumby won the Herriot Trophy. Guest judge, John Watson, chose Stuart Mumby’s MGA 1600 and Helen Waddington’s MG TF135 as his star cars. Spirit of the Event Award went to Tony Coates and Tricia Colligan for braving the elements!
david.alexander2012@ btinternet.com or call David on 01670 861178 for more details on this trip with train options. Saturday December 9: Tyne-Tees Centre Awards Dinner to be held once again at the Gibside Hotel, Whickham, just off the A1 opposite the Metro Centre. Arrive 7.30pm for 8.00pm. Tickets are available at £24.00 per head for a fourcourse 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 advantageous rates) including breakfast are available at the Gibside Hotel. All enquiries and bookings to: Lyn Ebdon at lyn. ebdon@mail.com or 01434 607067. There is a booking form on our Tyne-Tees website at http://www.mgcc.co.uk/tynetees-centre/future-events/
Events Coming Up Visit to the Classic Motor Show at the NEC: Saturday November 11 Please email
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CENTRES
YORKSHIRE
DAVID COPEMAN 07920 064585 www.mgccyorkshire.co.uk North – Colin Brear My last notes regrettably omitted Wes Bond’s entertaining talk, samples and facts about quality coffee. Our thanks to Kate Marsden for arranging the talk and educating us into its dark arts. We have meals booked at Sweet Basil Chinese restaurant November 12 arranged by Stephen and Andrea Coltman, January 7 late Christmas Lunch at Skipton Golf Club and the Tempest Arms in early 2018, date to be confirmed. A number of North Yorkshire MGCC members visited the NEC for the Classic Car Show. South – Geoff Norcliffe SY members this month enjoyed the
Old Speckled Hen run, organised by Tyne-Tees Centre, and the Battles Run by our own Vale of York Natter. We made a full weekend out of the Dales Run. Thanks to NY and Malcolm Perry for organising our cream teas on the Pullman coach at the Keighley and Worth Valley Railway. We are very lucky to have such superbly organised events that are so accessible to us. East – Chris Moore Les Davy won Best in Show at Fort Paull. Four members went to see the BTCC racing at Silverstone via a coach trip and had a great weekend.
Ray provided us with a great Saturday afternoon South Riding social run, visiting the most easterly pub in Yorkshire, The Crown and Anchor in Kilnsea, near to Spurn Point, then we finished with a meal at the Black Swan in Brandesburton. West – David Copeman West members supported at least three events in September: the Battlefields Run, Menwith Hill tour and the End of Season Run, and the weather did not disappoint on any event. Don’t know how we have fared in the inter-Natter quiz but the pie and peas were good. Christmas Lunch will probably be at Gomersal Park Hotel – details to follow. The Faith Supper will definitely be on Tuesday December 19.
Vale of York – Ken Cothliff On September 21, our Natter Day, we had the Battles Run, put together by Dave Fletcher and Chas Hills, with help from yours truly. This was a trip of some 70 miles around the majority of the sites of various battles in the York area. The forecast by the BBC was pretty poor: rain supposed to be taking all day to pass through. This understandably put many people off; in truth the morning started bright and stayed dry until a small shower greeted the first few cars back to the Masons. We had about 15 cars on the run, and it was enjoyed by all, some cars completing it with hoods down. That is our last run this year, though some members joined the Tyne-Tees group on their Autumn Leaves run, late in October.
ULSTER
CAROL WILLIS (028) 9079 9997 or 07831 345560 www.mgcculstercentre.co.uk carol.mgulster@hotmail.co.uk
The Centre had a hectic start to September with Noel Cochrane’s Annual Night Trial. Over 20 entrants in MGs, derivatives or period motors enjoyed an exciting mix of tests around farms near Killinchy. Start and finish were as last year on Bryce’s Farm; keen enthusiasts themselves, they let us loose on more of their property this year. Attrition affected the field with Will Corry’s Midget electrics packing in, David McCausland losing the battle with a barn and Robert Dixon’s Mini suffering drive-train failure. It was ‘deja-vu’ for Tony McLaughlin driving Conn Williamson’s BMW 2002. He repeated his final test performance of last year, again pulling a back
tyre off hand-braking into a gate. He was allowed another go and this time he took off a front tyre! Conn, it’s your turn to drive Tony’s car next year! A terrific 100+ MGs turned out on a very wet Sunday for the Centre’s ‘MG Day’ at the Ulster Folk and Transport Museum. While visitor numbers were dampened, MG turnout was exceptional and cars ranged from pre-war to moderns. We welcomed several MG and Rover Club members with their Z Series and some new MG owners keen to glean advice on their cars. MG dealer SS Logan, from Whiteabbey, had braces of MG3s and GS SUVs for display and we
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Norman Baird with his recently built ‘drool-worthy’ MGB V8. Photo: Vanessa Eakin
hope a few test drives have been arranged as a result. We held the season’s first PCT on September 9 at Parkgate and, of course, the heavens opened. The organising team met on site around 11.00am and immediately cleared off for a fry-up to deliberate on whether the event should run or not! But by 12.30pm the sun was out, the gazebo was up and 21 competitors were signing on. Two tests were set up a short time later and a grass slalom mapped out. Wet grass overlying clay soil made conditions very slippery so
penalties were high, a complete contrast to last year’s bone-dry PCTs. After four runs at the two PCTs, Harry Barr came first, closely followed by Dermot Johnston and son Patrick in their Healey Sprite. On the grass slalom, Bailie Thompson won, pipping son Will into second place and junior competitor Johnny McNamee came in an excellent third place.
Stephen Dawson Date for your Diary AutoSOLO on November 4 at TTS, Crumlin.
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NOVEMBER 2017 SAFETY FAST! 79
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REGISTERS
VINTAGE
JOHN VENABLES 01865 862573 johnandtriciav@gmail.com
Our British summer fizzled out with a disappointing end to September, but at least we did not have the devastating hurricanes. Sadly one of my favourite events was cancelled with 24 hours’ notice due to flooding. The Vintage scene has been rather quiet, except for our friends in the EMGS who put on an event in Wales. Let us now look forward to 2018. Entries for our spring event are now open, and in the capable hands of our Chair, Debbie. We are going oop north to stay in Pickering at the White Swan, and to keep us on the rails will be visiting the National Railway Museum, a steam train
ride and also visiting Castle Howard, amongst other things. I understand entries are coming in well for the event. The date is April 23 to 27 and Debbie’s contact number is 07795 227715. I had an amusing email from Stewart Skilbeck following my last notes, when I said we were visiting Last of the Summer Wine country and he corrected me, as we are really in Heartbeat country. He said it was a good thing we were going to Pickering as they eat missionaries in Holmfirth. I said, no problem as our MGs were fitted with missiles and they won’t like that up em!!! Pickering is very friendly.
Line up of Vintage cars bathing in the sunshine at this years MGLive!
John Days 18/80 on the veranda outside the main marquee at MGLive!
TRIPLE M
JEREMY HAWKE +44 (0)1225 863934 mgk3007@btinternet.com www.triple-mregister.org
Record Breaking – Apology Footnote Last month’s piece on record breaking generated a wave of nostalgia, with several emails arriving out of the blue from people involved at the time. Everyone was (as usual) too polite to mention my captioning faux pas. The picture describing broken C Types and K3 was in fact a pristine K3011 just prior to the start! So,
here is the actual photo of C0261 and C0280 (with their special bodies) with K3007 forlorn at the trackside as J3400 circulates. Kernow Wheels Tour As I write, the Kernow Wheels Tour around deepest Cornwall has just finished and by all accounts a great time was had by all, with everything being superbly organised by Charlie Cartwright and his team. You may even have noticed the ‘surprise’ of our Chairman whose P Type clocked up nearly 1,000 miles of troublefree motoring during and travelling to/from the event. In order that the wider club can share in the experience (I wasn’t there) if
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anyone that attended could send photos, and even better a few words, to the usual email address, I’d be grateful, so they can be included in our next SF spread. The Ideal Christmas Present Newly available in the MMM online shop (www.triple-mshop. org/home) is the ‘must have’ accessory for next season, and available for Christmas. Described as: “heavy-duty 10oz canvas shopping bags with webbing handles, ideal for more robust
demands and made for long-life usage”. They come, of course, complete with the Register logo. Long Term Storage Those of you who read this prestigious publication from cover to cover each month will often find plenty of interest for MMM owners hidden within its’ pages, even if you first think “what’s that got to do with me….”. I’m at present reactivating a car that’s been in storage for 20+ years (all will be revealed in good time) and a couple of months ago there was a piece about an MGB, the coolant of which had turned to “mush”. Well, I can confirm that this is the case with anti-freeze; it can turn into a kind of gelatinous gloop, with zero circulating properties and *** to flush through and for now I won’t even start on what happens to fuel! More on that subject early next year…
www.mgcc.co.uk
24/10/2017 16:25
REGISTERS
SVW
PAUL CAMPBELL svw.safety.fast@gmail.com www.svwregister.co.uk/
Alan Richards Keith and Anne Bush report on Alan Richards’ funeral. Alan was a long-standing member of The SVW Register, whose funeral took place on August 28 in France with 28 attending, including the Normandy representative of MG Car Club de France. Many of us remember the SVW event that Alan organised in 2013. Roger who played the guitar and sang at the dinner in Honfleur was also present. Alan had an award-winning cycle racing history and his cycling partner of the 1960s/70s came along and cycled from Portsmouth to the crematorium. The company retired to a local bar afterwards.
Period Tax Discs From time to time we come across a supplier who goes above and beyond. Period tax discs have become de rigueur to occupy our tax disc holders and there are now multiple sources of these. I’ve used Greg Powell (www.poplargreg.com) in the past and have done so again recently. He hasn’t changed his prices for years and it seems great value at £7, which includes two spares, all filled out with your car’s details in the correct style for your selected
T TYPE
JOHN WARD 01621 773606 johnw.ward@yahoo.co.uk www.tregister.org The Register October Committee Meeting The last T Register committee meeting for 2017 took place at Kimber House on Sunday October 8 under the chairmanship of your new chairman, Ian Palmer. With always a very full agenda, it is a fairly extensive affair, all items being thoroughly discussed and agreed with your best possible interests in mind. Last year at this time we gave ample notice and opportunity for you to air your views on the question of communicating with you, the members. With the everincreasing development of computerisation and technology, due consideration and debate
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has been ongoing on this topic throughout the year. Many of you follow notices and information provided through the website, Facebook and now monthly online with the T Register Newsletter, not forgetting, of course, these eagerly awaited notes in this monthly column in Safety Fast!. For some time now it has become apparent that the requirement or necessity for a quarterly magazine carrying reports and notices of events has become less and less important and it has become increasingly difficult to fill the pages with other items of interest, and as a result the decision has been taken to cease production of T
will be considered, including: ‘Early Days’ stories, especially the embarrassing ones, ‘Our Car’ reminiscences, rebuild sagas or SVW MGs in photographs. John Bates has already sent Charlie articles about his VA sump removal experiences and the resolution to an annoying tick from the engine that disappeared when one sparkplug lead was disconnected. Now is the perfect time to get writing, folks.
date, optionally stamped as per the chosen licensing authority for a little extra and with correct printing on the back. My VA Tourer now sports the one pictured. Goodwood Revival As planned, my VA Tourer was displayed on the airfield for the fourth year in succession. It was a fairly damp affair this year and rather muddy in the classic car parks, but it didn’t dampen the enthusiasm too much. ‘Squadron leader’ Campbell was on duty on the Saturday! Appeal The Editor of The SVW Review, Charlie Plain-Jones, is appealing to our members to put pen to paper (or fingers to keys) for some contributions to the 2018 edition. Almost anything interesting
Register News after No. 28, the October 2017 edition, which you will find online on at: tregister. org or mgcc.co.uk/t-register Records and Archives Another important function of the Register is the maintaining and updating of the database, not only of members but of their cars. It has long been a matter of concern that all the archive records and registration of cars and owners are continually changing and that such records are kept in various locations and on different systems. The committee are endeavouring to resolve this and trying to regularise all aspects of this complex question and will be shortly asking for us all to cooperate and provide any latest changes of ownership, addresses and contact details for the records.
On the Goodwood Revival airfield early September
2018 and Future Events With the 2017 Autumn Tour now well behind us, as usual time now to think about next year, and many have already expressed an interest at this year’s tour. Annie and Geoff Matthews are once more in the chair for organising the venue and dates which in 2018 will be in the Guildford area of Surrey. The exact details will be announced next month, but if you wish to book a place before it is too late, contact them on 01840 214972 or at geoff@ shepherdsbarn.com More on next year: the ever-popular continental trip to Flanders in northern France is already oversubscribed but if you would like to put your name on the waiting list for cancellations tell Sally Silcock on 01525 750468 or at treg.sec@ virginmedia.com
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REGISTERS
Y TYPE
JERRY BIRKBECK jerrybirkbeck@btinternet.com www.mgccyregister.co.uk Tel: 01926 258691 Mob: 07855 566325 Isle of Wight Weekend Secretary Peter Sharp organised an excellent three-day event on the Isle of Wight towards the end of September. 16 MGs were present, and our crews came from across the country – Pembrokeshire in the west, Cheshire and Yorkshire to the north and Somerset to the southwest, with the remainder from the Home Counties, the south coast and the midlands. A photo shows some of the Ys present at the hotel in Shanklin. There will be a fuller report in the December spread. Thanks to both Peter and Gillie for arranging a great weekend and enabling a group of Y owners to catch up with each other.
Tyres It seems odd that too many in the classic car world seem to think of the tyre as an irritant which they have to plan for. Though once on then, other than checking pressures, they maybe get forgotten about. Yet this is all that keeps you safely on the road; their condition and age is fundamental for safe motoring. If you attend a show, then undoubtedly it is rare to see a worn tyre on a vehicle. However, a closer examination should indicate a date stamp showing the month and year of production on the side wall of the tyre. For example ‘2213’ shows that the tyre was manufactured in the 22nd week
MAGNETTE
STEPHEN TICKELL 01737 760330 stephen.tickell@gmail.com www.magnette.org
There’ll be a full report next month on the Lou Shorten Tribute weekend (September 30-October 1 in Norfolk). But here’s a photo from the Saturday evening dinner, when new chairman, Paul Batho, presented the Magnetteer of the Year trophy (for 2016) to Alan and Julia Cleobury. This is awarded for particular endeavour in the
Paul Batho with Alan and Julia
Magnette cause, and Alan and Julia are well-deserved recipients – apart from Alan’s time on the Register committee, they’ve both been actively involved in most of our events of recent years, organised the successful 2016 summer weekend, and still find time to help run their local Arden MG Club. Kop Hill, September 16-17 This historic hill climb event at Princes Risborough (Buckinghamshire) has become a regular fixture for the Register, providing a good opportunity to socialise in the Club parking area, and plenty of interest watching cars from 1920s onwards on the historic course, as well as many other classics in the static area.
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of 2013. Whilst this is the case for post-2000, it is not always the case for earlier years. I would suggest (though my evidence is only through observation and talking to owners) that many older cars in use are on tyres produced 10-12 years ago and some even older than that! I have heard the comment that “the treads are excellent and the tyre walls have no cracks and for most of the year they are kept in a cool, dark environment”. This may be the case but, however well they are looked after, they need to be regularly checked and if they are more than seven years old replaced. Radial plies are readily available from most mainstream tyre factors; for 16” tyres the range and quality are limited. Budget types (Waymaster and Excelsior) are not cheap at around
£95.00 each incl VAT – so £475 for a set of five. Quality tyres are far more expensive (Avon Tourist and Firestone) £142 and £202 respectively – £1,010. So a huge price differential. Some folk I know have had success with their budget makes. I have found that the Excelsiors fitted to the YT have lasted on the front around 3,000-4,000 miles and then they suddenly wear. The rear set are not quite so bad but will need changing over the next few months.
Anthony White tackled the hill once more, hoping to beat his time of previous years with his early ZA, now sporting the larger bore LCB exhaust developed by Trevor Jones. He also remembered to unpack the Register gazebo from his car before the climb! On Sunday Jeremy Carrington did the run in his Farina Magnette. Both cars probably recorded better times than the motorised sofa built by Edd China former ‘Wheeler Dealer’, although it was certainly an impressive piece of engineering. There were seven Magnettes present on Saturday, and six on
Sunday. Former chairman David Halliday lives nearby and was able to get two of his growing collection there: the ZB previously owned and raced by Jan Pearce, and KCF51, the ZA rallied by Warren Marsh. In fact Warren arrived himself on Sunday, in his MGA, and several other Magnette owners also came in different cars. The weather was somewhat cool for the time of year, but apart from late Saturday afternoon it stayed more or less dry, so all-in-all a pleasant weekend, which also helped to raise funds for local charities.
Classic Car Show at the NEC November 10-12 This is probably the largest Classic Car Show in the UK, with 71,000 attending over the three days last year. There will be Ys on both the MG Car Club stand and the MGOCC. Hope to see you there.
Anthony’s ZA at Kop Hill
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24/10/2017 16:25
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REGISTERS
MIDGET
MIKE PARKER mikeparker78@talktalk.net www.midgetregister.com The last race for the 2017 MGCC Lackford Engineering Midget and Sprite Challenge was held at the Car Club’s Autumn Race Meeting at Snetterton. Saturday’s race was run in sunny conditions, and was won by Stephen Collier in his Class A Midget. He was chased by Stephen Watkins for the first
lap until he spun off at Murrays; trying too hard or cold tyres? He confirmed after the race that he just lost it, but he did a great drive to take second place and new lap record. The Class E was won by Paul Campfield, making him the winner of this year’s Midget and Sprite Challenge with
Stephen Collier in his 1460cc Class A Midget. Photo: Dickon Siddall
MGC
MIKE HAUGHTON mgc_mike@btinternet.com
Mike Haughton, your Register secretary, has been very busy updating the C Register website with an article about the recent event at Porto, where several Cs were in attendance. In addition, the website now includes details of some 50th Anniversary regalia which is available, which may solve a problem or two of what
to buy someone for Christmas. So we do urge you to take a look, as we intend to use the website more in the future for news articles and other Crelated activities. Other news includes the C Register being represented at Event City Manchester Classic Car Show in September, thanks
Mikes C is parked up next to the fully restored ex-Rivers Fletcher MGA
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one race to go on the next day. Sunday dawned with a damp track. Overnight rain and wind had hit the Norfolk circuit, which made tyre choice important. On the damp track wets were the best choice. With Collier on wets and Watkins on slicks it was Watkins who pulled away at the start, but not for long. The wets were the best choice as Collier pulled away and was never going to be stopped. Watkins pulled in after six laps. Also retiring on lap one was the new champion, Paul Campfield, with the car’s fan belt off, so it was a good job he won his class on Saturday. Well done to all the drivers who took part in this year’s Challenge and hope to see you all again next year, with a few new faces! With Christmas just around the corner, the Midget Register is offering our new grille badge and to the North West Centre. Mike’s C is parked up next to the fully restored ex-Rivers Fletcher MGA, now owned by Mike Peters. Kimber House were in attendance and Mike and Angie were the stalwarts in promoting the C Register. The Register Christmas meal on November 25 has proved very popular and is now fully booked. In case of any last-minute changes, please let Mike know if you want to go onto the ‘Reserve List’, and he will keep you informed. Our Registrars are Barrie and Ginny (whom some of you may remember!), and they would welcome details of your MGC if you haven’t already provided the information. This will help us keep track of cars and owners, as there seem to be quite a few MGCs reappearing recently. If you have recently acquired a C, they may have some historical
2017 MGCC Lackford Engineering MG Midget/Sprite Challenge winner Paul Campfield. Photo: Dickon Siddall
key ring for a Christmas special package price of £25.00, post free in the UK only. Details on the Midget website or from Kimber House www.shop.mgcc.co.uk or from me, details at the top of these notes. A full range of Midget Register clothing is available online from Top Signs’ website www.topsigns.net or 01434 609999, so there is a lot of choice for this year’s Midget fans! information that may be of interest to you. If any of you out there are ‘Facebookers’ please check out the MGC Register page and join (if you haven’t already). You will find lots of useful information there, as well as some great photos. Please don’t forget those actual birthday celebration photos of you and your car. Coming into early 2018, production at Abingdon 50 years ago will have started to ramp up quite a bit, and early cars will be coming up for their personal celebration soon. And finally, if you have any MGC stories you would like to share, please let us know and we will try to include them in these notes in the future. MGC Register Chairman Colin Howes mgc_colin@gmx.co.uk
www.mgcc.co.uk
24/10/2017 16:25
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NOVEMBER 2017 SAFETY FAST! 85
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REGISTERS
V8
VICTOR SMITH 0208 392 9434 victorsmith@v8register.net www.v8register.net Enjoyable V8 Tour in North Yorkshire Driving over the moors of North Yorkshire with the heather still in bloom was a real pleasure for members on the tour. They were on their way to visit Castle Howard and its beautiful gardens recalling their connection with Brideshead Revisited. Later
during dinner at the tour hotel, Dunsley Hall near Whitby, members heard an amusing and informative talk on the Dracula connection with nearby Whitby. Another run over the moors, surely some of the most beautiful routes in the UK, visited many of the villages and landmarks seen in the Heartbeat television series.
V8 Derbyshire Tour 2018 The next V8 Tour in the popular
Taking in the views on the Yorkshire moors.
FWD
BEN HATTON ben2692@hotmail.co.uk www.mgcc.co.uk/fwd-register/
Sunday September 24 saw the fifth BL Annual Rally at Milton Keynes Museum, which celebrates British Leyland’s unsung heroes. All pre-1997 BMC, BL and Austin Rover cars qualify for the show, so that includes all MG FWD Register cars. While MG Maestros, MG Metros and MG ADO16s were represented, sadly there were no MG Montegos. This has been a general theme at events throughout the year with MG Montegos seeming to be the most scarce of the MG FWD Register models, so if you have one and are happy to bring it along to any of the shows or events, please do get in touch. The BL Autumn Rally is the brainchild of Tom Morley, who
is involved with several BL car clubs and is the chair of the Metro Owners Club. The show is now its fifth year and it has grown year-on-year. While this is great, as with many successful shows it then runs the risk of becoming too big and spoiling the reason why we all enjoyed it so much in the first place. However, full credit must be given to Tom who has worked hard to expand the show while keeping the 1997 cut-off more or less in place ensuring that the rarer 1970s, 1980s and 1990s cars aren’t overwhelmed by the plentiful cars of 1998 onwards. The joy of this show from both the perspective of clubs organising stands and exhibitors is that no booking is required, which makes
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On the Sunday an underground visit to the Cleveland Iron Museum and exploring the many small fishing villages along the coast made for a relaxing day. During dinner members were stunned by some truly amazing table-top magic from a very able entertainer. On the final day members motored south over the moors to Eden Camp, near Malton, an ex-Italian prisoner of war camp which is now a popular museum. Members on the tour felt it was a very successful and enjoyable tour and particularly well-planned and arranged by Robert and Stella Crowson. See the full photo report on the tour via our ‘More’ web page at: www.v8register.net/more.htm
everyone’s lives, other than possibly Tom’s, much easier. This show is also free of charge for all exhibitors and the visiting public, and while there is a small charge to enter the museum, this is waived for exhibitors, giving us a completely free event. However, I met several exhibitors who had decided to pay the small charge to go around the museum as they were impressed with the event and the way the museum supports it and, in turn, wanted to support the museum. If you’re interested in BL models, this is the show for you. There were good displays of Maxis, 1100s, 1800s, Rover SD1s, Rover 200s and 400s, Montegos, Maestros, Metros, Rover 800s and the most amazing display of Allegros – they had come out in force! However, most BL models were presented and including a good number of MGs. There were
series will be in Derbyshire from Sunday 2 to Thursday September 6 2018. The event will include visits to Haddon Hall, Crich Tramway Village, Denby Pottery and Renishaw Hall. The event will include touring beautiful scenic routes around the Derbyshire dales and the Peak District National Park. Further information and a booking form are available on our ‘More’ web page. V8 Anniversaries in 2018 In 2018 we will have the anniversary of the launch of the MGB GT V8 in August 1973 and the launch of the V8 Register in October 1978 with our first AGM in May 1979 over the Silverstone weekend. A compact programme of events for the anniversaries year will be announced in our V8 Newsletter in the December issue.
James Barnes’s award-winning MG Metro Turbo
prizes for the various models, with James Barnes winning the best Metro award with his beautiful Mk1 MG Metro Turbo. There was also a People’s Choice award, which went to a lovely Maxi. Next year’s BL Autumn Rally is being held on Sunday September 30, and once again will be held at Milton Keynes Museum. Even if you don’t have a car to show, if you’re interested in the models displayed I would recommend that you visit and it will only cost you your petrol to get to the show, the show itself being free to enter. Tanya Field
www.mgcc.co.uk
24/10/2017 16:26
REGISTERS
ZR/ZS/ZT
another excellent racing season has been brought to a close. Most JOHN THOMPSON Tel: 07854 275541 johnt5@btinternet.com www.mgcc.co.uk/zedregister drivers interviewed at the prize giving said they’d be back next year. Much work to be done over for both races, winning the Events and shows the winter months, no doubt! The second race, but beaten to the At the very end of September parade laps coordinated by Geoff line in Saturday morning’s race Snetterton staged the traditional were popular, too, with 29 cars by Ross Makar. It was Matthew finale to the MGCC racing season. signing up on the Saturday, but Turnbull in the 160 class who This year was largely dry on probably due to the weather there was declared 2017 champion Saturday and wet on Sunday. were no takers on the Sunday! at the prize presentation at the There were plenty of Zeds on The following weekend, on end of the day. There was also show and it was good to see Sunday October 8, we headed a special presentation for Peter the two Trophy drivers involved down to Lancing in Sussex for Macwaters who stood down in the Oulton Park shunt both in their Motor Show. The was a first as Championship Coordinator attendance. In a damp qualifying for ourselves, so it was a ‘test the after 10 years. A good end of the session Doug Cole took pole water’ kind of a day. The event is season, too, for Ian Dowler in open to all classic cars, and in the the Peter Best Cup with a second end over 800 cars were present. place behind Alan Brooke’s very We felt it was important to fly rapid K-Series Metro in the final the MG Rover flag at this event round, his 160 coming home and to promote the Club. The ahead of not only the other 160s gamble paid off, however, and but the 170s too. It’s noticeable we signed up a new member. We that more 160s are being Zeds on display at the Lancing Motor Show were joined in the MG Rover area attracted to this championship. So,
by some local enthusiast groups, and between us we put on quite a large display. Our cars may have made up a small percentage of the overall show but we felt it was important to be seen at this event. The weather was on our side, too, with no rain and sunny periods. Definitely an event for the diary next year, I think. Upcoming events Our traditional end-of-season event takes place over the weekend of November 10-12. At the time of writing we are unsure of what capacity we will be playing at the Classic Motor Show. Don’t let that deter you, however, from attending. We had a great time last year and it is an excellent show. Our 2018 Events Calendar will be available soon, so keep those diaries to hand.
MG6.3.5
STEVE HAINES Steve-haines@live.co.uk www.facebook.com/groups/MG635Register https://twitter.com/635register MGs in the parking next to the Wellington straight. It was good to meet friends old and new, as well as sign up some new owners and have a good catch-up. It was a bit of a rough weekend on the track yet again for the MG/888 team, on what is traditionally a good track for the MG6. Saturday qualifying was exciting; some of us were lucky enough to be invited into the MG/888 garage to watch it all unfold. Sunday’s racing was a mixed bag and tough going, especially for Josh Cook, who had to start the first race from the back of the grid after accumulating some penalties throughout the season. Josh kindly came along to A few of the Modern MGs at Silverstone the Club stand to sign some
The Register had a fantastic gathering at its last major outdoor event at the BTCC Silverstone on September 16-17. Owners took advantage of the MG Car Club weekend ticket deal, with infield parking and the Club gazebo and shop set up on the Sunday. We had a great turnout of 50 cars on the Sunday, including a few MG GSs. There was also general parking for MGCC members and their lovely
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MG-SafetyFast_Nov2017_49-100.indd 87
MG/888 Working on the MG6 at Silverstone
autographs and have a chat with owners earlier in the day. Both he and MG Motor were surprised at the number of modern MGs on the stand and the amount of support for the BTCC and the team. Our AGM is on Saturday December 2, 3.00pm at the
MG Motor Conference centre in Longbridge, followed by our Christmas meal at the Guild in Bromsgrove. Please add your names to the Facebook event, or email Steve Haines as soon as possible if you wish to go, so we can confirm numbers and menu choices.
Josh Cook (middle) with MG635 committee members Sean Round (left) and Steve Haines
NOVEMBER 2017 SAFETY FAST! 87
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Visit our website: www.manorgaragewantage.co.uk 88 SAFETY FAST! NOVEMBER 2017
MG-SafetyFast_Nov2017_49-100.indd 88
www.mgcc.co.uk
24/10/2017 16:26
COLLECTORS’ CORNER
‘BLIMEY’ BETTY
The history of my 1934 MG PA four-seater open tourer
M
y first encounter with sports cars was in 1966 when I bought a Triumph Spitfire, which replaced my ageing 1936 Austin 10. I kept the Spitfire for a few years and then I bought a 1962 MGB (125 EBO) which I really enjoyed driving. When I married, my car had to go, as did my wife-tobe’s Triumph Herald Convertible, and a more family-friendly car, a Renault 9, was bought! Fast-forward 26 years to 1997 when I purchased a 1934 MG PA four-seater open tourer in Duo-Tone Red which is known as ‘Betty’ after my aunt who lent me the money to buy the Austin 10. Gilbert Emery (a TT racer) who owned the Links Garage in Llandudno, where he used the car as
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MG-SafetyFast_Nov2017_49-100.indd 89
By Geoff James a demonstrator, first registered the car on August 4 1934. Mr Robert Baxter then bought it in 1935 when he was 18, and he used the car regularly around Llandudno. Previously, when he was 16, Mr Baxter really wanted a motorbike but his father did not think they were safe, so he bought him a brand-new BSA three-wheeler which cost £29.18.0! Mr Baxter told me that he had owned two Rolls Royces, 12 Jaguars and an Alfa Romeo in the 58 years he had been driving. In 1959 Mr Baxter put the car on blocks where it remained for 39 years. In 1997 he decided to sell his XK120 Jaguar, together with our MG. When I bought the car in 1997 it was in its original condition and, other than a repaint, a new electrical harness and a mechanical overhaul, it had a confirmed (by Mr Baxter) mileage of
42,000 miles. To date the car has done just short of 53,000 miles. When I spoke to Mr Baxter in 1997 he told me that Gilbert Emery had used the car to do a flying quarter of a mile on Southport Sands and it achieved 94 mph! The engine must have been screaming at this speed, doing 6,400 rpm. I thought that he would have done it on Pendine Sands which was much closer to home, but I suspect that the real reason was that he had ridden a 350cc Sunbeam motorcycle at Southport in 1929 and had won the 25-mile race on the sands – so he was fond of Southport. When unleaded petrol was introduced, I decided to have the cylinder head converted so that the car could run without additives. I took it to my friend, Dave Stewart, in Aberdour, for him to do the conversion, but
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COLLECTORS’ CORNER
Betty, the MG PA four seater open tourer
when he stripped it down it turned out to be a bronze head! I can only surmise that it had been fitted by Gilbert Emery as part of his plan to do 94 mph at Southport. Mr Baxter apparently had a great time with the car, but when I asked him where the missing licence disc for 1936 was (I have discs for 1934, 1935 and 1937) he told me why. Apparently, in 1936, he was involved in a race along the Promenade in Llandudno, between friends who had a Morgan and a Singer. All three cars set off and the MG was leading when the other two realised that the local police car which was also a Morgan of the same colour as his friend’s was clocking them! The two peeled off and Mr Baxter still thought he was racing his friend’s Morgan, but in fact it was the police car! He was fined £12.0.0 and
On the road near Pitlochry
banned from driving for a year. During the time that the car was off the road he fitted some aluminium radiator slats (like a PB), which he subsequently replaced with genuine MG PB slats. He also bound the front and rear springs with tape which is still on the front springs some 81 years later. When he bought the car he had the head decarbonised, the valves reground and the engine tuned and tested by MG Abingdon at a cost of £2.5.0! They also raised the compression ratio to 7.25:1 at a cost of £1.0.0 which, together with materials, made a total of £4.12.11. At the end of 1936 he had a problem with an oil leak on the vertical drive to the dynamo. MG said that they had only met this problem on one or two isolated occasions (it’s quite common now, although my car has been leak-
Betty in good company
90 SAFETY FAST! NOVEMBER 2017
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free) and recommended having it fixed by a dealer at a cost 15/-! I have a copy of all of these receipts. When I bought the car it still had the Abingdon original carpets, seats, weather equipment, electrical equipment, a Bluemel steering wheel, dash, body and engine. Even the original spare spark plugs are in the car. I also have the original Warranty Certificate signed by Cecil Kimber (the warranty was for only six months) as well as the Maintenance Manual and the Spare Parts Price list. Another interesting feature was the rear seat cushion which was pneumatic and made by The Self Controlled Air Cushion Co. Ltd of Manchester. I still have this seat but it is totally degraded and unusable. Mr Baxter also had a spotlight fitted, together with stoneguards for the headlamps. The hood was not serviceable, as it had a couple of holes in it, so I had a new hood and side screens made but I have kept the originals. During my ownership I have had a few problems – nothing too great, but on a number of occasions we have been taken home by Green Flag! The main issues have been a voltage regulator giving up the ghost, a rear main bearing failing, a broken halfshaft and a blown cylinder head gasket. I had the gasket fail twice and thought the head may be warped but it was perfectly flat. In the end I replaced it with a solid copper gasket and it has been perfect ever since. I also replaced
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24/10/2017 16:27
COLLECTORS’ CORNER
B32 - MIKE ROLLS SERVICES_MIKE ROLLS SERVICES 13/12/2012 09:50 Page 1
Classic dash layout of the MG PA
both of the halfshafts just in case the other one decided to break. We have had tremendous fun with the car as we live in the Lake District which is perfect touring country for MMMs. Our outings with the Lakeland Historic Car Club and the Wigton Motor Club have seen us cover most of the North West of England. We have toured a large part of Scotland, having been on eight of the Caledonian MG Centre’s three-day tours which have been based in the Borders and up to the Cairngorms and beyond. On one of these tours, which was to the Isle of Skye, we extended our stay and travelled to the Outer Hebrides, sailing from Ullapool to Stornoway and visiting Lewis, Harris, Berneray, North Uist, Benbecula, South Uist and returning to Oban. We made it back home without the need for a recovery truck!
2016
MIKE ROLLS
TRADE MEMBER
Specialising in all MG’s
The time has come and I have decided to sell ‘Betty’, and as I bought this wonderful little car from Barry Walker 25 years ago, I am now selling it via his garage and anybody interested in this unique piece of MG history should contact Barry as soon as possible (01789 400181).
SERVICES FOR MGs
TEL/FAX: 01258 820337
Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri: 8am-6pm, Wed: 8am-5pm, Sat: 8am-1pm JC2222 Engine Compartment
MIKE ROLLS
2016 201 6
SERVICES FOR MGs
TRADE MEMBER
Betty on the ferry to Stornaway
www.mgmecca.co.uk Tel: +44 (0) 1953 717618 Fax: (0) 1953 717850
Specialising in all MG’s
TEL/FAX: 01258 820337
Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri: 8am-6pm, Wed: 8am-5pm, Sat: 8am-1pm
MG RV8 ROADSTER 1995
Finished in Woodcote Green MG RV8, Manufactured in 1995 but not registered until 1997, Woodcote Green, re-imported from Japan in 2008. Just over 26,000km from new which is approx 15,000mls, it comes with a good services history, a very nice MGR registration number, windstop and matching hood cover. This is a superb example one of the best we have ever seen, it has just had a service and MOT so ready to be enjoyed. £26,000.
MGC ROADSTER Snowberry White, rebuild work by MG Motorsport. MOT; 5000 miles since the body rebuild, 1000 miles since the engine rebuild; five-speed gearbox New speedo-cable, brake servo, dinitrol anti-rust, hoses; fan belt; seals for clutch and brake masters. Two spare wheels and a rain-cover. £32,995
RILEY 1.5 1964 Damask Red, red trim. In superb condition and only 39,500 miles from new! Genuine car, even has the BMC smell! Body, chrome and trim is just excellent. This must be the best original example available. A once only chance £11,995
1955 MG TF 1500 Ivory (Old English White), red trim, tan hood/tonneau. Original R/H/D car (not converted). Immaculate restored car. Immaculate underneath. Hard to find a better example. Super door fit. Chrome new or replated. Superb example of most desirable MG TF. £36,995
MGA ROADSTER 1955
Finished in Old English White it comes with black leather seats with white piping, wire wheels, excellent black vinyl hood and side screens and good service history. It’s an older restoration but still in very good condition, it drives beautifully as do most MGA’s. £26,995.
E-mail: mikerolls4mgs@compuserve.com • www.mikerolls.co.uk Mail Order “Friendly Quality Service”
MG-SafetyFast_Nov2017_49-100.indd 91
1978 MGB ROADSTER Black, black/red trim, Osselli 2L u/l fst rd engine, leather seats, Antique red carpets, burgundy mohair hood, Motolita wheel, all new chrome, superb looking car, restored body and paint. Fast classic fun. £11,995
Chrome bumper, Tax exempt, Overdrive. Finished in Harvest Gold with cloth interior. Nice interesting TOY 500M registration number. Just under 92,000mls from new. Comes with extensive history, list of previous owners, most MOT’s and record of parts and work. Heritage certificate. Now fitted with 15 inch Minilite replica wheels and Yokohama tyres, original wheels available with the car, recent new clutch and rolling road set up. Excellent gearbox and overdrive and drives very well. £18,995
Units 9/10 Fifehead Business Park, Manor Farm, Fifehead Magdalen, near Gillingham, Dorset SP8 5RR
www.mgcc.co.uk
1967 MGB GT V8 BRG, Biscuit/green leather trim. Fully restored last nut & bolt 5 years ago. Professionally converted to V8 spec, no expense spared. Webasto roof. Moto Lita wheel. 15” minilites. Fast touring car. Rare early GT. Superb! £22,495
MGB GT V8, FACTORY CAR, 1974,
MGB ROADSTER, 1975
Rubber bumper, Tax exempt, finished in Black, it comes with Overdrive, Alloy wheels, Tan leather interior, Motolita wood rim steering wheel, Mohair hood with single rear window, Louvered alloy bonnet, Roll hoop, Electric windows, Performance engine with piper camshaft, Stainless performance 3 branch exhaust system, K & N Filters, Electronic ignition, Electric cooling fan, Silicone hoses and some service history. The car is MOT’d to April 2018 and has been de-seamed on the rear wings, the paint has blistered slightly on the offside seam and has been touched in by hand , this is a structurally sound car with good performance and is a great drive. £5,995.
1965 MINI COOPER Old English White, Dove Grey roof, Red Brocade trim. Totally restored, last nut and bolt. Totally immaculate in every respect. £32,500
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CL ASSIFIEDS
CARS FOR SALE
1961 MGA Roadster
How to Advertise Members 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 colingrant@mgcc.co.uk with details of your car, around 60 words, together 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 10th of the month for the following months issue.
1972 MGBGT
89000 miles.Tax Exempt. MOT April 2018 Full receipts & Mot certificates going back to 1996 when i believe the MG was restored. Original Chrome Bumper, manual gearbox, with overdrive, wire wheels. Petrol tank replaced now runs on unleaded fuel, struts, shock absorbers, 2 6Valve Batteries. Newly upholstered seats. Would benefit from a respray. OEO £6000. Telephone: 07427620822 (Oxford)
1973 MIDGET (RWA)
Flame, very good all round condition, minilite wheels, refurbished interior, excellent mechanics and very good paint/bodywork. MOT July. Car in north Essex. £ 5750. Please call David on 01255 675358 or 07740 636158
2001 MGF 1600cc
One lady owner from new. Teal Blue. Good condition inside and out with British heritage silver hard top with black leather lining. Wind stop and Kenwood CD player. Black velour interior. Comes with full service hsitory. MOT till May 2018. Head gasket replaced with new head studs, water pump and cam belt/tensioner together with front discs and pads. £1350. Contact David on 01483480413. (Surrey)
1972 MGBGT
Colour – Teal Blue. MOT until December; Tax Exempt. Service history available; chrome bumpers; sound body shell; brand new clutch; very good condition. Must be seen. In the region of £9500. If interested, contact Trevor on 07803 518648 or 0208 4308751, (North London.)
1956
1979 MG Midget
Rubber bumper model in excellent condition with 12 months MOT. Many extras including chrome boot rack. Comes with a brand new hood and a hard top is available. Lots of history, always kept in a garage. £4500. For more information tel: 07833980311 or 01455221392. (Near Coventry)
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MGA
1500
LHD
Matching Numbers. Ownership with same family for 48 years, a Canadian MGCC enthusiast. RH side just rebuilt, new ‘F’ frame, inner/outer sills, Waxoyl’d, complete professional repaint - beautiful finish (70+ photos). Since 2014: four new 165x15 tyres, battery (8/2017), shocks, clutch, prop-shaft, exhaust, brakes, headlights, MOT Sep 2018. Heritage certificate, renovated 1987/89, large documentation file/photo album, invoices from 1980’s. Leather seats/armrest, v.good soft-top, tonneau, excellent chrome-work. Also advertised in Car and Classic ref: C917917, £18,750 contact James: 01732 780461 or 07811-505798, (Sevenoaks)
With V5 for restoration. 1622 engine with twin cam gearbox. One of the last MKII cars. Rolling chassis that has been repaired/painted, the suspension has been rebuilt. Some new parts together with restored parts and are ready to re-fit.The car has been dismantled and all parts are present. £10,500 ono. Tel: Adrian 07710 399 534
MGB GT 1980
Engine stage 2 1860cc balanced Moss super charger, Ford Type 9, 5 speed gearbox, Coil over springs front suspension, 4 pot calipers at front. Independent rear suspension with Cossworth L.S.D. Front and rear suspension by John Hoyle. Power steering, and Sunroof. £12500 ONO. Phone 07717485259 (South Yorkshire)
1965 MGB Roadster
1950cc Stage2 unleaded engine overhauled July 2016. New rings and shells, balanced, Kent 724 camshaft fitted. G/Box overhauled 2016. New clutch, carpets throughout, tyres, door cards fitted 2017. Petronix ignition, Revotec fan, high torque starter motor, uprated dampers and brake discs, 3 branch manifold. Original shell, paintwork good, some stone chips. £11,500 (negotiable) Contact Jeff 07514 326206 (East Sussex)
1997 MGF 1800 VVC
Aramanth(Purple) with colour coded hardtop and interesting body styling which is thought to have been factory fitted in Japan.This was exported and re-imported prior to registration in the UK so has aircon and the usual refinements of the export models. Mileage is 47600 with a wealth of paperwork to support, including the original service book, owners manual etc. The cam belt and head gasket was replaced in 2015 along with the underfloor cooling pipes in stainless steel. Mot expires in April 2018. I am asking £1150 for this unusual variant of the MGF, contact Nigel on 07787315762 or Email: nigel.hanlon@hotmail.fr
1979 (V reg) Midget 1500.
For spares or a project. White with black interior, very original. 154631 miles. Failed MOT and dry stored since 2002 and sorn 2004. Three lady owners from new £350, 07887776528, 01477544873. South Cheshire.
MG RV8 1995
N40MGR Oxford Blue, One of 36 built for Home market. Hoyle Engineering IRS which includes disc brakes. John Cumming EPAS. Clive Wheatley Poly bushes and pads to front suspension, engine mounts, SPAX Kripton filled Front shock absorbers, Carbon Fibre rad. cowl and heater shield. Optimax chip, Green Stuff, Magnecor leads Continental Premier tyres, Spare never used, Unmarked Elm dash, door caps and matching gear knob. Windstop, half and full tonneau, MG logo'd radio/tape player. Excellent windscreen frame, and interior, wheels refurbished. Full documentation from first owner to today including Heritage Certificate. Original Bill of Sale. Viewing essential. Hardcopy of Repair Manual The ultimate RV8 £26,000. Contact Alan on 01803 557543 or ajt46@talktalk.net
1969 MGC GT
University Motors with Heritage CertificateOriginal log book, triple SU's, upgraded air filters, sports exhaust, adjustable shocks, heater 72 spoke wire wheels, upgraded headlights, heated windscreen, overdrive 3rd &4th, 123 Electronic ignition, recent plugs and magnecor lead set, webasto style sun roof. Service manual, tools MOT to end of August 2018 no road tax required. £24,500. Contact Ben 01628 471355 or emal bappella@simmonsandsons.com (Bucks)
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24/10/2017 16:27
CL ASSIFIEDS
ARRY ALKER W ALKER W ARRY ALKER ARRY ALKER BARRYBBBARRY W BW WALKER
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1938 MG VA DROP HEAD COUPE. This superbly restored dhc
1948 MG TC SPORTS. Never before on the UK market, this all-
1935 MG nos. PA SPORTS 1935 MGaPA SPORTS Here is a real fine drivers car,1500cc not concours, but beautifully restored PArestored. without being overdone. TCbefore hasA been completely A really offers true touring car with comfort, power and 1948 MGmatching TC TC SPORTS. Never on the UK market, this allThis superbly restored dhc 1938 VA VA DROP HEAD COUPE. 1948 MG TC SPORTS. Never before 1948 MG on theSPORTS. UK market, Never this before all1948 on MG the TC UK SPORTS. market, Never this allbefore on the UK market, this allTHE UNIQUE 1932 OLYMPIA MOTORSHOW ‘R.E.A.L.’ BODIED MGJ2. This superbly restored dhc This superbly restored dhc This superbly restored dhc 1938 MG VA DROP HEAD1935 COUPE. 1938 MG DROP HEAD COUPE. 1938 MG VA DROP HEAD COUPE. inMG excellent overall cond. very well rebuilt engine affords AMG really usable thing you’ll be more than proud tobeing own. Fully serviced enjoyable car toAdrive; just feels ‘right’. Perfect for the com1935 MG PA SPORTS PA SPORTS Here isAspace. aisrecently fine drivers car, not concours, but beautifully restored PA without being overdone. a mass of not luggage Rebuilt from theconcours, chassis-up, both matching nos. TC has been completely restored. really offers a true touring car with real comfort, 1500cc power and 1935 MG PA SPORTS 1935 PA SPORTS 1935 MG PA SPORTS 1935 MGaPA SPORTS is 1935 aMG fine MG drivers SPORTS car, concours, Here abut 1935 fine drivers MG car, SPORTS not Here but isand aAthe fine beautifully drivers restored car, not PA concours, without being Athat but beautifully overdone. restored PA without Areally overdone. beautifully restored without being overdone. matching nos. TC has been matching completely nos. restored. TC has A been really completely matching nos. restored. TCA A been completely A really offers true touring Here carinwith offers real comfort, aPA true touring 1500cc car power real and offers comfort, aPA true 1500cc touring power car with real comfort, 1500cc power and The only one to exist ofwith the two known to have been produced. (Ring for more history). An opportunity tohas acquire one of PArestored. ing summer in Old Eng. White with wine leather. A great TC. mechanically & bodily, this lovely car isOLYMPIA original throughout THE UNIQUE 1932 OLYMPIA MOTORSHOW ‘R.E.A.L.’ BODIED MGJ2. opportunity for good reliable driving & coupled to our own recent work engine, rebuilt steering, deluxe dash, aeroscreens, stoneguards and superb excellent overall cond. A recently very well rebuilt engine affords the A really usable thing that you’ll be more than proud to own. Fully serviced enjoyable car to drive; just feels ‘right’. Perfect for the coma mass of luggage space. Rebuilt from the chassis-up, both THE UNIQUE 1932 OLYMPIA MOTORSHOW THE UNIQUE 1932 ‘R.E.A.L.’ OLYMPIA BODIED MOTORSHOW MGJ2. THE UNIQUE ‘R.E.A.L.’ 1932 BODIED MOTORSHOW MGJ2. ‘R.E.A.L.’ BODIED MGJ2. in excellent cond. Aspace. recently in excellent well overall rebuilt cond. engine A recently affords the very in excellent rebuilt Aoverall really engine usable cond. thing A recently that the you’ll very be well Amore really rebuilt than usable engine proud thing affords to own. that you’ll the Fully be serviced more A‘right’. really than proud usable tothing own. that Fullyyou’ll serviced be more than proud to own. Fullycomserviced enjoyable caraffords to drive; just feels enjoyable ‘right’. car Perfect toserious drive; for the just comfeels enjoyable Perfect car to for drive; the comjust feels ‘right’. Perfect for the a massoverall of luggage Rebuilt avery mass from of luggage the chassis-up, space. both awell mass from of the luggage chassis-up, space. both Rebuilt from the chassis-up, both of the most handsome & Rebuilt rarest MGs ever made. Total nut & bolt restoration with Phoenix c/balanced crank & rods; gas £32,500 or offer secures. Another MG TC, red, and finished in two-tone greens with sage green leather interior The only one to exist of the two known to have been produced. (Ring for more history). An opportunity to acquire one of ing summer in Old Eng. White with wine leather. A great TC. mechanically &reliable bodily, this lovely car isour original throughout you have the car everybody wants. Black with beige hide, new roof, leather interior. All new weather equipment just fitted, this is really worth The only one exist of the The two only known one to to exist have of been the two The produced. known only one (Ring to to have exist for been more of the produced. history). two known An (Ring opportunity to for have more been to history). acquire produced. An one opportunity (Ring of for more to acquire history). one An of opportunity to acquire one of opportunity for good driving & coupled to own recent work engine, rebuilt steering, deluxe dash, aeroscreens, stoneguards and superb ing summer in Old Eng. White ing with summer wine in leather. Old Eng. A great White TC. with ing summer wine leather. in Old A great Eng. White TC. with wine leather. A great TC. mechanically &reliable bodily, this mechanically lovely car is original & bodily, throughout this lovely mechanically car is original & bodily, throughout this lovely car is original throughout flowed head; forged pistons: rebuilt orig. bodywork, new leather upholstery & weather equipment throughout. A collector’s opportunity for to good driving opportunity & coupled for to good our reliable own recent driving work opportunity & coupled engine, to for our good rebuilt own reliable recent steering, driving work deluxe & coupled dash, engine, aeroscreens, to rebuilt our own steering, stoneguards recent deluxe work and dash, superb aeroscreens, engine, rebuilt stoneguards steering, deluxe and superb dash, aeroscreens, stoneguards and superb equally as good as above £32,500 or serious offer secures. and beige weather equipment...a rising investment at...£39,500 of the most handsome & rarest MGs ever made. Total nut & bolt restoration with Phoenix crank & rods; gas or serious offer Another MG TC, red, and finished ineverybody two-tone greens with sage green leather interior 1933 POST PRODUCTION MG K3 ON CHASSIS K 0302. of theand most handsome &you of rarest the most MGs handsome ever made. & Total rarest of nut the MGs & most bolt ever handsome restoration made. Total &with rarest nut Phoenix &£32,500 MGs bolt c/balanced restoration ever made. with crank Total Phoenix nut &secures. rods; &c/balanced bolt c/balanced gas restoration crank with & Phoenix rods; gas c/balanced crank & rods; gas £32,500 or serious secures. £32,500 or Another serious MG offer TC, secures. red, £32,500 or serious MG TC, offer red, secures. Another MG TC, red, aand nice car..... ........................... £45,000 ..£45,000 (Optional s/charger available at cost) tonneau &an s/screens....................it’s viewing........................... finished ineverybody two-tone greens and with finished sage in green two-tone leather greens interior with sage finished green in two-tone leather interior greens with sage green leather interior have the car wants. Black with beige hide, new roof, leather interior. All new weather equipment justAnother fitted, this is really worth dream or enthusiast’s wish come true? However, ifoffer you are over 6ft tall you best surrender itjust to the wife now (assuming flowed head; forged pistons: rebuilt orig. bodywork, new leather upholstery & weather equipment throughout. A collector’s you have the car wants. you have Black the with car beige everybody hide, new wants. roof, you Black have with leather the beige car interior. everybody hide, new All new wants. roof, weather Black equipment leather with beige interior. just hide, fitted, All new new this weather roof, is really equipment worth leather interior. fitted, All this new is weather really worth equipment just fitted, this is really worth equally as good as above £32,500 or serious offer secures. and beige weather equipment...a rising investment at...£39,500 flowed head; forged pistons: flowed rebuilt head; orig. forged bodywork, pistons: new flowed rebuilt leather head; orig. upholstery bodywork, forged pistons: & new weather leather rebuilt equipment upholstery orig. bodywork, throughout. & weather newsecures. Aleather collector’s equipment upholstery throughout. & weather Aat collector’s equipment throughout. A collector’s equally asas good as above £32,500 equally or asserious good as offer above £32,500 equally orring; serious asnever good offer as above secures. £32,500 or serious offer secures. and beige weather equipment...a and beige rising investment weather equipment...a at...£39,500 and rising beige investment weather at...£39,500 equipment...a rising investment at...£39,500 she is shorter)! I am proud to offer this car, you will be to own it.....................any test; just to repeat...£75,000 This former K1 has been rebuilt to the exacting K3 specifi cation by its meticulous owner over the last 10 years with input from leading mechanical & body engineers to put this in a class almost of its own. Totally a nice car..... ........................... £45,000 ..£45,000 (Optional s/charger available cost) tonneau & s/screens....................it’s viewing........................... dream an enthusiast’s wish true? However, if£45,000 you are over 6ft........................... tall you best surrender it viewing........................... to the wife now (assuming aor nice car..... ........................... £45,000 a come nice car..... ........................... ..£45,000 asurrender nice car..... (Optional s/charger £45,000 available ..£45,000 (Optional at cost) s/charger available ..£45,000 at cost) (Optional s/charger at cost) tonneau s/screens....................it’s tonneau &an s/screens....................it’s tonneau &an viewing........................... s/screens....................it’s viewing........................... dream or &an enthusiast’s dream wish come or true? enthusiast’s However, wish ifcome dream you are ortrue? over enthusiast’s 6ft However, tall you ifbest wish you are come over true? 6ft it to tall However, the you wife best now if you surrender (assuming are over it to 6ft the tall wife you now best (assuming surrender it to the wifeavailable now (assuming
she isa offer shorter)! I am proud to to offer this car, asas you bebe to own it.....................any test; just ring; never repeat...£75,000 restored from the chassis-up, with complete rebuild by SPB Historics coupled to will aproud newly geared Wilson pre-select gearbox and viatoato Roots typetest; s/c fed with a 2 never ¼” SU with twin T4 float bowls. she is shorter)! I am proud she to is shorter)! thisengine car, I am as you proud will be she offer to isown this shorter)! car, it.....................any I am you will toto test; offer own just this it.....................any ring; car, never as you towill repeat...£75,000 be test; tosupercharged just own ring; it.....................any never repeat...£75,000 just ring; to repeat...£75,000
The 4:3:1 back axle pulls 21mph per 1000rpm in top (don’t tell this to the wife!). The magnificent body is by Dave Cooksey and is presented with a proper Brooklands exhaust, the correct K3 dashboard, aeroscreens and a (rare) full screen hood for fitting if required. This exhilarating and exciting MG is finished in BR Green with K3 piped seating, tonneau cover, full invoice file, VSCC buff form, MGCC MMM registration no. and a substantial spares package. This is the closest you’ll get to an Abingdon built K3, and whilst it may not have pre-war race history, it offers the same (or better) driving experience, an ever-increasing investment, and for a third of the price of its factory-built cousin. £220,000
AA rare nos.PA. PA. 1934 MGPA PA Deluxe. 1932 MG F1 MAGNA. I know these aren’t everybody’s ‘cup1934 MG Deluxe. rarechance chancefor for an an all-matching all-matching nos. Well known to MGCC & VSCC (non race) events, this superbly 1946 TC SPORTS. Achance very, very original example of this of-tea’, you want practicality, very 1938 MGbut SAifISALOON. Unusual car fromlittle us,maintenance, but all I can say rare for an all-matching nos. PA. 1934 MGMG PA Deluxe. 1932 MG F1 MAGNA. know these aren’t everybody’s Well known toAMG MGCC & VSCC (non race) events, this superbly 1934 MG PA Deluxe. A chance for an all-matching nos. PA. AA rare chance for an all-matching A rare rare nos. chance PA. for an all-matching A rare nos. chance PA. for an all-matching PA. 1934 MGPA PA Deluxe. 1934 MG PA Deluxe. 1934 MG PAMG Deluxe. 1932 F1 MAGNA. IPA. know these 1932 MG aren’t F1 MAGNA. everybody’s Inos. know ‘cupthese 1932 aren’t MGand F1everybody’s MAGNA. I ‘cupknow ‘cupthese aren’t everybody’s ‘cuppresented has been fully serviced and prepped by us, 1934 MG Deluxe. 1934 MG PA Deluxe. 1934 MG PA Deluxe. rare chance for an all-matching A rare nos. chance PA. for an all-matching A nos. rare chance for an all-matching nos. PA. MG’s most reliable early engine abut carall that is clearly reliable, easy to drive & maintain MG. Fully rebuilt is.........it is concours. Fit for royalty. Duo-red & grey, Well known toMG MGCC & VSCC (non race) events, this superbly 1946 MG TC SPORTS. A very, very original example of this of-tea’, but ifSA you want practicality, very little maintenance, 1938 MG SA SALOON. Unusual car from us, I can say WellTCknown to MGCC & VSCC Well (non known race) toevents, MGCC this & VSCC superbly (non Well race) known events, to MGCC this superbly &want VSCC (non race) events, this superbly 1946 MG SPORTS. A& very, 1946 very MG TC original example A very, of very 1946 this MG original TC SPORTS. example very, of this very original example of this presented has been fully serviced and prepped by us, and of-tea’, but ifA you practicality, of-tea’, very but ifSALOON. little you maintenance, want practicality, of-tea’, very but little iftrip you maintenance, want practicality, 1938 MG SA SALOON. Unusual 1938 car MG from us, but Unusual all I can say car 1938 from MG SA us, SALOON. but all Unusual I the can say carvery fromlittle us,maintenance, but all I can say Well known toSPORTS. MGCC & VSCC (non race) events, this superbly and offers pride of ownership, rallying and events or really underpriced, you should give this much consideration. approx. 5000 miles ago. All matching nos. Claret with burgundy hide. Fabulous for that to Paris or Monte Well known to MGCC VSCC Well (non known race) to events, MGCC this & VSCC superbly (non Well known race) events, to MGCC this & superbly VSCC (non race) events, this superbly A very rare MG TC being car found 1947 MG TC SPORTS. presented MG has been fully serviced and prepped by us, MG’s most reliable early engine and a car that is clearly reliable, easy to drive & maintain MG. Fully rebuilt is.........it is concours. Fit for royalty. Duo-red & grey, presented MG has been fully presented serviced MG and has prepped been fully by us, serviced presented and MG prepped has been by fully us, serviced and prepped by us, MG’s most reliable engine MG’s and most ais reliable car that early is clearly engine MG’s and most a car reliable that isearly clearly engine a car Duo-red that is clearly reliable, easy to drive reliable, & beige maintain easy MG. to drive Fully & rebuilt reliable, maintain easy MG. toFully drive rebuilt &early maintain MG. Fully rebuilt is.........it is concours. Fit is.........it for royalty. concours. Duo-red Fit & grey, for is.........it royalty. is Duo-red concours. & grey, Fit forand royalty. & grey, enjoyable road use with minimum maintenance. Beautifully Totally restored, fully proven on the road, loads luggage offers pride of ownership, rallying and events or really enjoyable hide & new weather equipment...................£34,950 presented MG has been fully serviced and prepped by us, and Carlo..................................................................£67,500 1929 MG ‘M’ SPORTSMAN’S COUPE. and offers pride of ownership, rallying and events or really FACTORY ORIGINAL ‘PA’ TOURER. 1938 MG VA SPORTS. underpriced, you should give this much consideration. approx. 5000 miles ago. All matching nos. Claret with burgundy hide. Fabulous for that to Paris or Monte presented MG miles has been fully presented serviced and MG miles has prepped been byownership, fully us, serviced and presented and MG prepped has been by us, fully and serviced and prepped by us, and derelict but very original and totally restored for the channel 4 rare TV A very rare MGtrip TC being theFabulous car found 1947 MG TC SPORTS. and 5000 offers pride of ownership, and rallying offers and pride events of or really and rallying offers and pride events of ownership, or really rallying and events or really underpriced, you should give underpriced, this much you consideration. should give underpriced, this much consideration. you should give this much consideration. approx. ago. approx. All matching 5000 nos. ago. Claret All approx. with matching 5000 nos. miles Claret ago. with All matching nos. Claret with burgundy hide. Fabulous burgundy for that trip hide. to Paris Fabulous or Monte for burgundy that trip to hide. Paris or Monte for that trip to Paris or Monte finished in Raven black with Apple Green Collingburn space, this is a cracking opportunity to snatch a seriously A very rare MG TC being the A car very found rare MG TC being the car A found very MG TC being 1947 MG TC SPORTS. 1947 MG TC SPORTS. 1947 MG TC SPORTS. road use with minimum maintenance. Beautifully finished Raven enjoyable road use with minimum maintenance. Beautifully Totally restored, proven on the road, luggage offers pride of ownership, rallying and events orJust really enjoyable hide & new weather equipment...................£34,950 Carlo..................................................................£67,500 One of only 6luggage known, ofon which 3 or 4 arethe incar found 2hide owners from new. Completely original. 53,000 orig. miles. firange tted with ainequipment...................£34,950 newly restored engine. Infully v.enjoyable nice enjoyable road usebeige with minimum enjoyable maintenance. road use with Beautifully minimum enjoyable maintenance. road use Beautifully with minimum maintenance. Beautifully Totally restored, fully proven Totally on the restored, road, loads fully proven luggage Totally the road, restored, loads fully proven the only road, loads luggage offers pride& ofnew ownership, rallying offers and pride events ofnew ownership, or really enjoyable rallying offers and events pride ofnew or ownership, really enjoyable rallying and events oris really programme “For the Love of4on Cars”. Many original ‘bugs’ have been beige weather beige equipment...................£34,950 hide & weather equipment...................£34,950 beige hide & weather Carlo..................................................................£67,500 Carlo..................................................................£67,500 Carlo..................................................................£67,500 derelict but very original and totally restored forloads the channel 4and TV interior and full weather gear. Top of the car....£48,500 USABLE investment...............................................£49,500 finished in Raven black with Apple Green Collingburn derelict but very original and totally derelict restored but very for original the channel and totally TV derelict restored but for very the original channel 4 TV totally restored for the channel 4 TV space, this a cracking opportunity to snatch a seriously black with Apple green Collingburn interior and full weather gear. road use with minimum maintenance. Beautifully finished inis Raven finished inminimum Raven black with finished Apple in Green Raven Collingburn black with finished Apple Green inminimum Raven Collingburn black with Apple Green space, this amaintenance. cracking opportunity space, this tois snatch aCollingburn cracking a seriously opportunity tothis snatch is‘bugs’ a cracking a seriously opportunity snatch a seriously running cond. Fully rebuilt ato cost that would Factory bronze racingmaintenance. cyl. head. History to die-for. See condition thr’out. The tourer is thefully most sought-after. road use with road use Beautifully with minimum finished maintenance. in website. Raven road Beautifully use with finished in Raven Beautifully finished in Raven ironed out and car isspace, now like a new Powder Blue withat programme “For the Love ofthehave Cars”. Many original been interior and full weather gear. Top of the range car....£48,500 USABLE investment...............................................£49,500 programme “For the£48,500 Love of Cars”. programme original “For the ‘bugs’ Love of Cars”. been programme Many original “Forpin. ‘bugs’ thehave Love have ofbeen Cars”. Many original ‘bugs’ have been interior and full weather gear. interior TopApple ofthe and the full range weather car....£48,500 gear. Top interior ofand the and range full car....£48,500 weather gear. of theMany range car....£48,500 USABLE investment...............................................£49,500 USABLE investment...............................................£49,500 USABLE investment...............................................£49,500 ............................................ Top of range black with green Collingburn interior full gear. frighten you. See website for full details. 2weather tone green, greenTop leather. See website. black with Apple green Collingburn black with interior Apple and green fullcar............................. weather Collingburn gear. black interior with and Apple full green weather Collingburn gear. interior and full weather gear. beige leather, tan roof & s/screens. Complete documented history file, fully ironed out and the car is now like a new pin. Powder Blue with fully ironed out and the car is now fully like ironed a new out pin. and Powder the car Blue is nowwith fully like aironed new pin. out and Powder the car Blueiswith now like a new pin. Powder Blue with ............................................ £48,500 TopTop of the range car............................. ............................................ £48,500 ............................................ £48,500& s/screens. ............................................ £48,500 Top of the range car............................. of the range car............................. Top of thebeige rangeleather, car............................. video, original manual, orig Complete reg. No., leather, period extras all&history included........my beige leather, tan roofroof & s/screens. documented file,file, Complete documented history file, beige Complete leather, tan documented & s/screens. history file, Complete beige documented tan roofhistory s/screens. ALL THESE CARS (unless sold) will be present on our stand tan in roof Hall 3 atvideo, the INT. CLASSIC CAR SHOW at the Birmingham NEC – Nov 10/11/12 top investment tip.................. ............................................................... £39,500 manual, reg. No., period extras all included........my video, original manual, orig reg. video, No.,original period original extras manual, allorig included........my orig reg. No., video, period original extras manual, all included........my orig reg. No., period extras all included........my top top investment tip.................. ............................................................... £39,500 top investment tip.................. ............................................................... investment tip.................. ............................................................... £39,500 top investment tip.................. ............................................................... £39,500 £39,500 COMMISSION SALES: Our highly regarded service is always available to you 1933 MG J2 CYCLE WING SPORTS. We are building this carMG from scratch a fullySPORTS. rebuilt engine by Barry Foster WeWe areare building thisand 1933 MG J2 WING Tel: 400 181. Fax: 01789 400230. Mob: 07836 244103 Email: barry@barrywalker.com Web: www.barrywalker.com We arewith building this building this you We are building this 193301789 MG J2 CYCLE WING 1933 SPORTS. J2CYCLE CYCLE WING SPORTS. 1933 MG J2 CYCLE WING SPORTS. have thebywith opportunity to and choose the that youaand would like engine at from scratch a fully rebuilt engine bycolour Barry Foster yourebuilt car from scratch with a fullycar rebuilt car from engine scratch Barry with Foster a fully rebuilt you car engine from by scratch Barry with Foster fully and you by Barry Foster and you this stage. Youyou a choice of dark redyou oryou beige have the opportunity tohave choose thethe colour thatopportunity would like at interior * Coming Shortly:have the opportunity to choose have the the colour opportunity that to would choose like have at acolour the that would toleather choose like at the colour1931/32 that you like at MG would ‘F’ MAGNA/WOLSELEY HORNET 6CYL. ENGINE FOR SALE. by Collingburn. The will bered condition just like the thisofthis stage. You have a choice of interior acar dark red orin*beige leather interior Pointed tail typeinterior * Coming Shortly:this stage. You have a choice a stage. darkMike red You orhave beige a leather choice of a this dark stage. ormint You beige have leather a choice interior of a dark red or• totally beige leather Coming Shortly:* Coming Shortly:* Coming Shortly:AMG restored, benchHORNET tested 1271cc MG ‘F’SALE. Magna/W. 1931/32 ‘F’ MAGNA/WOLSELEY 6CYL. FOR .... ..............The price will be approx. £42-45,000 P types in this ad. by will Mike TheThe car willlike bethe in Mike mint condition likelike thethe 1931/32 MGjust ‘F’just MAGNA/WOLSELEY 1931/32 HORNET MG ‘F’ 6CYL. MAGNA/WOLSELEY FOR 1931/32 HORNET MG6CYL. ‘F’ENGINE MAGNA/WOLSELEY ENGINE FOR SALE.HORNET • condition Magnificent J2ENGINE •in Pointed tailtail type Hornet engine complete in SALE. every detail except carburettors. Re- 6CYL. ENGINE FOR SALE. by Mike Collingburn. The car by Mike beCollingburn. inCollingburn. mint condition just car will by be in mint Collingburn. condition The car will be mint justbench like thetested • Pointed tail type • Pointed type • Pointed tail type A totally restored, 1271cc MG Magna/W. totally £42-45,000 restored, bench •Atested totally 1271cc restored, MGbench ‘F’ Magna/W. tested A totally 1271ccrestored, MG‘F’ ‘F’ bench Magna/W. tested MG ‘F’ Magna/W. ....approx. ..............The price beAinbe approx. P types in this ad. • PA. Older rebuild. Magnificent J2 bored, new white metal, new bearings, new pistons, new cam 1271cc & will bead. .... ..............The £42-45,000 price will approx. .... ..............The £42-45,000 price will be approx. £42-45,000 P types in this ad. .... ..............The P price types in this Pwill types this ad. Hornet engine complete in every detail except carburettors. Re• Magnificent J2 • Magnificent J2 • Magnificent J2 Hornet engine complete in •Hornet every detail engine except complete carburettors. in& every Hornet Redetail engine exceptcomplete carburettors. in every Re-deep detail except carburettors. Rerockers. Dynamically statically balanced crank. Improved 1934 MGTRUE PA SPORTS. advertised elsewhere. PA. Older rebuild. 1930 VINTAGEPreviously MG ‘M’ TYPE. Totally rebuilt throughout bored, new white metal, new bearings, new pistons, new cam & • PA. Older rebuild. • PA. Older rebuild. • PA. Older rebuild. bored, new white metal, new bored, bearings, new new white pistons, metal, new bearings, cam bored, & new new white pistons, metal, new new cam bearings, & new pistons, new cam & 1934 MG PA SPORTS. A beautifully restored PA without being capacity oil pump; orig. factory alloy clutch cover; dynamo, starter, Recently taken into our own workshops and brought up rockers. Dynamically & statically balanced crank. Improved deep 1934 MG SPORTS. Previously advertised elsewhere. toPA impeccable order by leading early MG restorer. Athroughout proper a rockers. TRUE VINTAGE MG ‘M’ TYPE. Totally rebuilt throughout rockers. Dynamically &job;statically balanced Dynamically crank. &Improved statically rockers. deep balanced Dynamically crank. Improved &than statically deepbalanced crank. Improved deep 1934 MGTRUE PA SPORTS. 1934 advertised PA SPORTS. elsewhere. Previously 1934 MG advertised PA properly SPORTS. elsewhere. Previously advertised elsewhere. overdone. A really usable thing that you’ll beplate. more proud 1930 VINTAGEPreviously MG1930 ‘M’ 1930 TYPE. TRUE Totally VINTAGE rebuilt MG throughout ‘M’ 1930 TYPE. TRUE Totally VINTAGE rebuilt MG ‘M’ TYPE. Totally rebuilt throughout 1936 MG NB TOURER. One of the rarest ohc MGs. This manifolds, fan, and polished r/box with data Head temporarily toMG our standard. Now aworkshops seriously, restored, all 1934 MG PA SPORTS. Awithout beautifully restored PA without being capacity oilown. pump; orig. alloy clutch cover; dynamo, starter, Recently taken into our own and brought up 1934 MG PA SPORTS. Astraight beautifully 1934 MG restored PA SPORTS. PA Afactory beautifully being 1934 restored MG PA PA SPORTS. without A beautifully being restored PA without being VSCC car eligible for all events, trials, rallies and offered at less to impeccable order by leading early MG restorer. A proper job; a capacity oil pump; orig. factory capacity alloy clutch oil pump; cover; orig. dynamo, factory starter, alloy capacity clutch oil cover; pump; dynamo, orig. factory starter, alloy clutch cover; dynamo, starter, “MG LIVE” THIS w/end 4/5 June at Silverstone. Recently taken intobyour Recently own workshops taken into and our brought own Recently workshops up taken and into brought our own up workshops and brought up to Fully serviced engine, rebuilt steering, deluxe dash, beautifully restored Magnette with its 1300cc matching nos. P type at a cost of over 60k, and underto impeccable order leading to early impeccable MG restorer. order A by proper leading job; early to a impeccable MG restorer. order A proper by leading job; a early MG restorer. A proper job; a removed for photos. READY TO INSTALL, saving time, money & overdone. A really usable thing that you’ll beplate. more than proud 1936 MG NB TOURER. One of This thethe rarest ohc MGs. This fan, and polished r/box with data Head temporarily our standard. Now a seriously, properly restored, all overdone. Ahome really usable thing overdone. that you’ll A really be more usable than thing proud that overdone. you’ll be A more really than usable proud thing that you’ll moreHead thantemporarily proud 1936 MG NB TOURER. of 1936 the MG rarest NB TOURER. ohc MGs. 1936 rarest MG NB ohc TOURER. MGs. One This rarest ohc MGs. This manifolds, fan, polished r/box manifolds, with data fan, plate. and polished Head temporarily r/box manifolds, with data fan, plate. and Head polished temporarily r/box with databeplate. to our standard. Now to aOne to seriously, our standard. properly Now restored, aOne seriously, toof all our standard. properly restored, Now a seriously, allofmanifolds, properly restored, all aeroscreens, stoneguards and superb leather interior. All than the restoration cost. fabric body with green hide interior. 6cyl. engine will take you touring both & abroad VSCC car eligible for alloffered events, trials, rallies and offered atand less priced at...............................................................£46,995 “MG LIVE” THIS w/end 4/5 June at Silverstone. tothe own. Fully serviced engine, rebuilt steering, deluxe dash, hassle.....£11,500. Delivery atrebuilt cost, orFully cash on collection. beautifully restored Magnette 1300cc straight VSCC carnos. eligible for allmatching events, trials, car rallies eligible and for all events, atBlack less VSCC trials, rallies car eligible and offered for all at events, less trials, rallies and offered at less nos. P type at a cost of&with over 60k, and underremoved for photos. READY TO INSTALL, saving time, money & rebuilt “MG LIVE” THIS w/end “MG 4/5 LIVE” June at THIS Silverstone. w/end 4/5 “MG LIVE” at Silverstone. THIS w/end June at deluxe Silverstone. toits own. Fully serviced engine, to own. rebuilt Fully steering, serviced deluxe engine, dash, to own. serviced deluxe engine, dash, steering, beautifully restored Magnette beautifully with its restored 1300cc Magnette straight beautifully with its 1300cc restored straight Magnette with its 1300cc straight new weather equipment just fitted ,steering, this really worth viewing matching P type at matching aVSCC cost of nos. over P 60k, type and at a undercost matching of over nos. 60k, P type and at underaREADY cost of over 60k, and underPlease visit our stand removed for photos. removed TO INSTALL, for photos. saving READY time, money TO removed INSTALL, & June foris saving photos. time, READY money TO &4/5 INSTALL, saving time,dash, money & with reliability, comfort huge luggage space. Two£29,500 ............................................................................................................. aeroscreens, stoneguards and superb leather interior. All than the restoration cost. Black fabric body with green hide interior. 6cyl. engine will take you touring both home & abroad priced at...............................................................£46,995 hassle.....£11,500. Delivery at cost, or cash onleather collection. aeroscreens, stoneguards and aeroscreens, superb leather stoneguards interior. and All aeroscreens, superb stoneguards interior. and superb interior. All than6cyl. the restoration cost.take Black than fabric the body restoration with green cost. hide Black interior. fabric than body the restoration with green cost. hide Black interior. fabric body with green hide engine will you 6cyl. touring engine both will home take & you abroad touring 6cyl. both engine home will & take abroad you touring both home & interior. abroad ..........£45,000 (Optional s/charger available atAll priced at...............................................................£46,995 priced at...............................................................£46,995 priced at...............................................................£46,995 tone green. Offers to................................£65,000 hassle.....£11,500. Delivery atPlease hassle.....£11,500. cost, orthe cash on collection. Delivery atbe cost, orbest cash on collection. Delivery atcost) cost, or cash leather on collection. new weather equipment just fitted ,hassle.....£11,500. this is really worth viewing visit our stand 1933 MG J2. We’re the completion of aspace. chassis-up rebuild in workshop. Will the you’ll get. Please inspect. with reliability, comfort &close huge luggage space. Two(See website fornearing photos) £29,500 ............................................................................................................. new weather equipment just new fitted weather , this is really equipment worth just viewing fitted new , this weather is really equipment worth viewing just fitted , this is really worth viewing Please visit our stand Please visit our stand Please visit our stand with reliability, comfort & with huge reliability, luggage comfort space. & Twohuge with luggage reliability, comfort Two& huge luggage space. Two£29,500 £29,500 £29,500 ............................................................................................................. ............................................................................................................. ............................................................................................................. ..........£45,000 (Optional s/charger available at at cost) tone green. Offers close to................................£65,000 THEY ARE ALL ONworkshop. THE WEBSITE ..........£45,000 (Optional ..........£45,000 s/charger available (Optional cost) s/charger ..........£45,000 available (Optional cost) s/charger available at cost) MG J2.J2. We’re the completion of a chassis-up rebuild the Will beat the best get. Please tone Offers 1933 to................................£65,000 tone green. Offers close to................................£65,000 tone Offers close to................................£65,000 1933 MG J2. Near concours condition. Cycle wings with heavy crank. Beautiful car...£46,500 (See website fornearing photos) 1933 MG J2. green. We’re the 1933 completion MG We’re of nearing aphotos) chassis-up the completion 1933 rebuild MG J2. ingreen. We’re of the afor workshop. chassis-up nearing the Will rebuild completion beinthe in the best of workshop. you’ll a chassis-up get. Will Please rebuild be the inspect. best in you’ll theyou’ll workshop. get. Please Willinspect. be inspect. the best you’ll get. Please inspect. (See website fornearing photos)close (See website for (See website photos)
1956 Ex-Works MGA Rally Car • MJB191 *concours *ON* THE *condition. *WEBSITE * *ON*car...£46,500 * *WEBSITE *MGMGJ2.*ARE ARE ALL ON THE WEBSITE Near Cycle wings with heavy crank. Beautiful THEY ALL THEY ARE ALL ON THE WEBSITE THEY ARE ALL * *concours *SALES: * *THEY *is**Cycle * *wings * **THE condition. J2. Cycle wings with condition. 1933 heavy MG crank. J2. Cycle Near Beautiful wings concours with car...£46,500 heavy condition. crank. Beautiful car...£46,500 with heavytocrank. COMMISSION Our highly regarded service always available you. * *1933 * *concours *COMMISSION **Near * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *Beautiful * * *car...£46,500 * 1933 MG J2.*Near * 1933 * SALES: Our highly regarded service is always available to you.
COMMISSION SALES:COMMISSION OurTel: highly regarded SALES: service COMMISSION highly is always regarded SALES: available service Our highly to is you. always regarded available service to you. is always available to you. 01789 400Our 181. Fax: 01789 400230. Mob: 07836 244103
Tel: 400 Fax: 01789 400230. Mob: 07836 244103 Tel: 01789 400Email: 181. Tel:01789 Fax: 01789 01789 400181. 181. 400230. Tel: Fax: 01789 Mob: 01789 400 07836 400230. 181.Web: 244103 Fax: Mob: 01789 07836 400230. 244103 Mob: 07836 244103 barry@barrywalker.com www.barrywalker.com Email: barry@barrywalker.com Web: www.barrywalker.com Email: barry@barrywalker.com Email: barry@barrywalker.com Email: Web: barry@barrywalker.com www.barrywalker.com Web: www.barrywalker.com Web: www.barrywalker.com
‘MJB191’ is one of the five 1956 ex-works MGA rally cars. It was driven by Pat Moss at Silverstone in 1956 in the ‘Eight Clubs’ race meeting and then competed in the 1956 Alpine Rally and the 1956 Liege-Rome-Liege Rally driven by the team leader John Gott. Subsequently it has competed in the 2006 Rallye des Alpes and the 2013 Mille Miglia. A full restoration was carried out by the marque specialist Bob West in 2015 including fitting a rally spec. 1500cc engine prepared by Classic and Modern Engine Services. Serious offers are invited for this car which offers a relatively affordable way to compete in historic events.
Please call for more information on 01628773005/07831845584. www.mgcc.co.uk
MG-SafetyFast_Nov2017_49-100.indd 93
NOVEMBER 2017 SAFETY FAST! 93
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CL ASSIFIEDS
1969 MGB Roadster
Overdrive, wire wheels, hardtop, tonneau plus more. Car stripped down ready for body restoration. All parts catalogued for rebuild. Stored since 1985. £800 o.n.o. For full spec and photos contact Chris, email: kipwroe@aol.com (Weybridge Surrey)
2001 MGF Trophy
Finished in Trophy Yellow. Only 54000 miles, FSH with history and bills since 2006. As factory build with original radio. Only exception is a Mike Satur exhaust shield. MOT to May 2018. Black hard top included. New Good Year F1s fitted at 50000 miles to refurbished wheels with new centres. Immaculate under bonnet with original tyre foam inflation system. Tel: 01279 653070. (Ware)
1954 MG TF1250
Original UK matching numbers car. Immaculate throughout rebuilt 2010 with new body, doors and frame by Hutsons, full interior by Collingburn. New mohair hood/screens/tonneau. Chrome all good. Last owner 43 years present 7years. Reluctant sale due to illness. £27,950. Telephone: Grant on 07760 391054 or email: margrant@talktalk.net (Lancashire)
2004 MG TF 115 Sunstorm
First Registered Nov 2004, low mileage 48,000 and MOT until Feb ‘18. Good condition with minor rust spots on cills. Silver hard top included, very simple to remove to use soft top. £1400 or reasonable offer Contact Phil 07875554734 (Whitley Bay)
Immaculate 5door saloon. 62000 miles. Parked in garage when not in use. Maintained regardless of expense by main agent. Long MOT. Fully modified. It must go hence reduction in price to £500. Tel: 02084602354. (Bromley)
94 SAFETY FAST! NOVEMBER 2017
MG-SafetyFast_Nov2017_49-100.indd 94
Red, wire whe chrome bumper, 2018, but very ha MOT on when s Electronic ignition owned for since steel exhaust, a v reliable MGB. On dry conditions. I photos if reques viewing. Realistica 01367 244166, or (Oxfordshire)
2000 MGF1.8i
Mk2 Solar Red with Black leather interior. With half tonneau and windstop. 55000 miles. MOT to July 2018. Owned by MG Car Club member since 2005. Always garaged. Never SORN’d. Excellent condition. (Insured for £3000). Excellent drive and consistently admired. £1600 ono. Tel 07717 606610 or 01404 815316 (East Devon)
MGCGT
On sorn for 10 years. Just been recommissioned for the 50 years of MGC this year. Brakes, engine, gearbox. Extensive history, tested by magazines, front cover of magazines, many original works parts fitted. Competed in mgcar club championships first by father then by son. Open to offers, number plate not included negotiable. Contact Vic on 01737551141/ 07831701028
2004 MGTF 135 2002 MGZR
1970 MGB Roa
56,434, Silver all the usual standard fittings plus folding wind stop, heated rear window and 2 spare wheels. MOT August 2018. Good condition. Selling due to wife being unable to get in. £2,750 Contact John Cooper Tel: 01276 501101 Mob 07976 982830 (North West Surrey)
MG ZTT 190
Dual fuel Petrol/LP Mans Green with alcantara interior with recent cam Excellent bodywor lacquer marks on within the MGCC and recently Caledonian Centr port. 106000 mil towbar and twin e built in June 2003 LPG evaluation ca until March 2007! Robert on 07870 mgcarsscotland@ more info.
2004 MGZS M BHP
Show award win condition. Faceli saloon. Only 59k 18. FSH. Sheddist brake discs and belts(3), water pu gearbox oil renewe service and rear c black half leathe con/climate con radio. Electric w 17inch alloys. 2 k club member's cl tion. Maintained regardless of co £1900. Con 07713015452. For carol.leddy1@b (Stirling)
www.mgcc.co.uk
24/10/2017 16:27
CL ASSIFIEDS
WANTED WANTED ALL MG MODELS!
115 Sunstorm
Nov 2004, low nd MOT until Feb dition with minor lls. Silver hard top mple to remove to 400 or reasonable il 07875554734
1970 MGB Roadster
Red, wire wheels, overdrive, chrome bumper, MOT’d till May 2018, but very happy to put new MOT on when sold. Tax Exempt. Electronic ignition, gold seal engine, owned for since 1989, Stainless steel exhaust, a very good quality reliable MGB. Only rarely used in dry conditions. I can send more photos if requested. Well worth viewing. Realistically priced. £8750 01367 244166, or 0770 204 8530 (Oxfordshire)
2001 MGF STEPTRONIC
Offered as spares or repair only. taken off the road and stored in 2014 due to problems with the automatic gearbox, the bodywork is in good condition for the year , interior trim is clean with good black leather seats and leak free hood with clear back window. £250.00 Will require collection by trailer. Tel: 01252 875740 for more info email: barglen@ntlworld.com (Surrey Hants)
1977 MG Midget 1500,
Manual, Convertible, Low Mileage (27,000), Engine in good condition, Service Journal and original owners workshop manuals available, 6 owners. Sale due to lack of parking space. Needs body work, but with rare advantage of original structure never been mended. Needs MOT and Road Tax. QUICK SALE: Offers wanted. Please call 07958352718 (Greenwich)
8i
with Black leather half tonneau and miles. MOT to July by MG Car Club 2005. Always SORN’d. Excellent ed for £3000). and consistently ono. Tel 07717 4 815316
0 years. Just been for the 50 years of rakes, engine, gearhistory, tested by cover of maganal works parts fitn mgcar club chamby father then by fers, number plate gotiable. Contact 141/ 07831701028
135
the usual standard ng wind stop, heatand 2 spare wheels. 8. Good condition. fe being unable to ntact John Cooper 101 Mob 07976 West Surrey)
1974 MGB Roadster
MG ZTT 190
Dual fuel Petrol/LPG. Finished in Le Mans Green with unmarked grey alcantara interior. Good history with recent cambelt. 12m MOT. Excellent bodywork but with some lacquer marks on the roof. Been within the MGCC for a few years and recently used by the Caledonian Centre for event support. 106000 miles. Fitted with towbar and twin electrics. Car was built in June 2003 as an MG Rover LPG evaluation car. Not registered until March 2007! £1500 ono Call Robert on 07870 407111 or email mgcarsscotland@gmail.com for more info.
1960 MGA 1600 Roadster
RHD exported to Bahrain in Jan 1960. Restoration project lots of work done including wings already repaired. 1622 engine. I have new sidescreens 3 window PVC hood bumpers hubcaps overriders A/B posts inner/outer sills etc in fact to many new parts to list here. Interior is Red and the seats and carpet are in excellent condition. I have lots of photos I could email to anyone interested. £12000 Please ring me for full details 01945 584219 (Wisbech Cambs)
Show award winner in excellent condition. Facelift Pearl Black saloon. Only 59k miles, mot Sept 18. FSH. Sheddist clutch kit. New brake discs and pads. Timing belts(3), water pump, coolant and gearbox oil renewed Feb 17. Recent service and rear calliper. Unmarked black half leather/grey seats. Air con/climate control. Bluetooth radio. Electric windows (4) and 17inch alloys. 2 keys/fobs. Part of club member's classic car collection. Maintained and upgraded regardless of costs. Offers over £1900. Contact Carol 07713015452. For more info email carol.leddy1@btinternet.com (Stirling)
www.mgcc.co.uk
MG-SafetyFast_Nov2017_49-100.indd 95
CALL DIRECT ON: 07787 528131
MIDGETS! WANTED
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
URGENTLY WANTED MGA/MGB/MGC/V8/ MIDGET/SPRITE ETC
Any Condition from non runners to rebuilt cars
1978 MGBGT 2004 MGZS MK2 KV6 180 BHP
Heritage shell 11k from rebuild. Excellent condition. Crome wires. Walnut dash and trim. Garaged. Full and half full tonneau covers. Chelsea Pewter paint. Blue leather seats etc. Drives very well. Lovely car. £15000. Tel. 07817451360
All conditions wanted, from barn finds to concours. Complete collections purchased. Cash buyer. Discretion assured. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you are interested in selling your MG and are looking for a prompt hassle free cash buyer! Please feel free to contact me for a no obligation friendly chat. I am especially interested in the following models: MG TC, MGA, MGB, MGC, MGB V8, Magnette and Midget.
Carmine Red, Mileage: 47385, Leather Front Club Sports Seats. 2 litre Ivor Searl engine and clutch; fitted at 42493 miles, Overdrive fitted, 123 electric ignition distributor, Hydraulic Power Steering, Minilite type wheels with Yokahama A Drive 175/70 R14 tyres, Stainless steel wheel nuts. ALPINE CDE196DAB CD/Radio receiver with advanced Bluetooth. Radio: 3FM band ranges, Medium and long wave, hands free phone and can play IPhone music libraries. The car has an interesting history: owned by the late Rear-Admiral Cruddas, who was in charge of HMS Ark Royal. Price, £7,750. Fore more information tel: 01502722122 mobile 07920054422 or email Roger.moran@yahoo.com
Please call Edward 01923 840236 or any time on 07774 484497 Email: ejwhitescars@aol.com Website: www.mgandporsche.com (Northwood, Middlesex)
Kimble-SF_Nov-09.qxd:Kimble MGE 1_8 col 3.3
The Great British
26/10/09
13:0
Steering Wheel
The Brooklands We manufacture the BROOKLANDS
Steering Wheel from the original BLUEMEL tooling. It is not a Far Eastern copy and is made using the original methods and traditional materials. The CENTRE BOSS fixing kit, again from the original tooling, not only fits the MG TC and pre-war MGs, but the TD, TF and MGA. There are boss kits for other makes and kit cars too.
Ww14” ENo Nalso in NOW ABLE Ivo AILry AV
Now also 15½ inch wheel
BROOKLANDS AEROSCREENS are made using laminated glass to original specification to suit all vintage and sports cars.
john@johnkimble.co.uk
K KIMBLE
EST 1969
Tel: 01803 835757 Fax: 01803 834567
Unit 5, Old Mill Creek, Dartmouth, Devon TQ6 0HN.
NOVEMBER 2017 SAFETY FAST! 95
24/10/2017 16:49
sound condition. £75.00
HOW TO ADVERTISE
Members can advertise their spares for sale/wanted free of charge for items up to £250. Over £250, or for non-members to advertise, there is a charge of CL ASSIFIEDS £20. To submit your advertisement email Colin Grant at colingrant@mgcc.co.uk. Please remember to include your membership number in all corresponHOW TO ADVERTISE dence. All adverts should be subMembers can10th advertise their mitted by the of the month spares for sale/wanted free of for the following months issue. charge for items up to £250. Over £250, or for non-members to advertise, there is a charge of MGA. £20. To submit your advertiseNew pair of chrome bumper ment email Colin Grant at overridders £45. collect or plus colingrant@mgcc.co.uk. Please postage. remember to include your memMG TDnumber Inner steering column. bership in all corresponNo Longer Available. £80, dence. All adverts should becolsublect or by plus mitted thepostage 10th of the month MGTD Flywheel for early TD for the following months issue. with 7 1/4 clutch. £85, collect or plus postage. MGF MGA.set of 4x 16inch 6 spoke alloy wheels from a MK 2 MGF, New pair of chrome bumper with 3 reasonable tyres £160. overridders £45. collect or plus Small size get you home spare postage. wheelTD asInner new £25. Tel. column. Jack on MG steering 01280 848529 (Buckingham) No Longer Available. £80, collect or plus postage MGTD Flywheel for early TD with 7 1/4 clutch. £85, collect MGTD/Y or plus postage. need chrome. Pair headlamps, MGF set of 4x 16inch 6 spoke £150 alloy wheels from a MK 2 MGF, MGTC with 3 reasonable tyresplus £160. Original ash body parts Smallfor size get youFree hometospare floors patterns. a good wheel as new £25. Tel. Jack on home 01280 848529 (Buckingham) MMM Period Lockheed hydraulic brakes which could/should have been fitted from new. 4 backMGTD/Y plates with shoes/springs. (can Pair headlamps, need chrome. probably supply unions etc) £40 £150 Contact MGTC Martin on 01344424258. (Berkshire) Original ash body parts plus
SPARES FOR SALE
floors for patterns. Free to a good home
MGCGT MMM
Body shell, bare shell sand Period Lockheed hydraulic blasted,which all repairs carried out brakes could/should have sills castles ECT.new. New4 roof fitted been fitted from backas previously had sun roof, all plates with shoes/springs. (can completed by mg professional probably supply unions etc) £40 garage, Martin in primer. Heritage cerContact on 01344424258. tificate. suitable for both normal (Berkshire) and racing as extra suspension pick up points installed during rebuild. Open to offers. MGCGT five 6x15 alloy wheels for bolt Body shell, shell sand on MGC. Vicbare Young, blasted, all repairs carried out 01737551141 or 07831701028 sills castles ECT. New roof fitted as previously had sun roof, all completed by mg professional TCs Forever! garage, in primer. Heritage cerAs-new copy for sale £45 -normal half the tificate. suitable forforboth new price - plus £5 p&p. and racing as extra suspension Ideal up Christmas present for T Type pick points installed during lover. Contact Roy 01622 762039 rebuild. Open to on offers. email6x15 roy.ingleton@sky.com five alloy wheels for bolt (Maidstone). on MGC. Vic Young, 01737551141 or 07831701028
MG TD
SPARES FOR SALE
TD gearbox and propshaft. Noisy first gear. £50.00 Oil pressure gauge (working order). £75.00 Pair of unusual grab handles. HOW TO ADVERTISE £75.00. Phone John ontheir 01944 Members can advertise 758888. Yorks. spares for N. sale/wanted free of
charge MGB.for items up to £250. Over or for non-members Pack£250, away and frame in MGB 1970hood Roadster tosound advertise, there is a charge of condition. Two seats – left £75.00 and right, good £20. ToTD submit your advertiseMG condition with head rests. Been ment email Colin Grant at Noisy TDmy gearbox propshaft. in attic and for 25 years – any colingrant@mgcc.co.uk. Please first gear. £50.00 Oil pressure sensible offer. Photos can be gauge (working order). remember to include your£75.00 memsupplied. MGB dash – needs Pair ofnumber unusualingrab handles. bership all corresponpainting - free. Buyer would £75.00. Phone John onbe01944 dence. should subneed Alltoadverts collect. Telephone 758888. N. 10th Yorks. mitted by 244166, the of the month 01367 07702048530 formike@michaelrbarrett.co.uk the following months issue. (Oxfordshire) MGB 1970 Roadster
Two seats – left and right, good
MGA. condition head rests. Been FREE towith Collect
New pairattic of chrome in my for(Left 25bumper years – any 2 MGF Seats and Right) overridders £45. with collect or plus sensible offer. Photos can Black leather fabric cen-be postage. supplied. needs tre panel, MGB green dash piping,– with painting - free. Buyer would MG TDpatina.Tel Inner steering column. worn 07703 281246 need toAvailable. collect. Telephone No £80, colorLonger email: paddy@seafin.net 01367 244166, 07702048530 lect or plus postage (Aberdeenshire) mike@michaelrbarrett.co.uk MGTD Flywheel for early TD (Oxfordshire) with 7 1/4 clutch. £85, collect MGA Tonneau cover or plus postage. Heavy duty vinyl, dark MGF set to of 4x 16inch 6 spoke FREE Collect grey/graphite, hardly used, alloy wheels from a MK 2 MGF, 2 MGF Seats (Left and Right) excellent condition £100, colBlack leather fabric with 3 reasonable tyres £160.cenlection only or with plus postage tre01903 panel, green piping, with Small size get you home spare tel 243794 (Worthing, wornas patina.Tel 281246 wheel new £25. 07703 Tel. Jack on West Sussex) or email: paddy@seafin.net 01280 848529 (Buckingham) (Aberdeenshire)
MGA
Pair of glass windscreen MGA Tonneau cover MGTD/Y deflectors as new £50.00 Heavy duty vinyl, Pair headlamps, needdark chrome. Pair of bullet shape mirrors grey/graphite, hardly used, (alloy/chrome?) £30.00 £150 excellent condition £100, colBattery charger 6V almost new MGTC lection only or plus postage £15.00ash body parts plus Original tel 01903 243794 (Worthing, Some SU carb levers/bits floors patterns. Free to a good WestforSussex) £10.00 home Pai of wiper nuts/spindles new MMM £10.00 MGALockheed hydraulic Period One copper fuel line across Pair of glass windscreen brakes which could/should have bulkhead £10.00 deflectorsnew as new £50.00
been fitted from new. 4 backMG TCbullet Pair with of shape mirrors plates shoes/springs. Pair of aero screen still(can in (alloy/chrome?) £30.00 probably supply unions etc) £40 boxes £75.00 Battery charger 6V almost new Contact Martin onmirror 01344424258. 1 windscreen used £15.00 (Berkshire) £35.00
Some SU carb levers/bits 2 wing nuts for sidescreen new £10.00 £10.00 Pai of wiper nuts/spindles new 2 rubber gaskets for rear light £10.00 MGCGT £ 5.00 One copper fuel linesand across Body shell, bare shell New grease gun£10.00 in box bulkhead new blasted, all repairs carried out £20.00 MGcastles TC ECT. New roof fitted sills Tel: 01582 of aero523137 screen still inall asPair previously had sun roof, bari1948@hotmail.com boxes £75.00
completed by mg professional 1 windscreen mirror usedcergarage, in primer. Heritage £35.00 MGA suitable for both normal tificate. 2 wing nuts for sidescreen Original alluminium M.G.A. new and racing as extra suspension £10.00 bonnet c/w hinges; pick up points installedbonnet during 2 rubber gaskets for pin rear& light stay; sprun locating lockrebuild. Open to offers. £ ing5.00 catch. sound, no five 6x15 alloyVery wheels for bolt grease gun in collects box dents. £259 Buyer onNew MGC. Vic Young, £20.00 Clive 01442 890879 Cell 07885 01737551141 or 07831701028 Tel: 01582 523137 818067 bari1948@hotmail.com
TCs Forever! MGA TCs Forever!
As-new copy for sale for £45 - half the new price - plus £5 p&p. Ideal Christmas present for T Type lover. Contact Roy on 01622 762039 email roy.ingleton@sky.com (Maidstone).
As-new copyalluminium for sale for £45 - half the Original M.G.A. new price -c/w plushinges; £5 p&p. bonnet bonnet Ideal Christmas present for stay; sprun locating pinT&Type locklover. onsound, 01622 762039 ing Contact catch. Roy Very no email roy.ingleton@sky.com dents. £259 Buyer collects (Maidstone). Clive 01442 890879 Cell 07885 818067
96 SAFETY FAST! NOVEMBER 2017
MG-SafetyFast_Nov2017_49-100.indd 96
WANTED MGCGT Pack away hood and frame in Front slam panel and rad duct to sound condition. £75.00
MGB.
WANTED
suit a C inner wings tail gate.
MG TD Adam on 07749650903 Contact
TD gearbox and propshaft. Noisy first gear. £50.00 Oil pressure WANTED gauge (working order). £75.00 MGA 1600/1622 Gear Box. Pair of unusual grab handles. Any condition considered & it £75.00. Phone John on 01944 doesn't matter if it's working or 758888. N. Yorks. not as I will rebuild it with a WANTED
WANTED
close ratio gear set. Happy to MGCGT collect & pay on duct collecFront slam panelcash and rad to MGB Roadster tion.Telephone: 01604 tail 882815. suit 1970 a C inner wings gate. Two seats Adam – left and right, good mgs@stanmorehouse.com Contact on 07749650903
condition with head rests. Been in my attic for 25 years – any WANTED sensible offer. Photos can be Midget 3.7 diff in good condiMGA 1600/1622 Gear Box. supplied. MGB use dash – needs tion gentle Any for condition considered & it painting free.Ian wouldor 07836551482 doesn't -matter ifBuyer it's working need to I collect. Telephone not as will rebuild it with a 01367 07702048530 close244166, ratio gear set. Happy to collect & pay cash on collecmike@michaelrbarrett.co.uk tion.Telephone: 01604 882815. (Oxfordshire)
MGCGT
WANTED
Front slam panel and rad duct to suit a C inner wings tail gate. Contact Adam on 07749650903
WANTED MGA 1600/1622 Gear Box. Any condition considered & it doesn't matter if it's working or not as I will rebuild it with a close ratio gear set. Happy to collect & pay cash on collection.Telephone: 01604 882815. mgs@stanmorehouse.com
WANTED
Midget 3.7 diff in good condition for gentle use 07836551482 Ian
ADVERTISERS’ INDEX
mgs@stanmorehouse.com
FREE to Collect 4Sight Lighting Company...88 WANTED 2 Midget MGF Seats (Left and Right) 3.7Flux. diff in good condiAdrian .......................88 Black leather with tion for gentle usefabric cenAldon Automotive..............73 tre panel, greenIan piping, with 07836551482 wornAnonymous.......................29 patina.Tel 07703 281246 or email: paddy@seafin.net Barrie Carter ....................97 (Aberdeenshire)
Kimble Engineering Ltd......95 Manor Garage ..................88 Martin Smith Used MGTF Spares .............................85 Mech-Mate Ltd.................73
Barry Walker ....................93
MG Mecca........................91
Beech Hill Garage..............94 MGA Tonneau cover
MG Motorsport .................67
Heavy duty vinyl, dark British Motor Heritage....... IFC grey/graphite, hardly used, Browncondition and Gammons........17 excellent £100, collection only or plus postage C.C.H.L ............................57 tel 01903 243794 (Worthing, Cover Shop ................83 WestCar Sussex)
Restoration...................... 3
Carole Nash Insurance .....10
Mike Authurs Classics........95
Chertsey Minors ...............83 MGA Pair Chisbon of glass Restorations...10 windscreen ,61
Mike Rolls.........................91
deflectors as new £50.00 ........85 Pair Church of bulletSquare shape Autos. mirrors (alloy/chrome?) £30.00 Classic Driving Development Battery charger 6V almost new Ltd ...................................75 £15.00 Some SU Wheatley. carb levers/bits Clive ..................49 £10.00 College Motors Burford......73 Pai of wiper nuts/spindles new Colne Classics...................83 £10.00 One copper fuel line across Cotswold Car Storage..........6 bulkhead new £10.00
Lane Tours............71 MG Country TC Pair Crown of aeroClassic screenCars. still .in ..........85
boxes £75.00 David Manners....................6 1 windscreen mirror used £35.00 Dennis Welch....................83 2 wing nuts for sidescreen new Distributor Doctor..............77 £10.00 2 rubber gaskets for rear light Don Trimming. ...................83 £ 5.00 EJW Classic and sports.....95 New grease gun in box Evans Division of Hydratech...79 £20.00 Tel: Fishers 01582 523137 Services................85 bari1948@hotmail.com
MG Sales Centre...............39 MGF Mania.......................59 Midland Classic
Mike Satur........................61 Moss Europe Ltd...............29 NTG Services................. OBC Oselli Ltd...........................61 Peter Best............83, 97, IBC Peter James Insurance......79 Prestige MG......................59 Rees Bros.........................77 Retro Sports Cars .............75 Ribble Technology.................. Rimmer Bros Ltd...............53 RJJ Car Shipping and Transportation ..................83 Robin Howard....................93 Robin Lackford Motor Engineering ......................67 Scenic Car Tours...........9, 19
Footman James.................45
Skiptune...........................59
Frontline............................43 MGA Original alluminium M.G.A. Get Patina.........................23
SMR ................................97
bonnet c/w hinges; bonnet Halls Garage......................88 stay; sprun locating pin & locking catch. Very sound, no Heathrow Transmission......83 dents. £259 Buyer collects Hoyle Suspension..............77 Clive 01442 890879 Cell 07885 JLH Minor Restoration.......67 818067
Just Right Autos Ltd...........54
Steve McKie Sports Cars....83 Summit MG.......................73 The Hutson Motor Co Ltd.....3 Torro Sports Cars Ltd.........95 Vitesse Global Ltd .............49 York MG............................97
www.mgcc.co.uk
24/10/2017 16:27
B13 - Barrie Carter_CLASSIC MOTORING 24/07/2017 10:28 Page 1
PETER BEST www.classicinsurance.co.uk
The best policies for either classic or modern MGs
Call for a quote today
01621 840400
Due to rude anonymous email picture collectors who don’t bother to reply, I will only send details to those who have supplied a telephone number
This is my sort of TC. Mechanically v ery nice, and nice and scruffy so youll always use it, as they were meant to be. I ve not even cleaned it, polish and spoil it. It came from the US and has had many years of mechanical attention. The car has matching numbers with an excellent engine that runs sweetly and pulls hard. Oli pressure a resounding 50/60 lb. The gearbox changes as new, all the synchros are great with no rattles.It is very clean underneath and has had an historic body off restoration. It uses a stainless exhaust system and has the Thomkins steering mod. All the wheels and tyres are recently new, not refurbished. The hood is new also, and it has original side screens. The seats are vinyl , And look at those lovely fish eye head lights that are original. All the chrome is good and the paint is nice with a few scratches and tiny attractive marks. I like these TCs . You can use them, they are not tarts handbags, but as I use them myself. £23,750
MGA race car 1959 I bought this very well known twice ex championship winning car to use at Angouleme this year. I mechanically rebuilt it with engine being prepared by a leader in race engine building. It is built to FIA 1650 spec . Lightweight pistons, steel crank and special rods, full race big valve head and weber, special manifolds , spyder steel flywheel and cintred twin plate clutch, all balanced and properly prepared . Much quicker than my last championship winning A. GRP wings, ally doors boot and bonnet, race seats and cage. ZF LSD and special half shafts, Rebuilt early straight cut close ratio rare early competition box, cage, FIA belts, Three pot incredable brakes, polibushed, Wets and dries. very reliable. Second in class at Angouleme It would take very little to convert to an FIA spec car. It has the potential for many events from club rallies, h.c. and sprints to international raceing. At 76, I am about to say enough. It cost a fortune. Your gain is my loss at £27,950. I may part exchange.
York MG Spares
MG TD 1952. It has had one owner for 25 years. It has been well cared for and is fitted with the rare and desirable Derrington inlet and ex. with a newly rebuilt unleaded head. The gearbox is excellent as is the weather equipment. All the chrome I and paintwork is great too. The car drives very well and is ready to use. £18,950 My own MX5. I bought this restored MK1 MX5 because it was one of the best I could find in MK1 guise. It was restored by a Westland helicopter engineer and is the only one Ive seen without scuffing on the tan leather drivers seat. It has a new hood, modified suspension and improved wheels. I bought this to use this summer as I think it embodies all the qualities of 60s sports car motoring, And it has certainly lived up to that promise. It has a very expensive DVD and sound system. Needless to say it drives superbly and has given me a lot of pleasure. One of the best MK1s Ive seen and they are fast appreciating. Hard top may be available too, £4,750 Paul Moorhouse was the designer and producer of the very successful Marlin and this was one of the two prototypes he built as pre production cars. This particular one being owned by the chairman of the Marlin Owners Club for some time . It is fitted with a 2ltr Triumph vitesse and has a large history file including a testimonial to its provanance from the Marlin owners Club. A very rare and important piece of motoring history. And only £5,950
T-Type restorations and XPAG engine rebuilds and general MG servicing are the mainstay of our business. We welcome your custom.
enquiries@mgsforsale.com
www.mgsforsale.com
01707 876089
CARS - DRIVEABLE OR
CM08.17/B13/s
CANNON GT 1964 I bought this wonderful sports race car to race at Angouleme. Built by Mike Cannon in 1964 to beat divas. It is fitted with a 1098 Screamer. Superbly presented and prepared. Eligible for many series maybe even Goodwood. Be unique and call for more details £27,950.
07831 556666
MGB GT 1974 Restored Genuine Factory V8 Chrome Bumper (RXC772M) (GD2D11138G) manufactured 1973 chrome bumpers, overdrive, comprehensive restoration now in delightful Damask Red REPAIRABLE - BOUGHT & SOLD with renewed Black interior trim, engine stripped and cylinder heads rebuilt within detailed engine compartment, nicely restored original V8 wheels, new chrome etc. etc., history file withand photographic Please check this proof carefully for errors heavy in style, content layout. record/invoices of 2017 restoration, mot’s dating back to 1979, old tax discs, and plethorahold of invoices dating back to 1983 providing some credence to Although every care is exercised in preparing your advert, we acannot recorded mileage of 70k being possibly genuine, Heritage Certificate, mot August 2018, drives ourselves responsible for any inaccuracies nicely, you may overlook. just arrived. £27,495.00
URGENT PROOF
1979 MGB Roadster finished in British Racing Green. Many recent parts including exhaust, battery and hood. Runs well. Paintwork needs TLC. MOT until 2018 £2,750
SHOULD YOU REQUIRE ANY ALTERATIONS TO THIS PROOF PLEASE Healey Frogeye Isle of Wight Built (715UYV) Has been in the same family from NO when . _purchased _ _ _ _ ‘new’ in 1991. TELEPHONE BEFORE _ _ _ _ _ _ _ AND QUOTE ADVERT
This model was built on a 1959 original Austin Healey 1973 MGB GT finished in Sprite identity and has all relevant documentation from British Racing Green. the Frogeye Car Company and supports the very low New carpets and trim have been mileage of 37,595. The Primrose Yellow coachwork is in good condition albeit not unblemished and has fitted and the car has black leather a nicely mellowed Black interior trim, All weather seats. It is a genuine chrome equipment is present and in good condition. The history file has a plethora of original bumper with 2 previous owners, documentation and some correspondence between its owner and the factory. A unique We reserve the right to charge for any alteration to this proof which to acquire one of these rare examples manufactured with the approval of the the last since 1978. 20,000 from theopportunity is Ita has departure original Healey family.copy £14,995.00 miles on a Ivor Searle Engine £6,995 URGENTLY WANTED ANY MG
ANY YEAR, ANY CONDITION
MG Midget 1275 for restoration £1550 – see website for further details and photos
For further details York MG 01653 619203 www.yorkmg.co.uk www.mgcc.co.uk
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SEE OUR WEBSITE FOR A COMPLETE LISTING OF OUR STOCK
www.mgsforsale.com
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.
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LOOKING BACK 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 PETERNEAL@MGCC.CO.UK.
The official publication of The MG Car Club Incorporating ‘The M.G. Magazine’, ‘The Sports Car’ and ‘Brooklands Track and Air’, Safety Fast! Copyright MG Car Club 2017 Editor: Andy Knott 01235 849730 / 01235 555552 andyknott@mgcc.co.uk Deputy Editor: Colin Grant 01235 849733 colingrant@mgcc.co.uk Editorial Committee: William Ball, Dennis Wharf, Andy Knott, Colin Grant, Adam Sloman, Steve Clark PR and Communications: Lauran Gallacher 01235 849735, Advertising: Hine Marketing 01452 730770 Published by: Hine Marketing, Hill Farm Studios, Wainlodes Lane, Bishops Norton Glos, GL2 9LN. Tel: 01452 730770 Distributed by: Air Business. Merlin Centre, 4 The, Acrewood Way, St Albans AL4 0JY Tel: 01727 890600 President: John Day Vice Presidents: Ron Gammons, Don Hayter, Peter Best, Bill Silcock. Chairman: Ian Quarrington Vice Chairman: Dave Tynan Treasurer: Richard Colston
T
his month we are featuring three more photos from the Brian Moylan collection. This line up of MGs above is just one of many to have graced Abingdon’s Market Place over the years. Can you help us to identify which occasion this was? The magnificent cow-bell being held by the young man on the right is on display at Kimber House to this day. Was this the occasion of its presentation to the MG Car Club and can you tell us when? Another interesting line-up of cars. We suspect this may have been further
Directors: Dave Saunders, Paul Plummer, William Ball, George Wilder, Dave Tynan and Peter Cook Company Secretary: Colin Grant
afield. We cannot quiet read the rally plates. Can you help?
Staff Members: Adam Sloman (General Manager 01235 849732), John Hutchison (Competitions Secretary 01235 849738), Andy Knott (01235 849730), Liz Allsworth (Membership Secretary 01235 849734), Colin Grant (01235 849733), Lauran Gallacher (01235 849735), Cherina Scarrott (Finance Officer 01235 849736) and Ineke Sherman (Merchandise 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, Julian White, Bill Silcock. Company limited by guarantee The 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 MG Car Club, Kimber House, PO Box 251, Abingdon, Oxon, OX14 1FF Tel: 01235 555552 Fax: 01235 533755 E-mail: mgcc@mgcc.co.uk www.mgcc.co.uk
98 SAFETY FAST! NOVEMBER 2017
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If visiting The MG Car Club using Sat Nav please use OX14 1AS
www.mgcc.co.uk
24/10/2017 16:55
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Parts for TA to TF 1936-55, YA YB YT, MGA & Magnette. Secure online shopping at: www.mgbits.com or by phone. Worldwide shipping.
T&Y Type or MGA & Z series catalogues- email or phone for your copy
S106B Fine adjustment control-steering box for TA/B/C £86.40 incl VAT
Exchange shock absorbers available for most models
L059X Exchange Lucas wiper motor for TA/B/C/D/YT £225.60 incl VAT
B023XT Exchange TA water pump - revised internals £165.00 incl VAT
NTG Motor Services Ltd 282-284 Bramford Road Ipswich IP1 4AY Tel: +44(0)1473 406031/2 Fax: +44(0)1473 742087 sales@mgbits.com British Motor Heritage Approved - founded 1966
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