Safety Fast! April 2016

£3.50 Volume 60 Number 04

inside The Beast of CallanderDiesel Midget MG Car Club History – Part IVMary Harris Trophy 2016 – Part II

THE MARQUE OF FRIENDSHIP

this month

APRIL 2016

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APRIL 2016 3 www.mgcc.co.uk

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APRIL 2016 5www.mgcc.co.uk

thisissue

April 2016

7 Editor’s WelcomeA summary from Andy Knott

9 From the ChairClub Matters from Ian Quarrington

10 NewsMG delighted to announce 2016 BTCC entry, Anniversaries Celebrated at the Annual MG Era Day at Brooklands Museum and more

12 Kimber House NewsBill Wallis Wing update, Archive donations and more

14 Products The latest products in the world of MG

16 PostbagMembers have their say

35 Event ReportsThe MG Show and Spares Day and Race Retro

60 Race TorqueA tribute to John Horton

18 MGLive! 2016Mike Brewer, President’s International Dinner, World Motoring Heritage Year 2016 and more

20 The Beast of CallanderThe Dreadnought ZT 520 Race Car

23 Diesel MidgetA highly modified Midget with an Isuzu diesel engine

28 Club History Part IVPost war revival and the 1950s

57 Mary Harris Trophy 2016 – Part 2

The Triple M Cars enjoy the Goodwood circuit

36 Vintage NewsletterPeter Jones on his MG experiences

41 MGA Twin Cam NewsletterThe inception of the Twin Cam Group, looking ahead and more

46 V8 NewsletterGTS104 thermostat – drilled vent or undrilled?, Fault with the starter 6RA relay and more

50 MG6.3.56.3.5 Events 2016, An MG6 GT owner’s view, MG/888 BTCC 2016 and more

Newsletters

The 2016 model year MG3 in a suitable modern location; look out for a full review in the next issue. Photo: Colin Grant

Regulars 62 MGs on TrackReunited with an old friend and 2016 MGoT dates

63 Luffield ChampionshipLatest news from the MGCC Luffield Speed Championship

64 Calendar of EventsMGCC events, April through to June

66 Out and AboutYour photos from around the world

68 Overseas ReviewSafety Fast! keeps tabs on the overseas action

70 Centre UpdatesNews from the MGCC Regional Centres

80 Register UpdatesNews from the MGCC Registers

90 Looking BackA selection of snippets from the MGCC archives

91 ClassifiedsCars and Spares offered for sale

Inside





WELCOME

@mgcarclub

AndyKnottEditor

Words from

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

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

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

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

Deputy Editor: Colin Grant 01235 849733 [email protected]

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

Regular Contributors: Alwyn Morgan

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

Advertising: Hine Marketing 01452 730770

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

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

President: John Day

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

Chairman: Ian Quarrington

Vice Chairman: George Wilder

Treasurer: Richard Colston

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

Company Secretary: Colin Grant

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

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

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

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

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

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

and ‘Brooklands Track and Air’, Safety Fast! Copyright MG Car Club 2016

The Practical Restoration & Classic Car Show returned to the NEC over the first weekend in March. As in the past, the show was very hands on, with over 120 classic car and vehicle clubs in attendance with many working on a vehicle, tackling a task or project over the weekend. The MGCC FWD Register upheld the honour of the MGCC by having a stand at the show for the second year running. You can see what the FWD Register got up to at the show by reading their notes on page 88. For those that attended the show that’s really gaining in popularity, you’ll be pleased to hear that the main MGCC are in discussions with the organisers and hope to have a large display and presence next year.

The show season has now really kicked off in earnest, with two trips to Stoneleigh during February for the MG & Triumph Show and Spares Day and a week afterwards we were back with the competitions department for the Race Retro show. Not one to rest on our laurels, April is another busy month with plenty of events to attend; you’ve only got to see the calendar published on page 64 this month. The main Club will be at the Brooklands MG Era day on April 10 celebrating all things MG including the 80th anniversary of the MG TA, and a week later, April 16, the Club will be at Cofton Park, Longbridge for the Pride of Longbridge Event. This is particularly poignant event as well, as the Zeds celebrate their 15th anniversary this year. From discussions on various media this event promises to be as popular as always. Another event that is celebrating Zed15 (incorporating saloon day) will be held at the newly revamped British Motor Museum at Gaydon on July 9, it promises to be a grand event with all tin top MGs welcome. I know the MG635 Register plan to do something special at the event to celebrate the fifth birthday of the MG6. More details and discounted tickets for the event and entry to the museum can be purchased from www.mgcc.co.uk/shop

A few other major events on the horizon are: The Regency Run; this is the last Regency Run to be held and is filling up very quickly, an advert is published on page 65. Be quick though as numbers are limited. And finally, MGLive!, the major event in the MGCC calendar, is now less than 70 days away. A booking form is included in this issue and lots of other information can be gleaned from the dedicated website www.mglive.com

Until next month, drive safely


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THE CHAIRFROM

APRIL 2016 9

Club Matters from

“No need to advertise, mate: Your driving says it all!”

Ian QuarringtonLast month we were once again guests of our friends at MG Motor at Longbridge for our Spring Council meeting. For anyone who is not familiar with the council meeting, it is a twice yearly gathering of representatives of the 37 Centres, Registers and Branches which make up the Club and to whom the Board of Directors is accountable. Thus along with the Kimber House staff we meet and present to those who in turn represent you, the Members, with what amounts to the current status of the Club and to listen to what you, the Members would like to see us achieve in the next six to 12 months.

I am in the very fortunate position of having excellent predecessors in my role as Chairman and thus I was able to start off the meeting by saying that the Club remains in good health and to reaffi rm that Bill Silcock was absolutely right when, last November, he advised that there would be a period of evolution over the next year. I won’t simply repeat in detail what I said at Longbridge because in a few days’ time the minutes will be published in the Members’ Only area of the website for you to read. But in summary, we are fi nancially very healthy; we have set,

as in previous years, a break even budget and yet the evolution continues apace and it would be impossible to achieve the degree of evolution and momentum the Club is keeping up without sound fi nancial planning.

We encourage the CRBs to bring forward to Council any points they wish to raise, and we listened to and then debated two differing contributions from the Caledonian and South West Centres. The fi rst was on how we should attract younger members to the Club: Kimber House was able to respond directly with a presentation from Chris Kynoch about the Young Members Initiative which has really taken off, fi rstly through social media and soon enough it will become a CRB in its own right. Neil Lock’s presentation was about the California Cup: this led to a challenge from the Midget Register to any other CRB to raise teams for this enjoyable event and with the good humour of Mike Parker the challenge was met! Thank you Mike.

Other presentations included an important update to our IT project which is led by Dave Tynan, the planning for MG Live! 2016 from Lauran Gallacher, and a trip down Memory Lane from Andy Knott

who used slides showing old covers of this magazine to clearly demonstrate that it has and continues to evolve year on year. There was a defi nite feelgood factor in the room about Safety Fast! when the audience could literally picture this progress.

And a video! Yes, we enjoyed a video made by Chris on behalf of Dave Saunders who was able to talk everyone through a guided tour of the new Bill Wallis Wing, which is so very nearly fi nished. The title of the music chosen to accompany this was spot on...Our House. We fi nished the afternoon off with a talk from John Hutchison about his role supporting the Racing Committee which was informative as well as humorous. Finally it was a great pleasure to see Council unanimously agree to elect Roger Latham as President of the Anglia Centre. Congratulations Roger.

Feedback after the meeting was very encouraging, especially from guests who had not attended before. If you would like to come along to the next Council meeting do let your CRB committee know and you will fi nd a warm welcome. Make a note of the date in your diaries now, October 15 in Abingdon.

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NEWSLETTERNEWS


Congratulations to the West Berkshire Classic Vehicle Club who were displaying Don Hayter’s ex MGB on their stand at the Practical Classics Restoration and Car show at the NEC, held on March 5-6. Don’s MGB V8 Tourer was awarded best car in show, a great accolade indeed and a worthy winner, during the National Car Club Awards, held during on Saturday evening.

MG delighted to announce 2016 BTCC entry MG will be competing in the Dunlop MSA British Touring Car Championship (BTCC) for their fi fth successive year in 2016.

After returning to the series in 2012, and winning the Manufacturer Championship in 2014, MG will be continuing their successful partnership with Triple Eight Racing for another three years.

The 2016 team is made up of Josh Cook and Ashley Sutton – both young, exciting, up-and-coming drivers. Cook, who was the 2014 Renault UK Clio Cup Vice-Champion, made a sensational debut in the BTCC in 2015 when he lifted the Jack Sears Trophy (award for the top rookie). Ashley Sutton is graduating to BTCC after leaving the Renault Clio Cup as reigning 2015 champion.

Anniversaries Celebrated at the Annual MG Era Day at Brooklands MuseumSunday April 10 2016The 80th birthday of the MG TA – the fi rst in a long line of ‘T’ series cars – will be a special focus of Brooklands Museum’s annual MG Era Day on Sunday April 10, when all models of this iconic marque from 1924 to the present day will be celebrated.

Along with the dozens of MG ‘T’ series, the organisers expect to see a special display of very rare early MGs from the Vintage Register of the MG Car Club. Other clubs and groups that have already booked to be on site include the MGF Register who will be marking their 21st anniversary this year and are hoping to feature a special display of rare ‘Monogram’ cars demonstrating the lustrous multi-layered pigment fi nishes seen adorning these mid-engined models which have a distinctive pearlescent or ‘chromeafl are’ effect.

At 1.15pm there will be a cavalcade of a wide variety of MG models on the circuit at Mercedes-Benz World and, back on the Museum site, the famous Test Hill will be open for those brave enough to ascend it at 2.30pm. ‘Pride and Joy’ Awards will be presented at 3.30pm.

Visitors to this extravaganza will also be able to see the Museum’s incredible collection of classic cars, motorcycles and aircraft, including the only Concorde open to the public in the region. The 4D Theatre will be running a choice of three exhilarating Experiences, taking visitors back in time to race on the Brooklands Circuit, at Le Mans in 1956 or fl ying as part of the Red Arrows Air Display Team. The Sunbeam Café will be open all day for refreshments and the Museum Shop will be stocked with books, DVDs, models and lots of Brooklands and MG-related memorabilia.

Gates open to the public at 10am and entrance fees are as follows: Adults £11; Seniors £10; Children (5-16 yrs) £6.00; Children Under 5 FREE; Family ticket (2 adults and up to 3 children) £30. For full details visit www.brooklandsmuseum.com or telephone 01932 857381. The half-hour Concorde Experience is an extra £5 each for adults, £3 each for children while the eight minute 4D Theatre rides are £4 each for adults and £2 for children. Height and other restrictions apply.

Access to the Museum site for MGs is via the Campbell Gate off Brooklands Road (the B374).

MGCC Anglia CentreThis year the Anglia Centre are making their ‘2016 Events Calendar’ for members available in digital format only and not available in hard copy as in previous years. You can download a copy from the Anglia Centre website (www.mgcc.co.uk/anglia-centre/)

For those within our Centre’s membership that have made their email address available to Kimber House, you will receive a copy sent to you directly as an attachment very soon. So if you have not made your email address known to us or it has changed since joining, please send your current email address and membership number to [email protected] and we will update our records, plus send it on to Kimber House to the Membership Secretary [email protected] so she can update the main Club database information.

MG Trophy Championship AGMVenue: MGLive! At Silverstone, in The Paddock Bar Date: Saturday June 4 2016 Time: 4.30pmAGENDAApologies for absenceApproval of AGM Minutes from 2015Matters ArisingChairman’s ReportTreasurer’s Report & Adoption of Fifth Year AccountsTo elect the Chairman of the Championship for the coming year

SVW Register AGMVenue: Château Bleu rue Rys de Mosbeux, 524870 Trooz / BelgiumDate: June 15 2016 Time: 6.00pmAGENDAApologies for AbsenceApproval of the minutes of the AGM held on 6 August 2015Matters arisingReports from the Chairman and TreasurerElections to the Committee AOBNominations for candidates for the committee to be sent to John Dutton [email protected] at least 24 hours before the AGM

To elect the Treasurer of the Championship for the coming year To elect the Secretary of the Championship for the coming year To elect the Technical Offi cer of the ChampionshipTo elect additional Technical RepresentativesTo elect any other committee membersAny Other BusinessOpen forum following the close of the AGMIssued by Pete Macwaters, Championship Co-ordinator



NEWSLETTERNEWS


SocialMedia

Round Up

NewsKimber House

Work on the Bill Wallis Wing is nearing completion and the state-of-the-art racking downstairs in the archive has been installed, with archivist Peter Neal currently working hard to move everything from the old room to the new one.

Adam and Lauran have a new offi ce upstairs, which has an ‘MG Green’ feature wall, with Liz and Cherina now also in their new offi ce. The rest of Kimber House is being decorated at the moment, and we are getting ever closer to the opening of the Bill Wallis Wing.

We are also pleased to announce that on May 28 we shall be having an open day here at Kimber House. So for anyone out there who has been following the pictures in Safety Fast! or on the website, this will be your chance to see the new archive in person, and we are looking forward to welcoming MG fans everywhere.

We had a fantastic donation in March from Club member Robert Innes-Ker, who is seen presenting Peter Neal with an incredibly rare framed drawing of various MGs, and the famous faces of the marque. Pete was over the moon with this picture, something which will look right at home on the walls here at the MG Car Club.

At the end of February, we posted a picture across social media that we found amazing. After looking through a chassis fi le for an MG PA, we found a letter and separate envelope enclosed, and just had to look inside. The letter explained to the owner of the car that, despite fi nding a piece of metal in the sump, the PA was perfectly safe to

drive. Inside the envelope was that exact piece of metal that had been sitting there since 1934. As you can imagine it created quite a response, especially on Facebook.

The young members’ Facebook group has been very active since its launch last month, and we are offering anyone under 30 who has joined the chance to go to a bodywork detailing event at Meguiar’s HQ on Saturday April 23. If you fancy going, just email Chris Kynoch at [email protected]

We were incredibly excited to hear the news of MG’s new BTCC drivers for the upcoming 2016 season, and when the news broke out, there was a huge buzz, especially on Twitter. Ashley Sutton and Josh Cook seemed very happy to be a part of the Triple 8 MG team, and we can’t wait to see them on track very soon.

Talking of Twitter buzz, Mike Brewer’s MGLive! announcement got a lot of attention, with Mike himself giving us a retweet as well as the offi cial Wheeler Dealers account.

And fi nally, we just want to remind MGLive! fans and attendees that our offi cial event page on Facebook for MGLive! 2016 is proving to be a big hit, so join in for all the latest news and updates right when they happen. This can be done by going to our Facebook page, looking on ‘upcoming events’ on the left hand side and clicking on MGLive! 2016. Also, check out the new MGLive! website by going to www.mglive.com

Untitled-2 1 11/03/2016 17:54:39MG_SafetyFast_April16_3-49.indd 12 22/03/2016 16:31


PRODUCTS


PRODUCTS

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Digital Torque Ratchets from Laser ToolsThese new digital torque ratchets are designed to secure fasteners that need to be tightened to lower torque fi gures and when therefore over-tightening is a real risk. Smaller in length than a full sized torque wrench, they give a convenient and functional solution to this risk of over-tightening.

The 1/4” drive model (part number 6207) is a compact 200mm long and covers the range 6-30Nm (4.4-22.1 ft/lb); the 3/8” drive model (part number 6206) is 230mm long and ranges between 16-80Nm (11.8-59 ft/lb); the 1/2” drive model (part number 6205) is 275mm long and ranges between 20-100Nm (14.8-73 ft/lb).

With a clear digital display, they all feature a very smooth 72 tooth ratchet mechanism, batteries are included and they are very accurate (plus or minus 3-4%). Automatic shut-off function. Supplied in a sturdy blow mould case for storage.

You will appreciate the quality, convenience and accuracy of the new torque ratchets. Available now from your Laser Tools stockist, who will be happy to provide you with their best prices and special offers.

More details from www.lasertools.co.uk

New from MR.B.MG SparesWe have produced a new version of the brake pad retaining pin, which is much easier and quicker to fi t, and as it is machined from solid stainless steel bar will look good and last indefi nitely. They will fi t the MGB, MG Midget and the MGBGT V8, and are supplied as car kits complete with ‘R’ clips and pad retaining clips.

MGB kit costs £11.00 Midget kit costs £11.00MGBGT V8 costs £11.50All above include postage, and payment can be made

either by cheque or by Paypal.We have also reproduced the hooked washer bottle straps

for the MGC and the MG Midget 1500. Ag ain, these are high quality, British made.

CHA548 Midget 1500 strap costs £8.50AHC364 MGC strap costs £8.00Again, the above prices include postage.

These can be ordered direct from the manufacturers, MR.B.MG Spares, 22 Edenhurst Road, Mile End, Stockport, Cheshire, SK2 6BT. Telephone 0161 483 5767 or 07721 348538 (both numbers after 6.00pm please) or email [email protected]

Eurax – Rustyco Rust RemoverEurax Ltd is now stocking the remarkable Rustyco rust remover products from Holland. Note that this is a rust REMOVER, not a rust ‘treatment’.

It doesn’t convert rust into something else, it removes it completely leaving a microscopically clean and natural steel or iron surface that is ready to accept paint or other fi nishing. Rustyco is available in two forms...Rustyco Dip. Just pour Rustyco dip into a suitable container and dilute it with water. Remove oil, grease and any loose rust from the rusted object and submerge it in the solution. The rust will fl oat off. Rustyco Gel. If the rusted object cannot be submerged, paint a thick coat of Rustyco gel onto the object and leave it to take effect.

Rustyco is available in various sized packages to suit your requirements.

Rusyco dip starts at £24.99 and Gel from £39.99 including VAT.To watch Rustyco in action go to... http://www.rustyco.

co.uk/27/0/Video_demoOrder directly from Eurax Ltd, or from one of their dealers.Visit www.euraxltd.co.uk to fi nd a dealer near you.

Speedo Drive from NTGSpeedo drive housing with integral oil seal – prevents oil pumping up cable from gearbox: £114 inc. VAT. Fits all T & Y Types.

For more information go to www.mgbits.com or telephone: 01473 406031. NT G Motor Services Ltd, 282-284 Bramford Road, Ipswich, Suffolk, IP1 4AY

MG SALES CENTRE Lowhill Lane, Longbridge, Birmingham, B31 2BQ

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PRODUCTS

MG SALES CENTRE Lowhill Lane, Longbridge, Birmingham, B31 2BQ

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FEATURE

16 APRIL 2016

POSTBAG

90th Birthday CelebrationsI wish to thank all who have sent me 90th birthday cards, messages and photograph of their cars. The special meeting of Club members at Cosener’s House in Abingdon was a big surprise, well attended by old friends, ex employees and the MG Motor staff.

I have a folder of notes and photos from MG owners, responding on the web to an appeal by my son Ian, and more are still coming in!

Also, I recently received a 90th card from John Burrows at the wonderful address Mississauga, Canada, signed by an MG car members group – of nearly 40.

Importing an MG TF1500I read with interest Nick Gasson’s article on importing an MG TF1500 and his experiences. His comments echo most of mine when I brought a YT into the UK in 2009, particularly the need to get someone to check over the car. Like Nick, I too was fortunate when both the late David Pelham and Paul Barrow kindly found me a contact in New Hampshire (where the car was based) by the name of Scott Barrow (no relation to Paul) who kindly volunteered his services and visited the vendor on my behalf. His written report came the following week and pointed out the only obvious fault – a sticking piston in the n/s front brake cylinder.

David provided me with a guide to the stages that I needed to follow as he had imported two YTs some while earlier. He also mentioned Kingston Shipping based in Hull who acted as the importer. They outlined their services and the process that I needed to go through and asked me if the car was a runner, which as it happened it was. They asked me if I would prefer a ‘roll on/roll off’ process or if I would prefer a container. The benefi t of ‘RORO’ is that it’s cheaper of course and as Mark (the shipping representative) stated. ‘Containers have been known to drop!’ Containers do have storage and greater security. Therefore, I decided to take the risk and opt for the simple RORO. This proved to be very effective and the driver of the collection vehicle expressed surprise as to its condition, adding that many of his clients on seeing their new pride and joy are often distraught when it seems to bear no relation to the pictures they have received!

I note that Nick is now undertaking his own arrangements to import an MGA. I am sure that he knows the process. However, if anyone wishes to gain more information then I would refer them to an article that I wrote entitled ‘How do you import a classic car into the UK’ which was published in the April 2010 edition of Safety Fast!. This set out in detail the process you would need to go through and the appropriate documentation for importing a classic. Although written over six years ago I believe that it is still relevant although your local DVLA offi ce will have closed down

Marque of Friendship?I agreed with everything Andy Knott said in the March editorial about reducing the average age of Car Club members, and as he said they will tend to have newer MGs, I think It would help if the owners of older cars would respond to a friendly hello from more recent MGs met when out and about, where it is safe and appropriate of course.

We took the TF to a Thames Valley event recently and on the way saw two MGBs, which I greeted as I always will a fellow MG enthusiast, if I safely can, only to be totally ignored. This isn’t the fi rst time we have met this rather frosty attitude whilst in the TF. It is true that the car was built at Longbridge, but the B series engine is an Austin unit and MGs, in my opinion, have always been heroic low budget parts bin specials. The days of Fs and TFs being everyday cars are pretty much past now, most are now in the hands of enthusiasts, as are lots of Zeds.

Being ignored by the owners did not lessen the pleasure of seeing two Abingdon made cars sparkling in the sunshine.

We have an MGB as well, and I will always wave to any of the Longbridge cars that we meet!

Stan Best

the wonderful address Mississauga, Canada, signed by an MG car members group – of nearly 40.

following a Government reorganisation a couple of years ago. It’s important to remember that although you may no longer need an MOT (if the vehicle was built before 1960), when you take the car to be examined by the DVLA it will have to arrive by trailer as you are not permitted to drive it on public roads, even though it is insured and has an MOT!

I hope this adds to Nick’s excellent article.

SincerelyJerry Birkbeck

To have such a collection of contacts who love the MGB is wonderful – glad we drew and built them for 18 years.

My wife Mary and I are enjoying our MG3, now that our other MGs are sold, and hope to see some of you sometime soon.

Sincerely,Don Hayter

Mary and Don Hayter with Matthew Cheyne, Head of Sales and Marketing for MG pictured outside Cosner House during Dons birthday celebrations.

2 DAYS OF CLASSIC CARS, RACING, LIVE MUSIC AND FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT, INCLUDING:

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2 DAYS OF CLASSIC CARS, RACING, LIVE MUSIC AND FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT, INCLUDING:

A full weekend of racing on the historic GP circuit, live action arena, register displays, traders, sprint, concours, Lifestyle Marquee, live bands, camping and more!

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4-5 JUNE 2016LIVE!

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With MGLive! just three months away, exciting new things that are happening at the event are being confirmed all the time.

As always, the weekend promises a packed programme, but how can you make the most of your weekend at MGLive! 2016?

Mike BrewerFollowing a fantastic debut at MGLive! 2015, TV’s Wheeler Dealer, Mike Brewer is coming back to Silverstone for MGLive! 2016 on Saturday June 4.

Mike will once again be hosting the ‘world’s only Human gymkhana’, as well as teaming up with stunt driver Russ Swift for some spills and thrills in the Live! Arena; he’ll also be on hand to meet fans for photos and sign autographs.

“I had a brilliant time last year so when the MG Car Club asked me to come back for this year’s show I couldn’t wait – it’ll be great to catch up with so many MG fans again this year,” said Mike.

MGCC General Manager Adam Sloman added, “Mike was brilliant last year and we’re really thrilled he’s able to join us again this summer.”

President’s International DinnerThe President’s International Dinner is

being held at Silverstone Golf Club on Saturday night at MGLive! with a formal three course meal held in the comfortable surroundings of a special marquee. Speeches are kept to a minimum and the only formal part of the evening is the presentation of the Nuffield Gold Cup, its most prodigious award.

Last year Dani Ingold from Switzerland provided a fun and entertaining charity auction. If you enjoyed last year you will not be disappointed this year. Our President looks forward to welcoming you to the dinner in the company of good MGCC friends from all parts of the world.

Ticket numbers are limited to 135 and are selling out fast so act now to avoid disappointment.

World Motoring Heritage Year 2016To celebrate their 50th Anniversary, FIVA (Fédération Internationale des Véhicules Anciens), the world body governing historic vehicle issues, announced that 2016 would be ‘World Motoring Heritage Year’. Last week it was confirmed that MGLive! is one of three official events in the UK to lead the celebrations! More information will follow on this soon.

Snoozebox HotelsWe announced back in February’s Safety Fast! that we had secured a discount code with Snoozebox, located at Silverstone. Unfortunately, Snoozebox closed their hotel at the end of last year and have been working to re-open the hotel at a new



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location at Silverstone. They had hoped to be able to open the new hotel on March 30, but regrettably, have had to revise this date and are now planning to open the hotel on June 30 2016.

Snoozebox have said, “Finalising arrangements for the new site has taken longer than expected, and also the need to secure planning permission has required us to make a decision now to delay the opening of the hotel, so regrettably, we will not be able to accommodate you at the hotel as planned for MG Live.

“We are so sorry to let the MG Car Club members down but we will hopefully open our doors to you again in 2017”.

TicketsAs a member of the MG Car Club, huge savings can be had if you book your tickets in advance. Enclosed within this issue of Safety Fast! is the booking form, for not just entry tickets but for all the activities to keep you entertained at Silverstone over the weekend; remember it’s your weekend so make the most of it. You’ll also fi nd tickets available online – just visit the events dedicated website www.mglive.co.uk where we’ll bring you all the latest MGLive! news and you’ll be able to book tickets securely on our online ticket shop.

MG Car Club members can buy a single day ticket in advance for just £18, a saving of £12 over the gate price, and a weekend ticket for just £28, saving you £17 on the weekend gate price. Once again, children aged 16 and under go free when accompanied by an adult!



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Dreadnought Garage based in Callander, Scotland have been tinkering with all things MG since

the Dealer Principal Brian Luti founded the garage in 1982, helping to spread the MG name through a succession of race cars throughout the 1980s and 90s. By the early 2000s Brian was looking at ways of getting his son Paul in a race car that would be safe and fun, and would even possibly catch the eye of someone who could propel Paul’s career forward. Brian was good friends with MG’s marketing boss Rod Ramsey, and after a phone call was invited down to Longbridge to discuss a few ideas.

What was offered to Brian was above his wildest dreams. At the time a number of prototype saloons were being produced to support plans to engage in saloon car racing in the UK and Europe. Variants were built for the German DTM and Belgium BELCAR series. After talking through the requirements with Paul Huffer, MG’s Body Build manager and ex-MG Cup Racer, a special ZT260 shell was manufactured with a full Safety Devices

The Beast of Callander

FIA-spec rollcage for Brian. Although this car wasn’t to be an official MG Sport and Racing car, it was a project authorised by Rod Ramsay, which would then make it the last MG Rover works car built.

When the rolling show arrived at Dreadnought it was painted and given the distinctive XPower green stripes. To help things along, MG even let Brian have one of their prototype ZT390s to ravage for bits. Brian started work on this after hours project, which ended up taking over 1,000 hours of evenings and weekends with workshop manager and chief technician Claire Luti and technician and driver Paul Luti lending the occasional hand. With the free body and chassis in hand, Brian contacted his friend Sean of Sean Hyland Motorsport from Woodstock, near Toronto, Canada who were instrumental in the design and build of the mighty Ford V8 used in the MG SV. Brian managed to secure the highest-spec Ford quad-cam 32 valve V8 race engine Sean could build, with the help of Claire who flew out for two weeks to help, they also managed

to source a Tremec gearbox which worked in harmony with the engine.

With the engine back in the UK it was time to run it up. After 37 hours and 40 minutes it was determined that Sean and Claire had built a bomb proof engine.

With all the bits to hand Brian still had one problem. “The only difficulty was nobody had ever built one,” he remembers, “so everything was off my drawing board.” After hours of speaking to various people and using his gut feeling he came up with settings he was happy with. This was then put to the test during hours of track evaluation.

To add to the problems that Brian and co had already overcome, the suspension was concocted from parts of the ZT390 prototype gifted to them by MG Rover. The front suspension had a track 4” wider than standard, which meant the flared arches from ZT390 were also needed and now give the ZT an even more menacing stance. After plenty more testing Brian had the front and rear ends set up, with the front fast bump



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very stiff with slow bump softer so the nose of the car didn’t dive under heavy braking, making it more controllable for the bend you’re going in to. The rear is set up opposite to the front, allowing the car to really squat and grip when accelerating hard. The wheels were built by Compomotive to Brian’s specification so they cleared, albeit by a meagre 1.5mm, the large front AP racing calipers that were gifted by Sean Hyland and also the rear calipers which were originally the front calipers on the ZT390.

With the ZT all up together, it was then a matter of fine tuning the mapping which was carried out at the Croft circuit with Paul Luti behind the wheel. A full day of Paul driving allowed the MoTeC engine management to build up the required fuel and ignition tables ready for the car’s first outing at Silverstone in the Britcar 24 hour race, 18 months after the ZT project started in 2004.

During the Britcar 24 hour race the team had 22 unofficial stops to fine tune the suspension on the ZT. The other problem the team encountered was that the Tremec gear change mechanism let go during practice. The spare gearbox was utilised, but by the end of the race it was showing signs of distress.

Elite transmissions came to the rescue and supplied Dreadnought with one of their super-tough IL300 six speed gearboxes with a sequential shifter, which has been fine since.

Since the ZT has been built it’s made quite an impression on race fans, with many thanking Brian for building it and others thanking Paul as it’s always a spectacle on the track, especially in the wet conditions when Paul drives to please the crowd, with plenty of tail action on the bends as the immense power of the V8 struggles for grip on the tarmac.

Due to other commitments, the time has come for Brian and his Dreadnought team to let the big ZT go, and for someone else to enjoy the ‘Beast of Callander’!

MGZT 520 RACE CAR TECH SPECEngine based on the MGSVR Sports Car unitSean Hyland Motorsport (SHM) parts: Manley/SLIM forged steel H beam rods, JE/SHM custom pistons 94mm, ductile iron sleeves 94mm, piston rings, billet oil pump, oversize aluminium nickel bronze valve seats, stainless steel valves, manganese bronze valve guides, dual-coil race valve springs, titanium valve-spring retainers, race valve-stem seals, hardened steel valve locks, billet steel race camshafts, billet aluminium fuel rails. Other parts: Ford Cobra aluminium block, six-bolt mains, forged-steel crankshaft deburred, polished and heat treated, FM race big-end and main bearings, standard wet sump pan with windage tray, ARP main studs, Racing FR500 cylinder heads with SHM porting, Racing FR500 magnesium dual-runner intake manifold with SHM porting, Bosch 42lb/hr fuel injectors, BBK throttle body, MoTec M48 engine management unit. Power output 520bhp @ 7200 rpm (pump fuel), 590bhp possible on race fuel, Torque 440lb/ft @ 4600 rpm

TransmissionElite IL300 sequential six speed gearbox with selectable input ratiosDiff standard ZT260 Dana Hydratrack with 3.9:1 ratioDrive shafts standard ZT260Exedy twin plate cera-metallic clutch

SuspensionBilstien three way adjustable remote canister dampers, Eibach coil springs (F) 399lb (R) 513lb

BrakesFront AP Racing six pot 360x33mm vented grooved discs. Rear four pot AP Racing 330x30mm vented grooved, Mintex pads, custom bells

WheelsCustom Compomotive (F) 18x9in (R) l8xl0in Toyo R888 285/30118 all roundLongbridge especially built lightweight body with FIA cage.

Dreadnought Garage Stirling road Callander Perthshire FK17 8LE 01877 331099 www.dreadnoughtgarage.co.uk

[email protected]



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This Midget started life because we wanted to have a small, economical, fun car which can be used in all

weathers and not break the bank. It’s taken a lot of time to plan and refi ne but the end result is just what we wanted.

We started with a good body shell, stripped it to bare metal and repaired all sections that had rusted, including the outer sills which were replaced with 1.5mm thick steel to give the body extra rigidity. The front panel was cut off and made to bolt on to give better access to the engine compartment. The original radiator and engine mounts were removed

and modifi ed to take the new engine and gearbox, and fi tted with a brand new, custom made radiator.

Because I have always worked with diesels I chose the Isuzu 1.5TD from the Corsa as a perfect power plant, but had to convert from front wheel drive, so I found a Getrag 240 gearbox fi tted with very few mods which gives 5 speeds with overdrive. This gearbox is lighter than the original, being of all alloy casings. We decided to keep the hydraulic clutch but convert to a concentric slave cylinder from a Saab which has made the clutch much quicker and smoother in operation.


Diesel Midget – by Keith & Sarah Fossey

After overhauling the cylinder head and engine with new shells, rings, honing the bores, a new injector pump and set of injectors, and getting the valve clearances spot on, the only part that needed modifi cation was the oil pick up and sump so it would clear the front crossmember. Of course being an OHV engine the 1.5TD is a lot taller than the old A series, even though it weighs less, and wouldn’t clear the bonnet. So we bought a new one made in GRP and glued a power bulge in place which makes it look like a Healey and keeps people guessing.

The spec of the engine makes the car very quick and powerful but still revs high at cruising speed, so we found a special




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brand new 3.5:1 ratio rear diff which makes the car really useable at all speeds.

To protect the engine we have added a coolant low level kit to the header tank which tells you when the water level has dropped, so the engine should never overheat.

The rev counter is accurate as the insides are from the Corsa and have been transplanted into the old shell; the speedo is working but reads 5mph slow due to differences in gearing.

One thing we had to move from the engine compartment was the battery, as there was no longer enough room for it and the new 4kw heater matrix. This we relocated in a custom built compartment behind the driver’s seat, like the MGB.

This means no more source of corrosion on the bulkhead and also spreads the weight better; the car is almost perfectly balanced between front and rear with just a slight bias to the front.

Not content with just changing the power plant, we have also had time to modify the brakes and suspension to make them safer and more stable. We have added a Watts linkage to the rear axle, turreted the rear shocks and converted them to fully adjustable gas damped telescopics.

The front discs are standard Midget but we converted the rear to take MX-5 discs and calipers, making up stainless steel adapter plates and connecting the handbrake system to the original. In the

process we also had the hubs and half shafts re-drilled to take 12mm studs at 100mm PCD which gives a large choice of wheels. Currently we have a set of 14” alloys with 165/70/14 tyres.

We have fitted front springs from an Austin A35, which are a little softer and give a more comfortable ride. The rear springs are a pair of new parabolics, originally made for racing, with polybushes fitted for durability.

The exhaust is a complete new stainless system from the turbo in 2” pipe.

We made up the front and rear bumpers out of 2” stainless, and just below the front bumper is a custom made rail designed for an A frame attachment to tow behind another vehicle e.g. camper van.



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There is a brand new fuel tank, which has been modified for diesel, and is connected to a sedimenter and electric fuel pump which isn’t necessary for normal running but handy for emergencies and changing fuel filters.

On the inside, we decided to move the windscreen wiper motor to make the operation smoother and whilst doing this we changed it to a 2 speed with self park. The new heater is very efficient but as an extra precaution against the cold, while changing the seats, we added heating pads to the back and base, re-covered them in leather, which make them very cosy. The seats themselves are from a Hyundai Coupe and are much more comfortable, but you lose a little head height with the roof up but a six footer can still get in with a bit of wriggling! The roof frame has been stripped and painted and a new custom made mohair roof fitted to match the colour scheme.

Another thing that was irritating about the standard car was the awful door mirrors. It now has brilliant convex glass type from the MX-5, and although not chrome they at least give you good

vision behind and don’t stand out like sore thumbs.

I’ve had lots of fun displaying the car at shows as well as using it for running around. I’ve never bothered to do any really accurate fuel checks but guess it averages around 50 to 70mpg depending on how it’s driven.

AN MG SPECIALIST GARAGE RUN BY MG ENTHUSIAST AND MG ROVER FACTORY TRAINED TECHNICIAN, CHRIS FLANAGAN.




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Club History – Part 4The fourth of the serialised 12 part enlarged

and updated Club History

POST-WAR REVIVAL1945-50John ThornleyBefore considering the post-war re-development of the Club, it may be as well to back track a little on the state of the country, the state of motoring in general and of MG in particular. When the war finished cars of any kind were not numerous. Those which were running mostly exhibited pitiful evidence of six years of minimal maintenance. Those which were in moth balls were in a condition which was proportionate to the expertise of the person who had

Export T Types destined for the USA to join the growing number of Centres set up by Russell Lowry

John Thornley makes a presentation to George Eyston, Russell Lowry on the right

HISTORY



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devised the method of preservation. Tyres were a severe problem. Petrol was rationed at a meagre level, a restriction which persisted until the end of the decade.

The MG Car Company, Abingdon, had been heavily involved in war work, employing some 1,600 people on a wide variety of projects, while its car making equipment, such as it was, was stored away in a warehouse in another part of the town and which somebody set on fire in 1943. All the exotic stuff, parts of K3, Q and R, bronze cylinder heads, twin-cam conversions and a host of development materials were in the basement which, of course, filled with water from the fire hoses.

Subsequently, because of the exigencies of war concrete was poured into the hole rather than that time should be wasted in attempting salvage. If any wealthy enthusiast would care to buy a block of flats and then bulldoze them, I think I could show him where to start digging!

Miraculously, almost all the tools which had produced the components of the TB, including the body, survived in various Nuffield organisation plants and it proved to be possible to have the beginnings of TC production in the last days of 1945. (As it was only in the May of that year that the Nazis had collapsed and August when the bombs fell on Hiroshima and Nagasaki, somebody at Abingdon had moved pretty fast.)

Even so, the UK market in MGs was not, of itself, such as to generate any great enthusiasm. The nation was living through the period when the catch phrase was “Export or Die”. The number of TCs and Y-types, which appeared in the middle of the following year available to be sold in the UK market was directly related to the number of cars which we could export. The miserly ratio, controlled by our allocation of body sheet, was of the order of one

home car per twenty exported. Small wonder we had a real good go at the USA!

But now, back to the Club. During the war Hector Cox, MG’s peace-time sales manager, had been a caretaker general secretary. Nothing creative was done, of course, and the work consisted mainly of replying to the letters which those delightful enthusiasts or ‘nuts”, according to which way you looked at it, wrote to the Club from time to time.

When I rejoined MG late 1945 or early 1946 (so help me, I can remember the salary but not the date!) one of the first things I did was to re-employ MG’s first customer G. S. (Jack) Gardiner as personnel manager and transfer the job of general secretary of the Club to him until such time as we could re-establish some ground organisation.

Our pre-war general secretary, Frank ‘Mit’ Harris, had died in the latter days of the war but his widow, Mary, who had always been a bright light in Club affairs concurrently with ‘Mit’ reappeared in the London centre and, in no time at all, there was an active committee, with Stanley Kemball as chairman and with Mary, Robin Mere, Stew Morgan, Walton and myself, among others, as members.

Petrol shortage virtually prohibited vehicular sport, so the forerunner of the present noggin and natter became popular, variety being added by rallies on the Underground! I can’t quite remember how they worked, but Stew Morgan has reminded me of an occasion when a piano appeared on the platform of, we think, Holborn tube station and a sing-song persisted half-way to Ongar.

Gradually, possibly one should say rapidly by today’s standards, things improved. The Company got its teeth into the

The Abingdon warehouse fire in 1943 which saw many rare development and racing parts lost



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American market, production improved, cars became available to the home market, enthusiasm re-kindled, the provincial Centres came to life again, new ones erupted, the pre-war membership level was reached and passed.

Motorsport began again. The MG Car Company participated officially, in a very limited way, in motor racing. The team of Jacobs, Phillips and Lund ran Ts and Ys at Dundrod and in the production car races at the BRDC Silverstone meetings. The pre-war Abingdon-Abingdon Trial was replaced by a gymkhana held within the perimeter of the Abingdon factory, the Company providing, inter alia, refreshment on a lavish scale such that this event rapidly became a major social occasion. It was at one such that I met Russell Lowry.

Lowry was a retired broker from the Liverpool Cotton Exchange who, from his youth, had pursued motorsport on two, three and four wheels, and was well involved in motor club life in the North of England. In the doldrums period he had started, written, edited and published a magazine called The Motor Club which had a good circulation in the North and, what is important from our point of view, was taken by our North-Western Centre which led to a friendship between Russell and Brian Norris.

The rapid growth of the MG Car Club had produced a workload which was clearly beyond the part-time capacity of an ever busier executive of a thriving company, and it was clear to me that it was of little use shifting the job to some less loaded person within the Company; Company affairs would always be given precedence and the Club would come nowhere. It was necessary to find a secretary outside. But who?

Russell had, for some time, been collating news of MG Car Club affairs for inclusion in the Nuffield Organisation magazine Motoring. In the matter of The Motor Club, Russell had been in touch with Dennis Poore and The Motor Club had become our old friend Autosport, edited by Gregor Grant, with Russell Lowry as Northern Editor and, within its staff George Phillips of immortal MG memory as official photographer, and an enthusiastic Ulster man, F.Wilson McComb, as one of its scribes.

At the BRDC Silverstone of 1950 one buttonholed Russell Lowry, twisting his arm until he agreed to become General Secretary of the MG Car Club. To my shame, he reminds me now that my then estimate of the extent of his labours would be “about one day a week”. With the growth of the Club overseas and its mounting success at home and, be it added, Russell’s ability to push things along, it soon became a full time job and, what is

more, we seduced Wilson McComb from Autosport to come to Abingdon and edit Safety Fast!. But the rest of the story is better left to them.

Jack Gardiner was a junior salesman in Morris Garages in 1924 looking forward to his 21st birthday on March 14. The birthday he knew would bring with it a useful little sum of money so he asked his chief to build him a special bodied Morris. Cecil Kimber agreed and in due course Gardiner took delivery of his Morris Garages Special (FC5333). It was first registered with the Oxford Licence Authorities on March 13 the day before his 21st birthday. Gardiner could certainly claim to have been Kimber’s first retail customer. Gardiner was later appointed Personnel Manager of MG and served for a year as the Club’s Secretary.

THE FIFTIES1950-59Russell LowryWhen John Thornley made me General Secretary of the MG Car Club in the summer of 1950, with effect January 1 1951, I had already been in touch with Club affairs for quite a while and had been reporting regularly in the New Outlook on Motoring, which was quickly ridiculed into just plain Motoring. We had one page (yes, boy, use both sides) on which to circle the world. So one of my first battles, which was to last nearly 10 years, was for more space. Eventually we won. The result was Safety Fast!

During these early days it seemed odd to me that the home Centres had practically no contact with each other and indeed, at Council meetings, some of them were barely on speaking terms. Local autonomy and local pride were valuable things in themselves, but a wider canvas was needed. Gradually it got woven. We wheedled some trophies out of the Nuffield Organisation for three regional rallies embodying an element of friendly rivalry and hospitality. The first all-Centre meeting was run at Silverstone in August 1951, and was very popular though organisational difficulties persisted. These days the Cobbans appear to carry Silverstone with all the ease and grace of Atlas doing a wheel change, but among those who really put this meeting on its feet one name which must always be remembered is that of Mary Harris. Nor should Wilf Hale and his Midlanders be forgotten. When finances became tight, they swore Silverstone could be run without loss. And they did it. So although in the 1950s new MGs for the British market were few and far between, the Club grew, soon exceeding its pre-war membership, and without losing its local flavours acquired a taller standpoint and a wider view.

Contact with the Home Centres was quick, easy and good, perhaps the more so as, based on Liverpool, I wasn’t too far from any of them. Overseas affairs were much more complex and difficult. It may be hard to realise today, but motorsport at club level was practically unknown in the outside world until it arrived on the shuddering springs of a TC from Abingdon. The seedling took root and grew mightily, but frankly nobody knew quite what to do with it. In the USA, for instance, the sport had no governing body so there were no “competition rules”. Lovely, says you? No sir. You cannot have a sport without rules. Blinding glimpse of the obvious. But that’s how it was, nearly everywhere. So we had to improvise.

A system of recognition, with a rather nice certificate signed by John Thornley and myself was devised. This conferred, as it were, sovereignty within its own area and no poachers would be recognised.

Russell Lowry General Secretary 1951 to 1963



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Centres drew up their own rules, based in the main on those of the parent Club, but submitted to them for approval. Ideas varied enormously, I recall one Centre which specifically banned the carrying of firearms during Club events. Another admitted no women (heaven help them, that country is now in a fever of equal rights!). A third (purported to) forbid alcohol on competition days. One felt rather as, I suppose, a doctor must feel at a birth; a desire and determination to help, some experience and some knowledge enabling one to do so, but a sense of awe coupled with excitement and fear in case things went wrong.

That bit of atmosphere must do duty for a mass of detail. We did what we could we already had, but found more, friends in high places who helped us without expecting the Club to be turned into a publicity stunt, or a private army, either of which we knew would destroy it overnight. People who didn’t see things this way had to be resisted with tooth, claw and maybe the occasional arrow. We had our successes and, goodness knows, our failures but it would seem that we built pretty well.

Present day paper shortages are probably due in part to the enormous exchange of mail with distant parts but there was one Centre which appointed a secretary especially because he couldn’t write! It was all good clean fun, with a serious purpose. I evolved an unlimited range of signatures with faces pleased, faces angry, faces pleading, coy, hearty and disdainful. And one that cried when it apologised. R was a useful initial.

The soundness of the overseas foundations is surely proved by the superstructure of hospitality, co-operation and friendship which has arisen on them, starting perhaps with the gift, by Long Beach, of the California Cup to the parent Club, then developing into the pattern of co-operation that exists today and about which one reads in Safety Fast! Long may it continue.

If I am to be remembered at all in the line of general secretaries, I would like it to be as the chap who nailed rule 2(a) to the mast, the rule declaring that the object of the Club was “to further the interests of the owners and drivers of MG cars” and who clung, sometimes against bitter opposition, whether in the

The last MG TC Midget coming off the Abingdon Assembly Line in 1949



FEATUREHISTORY

UK or overseas, to that doctrine. The chap who (except under the Dead Bodies, Crossing Over of Act) would not allow us to become just another motor club. I believe that policy to have been right. I inherited it, believed in it, observed it, and passed it on.

Somewhere, on a sideboard, or in a shed, is a piece of silverware called the General Secretary’s Cup. In 1951 nobody needed to know that it was a purely personal gift from me to the Club. We were not really short of cups. It just seemed a nice idea to me, as a newcomer

Now, nearly 25 years later, I can say that I’d like it always to be won by a member driving an MG, an MG made at Abingdon, as long ago as reasonably possible.

John Thornley penned this tribute to Russell LowryAfter the end of World War the Home Centres of the Club had come to life again after six years of hibernation. The British had embarked upon their export drive, and MGs had begun to flow in ever-increasing quantities all over the world. MG Car Clubs overseas had begun to erupt spontaneously, and the Club as a whole was an amorphous selection of Centres with a total membership, based on estimate rather than known fact, of some 2000. I had been trying in a very part-time capacity to pick up the various threads and attempt to tie them together. It was at this stage that Russell came upon the scene.

He was a self-confessed ex-cotton broker, with a certain amount of time on his hands. For years he had been interested in motoring and motorsport on two, three and four wheels, and had, prior to my meeting with him at Silverstone, been publishing a magazine called The Motor Club with a wide circulation in the North-West of England. Some of the MG Car Club Home Centres had been in touch with him, and were contributing to this magazine, and there were thoughts of it becoming the official organ of the MG Car Club. In this same August of 1950, however, Autosport started publication, and this incorporated The Motor Club, Russell becoming the Northern Editor of the wider journal. His knowledge of motorsport, his quite brilliant journalism and his manifest liking for the MG Car Club fitted him exactly to the General Secretary’s chair.

From the moment of his taking up the secretarial pen he has harnessed and developed the Club’s affairs as few others could have done. While the MG Car Company has been distributing and exporting its cars, Russell has been distributing and exporting the goodwill of the MG Car Club to the point where there are now some 8000 members throughout the world. Though he has visited many Centres of the Club, this co-ordination of what may justly be called the MG Brotherhood has been achieved primarily through the medium of correspondence.

During the past 50 years or so many have said that letter-writing was a dying art - that the day of ‘belles lettres’ was past. Russell is the shining example of the exception to this. Letters and memoranda from him on a wide variety of Club topics reach me at least every day - thorny problems, requests for guidance, masterly expositions of intricate overseas affairs, items just for information; each one a sheer joy to read. All over the world from Long Beach to Long Island, from Melbourne to Singapore, from Durban to Amsterdam, and from London to Edinburgh, there are those who derive pleasure from these letters of Russell’s, whether he is patting them on the back for some good piece of Club work, outlining some point of policy, or taking them to task for stepping out of line.

A classic scholar derived from a linguistic ability which would be the envy of many, and a knowledge of the not-so-dead languages, is an enormous vocabulary which every so often, it seems, is insufficient, so that he coins, concocts or generates a new word of his own - at once apposite and immediately

intelligible - to keep pace with our rapidly developing complex world. This wide choice of words, the deft twists of phrase, the use of the unexpected and the novel - all done, one feels, with a whimsical smile on his face - make the reading of his letters an exciting adventure. The sure knowledge of his subject, the warm understanding of the human problems involved, and the restraint with which, always, he will express his point of view, combine to inspire confidence and establish a lasting bond with those fortunate enough to be on the other end of the line.

Thus it is that countless MG Car Club members in the far corners of the world will, on a visit to England, direct their steps, as a first priority, towards Rose Cottage, Nest Wirral, the Lowry home. There they will meet Meg, his wife almost as much a part of the MG Car Club scene as Russ himself - and be absorbed - that is the word - into the Lowry ambience. They will discover that the man they have known as the writer of “those letters” is even more real in three dimensions, and that Meg, with her knowledge and viva is the fourth.

This is the foundation on which the International MG Car Club has been built. The great majority of our members have not been able to meet the Lowrys - the more is the pity. But perhaps from what I have said they may now be able the better to appreciate that they are members of a unique organisation which, while finding its common ground in the ownership of or interest in a fine car, has developed through the sympathetic understanding and single-mindedness of Russell Lowry.

The California Cup, a gift by the Long Beach Centre to the parent Club



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EVENTSREPORT

Now in its third year following the merger with the Triumph show, International Spares Day returned to Stoneleigh on February 21.

The traditional curtain raiser to the MG show season, the show was held a little earlier this year and thankfully the traffic issues that have marred the event in previous years seemed largely resolved, meaning that those who attended had a much less troublesome time getting in and out of the showground.

The Club was well represented with the MGF Register, T Type Register and Triple M Register and a stand manned by the team from Kimber House, which was supported by staff from British Motor Heritage with their racing Midget, flanked by a pair of more modern MGs in the form of Colin Grant’s XPower Grey TF Spark and the ZT 260 of Simon Bennett, the Sales Manager at the MG Sales Centre at Longbridge who very kindly loaned his car to the Club for display.

Traditionally seen as the curtain raiser to the motorsport season, Race Retro was greeted by hundreds of happy, if chilly racing fans.

The Club’s stand looked great, with David Coulthard’s MGF Cup car drawing plenty of visitors and plenty of admiring glances.

Race Retro is always well-attended by motorsport celebs and this year was no different. Alongside event stalwarts such as Barry ‘Whizzo’ Williams and Tony Mason, showgoers were also treated to interviews and signings with Damon Hill celebrating 20 years since he won the F1 World Championship in 1996.

Of course Race Retro’s biggest draw is the live action rally stage which was once again filled with all sorts of glorious rally machinery, most notably the Group B legend that is the MG Metro 6R4, which also had a presence in the show, being the stand car of choice for some exhibitors.

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NEWSLETTER


NewsletterWelcome to theVintage

NEWSLETTER VINTAGE Peter Jones • 01225 837545 • [email protected]

One of the many good things about owning an interesting car (and every MG is an interesting car) is the number of other interesting vehicles you get to drive! For me one of the more exciting happened many years ago when a group of us used to regularly decamp to Dieppe for the famed ‘Dieppe Retro’ re-run of the 1908 French Grand Prix, that originally was on ‘normal’ roads and now re-enacted (at very much slower speeds) during the fi rst week in September every year. This particular car was designed and built by the famous Napier company as an entrant but, as the rules had changed and only four cylinder cars were to be accepted, they apparently changed the name to Hutton, as vehicles of a mere four cylinders were beneath their dignity to produce! I spent a very pleasant afternoon motoring round the deserted ‘B’ roads in northern France in this vehicle (alas the photo taken with me at the wheel has now disappeared).

More recently, at ‘Barrington Day’ (Barrington is a small village in Somerset famed for Barrington Court, used by the BBC as a set in their fi lming of Wolfe Hall) I was invited by Peter Card to have a go on an 1890-something pedal operated machine. To steer this device you twisted the hand grip to your right, and to slow, twisted the left-hand one. This seems easy until you need to use one or other in something of a hurry but can’t quite remember which to use – whichever you do choose, the spokes of the large wheels have a nasty habit of removing knuckle fl esh as they pass by….

The thing about these more mature vehicles that most surprises is the quality of the ride (on smooth roads); it is often easy to forget you’re driving something over 100 years old. The steering is often precise, and light and pleasant to use. The Hutton’s clutch was a dry leather cone mechanism that gave a wonderfully smooth take up and

this car had a surprising amount of power and excellent torque. The Renault had a more ‘immediate’ clutch and was fi ne on fl at roads, but on inclines progress was slowed somewhat. Where things have improved beyond recognition is in braking capabilities – both vehicles only had rear wheel brakes – front brakes were considered dangerous by some in the early days! When they were introduced, red triangular signs were attached to the rear to warn following motorists that they were fi tted, so that they could keep well back. One of the advantages of inferior brakes is that they do incline one to observe the road far further ahead than many modern drivers are apt to do, and this enables us to anticipate problems well in advance. A handy attribute, even in a modern car.

My fi rst car was a TC which I bought in 1965 (or ’66, I can’t quite remember which) and I got to know Morgan Marshal through constant visits to his emporium to obtain spares and words of advice as to how to attach them, for this rather less than reliable, though amazingly good fun machine. This turned into a friendship and on one particularly glorious day he asked if I would like to have a go in ‘KX’ the MkI, narrow bodied, speed model 18/80. I leapt at the chance, he waved his hands in the general direction of the controls and climbed into the passenger seat. Off we set. First impressions were of the smoothness of the suspension and lightness of the steering – well anything compared to a TC is smooth with light steering! I was smitten. However at one point I was foolish enough to apply the brakes and immediately we leapt to the left. “Ah yes, the near side grab a bit…” was the explanation. I had never thought this a problem when Morgan drove me about – he just seemed to cope with it.

Barrington Day, and Roger Stanbury is coached by Peter Card as to the niceties of driving ancient machinery – a collection of more modern things in the background.


NEWSLETTER


VINTAGEPeter Jones • 01225 837545 • [email protected]

The next 18/80 I drove was the grey MkII saloon – ‘SU’. This had to go down to the Bristol Classic Car Show when it met in ‘E’ shed at the old Bristol Docks. I gingerly clambered in, shut the door (that was a bit loose) and started it, set off on my own and, with sweaty hands and beating heart, motored the few miles, through the traffi c, to the destination.

As it happened this was a busy weekend, as John Chatham wanted his full race, aluminium bodied ‘Sebring’ MGC down there too. Unwilling to drive it down with its open exhaust, he towed it behind his 4.2 E type Jaguar (also an exhibit) with me in the ‘C’ behind. Now John is a brilliant racing driver and famed for his exploits in the ex-Pat Moss Healey 3000 (DD) and then, after the demise of MG racing, he bought the remaining lightweight MGC bodies, aluminium engines, drawings for improved suspension etc. off the company and built several cars.

John’s anatomy was more or less normal except for an extremely small pelvis – he had a special seat made up for his racing C that, when I tried to get in, left my buttocks squeezed tight several inches above the squab padding. This made the windscreen somewhat below my normal line of vision. The car was not encumbered with many items that some may consider rather necessary—like, for instance, a battery. So, as it was getting a bit late (dark), and with his usual enthusiasm, he leaped aboard the tow car and set off at a spanking pace down the, by then, mainly clear roads to ‘the docks’.

Being a racing driver he didn’t really notice speed but was smooth as silk when driving his most excellent E type. I, on the other hand, was not. I was also sitting in a racing machine with stiff suspension, a dead engine, no servo on the brakes and no means of communicating with the vehicle in front. We got there very quickly.

On arriving, there was scaffolding erected on the front of the shed to allow vehicular access to the upper fl oor via an inclined plane of scaffolding planks. As it had been raining the planks were slippery John set off up with great gusto, only to fi nd that the turn at the top was rather smaller than the E type could manage, so he stopped – with his servo assisted disc brakes… In many ways I am lucky to be alive.

After the show I was allowed to drive SU back to Morgan’s house in Redland again, and was very pleased with my efforts. During the ‘cup of tea and sticky buns’ that were usually laid on in the afternoons I bragged about being able to change from 4th to 3rd and back again without any problems – “That’s because the MkII has a ‘double top’,” came the reply; “it’s very diffi cult to crash them.” I defl ated!

Talking of the lightweight MGCs that John Chatham had made up from parts acquired from the factory, I was once asked to drive one which, at that time, belonged to Edward

Kirkland. This was for a celebration of some sort at the MGCC Silverstone event. This was a nicely sorted road car and running on good tyres. John Chatham was also there with the racer mentioned above that was on slicks. Other complications he had included a leaking rocker cover that dropped oil on the hot exhaust and as this burnt off, the smoke fi lled the interior rather alarmingly. It was pouring down with rain that afternoon – usual for Silverstone, I think you will agree.

We all set off around the track and, nowhere near the front, I was enjoying myself drifting gently round the bends on the wet track (with the owner of the vehicle in the passenger seat). Suddenly a great light appeared in the mirrors and John zoomed by, lapping us as if we were stationary. He was on his slicks with one arm out rubbing the front window as the wipers didn’t work and leaving a plume of choking oil smoke behind him but keeping right ‘on the line’. Next time I saw him was when we pulled into the pits after a couple of laps – he was relaxing with a beer…

When I fi rst joined the Vintage Register in 1989 there used to be a big meeting to celebrate the VSCC’s Welsh trial. The enclave in West Sussex would motor over to stay the night with Roger Stanbury and I would join at the Severn Bridge and so up to Llandrindod Wells to have lunch with Phil and Gwen Jennings, then a bit of driving about before supper and up early on Sunday to spectate at the trial. All through the journey to Wales we would stop every 20 miles or so and swap cars and this was an excellent way to see how other

A reproduction of the Four Wheel Brakes warning triangle that you can still see on some older vehicles

Morgan Marshall piloting ‘KX’ round the California Cup Autotests at Silverstone in the distant past. He was proud of this shot as it shows the front tyre buckling with the cornering forces of his furious speed. Or, of course, it could be a bit fl at. The old ammunition boxes on the running boards were to store spares on the MCC’s trials – it kept the extra weight closer to the rear wheels.


NEWSLETTER


NEWSLETTER VINTAGE Peter Jones • 01225 837545 • [email protected]

similar vehicles behaved and, more importantly, what you needed to do to get yours up to standard.

At one changeover Peter Hague let me into his MkI speed model with his wife, the rather nervous Susie, beside me, and the children in the back. All was going well until there was an obstacle ahead and so I jumped on the brakes, as I would in my car. Peter’s car had the added advantage of a servo assisted hydraulic braking system that he hadn’t thought to mention. The car skidded to an immediate stop with Susie sliding forward and the kids crumbling into the back of the front seats with surprising impact. I drove much more gingerly after that.

Over the years I have always tried to encourage others to drive my cars – the 18/80, TC, Y type, MGC and a Maestro 2.0 EFi. For example once, when four of us motored up in the 18/80 to Minchenhampton Common to help marshal on the Stroud and District’s ‘Cotswold Clouds’ trial – it was a cold, damp experience – on the way home I asked the youthful Dave Mothersdill if he fancied a go. He jumped at the chance but unfortunately got ‘bitten by the bug’, and that all ended up many years later with, as he put it, “emptying the entire contents of my bank into Mr Stanbury’s and, in return, he emptied all the rubbish from his garage into mine.” Since then he has never looked back!

Talking about the Cotswold Clouds trial, for many years I regularly used to enter this in the TC and have always managed to climb the famed ‘Nailsworth Ladder’ section (incidentally Morgan Marshall also cleared this section in my 18/80 many years ago). In the past I have walked up this hill and wondered however I managed to drive up it! Fast forward 10 years and I was walking with Victoria and the dog over Minchenhampton Common one afternoon, and thought I would show Victoria the hill but couldn’t remember just where it came out; so, on seeing a rather local looking lady with a dog, tweed skirt and pushing her bicycle, complete with basket on the handle bars, I enquired if she knew the hill. “I know it well,” she said, “I went there every year to see my father competing in the Cotswold Clouds. You may have heard of his cars he built, he was the A in AC.” It never ceases to amaze me when chance meetings like that happen.

It may be an ‘urban myth’ but I believe we can thank AC for the 70mph speed limit on motorways. It was back in the 1960s and AC wanted to test their famed Sebring Cobra device before shipping it off to America to win races. So they chose to zoom up and down the M5 for a bit at speeds that I can only dream of. Alas, the police had nothing that fast (!) but as there were no upper speed limits in those days, the company was not breaking any laws; nothing could be done. So it was that, about the time I bought the TC, the 70mph limit was introduced. However this didn’t cramp my style in the TC too much…

Then again there was the time when I was driving back from Silverstone on a balmy evening following one Fred Body in his L type. After a few miles he suddenly stopped (never a particularly wise thing to do with me following) and waved me in – “Tell me about these 18/80s then,” he said. We swapped vehicles and I drove back with my knees up by my ears in the L and he luxuriated in comfort. He has now taken over from Morgan Marshall as the person who has worked on more 18/80s than anyone else.

The point about all these ramblings is, I suppose, that if you are lucky enough to own an MG, regardless of age, I thoroughly recommend that you invite as many as may be to ‘have a go’ in your car – you never know the exciting machines you may be offered in return.

SU in her beautiful ‘as left the factory’ state – only the doors have survived and could be used to recreate the original. The MkII 18/80 had what can be described as ‘two gearboxes bolted together’ in such a way that there is a ‘silent third’ gear (as it and top work directly). The extra weight of all this machinery rather lengthens acceleration times. In this shot Peter Evans is talking to Morgan Marshall and his cousin Norah Callow – note the cost of petrol on the sign opposite, and this was per gallon!

One of the drawbacks of using the car every day is that it can get a bit muddy in the winter months. If nothing else this year we have had a good supply of rain that encourages mud but at least the corporation hasn’t chucked too much salt about the place yet, so winter motoring continues in the cocoon afforded by the commodious weather equipment.

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NEWSLETTER


Newsletter

Welcome to the

MGA Twin Cam

NEWSLETTERMGA TWIN CAMColin Manley • [email protected]

Welcome to the fi fth Newsletter of the Twin Cam Group. Hopefully you have completed all of the Winter and Spring jobs you needed to do on your car and all is in fi ne shape for some miles ahead – yourselves included. Whilst opening this issue, can I please ask all Twin Cam owners for material for these newsletters. You have seen the content of the past issues, so you must have some topics you can, and would like to, impart to other owners. Like all organisations run by its volunteer members, we need the support

and active encouragement of the members. The Looking Back topic further on, about Barwell Cylinder Heads, results from Dick Gough’s initial suggestion and both his and Frank Burry’s input, and shows how you can all contribute. Contact me on the above email address when you have something in mind.

This issue is, fi ttingly, very much a ‘Looking Forward’ and ‘Looking Back’ newsletter as we celebrate our 50th Anniversary since the formation of the Twin Cam Group.

The inception of the Twin Cam GroupIn the early 1960s, it was not easy to form a new Register within the MG Car Club. In fact the request to start an MGB Register had been rejected on the grounds that the model had to be at least 15 years old in order that forming a Register could be considered. There was also strong resistance to any more work on Club administration (still run by the MG Car Company), over and above the three Registers that were in existence (Vintage, MMM and T-type). This did not deter some owners of MGA Twin Cams, a model which needed support, from trying to form a group of owners affi liated to the MG Car Club. The main movers seem to have been Mike Ellman-Brown and Phil Richer.

The fi rst public announcement about the idea of forming a Twin Cam Group seems to have appeared in Safety Fast! in the October 1965 issue. This is headed TWIN CAM OWNERS and goes on the say, ‘As parts and information relating to the Twin Cam model of “MGA” are getting scarcer, it has been proposed that a “Twin Cam Group” within the MGCC be formed, with mutual aid as the object. Twin Cam owners in any part of the world are asked to get in touch with Michael Ellman-Brown giving engine and chassis numbers of their cars. If the response is encouraging a regular new bulletin may be circulated and meetings arranged.’ The next piece of news appeared in ‘Around the Registers’ in July 1966 on the Silverstone meeting of May 21; in the short report Mike Allison, who wrote these sections, says, ‘In addition to the three older Registers, there were signs of encouragement for the “MGA” Twin Cam Register, proposed by Michael Ellman-Brown. Thirty cars assembled, which considering the short notice at

which the gathering was arranged was very good indeed.’ This shows that progress had been made but that offi cial approval had yet to be given, as it was referred to as a Register and not the Group that it became. It is worth noting that the move to start

the SVW Register had its fi rst notice in the following month.

The report on the Inter-Register Meeting at Beaulieu Abbey held in

September appeared in Safety Fast! in November 1966. The

fi rst paragraph ends, ‘Over 170 pre-1955 MGs were present,

together with a dozen or so twin-cam MGAs.’ They had to park outside the roped off area, though; at this stage only the original three Registers were involved directly in the meeting. Safety Fast!, still a BMC publication, continued to refer to three Registers until a Secretary for the SVW Register was listed in August 1967. In January 1968 a paragraph suggests that owners of the ‘MGA Twin Cam’ would

be interested to hear of the Twin Cam Group and comments that although not a

formal ‘Register’, this Group seeks to ensure that information about spares and the running of these cars is

not lost. Michael Ellman-Brown is given as the contact. It is not until the issue of May 1968 that the Twin Cam Group is listed in the MG Car Club News. From ferreting into other past paperwork and published material though, it has been accepted that the MGA Twin Cam Group was established as affi liated to the MG Car Club in 1966. The Group achieved Register status in February 1969 after the MG Car Club as we know it today had taken over from the Proprietary Club run and funded by MG at the start of 1969. The later MGA Register came into being offi cially at the Council Meeting in October 1970 along with ‘an undertaking that the MGA Register would never seek to take over, or absorb, the Twin Cam Group’.

See Stop Press item on the next page.

In the early 1960s, it was not easy to form a new Register within the MG Car Club. In fact the request to start an MGB Register had been rejected on the grounds that the model had to be at least 15 years old in order that forming a Register could be considered. There was also strong resistance to any more work on Club administration (still run by the MG Car Company), over and above the three Registers that were in existence (Vintage, MMM and T-type). This did not deter some owners of MGA Twin Cams, a model which needed support, from trying to form a group of owners affi liated to the MG Car Club. The main movers seem to have been Mike Ellman-Brown and Phil Richer.

The fi rst public announcement about the idea of forming a Twin Cam Group

Safety Fast! in the Safety Fast! in the Safety Fast!October 1965 issue. This is headed TWIN CAM OWNERS and goes on the say, ‘As parts and information relating to the Twin

the Group that it became. It is worth noting that the move to start the SVW Register had its fi rst notice in

the following month.The report on the Inter-Register

Meeting at Beaulieu Abbey held in September appeared in Fast!

fi rst paragraph ends, ‘Over 170 pre-1955 MGs were present,

together with a dozen or so twin-cam MGAs.’ They had to park outside the roped off area, though; at this stage only the original three Registers were involved directly in the meeting. Safety Fast!continued to refer to three Registers until a Secretary for the SVW Register was listed in August 1967. In January 1968 a paragraph suggests that owners of the ‘MGA Twin Cam’ would

be interested to hear of the Twin Cam Group and comments that although not a

formal ‘Register’, this Group seeks to ensure that information about spares and the running of these cars is

not lost. Michael Ellman-Brown is given as the contact. It is not


NEWSLETTER


NEWSLETTER MGA TWIN CAM Colin Manley • [email protected]

Looking AheadBelow are some main events for Twin Cam owners, especially the 50th Anniversary Lunch where we hope to get as many Twin Cam and De-Luxe owners as possible to come and mark the 50 years since the Twin Cam Group was formed.

Sunday April 10 – MG Era Day at Brooklands. A last minute reminder for this annual event. This will be an MGA TCG supported event. There will be action on the Test Hill, a Concours d’Elegance and a cavalcade on the Mercedes-Benz World circuit. More details at:http://www.brooklandsmuseum.com/index.php?/events/details/brooklands-mg-era2/

No booking is required, just turn up and enjoy the day, the cars and the history.

Friday 6–Monday May 9 – 2016 MGA Register Spring Weekend. For 2016, after an absence of nine years, we return to the scenic beauty of the North York Moors National Park. A very popular event and overfl ow accommodation is now being booked up.

Contact Registrar Stuart Mumby on [email protected].

Sunday May 22 2016 – 50th Anniversary Twin Cam Group Luncheon - STOP PRESS – LAST CALL! Advance booking and pre-payment now essentialPiers Hubbard, our Historian, along with help from others who provided input, summarised the 1966 inception of the Twin Cam Group at the start of this feature.

Way back in 1976, the MGA Twin Cam Group held an Anniversary Luncheon at the Oxford Lodge Hotel to mark the ten years since the Twin Cam Group was formed in May 1966, principally by the efforts of Mike Ellman-Brown.

So the 10th Anniversary was formally marked, and it also highly appropriate to mark 50 years of the Twin Cam Group.

As mentioned above, we are holding a Twin Cam Group 50th Anniversary Luncheon on Sunday May 22 2016 at The Half Moon, WINDLESHAM GU20 6BN to which all Twin Cam and De-Luxe owners are invited.There will be limited preferential parking for Twin Cam and De-Luxe MGAs.£20 per head for a two course Sunday Lunch with Tea or Coffee. (Dessert available at your extra cost on the day)

This is a key date for the Twin Cam Group and we would like to have as many Twin Cam and De-Luxe owners as possible attend this 50th Anniversary Lunch. We need to establish numbers, pre-pay and fi nalise this fi rm booking, so please contact Mark Hester on [email protected] to book and pay for your place(s). If any owners were at the fi rst offi cial event at Silverstone in May 1966, or at the 10th anniversary luncheon, please make themselves known to Mark, as we should like to honour and specially invite those early members.

Saturday 4–Sunday June 5 2016 – MG Live! Silverstone. The largest MG event in the world. Keep an eye on the dedicated website for further news: www.mglive.co.uk

Sunday July 10 2016 – South West MGA Day. Terry Drinkwater retires as MGA Register South-West Representative at the AGM in April and Alan Whitfi eld, who lives in North Somerset, has kindly agreed to take over from Terry and will be planning the annual South-West Day, a one-day touring event visiting some of the attractive locations in this lovely part of the world.

Contact Alan Whitfi eld on alanwhitfi [email protected].

Sunday July 31 (provisional) – Scottish MGA Day. Register Scottish Representative, George Rome, will be organising this one-day touring event north of the Border. Full details will be announced in the near future.

Sunday August 14 – MGA Day.Contact Jonny Pollard on [email protected]. This year it will take place at the National Trust’s Charlecote Park www.nationaltrust.org.uk/charlecote-park in Warwickshire. No booking is necessary, but NT members must bring their cards for free entry. Watch this space and the MGA Register website for further details.

Sunday August 21 – Stockfest Rare Breeds Classic Tour & Show, Stockcross, near Newbury.Full details for the Twin Cam Group supported and sponsored 2016 event will be available in the near future, check www.mgcc.co.uk/mga-twin-cam-group/mga-twin-cam-group/events-2/ but visit the event’s 2015 websites: www.rarebreedstour.co.uk and www.stockfestcarshow.co.uk for a fl avour of this traditional village-based event, or contact Edward Vandyk at [email protected] or on 07836 727212. Entries to the tour from Twin Cams are especially welcome; there were 15 last year and more at the show. Entry forms for the tour are available on the tour website.

Features for 2016 will include a beer tent featuring West Berks Brewery ales, this was drunk dry last year despite the rain; a hot food offering by local caterers; a vintage fair; open gardens; marionettes for children and adults; and live music from fi ve bands until 8.00pm. It is a village event to be based round the tour and show and designed to be a whole day event with something for everyone be they driver, co-driver, navigator or passenger.

Friday 23–Monday September 26 2016 MGA Register Autumn Weekend.Full details of this event were given last month in the MGA section of Safety Fast!. The chosen location is Norfolk and our base will be the Park Farm Hotel near Norwich www.parkfarmhotel.co.uk. David Simons is putting together a plan for the weekend which will include the North Norfolk coast on the Saturday and the Norfolk Broads on the Sunday, fi nishing at Blickling Hall www.nationaltrust.org.uk/blicklingestate. Check the website at www.mgcc.co.uk/mga-register/events-in-2016/ for details and booking forms.

Piers Hubbard, our Historian,

in 1976, the MGA Twin Cam Group held an Anniversary Luncheon


NEWSLETTER


NEWSLETTERMGA TWIN CAMColin Manley • [email protected]

Looking BackMGA Twin Cam – Barwell Cylinder HeadA few MGA Twin Cams are running around with cylinder heads modified by an engineering company called Barwell, who were operating from Chessington, Surrey in the late 1950s and 60s. The work they carried out on the head involved enlarging the inlet ports and throats, reshaping and flaring them, then polishing them to increase and smooth out the airflow. Larger inlet valves were then fitted. The exhaust side had similar treatment involving enlarging the exhaust valve seats and fitting special large exhaust valves. The exhaust ports were also polished and new valve guides fitted to both inlet and exhaust valves. A very old advert shows this to cost £28 but a later item shows the cost had increased to £40. You would not get much done now for £40 today.

From the reprint of an old Barwell catalogue that Dick Gough has, you can see the BHP figures for the modified engine along with figures for both 1 & 3/4” carbs and 2” carbs. Can anyone explain why the figures for the 2” carbs are lower than those of the 1 & 3/4” carb up to 5,000rpm – or have we just discovered that the typist got the information the wrong way round in the two columns up to that point!

Dick thinks: ‘The larger carbs on the Twin Cam may well produce less power at lower revs, I am no expert to say the least,

but my understanding is that big carbs, valves etc. start to work when you wind the engine up. Smaller carbs, valves work better at low revs. All down to trying to get more air through a larger hole with the same amount of suck.’

Interesting to see that the modified engine with 2” carbs took the BHP at 7,000rpm from 106BHP, on a standard engine, to 128.2 BHP.

Only now is Frank Burry’s Barwell headed engine giving a bit of a blue puff on overrun but there are no other issues otherwise.

Dick does not think that the head on his roadster is Barwell modified. It has larger inlet valves and he has

matched the ports up to a Weber manifold. It would seem that while Barwell also put larger exhaust valves in, Dick’s

engine are standard size and when he last saw Peter Wood with one of the inlet valves with him, “Peter asked if my head was a Barwell but seemed to think they had some sort of stamping or marking to denote that was what they were,” says Dick.

Barwell, it would seem, were based opposite some ‘Ministry of Supply’ ex-army type huts, now long gone, on the same side of the road as what is now Chessington World of Adventures. New industrial units are now on the same site and on what would seem to signify that it was army: Garrison Road.

John Lucas, managing Director of Barwell, comes to mind as Lucas heads were well known back then and Dick assumes it is the same person. Barwell also did an alloy ‘A series’ head.

It would seem it was a small community in this area as Dick has just found out that about a mile up the road was High Efficiency Motors run by C.T. Tommy Atkins, who raced at Brooklands (owners of Dick’s coupe for about a year, Jan 60 to Feb 61; the first Guy Salmon Automobiles also based about a mile away, July 59 to Jan 60) who were well in to racing Cobras, Coopers etc. with names like Bruce Mclaren Roy Salvadori, Jack Brabham and more.

Dick has now looked up a bit more and thinks that “Barwell Motorsport in Leatherhead, still going strong, came from Barwell


NEWSLETTER


NEWSLETTER MGA TWIN CAM Colin Manley • [email protected]

Motors in the early 60s when they may have sold out, I do not know how true this is because they are very hazy about their beginnings, just stating that they started in the 60s.”

Coincidently Dick remembers taking a Twin Cam crank and rods to Brabhams in the 1960s for balancing, not realising all the above. Dick muses, “Also about a mile away was Cooper Cars (also somewhere I have driven past on many occasions not realising!) hence Bruce McLaren, Jack Brabham as they both drove F1 for Cooper (I met John Cooper in his later days, great bloke). I have no doubt all these people, being so close, knew each other very well. Who knows, Bruce McLaren or Jack Brabham or someone else might have driven my coupe at one time, hence although it has a relatively low mileage, it is on 60 thou bores having had some spirited/sporting driving.”

Call it MGATo close, after looking back, how about buying the second edition of Call it MGA to bring you right up to date.

The fi rst edition of this superb book by Roger Martin and Piers Hubbard was published in 2004 and is now highly sought after, with examples changing hands at many times the original price on internet auction sites.

The new, revised and updated edition, which includes three new chapters and a wealth of colour photographs, is now available and can be ordered by visiting

www.mgcc.co.uk/mgaregister/merchandise-shop/ and following the ordering instructions.

By email you will be sent a PayPal invoice which you can pay by credit or debit card at no extra charge. (You do not need your own PayPal account to pay the invoice.) No MGA owner’s bookshelf or coffee table should be without this book.

Don’t forget, email me with your own topics for inclusion in future newsletters.

Other items …First, is a copy of the April 1979 invite to the honouring of EX-181 at the Indianapolis 500 Motor Speedway Museum.

Then, a letter from Lyle York, of the MGA Twin Cam Registry Indiana, about imploring readers to join the MG Car Club UK ‘Twin Cam Group’ attached to the MGA Twin Cam Registry Overseas Centre. Lyle notes that: ‘On May 15, 1978 we achieved a major goal in this long pursuit of our hobby in that we were recognised as a “Centre” by the MG Car Club Ltd. of England.’

He also proposes: ‘there can probably be an annual get together organised ….’ From little acorns eh?

Also unearthed was an undated copy of MG Magazine

containing an interview with Phil Hill and the inside story of ‘Phil Hill’s astonishing 254mph world record, established 20 years ago’.

How time fl ies!



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NEWSLETTER

www.mgcc.co.uk46 APRIL 201646 APRIL 2016

NewsletterWelcome to theV8

Coolant bleed insert

NEWSLETTER V8 Victor Smith • 0208 392 9434 • [email protected] • www.v8register.net

GTS104 thermostat – drilled vent or undrilled?Dave Morris sought clarifi cation on whether the MGV8 thermostat is vented. He asked, “Does anyone know if the thermostat on the RV8 should be drilled or undrilled? I ask because I decided to replace mine while renewing the cooling system hoses using silicon hose kit from Clive Wheatley mgv8parts which I am very happy with. I ordered a new GTS104 thermostat from one of the usual suppliers and found when it arrived there was no vent. The old one (I don’t know if it is original but doubt it) was the drilled type with the little bobble valve. I have tried to look at the spec for the GTS104 and can fi nd both types so now I am not sure which is correct or best.”

Looking at the service repair section (Cooling system: Repair, page 3) of the RV8 Repair Manual AKM7153ENG, the procedure for replacing the thermostat is set out. The illustration in the workshop manual shows the thermostat (1) mounted horizontally and a note specifi cally says, ‘Fit the thermostat to the housing with the vent pin (bobble valve) (2) in the 12 o’clock position – caution, failure to position the thermostat correctly can lead to air locks and overheating.’

Dave Morris later added he had “spoken with Brown & Gammons and they said the thermostat does need to be vented. So I will indeed drill it accordingly, but I wonder why the drilled type isn’t specifi ed as it was on my old XJR?”

So it is clear the thermostat originally fi tted to both the MGB GT V8 and RV8 model had a vent pin and it is important that it is located correctly in the thermostat housing.

Nic Houslip says, “The Rover parts manual for the RV8 lists the thermostat as GTS104, so we are sure that is the correct part. I think that a caution for members is to check for the presence of the vent pin, bleed valve, bobble pin or whatever it is called, and to reject any thermostat supplied that does not have one. A quick survey of the leading parts suppliers shows four seem to offer a GTS104 with no vent and three suppliers offer a GTS104 with a vent – they are Brown & Gammons, Clive Wheatley mgv8parts and Moss Europe. There is also a very wide variation in price, from as little as £2.40 to over £6.00, but in absolute terms not expensive.”

Dave Morris added, “Yesterday I went to my local motor factor and looked at their stock of thermostats. What I found was that all of their 82°C thermostats, including those listed as a GTS104 equivalent, were unvented. Conversely their 88°C part, listed for 3.9 Discoveries and Range Rovers, was vented. Not a very scientifi c survey I know but what I think it means is that we need to take care when buying replacements from non-specialist suppliers using the MG or Unipart part numbers.”

Nic Houslip added, “The small drilled hole is a bleed hole, primarily to allow a small amount of heated water to go past the thermostat and ensure that the wax bulb gets heated and allows the thermostat to open. It also allows the release of any air trapped (which may also prevent the bulb getting heated) to pass. The ‘bobble valve’ allows a reverse fl ow of water during cooling down when the thermostat may be closed. When buying a replacement GTS104 thermostat you need to check carefully it has a vent and bobble valve.”

Thermostat with the vent at top

1

2


NEWSLETTER

APRIL 2016 47 www.mgcc.co.uk APRIL 2016 47

NEWSLETTERV8Victor Smith • 0208 392 9434 • [email protected] • www.v8register.net

Why were 6RA relays used?As with many other cars of the period, MGBGTV8s used Lucas 6RA relays to control the power supply to various electrical ancillaries, specifi cally those that draw larger currents like the starter motor and twin cooling fans fi tted to V8s. The benefi t of using a relay, an electrically operated switch, is it allows a high current circuit (for example the circuit supplying power to the twin fans) to be controlled by an isolated, low current circuit (the circuit with the switch). This enables all the wiring handling the highest currents to be located within the engine bay but controlled by low current wiring routed from a switch. With the twin fans the switch is the Otter thermostat switch on the top of the MGBGTV8 engine but in cases where the switch is near the dashboard, removing the high current wiring from the dashboard area reduces a potential fi re hazard and also allows a lighter grade of wiring to be used for the switch.

How does a 6RA relay work?When reading workshop notes or V8 Bulletin Board threads mentioning technical terms or particular replacement parts, many members may welcome information on how various components

Fault with the starter 6RA relayThe familiar bright alloy case of a 6RA relay on the offside inner wing of an MGBGTV8 greets you every time you go into the engine bay. The 6RA forward of the fuse box controls the twin cooling fans, and the other on the bulkhead side controls the engagement of the starter motor. In both cases the 6RA relay is managing the switching on and off of a high current device with a signal from a switch on a low current circuit – so in effect the 6RA is relaying the signal from the low current circuit into an action on a high current circuit.

Recently Steve Newton replaced the 6RA relay for the starter motor as part of the refurbishment of an MGBGTV8 owned by a longstanding V8 Register member, John Gay. Within a day or so a fault developed where having turned on the ignition key to engage the starter motor to fi re up the engine, the starter would not stop turning once the engine was running. Usually once the engine fi res up the starter motor automatically stops and disengages, but

with John’s V8 even turning the ignition off left the starter motor turning! The only way to stop this was to tap the alloy case of the 6RA to free the contacts or to break the power supply to the starter motor from the batteries. With John’s car he has a battery isolator switch so that was a readily available option.

Steve replaced the 6RA but the problem was repeated a few days later. So he opened up both 6RA relays to investigate what was going on and causing this problem. What he found was sadly not unusual with many replacement parts in the classic car spares market today – poor quality parts, often imported from Far Eastern suppliers and manufacturers.

On examining the faulty 6RA relay Steve found the contacts in the switch came together under the magnetic force of the coil in the relay but did so at an angle and not parallel to each other as they should, so there was a reduced area of surface contact between the contacts. With the large current drawn by the starter motor, the result was a fusing in one spot with the limited area of surface contact between the fi xed and fl exing contacts. This could only be broken by tapping the 6RA case to free the contacts. Steve also detected a lack of suffi cient spring tension on the sprung blade (the lower of the two contacts in the photo above).

Where a 6RA relay is used in less demanding roles, for example with the twin cooling fans, the surface fusing problem above is far less likely to arise. So a serious operational fault will not develop, although we have seen a case of a ‘burn out’ on the C1 terminal with a 6RA relay used for twin cooling fans.

work. The 6RA relay fi tted to the MGBGTV8 model is an example, and here Nic Houslip explains how a 6RA relay works.The 6RA designation is a generic one, and more properly it should include information on the number of contacts so that you get the right part. To start with, let’s use the one we often see on the MGBGTV8, the 6RA with four terminals. The 6RA relay below is a new one, so I scraped away the silicon sealant that was applied to keep the canister watertight and bent the crimps slightly to allow the internal workings to be exposed. Highlighting the markings stamped into the Bakelite base with a small marker pen ensures that the legend C1, C2, W1 and W2 is now clear.

Older 6RA relays may not have the silicon sealant, certainly original equipment would not have had sealant. With replacement


NEWSLETTER

www.mgcc.co.uk48 APRIL 201648 APRIL 2016

NEWSLETTER V8 Victor Smith • 0208 392 9434 • [email protected] • www.v8register.net

6RAs the sealant also obscures the terminal markings, so you may need good light and even a magnifying glass to see them.

Internal workings of a 6RA relayIf we now turn to the internal workings, you can clearly see the Coil (or winding) in the centre of the photo. The coils are wound on an insulating former (the Bobbin) which is fi tted over a soft iron Pole piece, the circular part protruding from the top of the Bobbin. Note too, the thick silver coloured iron frame that is fi xed under the Coil and supports the Armature that is suspended above the Pole piece. The phosphor bronze spring that carries the armature, called the Blade, can be seen riveted to the frame and extends to the right to carry the Contact, the

button shaped piece top right; directly under it is the other Contact which is connected to Terminal C1 via the silver coloured metal strip.

The Pole piece is riveted through the base and is actually the connection for the Contact to Terminal C2. When current is passed through the Coil via Terminals W1 and W2, a magnetic fl ux is set up in the Pole piece, which fl ows through the air gap that you see just above the Pole piece and under the Armature, back to the Frame and thus back to the Pole. This fl ux causes

a magnetic force that attracts the Armature, closing the air gap and moving the upper Contact downwards toward the other Contact, thus making the electrical circuit. Soft Iron is the material of choice as it has little remanence, or lack of residual magnetism, which means the magnetic fi eld collapses quickly when the current through the Coil stops and the Armature is no longer attracted.

Now the circuit is made, current will fl ow from Terminal C2 via the frame, the riveted spring Blade to the upper and then the lower Contact and out via Terminal C1 which is riveted to the metal strip that supports the lower Contact. This metal strip has another function that isn’t immediately obvious; during fi nal test after assembly the strip, which you will notice has a kink, is tweaked by the test operator to position the lower contact immediately below the upper.

The Contacts might seem to the layman to be simply a couple of buttons made of a material that conducts electricity well, but most of the development effort in relays in the last 100 years has been in this area. The choice of metal used depends on the duty the relay is required to perform; there are myriad choices and the manufacturer will have taken into account the operating environment, vibrations, life time cycles and many other factors such as pressure and speed of operation. The Contacts are arranged so that they do not appear to align very well, but this is deliberate, because as they come together the springy Blade bends a little and the Contacts move axially, allowing them to ‘wipe’ against each other, giving a slight cleaning action. Too much wipe introduces wear, so this has to be carefully controlled. The

spring also exerts a force on the Contacts that keeps them together. A certain pressure is necessary to ensure low contact resistance.

The top view of the 6RA relay workings reveals a curious piece of bent brass that protrudes over the top of the Armature. Despite its crude construction, this is a very critical part of the relay and should not be bent or moved at all. Its function is to limit the size of the air gap between the Armature and Pole piece so that when the Coil is energised, the Armature is instantly attracted. If the gap is too large the Armature may not pull in, too small and the contact separation may be too little.

Contact separation is also important when switching an inductive load, such as a motor or a solenoid; there is a voltage generated in the windings of a motor that is in opposition to the normal and depending on the magnetic properties of the iron and the assembly may be many times higher than the humble 12 volts being switched. Too little separation can allow this voltage (or back emf as it is known) to cause arcing that pits the contacts and erodes them. In more serious cases it could actually cause arcing which may weld them together.

An important consideration too is the vibration that the relay will experience in its daily life. If the relay is subject to shock loads caused for example by pot holes in the road, it isn’t diffi cult to understand that the force on the Armature may be suffi cient to cause the Contacts to momentarily separate. Usually the manufacturer will have determined the correct orientation for the relay mounting. With a 6RA, bolting it to the bulkhead is probably the best possible location, although under a heavy bump and rebound there may be a slight axial displacement of the Contacts and momentarily loss of electrical contact.

Corrosion is a source of 6RA failureThe 6RA relay is prone to another curious failure mode; the construction of the relay is riveted, and depending on the skill of the operator and the set-up of the press to do it, there may be a small resistance between the various parts, particularly at the rivets to the Faston or Lucar blades. Over time the penetration of moisture can result in corrosion setting in – the environment in the engine bay is a very nasty place, so there must be airfl ow, but when it’s raining cats and dogs on the M1 a lot of water gets in there. What happens here is unexpected; the increase in resistance causes the blades and rivet to heat up, and after some cycles the material of the rivet will lose its clamping force and resistance will increase, causing further heating. This becomes self-destroying as eventually the terminals will get quite hot, the heat is transferred to the Faston connector and this too will lose its temper and contribute, by lessened holding force, to further heating and leading to eventual burning of the Bakelite base and a failure just when you need the fans most.

The best recommendation here is to replace the 6RA relay and at the same time replace the crimped on Faston connections on the wires if you have any doubt about their holding force. If they pull off and go back on easily they may have softened, so replacement is a must.

Finally, when assembling the whole thing a quick spray of WD40 on the contacts blades makes them much easier to reconnect and will keep moisture away from the contact interfaces, leading to long life.


NEWSLETTER

APRIL 2016 49 www.mgcc.co.uk APRIL 2016 49

NEWSLETTERV8Victor Smith • 0208 392 9434 • [email protected] • www.v8register.net

V8 Workshop Notes series passes the 500 milestone!Launched in April 1979, the V8 Workshop Notes series began with a note from John Dupont on removing and refi tting a V8 water pump, and in February 2016 the 500th note was released reporting a fault seen with 6RA relays supplied as replacement parts. That’s an average of one new note a month for 38 years! The series of RV8 Workshop Notes was launched in September 1999 and has reached 415 notes, so a combined total this month of 918 notes. With 31 notes generated over the last 12 months it’s likely we will reach a thousand notes by the time we celebrate the 40th anniversary of the formation of the V8 Register in October 2018. The workshop notes are popular with V8 enthusiasts and are now supplied on a neat Twister memory stick bearing the V8 Register logo. The success of the workshop notes series underlines the way V8 members actively participate in the V8 Register by contributing articles and notes on servicing concerns and spares issues.

Visit to the Black Country Living MuseumSteve Newton has arranged a group visit to the Black Country Living Museum on Saturday April 9 2016 meeting at 11am. Located in Dudley in the West Midlands, it is one of the fi nest and largest open-air museums in the United Kingdom. After very humble beginnings, a bright idea and 40 years of inspiration, this is 26 acres worth exploring. Amazing as it may seem, they have created a ‘place’ – a real and lively place – where once there was nothing and nobody; now with a village and charismatic residents to chat with, trams to ride and games to play. Things being made, stories to hear, people with their triumphs to admire and troubles to be thankful they are not ours. Contact Steve Newton on 07811 474774 or by email. Full details via the ‘More’ webpage on the V8 website.

RV8 Spring Run in YorkshireStuart Mumby is organising a Spring Run on Sunday April 24 2016, primarily for MG RV8s, but all MGV8s are welcome. This coincides with the FBHVC Drive-it-Day and will offer an ideal opportunity to get your car out and be seen on this important annual event. The route will take in Bronte and Summer Wine Country in the scenic Yorkshire Pennines. The run will be free to enter for MG Car Club members, £5 for non-members. Please contact Stuart by email or on 01430 871078 if you wish to join the tour as it helps with catering arrangements. The day will start with coffee and morning victuals and end at a suitable refreshment venue. Full details via the ‘More’ webpage on the V8 website.

V8 Technical Day 2016Following the successful V8 Technical Days in 2014 and 2015, Roger Aldridge is planning another for Saturday May 21 2016 in the John Thornley Suite at Club Office, with three speakers in the morning, lunch and then a move over to Frontline Developments in Abingdon for presentations on their activities and a tour of their new factory. There will also be a chance to look at their new MGBs. Contact Roger Aldridge to book a place. Full details via the ‘More’ webpage on the V8 website.

V8 Autumn Tour 2016The next V8 Tour in the popular series will be based in The New Forest National Park from Thursday 1 to Monday September 5 2016. The tour will be through beautiful areas of the forest and visiting various establishments, including a winery, the famous Buckler’s Hard where ships of the line were built and fi nishing at the Museum of Army Flying for a tour, followed by a buffet lunch prior to departure for home. Contact Mike Lane on 01264 350040 to book a place. Full details via the ‘More’ webpage on the V8 website.

Swiss-MGV8 event in Portugal before the EEOY 2017MGV8 enthusiasts planning to travel to Portugal to attend the MG Car Club’s European Event of the Year 2017 will welcome the early news that a preliminary event for V8 enthusiasts – ‘Visiting Portugal

2017’ – is being planned there from Saturday July 29 to Thursday August 3 2017 by the Swiss V8 Group, run by Victor Rodrigues and his Swiss wife Evelyne. Although he has lived for many

years in Zurich in Switzerland, Victor originally comes from Portugal and has used his local knowledge to arrange the additional event. He and Evelyne would welcome

early indications of interest from V8 Register members. The number of cars will be limited to 20 with their crews. The planned accommodation is described in the preliminary information available via the ‘More’ webpage on the V8 website.

Repairing an electronic key fobFinding your electronic key fob has developed a fault – for example one of the buttons has fallen out or it simply stops working – can leave you with a puzzle as to how to get the fob repaired or replaced without too much hassle or expense. Richard Lomas reported in 2011 that he had used Automobile Locksmith to repair the fob for his RV8 and found an excellent service. He sent the fob on Wednesday and it was returned Friday morning with a new fob. They also sell both new and used remote transponder keys, blank key blades, replacement batteries and other parts for the auto locksmith industry and repair kits for technically-minded DIY people. Visit their website to see the full range of services they provide and the models they support or call them on 01733 705009 (Monday to Friday 8am to 5pm), you can pay online. See our ‘More’ webpage for further details.

Where is a V8 I used to own?An increasing number of enquiries are coming from enthusiasts who are trying to trace an MGV8 they had once owned and enjoyed in earlier years. Colin Matthews had an MGBV8GT from new, registration number BRE 960M, and wondered if by chance it is still in existence. On checking the V8 Database (which we believe has records of more than 70% of the surviving MGBGTV8s) there was no trace of a V8 with that registration number. On checking the VES (Vehicle Enquiry Service) on the GOV.UK website a record popped up reporting the car with that registration plate is an MG with a 3528cc engine and is taxed to July 1 2016 and with a current MOT to July 20 2016. So it appears this V8 is very much alive! Does anyone know this car?

In another case Bob Neville revealed a painting of an MGBGTV8 and would like it to be passed on to the current owner of the car. The painting notes the registration number was JJH 263N. An MGBGTV8 with the registration number JJH 263N is not recorded on the V8 Database so we did a Vehicle Enquiry Service check on the GOV.UK website which shows an MG in Red with a 3528cc engine is on a SORN with an MOT due to expire in April 2016. So it appears the car is out there – does anyone know the car and its owner so the painting can be passed to the present owner? See the painting and links to the VES GOV.UK website on our ‘More’ webpage at www.v8register.net/more.htm

of 918 notes. With 31 notes generated over the last 12 months it’s likely we will reach a thousand notes by the time we celebrate the 40th anniversary of the formation of the V8 Register in October 2018. The workshop notes are popular with V8 enthusiasts and are now supplied on a neat Twister memory stick bearing the V8 Register logo. The success of the

Swiss-MGV8 event in Portugal before the EEOY 2017MGV8 enthusiasts planning to travel to Portugal to attend the MG Car Club’s European Event of the Year 2017 will welcome the early news that a preliminary event for V8 enthusiasts – ‘Visiting Portugal

2017’ – is being planned there from Saturday July 29 to Thursday August 3 2017 by the Swiss V8 Group, run by Victor Rodrigues and his Swiss wife Evelyne. Although he has lived for many

years in Zurich in Switzerland, Victor originally comes from Portugal and has used his local knowledge to arrange the additional event. He and Evelyne would welcome

early indications of interest from V8 Register members. The number of cars will be limited to 20 with their crews. The planned accommodation is described in the preliminary information available


NEWSLETTER


MG6.3.5

NewsletterWelcome to theMG6.3.5

Steve Haines • [email protected] • www.facebook.com/groups/MG635Register• https://twitter.com/635register • http://www.mgcc.co.uk/mg635-register/

Steve Haines’ MG6 outside the MG factory, Longbridge

mn1B8PX-fFIwPco/viewform. r find it on the MGCC egister mi ro we age

ur egistrar Matt im erley has set u and loo s after this data ase and will e ha y to re ei e hand written registration forms y ost if re uired as we are aware that not e eryone uses the internet

or email lease onta t im er ouse who will e a le to get a form to you to fill in or alternati ely we will e a le to a ture registration data at all of the e ents this year

As ownershi and mem ershi of the egister ontinues to grow we are seeing more and more interest and enthusiasm for the latest models from MG o ial media traffi has in reased su stantially with a ositi e i e from owners and otential owners ali e eo le are loo ing for a ery good deal on oth new and re lo ed MG s and s in the and also with other models su h as the MG and MG G worldwide Internationally sales are in reasing as are the num ers of owners oining in the online hat re ently arti ularly from hailand It s ni e to see some international gatherings and a real assion for MG all around the world

his year we ha e already made ig im ro ements to the a essi ility of the formal registration ro ess for ehi les y setting u a new online form e would en ourage all owners to ma e sure they ha e registered their ehi les as this ro ides the Car Clu with an histori al data ase for the models and in alua le information on ehi les for future owners e ha e also found that the egistration ro ess is en ouraging owners who are not mem ers of the MG

Car Clu to oin us ou an register your ehi le details at htt sdo s google om forms d I M fino e L n

635 Events 2016:he egister has another full list of e ents for whi h en om asses

two irthdays he MG G was laun hed in May and the Magnette in uly whi h ma es it years sin e the models a eared in the e will e ele rating this at ride of Long ridge MG Li e and at ed It s also three years sin e the MG was laun hed in the

he first ma or e ent of the year is at ride of Long ridge Cofton ar on unday A ril where on e again we will e ha ing a large

stand of MG s and s lo ated lose to the MG Motor stand e would lo e to see as many owners of the models as ossi le at Cofton ar to ele rate the heritage of the Long ridge fa tory and arti ularly

the newest MG models e will e a le to register ehi les wel ome new owners to the egister and we will ha e our full range of regalia for sale lease ome along to say hello we re always ha y to hat to new or otential owners a out our ars Modern MGs gather at the Pride of Longbridge 2015


NEWSLETTER


MG6.3.5Steve Haines • [email protected] • www.facebook.com/groups/MG635Register• https://twitter.com/635register • http://www.mgcc.co.uk/mg635-register/

e will of ourse ha e our stand at MGLi e in une where we will e a le to ro ide hel ad i e and a warm wel ome to owners

old new and otential e will e su orting our Charity for Crohns and Colitis with a raf e as in re ious years

with great rizes from our su orters MG Motor ohn oods Motor are and MG CC team

ur other ma or e ent in will e at ed at Gaydon on uly where we will ha e egister ar ing and e an integral art of the saloon day show e t lots of alloons irthday a e and fun i ets an e ur hased from www

mg o u sho rodu t zedhe egister would li e mem ers all o er the ountry to

ta e art in any lo al e ents within the arious Centres and send in their hotos and stories to uild u awareness of the models and en ourage new ownershi and mem ershi of the Clu

All e ents are set u on the egister a e oo age so lease add yourself as going to them so we an estimate num ers for any stands we need to oo

At ea h e ent we will ha e our full range of egister regalia for sale sti ers grille adges la el adges signed hotos shirts mugs et or you an uy dire tly from our e ay sho www e ay o u usr mg u

Members’ cars parked at Silvertone ready for the 2015 BTCC action

MG Motor with a selection of MG635 Register Members’ cars at the BTCC, Thruxton 2015

ere is the e ents listApril 16 Pride of Longbridge Cofton Park, Birmingham A ril CC onington ar Lei estershireA ril ri e it ay ariousMay London Motor how attersea ar LondonMay 7-8 BTCC Thruxton, Hampshireune CC ulton ar Island Cheshire

June 4-5 MG Live! Silverstone, Northantsune CC Croft orth or shireuly Cars in the ar ea on ar Li hfield

July 9 MG6 5th Birthday Heritage Motor Centre, Gaydon uly CC netterton orfol

August arrogate MG how ewerley ar ateley ridgeAugust CC no hill ifeAugust CC o ingham orthants

e tem er MG ro hy ulton ar Cheshiree tem er huttleworth ings iggleswade eds

Sept 17-18 BTCC Silverstone, Northantsto er CC r a nd s a t h G e n t

December 3 AGM / Xmas Do TBC

MG/888 BTCC 2016:e are delighted that ha e agreed a further three year deal

with MG Motor to rodu e their own Cham ion from a young line u e ho e to e wor ing losely on e again with MG Motor s e ents team to assist and su ort the team at as many of the rounds of the CC as ossi le If you e ne er een it really is a ra ing day out at the ra es Always something going on with e ellent ra ing on the tra and lenty to do esides he teams and dri ers are ery a essi le and friendly

towards the fans whi h ma e for a great atmos here All of the fun and e itement of the season an e followed on the MG

CC u orters Grou on a e oo age www fa e ooom grou s

dates will a ear regularly in Safety Fast! and on our mi ro we age

e will e again ha ing stands at hru ton in May and il erstone in e tem er whi h is always well su orted with egister ar ing and the MGCC e ents mar uee hese ha e een ery en oya le in re ent years with owners ars eing

dis layed on the MG Motor stand and a great interest in the models It s always ni e to see the MG G ra ing and long may it ontinue in to ight motors ort



NEWSLETTER MG6.3.5 Steve Haines • [email protected] • www.facebook.com/groups/MG635Register• https://twitter.com/635register • http://www.mgcc.co.uk/mg635-register/

BTCC testingA few diehard MG CC fans turned u at hru ton on a old e ruary morning to he out the o osition for this year s CC as

unfortunately no MG dri ers had een named at the time here seems to e a rather large amount of onda Ci i s in this year s teams e saw some good testing sessions from wet to dry with Clio Cu and Ginetta unior ars in the mi too Last year s MG dri ers a Goff and Andrew ordan were there in their new M and ord o us ars utting in lenty of ra ti e la s It was a it odd seeing a sitting

in the stands in the afternoon as his ar was eing shared y former MG dri er am ordoff and o Collard for ra ti e sessions It was a shame we hadn t seen MG s new dri ers testing ut we re sure they ll at h u and e in the mi for odiums this year

CTCC (Costa Rican Touring Car Championship) 2016

Last month we mentioned that MG has entered the Costa i an ouring ar ham ionshi with ernal al erde dri ing a ery good loo ing MG

G ased on the MG After suffering me hani al ro lems fighting for the to ositions

in the first ra e of the series ernal is loo ing forward to returning to the wheel of his MG to demonstrate that it has the a ility to e one of the fa ourites to win the dri ers ham ionshi

Bernal Valverde in the MG GT, based on the MG5

635 Register web page and social media

e ha e een onstantly u dating the MG Car Clu egister we age with all of the information you may need lease he it out regularly for u dates throughout the year

If you ha e any new items or gallery hotos lease send them to us so we an ee the age urrent and fresh he same an e said of the a e oo age whi h again is eing e t

u to date with e ents and information for owners If you re not art of it lease do oin us e re also on witter so follow us and ee u to date that way If you don t do a e oo witter internet or email we re always ha y to ost ut

information to owners ust onta t us through im er ouse e re loo ing forward to another great year meeting

new old and otential owners of the latest MGs lease ome and say hello if you see us at a show this year as the egister is a ery friendly un h een to ha e fun and en oy their ars to the ma

Stu Forbes arrives in his MG3 Style Lux

Philip Creasey’s MG6 GT at Thruxton



CHISBON RESTORATIONS

For all your MG requirements, from a service to a prize winning restoration,

contact Adrian Priestley via

www.chisbon.com orTel: 01255 862626

PLEASE NOTE: ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

THIS ARTWORK IS THE PROPERTY OF CLASSIC MOTORING MAGAZINE.

NO PART OF THIS ARTWORK MAY BE REPRODUCED, STORED OR OTHERWISE USED BY ANY OTHER PUBLICATION UNLESS PRIOR PERMISSION IS GIVEN BY

THE PUBLISHERS - © Aceville Publications Ltd






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NEWSLETTER MG6.3.5 Steve Haines • [email protected] • www.facebook.com/groups/MG635Register• https://twitter.com/635register • http://www.mgcc.co.uk/mg635-register/

An MG6 GT owner’s view from Andy Smithhis is GGI my ids name my ars the last one was a e tra alled ere I ha e owned this ar sin e anuary I ha e only owned

two other MGs efore oth Metros one old and one not so old I had the leasure of wor ing at Long ridge for se en years and Lode Lane for two so I ha e had a fondness for most L rodu ts Li e most eo le I was de astated when I heard of the demise of MG o er hen I heard that the Chinese had ought the mar ue and wanted to

laun h an MG model here I was really s e ti al a out it we ha e all heard those horror stories a out uality and rodu t finish

In anuary when my fi e year old e tra de ided to go all militant and refuse to wor I thought a out a new ar than you I I went to arious garages and I found I was not really interested in the o us Mondeo or Insignia Late one winter afternoon I de ided to

An MG3 owner’s view from the Haines family

e ha e owned and enoyed MG o er ars for se eral years with my wife ora ha ing a o er s i and an MG i ed u as an e demonstrator argain from eter Motor Grou in e also ha e an MG MG G and MG and an MG Metro in its whi h we enoy immensely

ur son om who is now was learning to dri e in and when we found out that the was going to ost in the region of er annum to insure for him we de ided that the new MG with an insuran e grou four may e something to loo at n further in estigation this was loo ing li e a good idea as insuran e was oming out at er year

ensi e ut a lot less than the It seems a ery e ensi e usiness for youngsters to learn to dri e and get on the road these days

ue to the la of dealers at the time in e on a id Clar from the sales entre was ind enough to ome down and let us ha e a test dri e of the new MG e ga e it a good wor out and soon dis o ered that it handled e tremely well was ery s a ious smooth and uiet and had lots of toys for the money Com ared to the it had less ower ut it was enough as our se ond ar and o iously had to meet the low insuran e riteria for our son om Most im ortantly ora a ro ed as she was to e

the main dri er of the arinan es organised and a deal stru with a e for a trade in of the

elo ed we awaited onstru tion of our hite on the tiles MG tyle Lu to mat h our white MG from Long ridge

e too deli ery in e ruary and soon started to enoy the zi y handling of the MG great ra ti ality and omfort le els om started to learn to dri e in it eing a ery smooth and easy ar to dri e I ha e to onfess that I tend to use the MG instead of my on the wee ends when

I an get hold of it to dri e lo ally and around town It is a ery om etent

motorway ruiser too with its uilt in ruise ontrol As a a age there is nothing to mat h it for the ri e on the mar et

om assed his test in e tem er and uses the MG to get to wor and for so ial use is mates ha e gi en it the seal of a ro al so it has street red too As om is a ery areful young dri er after two years our insuran e has now dro ed further to till a lot ut getting etter

In the two years we ha e had our MG it has o ered miles and had two dealer ser i es It s had a ou le of niggles eing re ersing sensor ro lems a L failure and the old hestnut of the under seat light oming on hango er from MG o er days ut these ha e een dealt with ui ly and effi iently y lights of ideford whi h is the most im ortant thing

he more miles it s doing the etter it s getting e lo e it ery mu h and will ee it eyond its warranty eriod ne t year ith the modifi ations oming along for the model su h as e haust and indu tion we may onsider twea ing it a little in the future

6O 3NJOY!!

isit the sales entre at Long ridge and what an afternoon it was I was greeted y salesman a id Clar and he asi ally allowed me to try oth the etrol and diesel MG

and e en an MG ust so I new what I wanted

eggie is a MG G rather a mouthful ut

rammed with toys f ourse my ownershi hasn t een totally lain sailing I ha e had the odd lea ut always sorted y the sales entre and ne er any hassles

he ar on the road is great to dri e and gets a few loo s mostly thin ing what is that andling is great it is really tuned well for

ritish roads Mine is the etrol tur o so no mat h for the diesel e tra in e onomy ut is u there

with the ower out ut ull leather interior and dual limate ontrol all add to a ery well s e ified ar

o am I ha y with eggie h yes ould I uy

another efinitelyA ig than you to a id

Clar e and imon ennett at the sales entre for allowing me to ta e the i tures



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IT’S BACK !THE FAMOUS LONDON EVENTA NIGHT DRIVE ON THE THAMES BRIDGES & TUNNELS

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IT’S BACK ! The MGF Register are pleased to announce the 3rd Thames Bridges & Tunnels charity event. Organised by the Essex Region and open to all MG Car Club members, we invite you to drive the streets of London at night when it’s at it’s best. The route will be starting at Simon’s Diner in Wimbledon, following a comprehensive illustrated roadbook at your own pace. You will see the best of London all lit up, your journey will take you past the most famous sights London has to offer following the course of the River Thames right to it‘s end.

The Essex region team – who made a huge success of MGFIM in May 2015 – will be available to assist and advise; food, drink and toilets are available at the start and mid way. The event is free to enter but we ask for a minimum charity donation of £10 per car for Guide Dogs for the Blind. If required, you can add an overnight stay at the new 4* Holiday Inn hotel at Southend Airport (made famous during the 2015 MGF International Meeting). A special rate has been agreed on. On Sunday morning the Essex Region are attending the Car Show in nearby Battlesbridge, the world famous antiques centre, this is well worth a visit before you make your journey home.

Pictures courtesy of Robert Parry, Steinar Braaten and Michael Benecke. Guide Dogs for The Blind are a charity registered in England and Wales (209617) and Scotland (SC038979).

All details on the web soon:

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COMPETITIONSCOMPETITIONS

The recent ‘MGs on Track’ day at Goodwood was the fi rst track day that the Triple-Ms had ever taken part in

as one big group and it proved to be a huge success. Mark had looked around for various track day opportunities before stumbling across MGs on Track, who were able to offer them exactly what they needed for a price that beats most commercial track days.

Alongside a full MGs on Track line-up were around ten Triple-M cars, from PAs, a Cream Cracker PB and a C-type Montlhery Midget. As ever with MGs on Track, the day was incredibly smooth, as the timetable was put together to allow both Triple-Ms and normal track day cars to get enough time in their own sessions without being mixed up and possibly becoming a hindrance to one an other.

I managed to speak with some of the drivers during the various intervals, and they were all delighted at being there. They commented on the experience – being together with the other Triple-Ms but not in a race environment. Goodwood was also suited incredibly well to the cars, which is very important, and they even managed to miss the big downpour of rain at 3pm, with only light drizzles affecting them on their big day.

Mary Harris Trophy 2016– Part 2 by Chris Kynoch

In part one of the Mary Harris Trophy, we looked at the history of the famous MG Car Club race, along with why there are so few Triple-M cars racing on our circuits these days, and also got a few words about it from Race Co-ordinator and driver Mark Dolton.

COMPETITIONS

Mark Dolton’s 1935 black MG PB. Photo:Colin Murrell

Andy King’s 1935 Cream Cracker MG PB followed closely by Simon Jackson’s 1935 blue MG PB. Photo: Colin Murrell



COMPETITIONS

In a time where there isn’t much racing going on, it was great to see the cars out on track. And for someone like myself who hasn’t seen cars that old going round a circuit before, it was an eye-opening experience, and riding passenger in one made it even better.

“Firstly we had amazing track time in very changeable conditions – giving us a real test and experience of running at pace on a track. It didn’t matter what experience the drivers had, that amount of laps in wet and slippery conditions was invaluable,” said Mark Dolton.

“It was fantastic that so many novice drivers were able to get out in the cars, especially for the drivers due to be lining up on the grid at Brands Hatch for the first time in a few weeks’ time.

“Secondly as a social occasion it was fantastic, brilliant that we were able to give so many people some passenger experience throughout the day. We are very lucky to have such enthusiastic and supportive group of owners and followers. A huge thank you goes to MGs on Track who have been superb.

“So with 100% reliability all day, we put a smile on many faces – a great show!”

The day proved to be such a success that MGs on Track will be running another Triple-M track day on June 20 at Castle Combe, and 12 spaces have already been pre-booked with three in reserve. Before that however is the small matter of the Mary Harris Trophy on May 1.

Not only will the Triple-Ms be on show at Brands Hatch, but there is a full weekend of MG Car Club racing to watch. To find out more, check the MGCC website in the coming weeks for tickets and news on the event.

Entries are still open for the Mary Harris Trophy which can be filled out on the Triple-M Racing website (www.triple-mracing.com), and if you have any queries, Mark can be contacted via email at [email protected]

Andy King’s PB at rest in the Goodwood pits. Photo: Chris Kynoch

Triple M cars queue ready for their Goodwood track session. Photo: Chris Kynoch

Duncan Potter’s 1931 blue MG C-type Monthlhery Midget. Photo: Colin Murrell



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RACE TORQUE

RaceTorque

by Ron Gammons

John Horton has worked with the MG Car Club race organisation at just about every meeting from 2007 onwards. In that time John made many, many friends while organising and presenting the awards after every race. His skill and popularity on the microphone enabled every competitor to feel an important part of the event, and the encouragement John gave certainly had an effect on the numbers on the grid. John did much more than that though, he personally sourced every award, dealt with the engraving, ensured that all of the awards were in the right place at the right time. Anyone who has dealt with that type of workload will realise just how capable John was. But as the obituary below from Mike Broad illustrates there was so much more to John than that.

We have all lost a true friend, a man of true stature.

John Horton, born June 8 1948, died February 26 2016John Horton died on Friday February 26 as a result of a heart attack whilst out walking on Cannock Chase. Walking was one of John’s passions, he was a Hill Walking Leader for the Scouts – an activity he had been part of for over 25 years.

John’s other passion was motorsport. John joined Dunlop Motorsport in 1972 and soon became Rally Manager. This was the heady days of Ford with the likes of Roger Clark, Timo Makinen and Bjorn Waldegaard.

In 1979 he left to join Dealer Opel Team and then GM Dealer Sport as co-ordinator for their UK Race and Rally programmes.

Aside from the business activities, John was an excellent navigator/co-driver and competed over the years beside the likes of Russell Brookes, Billy Coleman, Tony Drummond and Jimmy McRae. He even navigated for Gerry Marshall in a night rally as part of preparation for the Tour of Britain. His activities over the next 30 years were vast and varied. He managed the Shell Oils Sponsorship in rallying, managed and developed the National Rally Championship with the likes of Marlboro, Cellnet and Mintex and helped develop the MSA British Rally Championship.

Since 2001 until last year, John was the National Press Officer for both the F1 British GP and Wales Rally GB.

Many of the rally fraternity will remember John as the PA commentator and interviewer on many rallies in the UK and Ireland, as well as the presenter for the MG Car Club at their UK race meetings. He had worked for over 30 years with the organisers of Rally Finland.

John was a father of two and he was immensely proud of Sarah and Patrick.

There has been an enormous response to the news of John’s death and one phrase keeps on being mentioned – “John helped me ….”. John was a very kind, helpful person. He never really pushed himself forward but was happy to help others. Many have been put on the right road in motorsport by John. A quiet, organised, immensely professional person, with a great sense of humour, who simply enjoyed being around motorsport, and most of all, people.

John Horton interviewing Colin Robertson after his race win. Photo: Dickon Siddall

John Horton

John Horton presenting awards at the Snetterton 2014 MGCC meeting. Photo : John Luke Muirhead



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Calendar 2015** New for 2015March 10 Silverstone April 20 Cadwell (single MSV Session)May 11 Snetterton (single MSV Session)May 15 North Weald (Beginners day)May 26 Oulton Park (Single MSV session)**June 8 Castle Combe July 3 Croft – Open Pit Lane, experienced only (via Lotus on Track)July 13 Pembray **July 25 Hethel**August 13 Brands Hatch – GP (single LoT session)September 14 Castle CombeOctober 5 Donington October 26 – GoodwoodDecember 7 – Brands Hatch Indy


MGs ON TRACK Sponsored by

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It’s not often in Safety Fast! that we produce a real human interest story, however at the MGs on Track day event

at Goodwood, nobody knew a such an amazing story would emerge.

It wasn’t just a regular track day at Goodwood – if you read the Mary Harris Trophy article earlier on in this month’s magazine, you will have seen that the Triple-M racing group were present, having their own separate sessions for the first time.

One of the cars happened to be owned by the sister of Mark Dolton – the Triple-M Race Co-ordinator. Alexa Reynaga, along with her father and husband were preparing the red MG PA they had rebuilt, and it was due to appear on track for the very first time.

Excitement was building in the paddock for this family who have forever been surrounded by vintage cars, and they were almost ready to test the PA when a lady approached Alexa, and what she said nobody could have expected.

“This used to be my father’s car,” a teary-eyed Clare Littlefield told Alexa as she walked up to the car for the first time in eight years.

After the sheer emotion of seeing the car up-and-running, Clare had a good look around what she remembered so vividly as a child growing up. Later on in the day, after Alexa had taken her out for a drive, we all sat down with a coffee and tried to get to the bottom of the story.

“Dad bought the MG PA in 1969, and it was running initially,” Clare said.

“As a little child I was in the garage with the car but I can’t ever remember it running. He started doing bits and pieces to it before I came along and then he bought a BGT as a family car which I’ve still got.

“We kept it until 2008 when it was sold as a restoration project to one of my dad’s friends, Dave Castle. It was going to be Dad’s retirement project, but unfortunately he passed away that year so it didn’t get done. Then I found out that Dave had sold the car and I wanted to find out where it had gone.”

After initially phoning the MG Car Club and having no initial luck, Clare was re-directed to Graham Arrondelle and then everything opened up.

“He knew who had the car, so I gave him my details, then Mark Dolton messaged me back and said that the car would be here at Goodwood today so I decided to come along.”

After not only finding her father’s old MG PA, sitting inside it, and going round as a passenger for the first time, Claire was lost for words about her day at Goodwood with the MGs on Track crowd.

“Words don’t describe it, I’m just absolutely overwhelmed,” Clare said.

Not only was it an incredible experience for Clare, but also for Alexa, who was at Goodwood to test the same car her father had rebuilt for her.

“I’ve never done a track day or racing before,” Alexa said.

“My dad has been with vintage cars all of his life, and like Clare I was sitting on the bonnet when I was one. My brother Mark is racing my Dad’s PB, and as joke I said to my father that before he passes away would he build me one to drive for my 40th – and he did.

“He’s had the car for about five years, but it’s so interesting that this is the first time we’ve had it out on a track day. The first event we did was Prescott Pre-War Hillclimb, but this is the first big day out. So it was really nice that Clare has been able to share that,” Alexa added.

Alexa’s dad Tony has done a lot of work on the car to get it prepared for track days and events, including respraying the car, and to something a bit different to the white that Claire remembers as a child.

“We had a big debate on the colour. Originally it would’ve been Cambridge Blue, so we were going to do it two-tone Oxford Blue and Cambridge Blue, however Dad always had Pippin Red MGs when I was a little girl, so I wanted it to be red,” Alexa said.

For Alexa, the fun doesn’t stop here though.

“I’m definitely doing some more track days and hillclimbs. Today has been great fun, we all felt safe, and it has given me personally the time and space to get to know the car and feel it.

“We’d love to have more track days like this at other circuits. My Dad said it’s been such a great day, nothing too serious but a nice social event,” Alexa added.

After such a brilliant day for both Clare and Alexa, they both promised that they would keep in touch, and after speaking with both of them it felt like they were old friends catching up when in fact they had only met that day.

“Dad would be so proud, this is our local circuit, and he was taking me here when I was four years old. It’s like a dream come true for me, for both of us,” Clare said.

Ladies and Gentlemen, the power of the MG marque.

Reunited with an old friend By Chris Kynoch

Alexa Reynaga (left) with Clare Littlefield next to the PA at Goodwood.


Calendar 2015** New for 2015March 10 Silverstone April 20 Cadwell (single MSV Session)May 11 Snetterton (single MSV Session)May 15 North Weald (Beginners day)May 26 Oulton Park (Single MSV session)**June 8 Castle Combe July 3 Croft – Open Pit Lane, experienced only (via Lotus on Track)July 13 Pembray **July 25 Hethel**August 13 Brands Hatch – GP (single LoT session)September 14 Castle CombeOctober 5 Donington October 26 – GoodwoodDecember 7 – Brands Hatch Indy

www.mgcc.co.uk

MGon track

LUFFIELD

LuffieldChampionship

MGon track

Steve [email protected]

www.mgs-on-track.com

2016 Calendar* To book places you need to be registered with MGoT

on our website www.mgs-on-track.com

** All registered members will receive an email about a

week prior to the event opening for sale.

*** If an event says ‘Status: Provisional’ it is not open

for booking yet.

**** If all places are ‘Sold Out’ contact the ‘Event

Manager’ highlighted on the website booking page for a

reserve place.

*Cadwell Park – April 18 The UK’s mini Nurburgring. An exciting and undulating circuit

set in scenic Lincolnshire countryside.

*Snetterton – May 23 A chance to experience the ‘Snetterton 300’ circuit with its

fast and technical layout ensuring there is something

for everyone.

*N Weald – May 13Not a track day but a fun day allowing you the opportunity

to discover more about the handling characteristics

of your car prior to doing a full track day. An excellent

opportunity for beginners!

*Castle Combe – June 20 The fi rst visit of two regular annual visits to this very friendly

circuit in Wiltshire.

*Croft July 1 A shared day with Lotus on Track on a great circuit, set

between the Yorkshire Dales and Yorkshire Moors!

*Blyton Park – July 16 A fi rst time visit for MGoT to this circuit that has been given

some great reviews. A variety of track layouts makes

this an interesting venue!

*Hethel – July 30 Another opportunity to experience the Lotus test track

in Norfolk. This will be our second visit due to the

popularity in 2015. A great track for all types of MG!

*Brands Hatch GP – August 25 A must do! A rare opportunity to try the GP circuit which has

imposed limited use during the year. It’s a privilege for

MGoT to be invited back for a third year running.

*Castle Coombe – September 12 A second opportunity to enjoy the thrills of this ever popular

track which includes a couple of chicanes and technical

corners!

*Goodwood – October 31 A second visit in case you missed the fi rst due to popularity!

*Oulton Park – November 18 Back on the calendar due to demand by members, a circuit

that has a bit of everything for everyone!

*Brands Hatch ‘Indy’ – December 5 Our last event of 2016. Don’t miss the chance to experience

this undulating circuit including Paddock Hill Bend!

John Wilman, Beechfi eld, Fern Bank, Chapel-en-le-Frith, High Peak. SK23 0JJ. Tel: 07778 165186 • www.mgspeed.net

In my last article I described the Frogeye Sprite of James Thacker as being a ‘Recreation’. I have been suitably castigated as the car is in fact one of the most famous Modsports Sprites ever, having been originally raced by Alec Poole and later by James until badly damaged years ago. James decided to re-build the car to its original specifi cation and the end result is magnifi cent. I can’t wait to see it in action.

Back on March 20 our members competed in the Sprint at Rockingham raceway, and a report will follow next month.

April 3 will see our fi rst visit to Curborough to the Midlands Centre Sprint. This was traditionally the fi rst meeting of the year and attracts a very good entry of MGs. Entry is free and it is a very good place to turn up in your pride and joy and be with like minded enthusiasts.

The following Sunday is Harewood Hillclimb. A classic venue with unprecedented viewing facilities and a guaranteed friendly Yorkshire welcome from the BARC.

April 23 is the Goodwood Sprint organised by Tunbridge Wells MC and the following day, the Rushmoor Sprint. Rushmoor is held in an arena owned by the MOD and is situated near Aldershot and run by Farnborough and District Motor Club. Not too diffi cult to make a weekend of it.

April 30 and May 1 is our weekend at the magnifi cent Anglesey circuit and a Bank Holiday to boot. This annual event is organised by the North West Centre and attracts a wide range of competitors besides MGs. All in all, a very busy start to the season.

Our photograph this time show the beautifully constructed TD special of David Butler competing at Gurston Down Hillclimb. David is a very experienced competitor, having previously campaigned a group two MGB GT with great success.

APRIL 2016 63



CALENDAR

MARCHSaturday 26 MGCC: Magnette Register Magnettes & Steam Rowsley South Station Contact: Stephen Tickell – 01737 760330 or [email protected]

Sunday 27 MGCC: Yorkshire Centre Daffodil Run Clifton Moor McDonalds, York Contact: David Chapman – 0113 2562368 or 07821 263209

APRILSaturday 2 MGCC: MGs on Track AGM Contact: Martin Holmes – [email protected]

Saturday 2 MGCC: Ulster Centre MG NI Championship Autotest Location TBA Contact: Gordon Buckley – 07751 605033

Sunday 3 MGCC Race Meet Donington Park Contact: www.donington-park.co.uk

Sunday 3MGCC: Midland Centre Spring Sprint Curborough, near Lichfield Contact: Barbara Whale – [email protected]

Monday 4 – Friday 8 MGCC: T Register T Register Tour Normandy, France Contact: Bill & Sally Silcock – [email protected] or 01525 750468

Tuesday 5 MGCC: Caledonian Centre 2016 AGM Royal Hotel, Bridge of Allan Contact: Nancy Crichton – 01236 739758

Wednesday 6 – Sunday 10 MGCC: Germany Techno Classica, Essen, Germany Contact: Hakan Sigemark – [email protected]

Saturday 9 MGCC: V8 Register Black Country Museum Visit West Midlands Contact: Debbie Brading – 07795 227715

Saturday 9 MGCC: South West Centre Kimber Classic Trial 2016 Somerset Contact: Andrew Owst – [email protected] or 01761 221893

Saturday 9 MGCC: South East Centre Dinner Dance Reigate Manor Hotel, Surrey Contact: Terry Giles – 020 8660 0908

Sunday 10 MG Era Day Brooklands Museum, Surrey Contact: Main Club Office – 01235 555552

Sunday 10 MGCC: MGB Register MGB Register Spring Run Ragley Hall, Warwickshire Contact: www.mgb-register.org/MGB-Register/Spring_Run_Entry_2016.html

Sunday 10 MGCC: V8 Register V8 Committee Meeting West Midlands Contact: Debbie Brading – 07795 227715

Sunday 10 MGCC: Lincolnshire Centre Practice Autotest Location TBA Contact: David Stonehouse – 01790 754774

Saturday 16 MGCC Pride of Longbridge Longbridge, Birmingham Contact: www.prideoflongbridge.co.uk

Sunday 17 MGCC: Caledonian Centre One Day Satellite Run Finish Stirling Contact: David Reid – 01383 727695

Monday 18 MGCC: MGs on Track Cadwell Park Contact: Martin Holmes – [email protected]

Monday 18 – Friday 22 MGCC: Vintage Register Spring to the Cotswold Dumbleton Hall, Evesham Contact: John Venables – 01865 862573

Sunday 24 MGCC: South East Centre Spring Run, Location TBA Contact: Terry Giles – 020 8660 0908

Sunday 24MGCC: Abingdon Works Centre St. George’s Day Run Abingdon, Oxfordshire Contact: Pete & Sarah Davies – 07877932284

Sunday 24 MGCC: Tyne Tees Centre Cobwebs Run – Celebrating Drive it Day, Brocksbushes Farm, near Corbridge Contact: Ian Graham – 0191 413 6321

Sunday 24 MGCC: Anglia Centre Drive Your Classics Day, Norfolk Contact: Steve & Alison Kemp – 01553 840245

Friday 29 – Monday 2 May MGCC: South East Centre Normandy Rally Contact: Derek Edwards – 01737 765891

Saturday 30 – Sunday 1 May MGCC Race Meet Brands Hatch Indy Contact: www.brandshatch.co.uk

Saturday 30 – Sunday 1 May MGCC: North West Centre Anglesey Sprint, Anglesey Contact: Paul Rodman – 01614 398990

Saturday 30 – Monday 2 May MGCC: Caledonian Centre Three Day Highland Fling The 2016 May Three Day Scenic Tour will be held in the Cairngorms National Park and the Black Isle areas Contact: David Reid – [email protected]

MAYFriday 6 MGCC: Tyne Tees Centre Fish & Chip Supper Run Location TBA Contact: Grant Potter – 07581 036086 or Dennis Hope – 0191 517 2804

Friday 6 – Monday 9MGCC: MGA Register Spring Weekend North York Moors National Park Contact: Peter Morgan – 01794 323160

Saturday 7 – Sunday 8 MGCC: Y-type Register Spring Run and Dinner Hatherley Manor, Gloucester Contact: Chris Callaghan – [email protected]

Sunday 8 MGCC Regency Run From Kempton Park Race Course to Madeira Drive, Brighton. Contact: www.mgcc.co.uk/shop/product/regency_run_2016/

Sunday 8 MGCC: Midland Centre Charnwood Caper Quorn & Woodhouse Eaves GCR Station Contact: Colin Readwin – 07583 231393

Sunday 8 MGCC: Lincolnshire Centre Spring Autotest, Location TBA Contact: David Stonehouse – 01790 754774

Sunday 8 MGCC: Lincolnshire Centre RAF Digby Museum Visit RAF Digby Contact: Keith – 01472 602949

Sunday 8MGCC: Yorkshire Centre Woldsway RunMaple Garage, Hull Contact: Chris Moore – 07776 450776

Friday 13 MGCC: MGs on Track North Weald Contact: Martin Holmes – [email protected]

Friday 13 – Monday 16 MGCC: Germany Pfingsttreffen/Whitsunday Meeting, Sauerland, Germany Contact: Hakan Sigemark – [email protected]

Friday 13 – Sunday 15 MGCC: Midland Centre Welsh Rallye West Midlands to Wales Contact: Brian Osborn – 0121 445 4889 or Andy Robson – 0121 453 1595

Sunday 15 MGCC: South West Centre Wye Valley Social Run Symonds Yat West Contact: Jim Lott – [email protected]

Sunday 15 MGCC: Caledonian Centre Stirling Show, Stirling Contact: Rob MacGillivray – 07870 407111

Sunday 15 – Saturday 21 MGCC: Lincolnshire Centre Swallow Natter Scottish Tour Contact: Keith Robinson – 01472 602949

Sunday 15 MGCC: North West Centre Scammonden Dam Hillclimb West Yorkshire Contact: Paul Rodman – 01614 398990

Sunday 15 MGCC: Tyne Tees Centre Regularity Production Car Autotest Seaton Carew Contact: Tony Coates – 07768 372911 or [email protected]

Thursday 19 MGCC: Tyne Tees Centre Visit to Nissan UK Sunderland Contact: Noel Lindford – 0191 587 0753 or [email protected]

Thursday 19 MGCC: Ulster Centre May Autotest Location TBA Contact: Gordon Buckley – 07751 605033

Saturday 21 MGCC: Abingdon Works Centre Beaulieu Spring Autojumble National Motor Museum Contact: www.beaulieu.co.uk/events/spring-autojumble

Saturday 21 MGCC: V8 Register V8 Technical Day 2016 Kimber House Contact: Roger Aldridge – 07738 679706

Saturday 21 MGCC: Tyne Tees Centre Northern Natter Supper Run Contact: David Rawlinson – 01670 790212

Saturday 21MGCC: Anglia Centre Committee Meeting The Limes Needham Market, Suffolk Contact: Peter Skipper – 01502 731141

Sunday 22 MGCC: South East Centre Tour of the South East Location TBA Contact: Angie Vickers – 01342 843656

Sunday 22 MGCC: Caledonian Centre May Run 2016 – Over the Sea to Rothesay Cardwell Garden Centre, Gourock Contact: Barclay & Alison Henderson – [email protected] or 01292 560200

Sunday 22 MGCC: Lincolnshire Centre Spring Social Run Location TBA Contact: John Bromfield – 01636 677513 or 07836 335732

Monday 23 MGCC: MGs on Track Snetterton 300 Contact: Martin Holmes – [email protected]

Tuesday 24 – Monday 30 MGCC Italy MG by the Sea, Gabbice Mare, Italy Contact: Hakan Sigemark – [email protected]

Saturday 28 – Saturday 4 June MGCC: Devon & Cornwall Centre Janner Week 2016 Watermouth Cove Holiday Park, Berrynarbor Contact: Paul Turner – 01237 474736 or [email protected]



NEWSLETTER


OUT&ABOUT

Miss Abby Hobbs enjoying the VSCC’s New Y ear Driving Tests at

Brooklands in a 1933 K1. Photo: Colin Murrell

Paul Cook was surprised to see a couple of modern MGs amongst the Ladas and 1950s American cars that populate the Havana roads in Cuba. He found the MG GT in the photo parked in a side street in Miramar, by a large modern office block housing what looked like high tech industries. Quite different from crumbling old Havana with its wonderful Spanish heritage buildings. Photo: Paul Cook

Andy K nott’s ZS saloon and Chris Kynoch’s ZS hatchback pictured along the seafront in Scarborough. Photo: Andy K nottSteve Foldhazy coming to grips with his NA going down

Bathurst track with cable brakes during the 2015 Australia

Pre-War MG rally.

Vera and Eduardo Lambiasi at an MG Club Brazil event. Eduardo has just been made the new MG Club Brazil’s president.

The stunning Sienna Gold TF of Tim Arndt caught in the

snow at Tindale Fell, Cumbria. Photo: Tim Arndt


NEWSLETTER


OUT&ABOUT

He’s 74 but you can’t keep Norman Ewing down. Now he’s restoring the garage f loor he painted in 1996 for the arrival of Bill and June Wallis and Hayters!

David Doolan’s Ignition Blue MG ZS 180 on display at the Practical Classics, Classic & Restoration Show, NEC. The organisers thought it would f it nicely in with their Pride of Ownership feature. David was surprised how much interest there was from the visitors to the Show in the ZS. Photo: David Doolan

Unusual wing mirror spotted on a Woody

VA which was on display at the Houton

show after its 11 year restoration. Photo:

Adrian Clifford

AWC members supporting Oxford Utd as they strive for promotion and, in April, cup success at Wembley. Photo: Richard Martin

The green 1935 PB of Jeremy Earnshaw just cresting the

top of Test Hill at Brooklands. Photo: Colin Murrell

David Doolan’s Ignition Blue MG ZS 180 on display at the Practical Classics, David Doolan’s Ignition Blue MG ZS 180 on display at the Practical Classics, Classic & Restoration Show, NEC. The organisers thought it would f it nicely in

David Doolan’s Ignition Blue MG ZS 180 on display at the Practical Classics, Classic & Restoration Show, NEC. The organisers thought it would f it nicely in

David Doolan’s Ignition Blue MG ZS 180 on display at the Practical Classics, with their Pride of Ownership feature. David was surprised how much interest

Classic & Restoration Show, NEC. The organisers thought it would f it nicely in with their Pride of Ownership feature. David was surprised how much interest

Classic & Restoration Show, NEC. The organisers thought it would f it nicely in

David Doolan’s Ignition Blue MG ZS 180 on display at the Practical Classics, David Doolan’s Ignition Blue MG ZS 180 on display at the Practical Classics, Classic & Restoration Show, NEC. The organisers thought it would f it nicely in


David Doolan’s Ignition Blue MG ZS 180 on display at the Practical Classics, David Doolan’s Ignition Blue MG ZS 180 on display at the Practical Classics, David Doolan’s Ignition Blue MG ZS 180 on display at the Practical Classics, Classic & Restoration Show, NEC. The organisers thought it would f it nicely in


David Doolan’s Ignition Blue MG ZS 180 on display at the Practical Classics,

and, in April, cup success at Wembley. Photo: Richard Martin

AWC members supporting Oxford Utd as they strive for promotion AWC members supporting Oxford Utd as they strive for promotion AWC members supporting Oxford Utd as they strive for promotion AWC members supporting Oxford Utd as they strive for promotion

He’s 74 but you can’t keep Norman Ewing down. Now he’s He’s 74 but you can’t keep Norman Ewing down. Now he’s



OVERSEAS REVIEW

Piccadilly showroom in The MG Driver, the magazine of the North America MGB Register. The article starts by explaining to readers that MG did not cease to exist after the closure of Abingdon and that we are now a global society, where Chinese goods are prevalent. After getting over the disappointment of Piccadilly Circus not actually being a circus and that ‘Way Out’ means ‘Exit’, the author moves on to the cars. He ‘…drools…’ over an MG TF, but whilst appreciating the engineering, the MG Dynamo electric city car did not appeal at all. The MG3 is described as ‘fairly attractive, if nondescript styling’ with a ‘pleasant, if boring, interior’. The author loved the MG6, which was ‘a decent looking car’ whose ‘doors shut solidly, with a nice thud’.

But it was the forthcoming SUV, the GS, which caught the author’s eye, with its ‘great looking interior…perfect shut lines…and beautiful fit and finish. No tin can here!’ High praise indeed from the land where the SUV was born! (Bulletin, from the New Zealand MGCC, is similarly full of praise for the GS.) I wonder if the American chap bumped into the writer of a similar article from Australia’s Wheel Spin? The two articles are in stark contrast. The MG3 and MG6 are described as ‘pretend models’ and of the electric car and the GS: ‘The company must be joking. Sadly, it isn’t joking, it’s quite serious. What on earth has happened to MG?’ Oh, dear…

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

It is pleasing to see one of my favourite MG saloons, the ZA Magnette, featuring heavily in the overseas magazines.

Opposite Lock, from the MGCC Sydney, details the rallying exploits of the model, including some lovely period pictures from the 1955 RAC Rally. Poor weather

and rather overweight cars blunted performance, but all three ‘Works’ cars finished, albeit well down. Meanwhile, the seemingly nameless magazine of the MGCC Danish Centre provides an extensive report, over six pages, on a member’s 6,725 kilometre drive through the stunning Danish countryside. The ZA appears to have managed 11km per litre of petrol (about 26mpg). Australia’s Victoria MGCC magazine, Wheel Spin, helps readers improve the performance of their ZA’s headlamps.

There was an interesting take on MG Motor UK’s new, state of the art,

There was a time when speed records were very fashionable and gained much publicity for the MG. Who can forget the image of Stirling Moss, bottle in hand, at Bonneville? Pre-war, the new German autobahns were the venue for may record attempts. MG Kurier, from Germany’s MGCC, documents the exploits of ‘Goldie’ Gardner and his 187mph record set on the Frankfurt autobahn in 1938.

The MG motorsport season is in full flight ‘down under’. New branches of the sport to me were Motorkhana and Khanacross, as reported in Clubtorque from the MGCC of Newcastle, New South Wales. The events appear to be something like autocross / autograss and rallycross. I was on more familiar territory with the report from the Ringwood Park Hillclimb. Meanwhile, Sydney’s Opposite Lock was promoting a sprint at Sydney Motorsport Park, on the appropriately named Jack Brabham Drive!

Stunning scenery in the MGCC Danish Centre magazine

The magnette that covered 6,725 kilometers reported on in the MGCC Danish Centre magazine

MG Kurier, from Germany’s MGCC, documents the exploits of ‘Goldie’ Gardner

The exploits of the rallying Magnettes is featured in Opposite Lock

The MG electric car didn’t appeal to the American author in MG Driver

The piccadilly showroom featured in The MG Driver magazine

MGF participating in a Khanacross

MGF enjoying the Sydney Motorsport Park Sprint



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CENTRES

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

CENTRE

ABINGDON WORKSMike Gething [email protected] www.mgabingdon.co.uk

CENTREI am writing this in late February and Spring has not yet sprung, but it’s not all that far away and Club events are about to happen. Our cars will soon be dragged out of their winter hibernation quarters and readied for the road. Hibernation … did I really say that? If I did I should be shot! Our MGs, the world’s best sports car, is designed to be used, driven and enjoyed and not to moulder away in some cosy heated garage. It might not be much fun to drive through a blinding snow storm with the hood down but pick the right day and there is nothing to equal a blast along country lanes on a fine, crisp winter’s day. Down here around Abingdon, the spiritual home of MG, we are so fortunate in having countryside that was surely designed with the MG in mind right on our doorstep; rolling hills, narrow lanes, quaint villages with their thatched cottages and cosy pubs – what more could you ask for?

Should the weather be a bit inclement and not really conducive to top down motoring then there are heaps of indoor activities in our area. Just outside the AWC’s principality is the new British Motoring Museum at Gaydon. Formerly the Heritage Motor Centre, this has just undergone a multi-million pound re-vamp as well as a name change and change of logo. The

Works Centre Wanderers recently had a visit, so why not check out the photos of their trip on the Centre’s website.

Apart from the various runs organised by Natters our first road event is the Drive It Day aka St George’s Day Run. This is the opportunity for us to show our national pride and be-deck our cars with the cross of our patron saint. On previous years I have always thought what a great spectacle our cars make as they leave the car park, proudly flying those red crosses on a white background. Incidentally, those of you who subscribe to the ‘This England’ magazine will see that it is looking for photographs of St George’s Day events to share with its readers, a great opportunity for Natter and Centre photography buffs to promote our Club and the marque. We start from Abingdon for a run to the Cotswold Woollen Weavers and all details and an entry form are on the Centre’s website or from Pete Davies on 07877 932284.

Looking a bit further ahead we have the iconic Old Speckled Hen Run which leaves from the stately Radley College, just outside Abingdon, on Sunday, May 29. This is an event that should not be missed and details are on our website; an entry form also appeared in February’s and March’s magazine.

Finally, we extend a very warm welcome to our new members. It may be a bit daunting to join a new group but as long as you have an MG or a passion for the marque, you are ‘in’ and, I can assure you, will be made very welcome. Any questions you may have or anything you need to know just contact any committee member, once again, details are on our website.

Anglia Centre Calendar of EventsAs you will have read in last month’s notes, the calendar is now available direct from the website. If you are an Anglia member and the Club has your up to date email address, the calendar will be sent to you electronically. Do check that we have the correct address by sending any changes to [email protected]

You can also look at or download copies as you wish by either going to www.mgcc.co.uk/anglia-centre/calendar-of-events or going to the main Club website, then hover the cursor over Centres, this will produce a dropdown bar to select Anglia, then just click on the calendar of events on the left of the screen.

You will then see the list of events but if you require a printable copy, just click on Download Here.

For those members who do not have computer access, contact your local Pub Meet Host and they should be able to assist.

Drive Your Classic Car Day April 24The North Norfolk Classic Vehicle Club has invited us to join them at Sandringham Estate for Classic Car Day, with the opportunity to look round the house and gardens.

I know that some Pub Meets are planning to make up their own run groups with touring

assemblies to Sandringham on the day. The event is in aid of the East Anglian Air Ambulance.

More detail and information regarding entry forms can be obtained by contacting Peter Skipper on 07445 932323 or [email protected]. The closing date for entry is April 16.

Anglia Summer PicnicThe Anglia Summer Picnic is on Sunday June 26 and will be at Audley End House, which is owned by English Heritage. For full details and a booking form see mgcc.co.uk/anglia or contact Roger Latham on 01702 580472. This is always a popular event in the Anglia calendar, so make a note now so as not to be disappointed.

Spring Car ShowSunday May 1 sees the Spring Car Show at Duxford Airfield. Terry Starkey is the man to contact if you would like to attend with your MG. He can be contacted on 01508 470384.

MGCC Race MeetingDonington circuit hosts the season opener for the Club’s racing events this year on April 3. The Peter Best Insurance Cup championship race will be included in the programme with a good entry from our Region; more detail can be found on the website.

Autotesting There is still time to register your interest in the Autotesting Taster Day planned by Anglia Centre competitions secretary, Mike Pelling. Mike has some interesting plans for the future of the Autotest championship in our Region and can be contacted via [email protected]

Anglia Centre ClothingRemember that you can now place orders for your personalised Anglia Centre merchandise by following the links on the website. You can browse and buy online, just follow the link and click over the Anglia Centre logo.

The Anglia Centre calendar can be downloaded from www.mgcc.co.uk/anglia

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

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Policies from

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Classic benefi ts included*:Classic insurance

redefi ned.Wider eligibility cover now available for members of the MG Car Club:• Young enthusiasts from aged 18• MGs covered from 15 years old• Mileage limits extended up to 10,000 miles

To discover the Footman James difference, call our friendly UK team for a quote today.

Tailor your classic car policy to suit your needs.

0333 207 6074or visit footmanjames.co.uk

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

Salvage retention

Driving other classics

Drive to work

Track day cover

Wedding hire cover

and many more

Agreed value

Shows and events

Spare parts (up to a limit of £250)

European motoring (up to 35 days per trip)

Breakdown with options to include European cover and Homestart

Specialist rates for club members

Cover options*:

Part of the Towergate Group



CENTRES

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

CENTRE

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

CENTRE

Well contrary to some expectations the Rod Stewart weekend seems to have gone extremely well with some calling for a repeat next year… Wait and see!

The Technical Day was also well attended so many thanks to Brian and Claire Luti at Dreadnought.

As you receive this, the AGM in Bridge of Allan is only days away. Please come and let your committee hear your views on Centre activities and related matters. It’s not all serious work and a good turnout would be very welcome.

April sees the commencement of our summer runs with a Satellite event on the 17th. There are three starting points, one in the West at Newton Mearns, one in the north at Fettercairn and the other in the east starting at Loanhead. The idea is to allow as many as possible to attend our fi rst run, and all routes will converge on the Birds & Bees Restaurant in Causewayhead for lunch. This should be an excellent start to the season so get your car dusted down and enter via our website.

The following weekend, the 24th, is the visit to the new Aircraft Carrier being built at Rosyth.

This is a ‘one off’ opportunity to see this ship close up and will hopefully provide some good photographs, so if you would like to attend please contact David Reid.

At the end of the month we have our three day ‘Highland Fling’ based in Aviemore. If you are in the area over that weekend be sure to look us up and give the cars a wave!

The Stirling show, actually held in Bridge of Allan, is not now far away. This is a very friendly and informal affair which we attended last year for the fi rst time. We have lots of members in the area so let’s see a good turnout of ‘locals’!

And may I again remind you that all show secretaries are requiring us to get our entries in early so please book your place at these events asap. If you leave it to the last few days before you may well be disappointed! You have been warned!

And regarding shows, may I make an appeal for early MGs to turn out? While we are happy to take any MG, the paying public do like the look of MMMs and T types and the early saloons. For all sorts of reasons their attendance is getting less and less and the committee would like to

Natter NewsA charity ladies lunch for the Macmillan Charity was held at the Horn of Plenty with a good attendance. We did see Joe’s baby Harry, a very well behaved little boy, still maintaining the breed!

The Horsebridge Natter – a regular contingent of people who meet at the Royal with Tony Bolt (01822 616180) presiding.

Exeter Natter – Tony Short (01392 832665) is going along well with new people arriving so keeping up a steady number.

Torbay Natter – Alan Turner (01803 557543) will be running a new theme every three months, a lunchtime meeting at Churston Court Hotel, starting at 12.30pm, in March, June and September.

North Devon Natter – A very small group with Paul Turner (01237 474736) who incidentally recently broke his foot whilst tobogganing in Switzerland, all the best for a speedy recovery Paul.

North Cornwall Natter – Rob Constant (01840 230459) informs me that the Brian Williams Spring Run will take place on Sunday April 10. A few new faces at the Natter recently, please support this Natter, it needs you.

South Hams Natter – You may have diffi culty getting hold of Graeme Harris (01548 856674) at the moment, he’s off visiting his family in Australia then Fiji. The forecast was hurricanes, hope he could land!

West Cornwall Natter – Ronnie Henderson ([email protected]) explains that this Natter is expanding and enjoys a light hearted short quiz some months.

MGF – Meetings are bi-monthly May, July, September with a Sunday Lunch Run in the other months.

All the details of the Natters mentioned above are published on the Centre Website http://www.mgcc.co.uk/devon-cornwall-centre/

Dates for your DiaryApril 10: Brian Williams Spring Run contact – [email protected]

April 24: Drive It Day – South Hams Natter meet at the Tamar View Nurseries, near Saltash

about 10.15am. Run out to The Old Inn, St. Breward for a Sunday Carvery. Contact Graeme Harris –[email protected]. Contact other Natters Leaders to see if they are organising any event.

May 22: Again South Hams Natter – Queen Elizabeth 90th Birthday Celebration Run, leave 10.00am for a carvery lunch at Bickleigh Mill near Tiverton and back to The Riverside Café for tea.

May 28 – June 4: Very last Janner Week at Berrynarbor in North Devon, local members welcome to join days out. See website or email [email protected]

May 15: Killerton House Motoring Event, more details on the website

June 19: Ace Run – this being Fathers Day – [email protected]

July 9-10: Powderham Classic Car Show, more details on the website

July 24: Torbay Old Wheels Club Classic Car Show on The Green, Paignton, more details on the website

Geoff Webb in his Twin Cam arriving at the fi nish at Bickleigh Castle in last year’s ACE Run. Photo: Peter Heath

A fi ne selection of MGs at Bickleigh Mill in last year’s ACE Run. Photo: Peter Heath

The Rod Stewart weekend seems to have gone extremely well

encourage owners to make an effort to attend some event. It’s the 15th anniversary this year of modern ZEDs but it is also the 80th anniversary of the TA and it would be good to have ancient and modern side by side. What have you got?

Hope to see you at the AGM!



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CENTRES

www.mgcc.co.uk

LINCOLNSHIREJohn Hebb tel 01522 683542 [email protected] www.mgcclincolnshire.co.uk

CENTRE

MIDLANDSRoger King [email protected] www.mg-cars.org.uk/mgccmidlandcentre

CENTRE

April NattersLincolnshire Poacher Friday 1; Wolds Wednesday 6 (talk by Geoff Hirst); Abbey Lodge Monday 11; Wishing Well Wednesday 13 (talk by Simon Temple); Three Horseshoes Thursday 21; Admiral Nelson Thursday 28.

April EventsSunday 10 Spring Autotest East Kirkby (David 01790 754774); Sunday 24 Drive Your Classic Day, this year to Gunby Hall (David 01790 754774).

Luncheon ClubWednesday 20.

Early May NattersWolds Wednesday 4; Lincolnshire Poacher Friday 6 (Landlords Choice).

Early May EventSunday 8 Autosolo East Kirkby.

The Swallow Natter members had to forgo their Christmas meal because of the sudden closure of the Swallow pub, so a Welcome to the New Venue dinner was held at the Cross Keys instead, with 23 members attending. The Wishing Well

held their usual Valentine’s Day dinner with 27 members, and the Luncheon Club visited a new venue, the Queens Head at Kirkby la Thorpe with 29 members – February is obviously a good month for eating out.

The Monk’s Room at the Abbey Lodge was fi lled to capacity on the 26th as 21 teams (six to a team) gathered for the annual Inter Marque Quiz. The teams are from Car and Motorcycle clubs County wide plus at least one team from all of the Centre’s Natters. Under the rule introduced last year, last year’s runners-up were this year’s organisers, and after a tense tie-break shoot-out last year between the Triumph TR Register and The Poachers (MG Lincoln Natter) the TR Register were this year’s organisers. The event followed the familiar pattern, four rounds each of ten questions and a picture quiz to be handed in at the supper break, three more rounds to conclude and a joker to be played on one round for double points. The rounds having cryptic titles, most teams played their joker on the General Knowledge round, in the hope that it was indeed general knowledge and not knowledge of Generals. Following tradition the results were announced in reverse order, the tension mounting as single fi gures were reached, even higher when it came to the last three. Without sounding too

smug I can announce that the Poachers were again triumphant, with the Sequels in second place and the Well Wishers third. Thanks to Phil O’Hara and the rest of his TR Register team for a very enjoyable evening, also to the Abbey Lodge for all those chicken suppers.

This year’s Drive it Day is to Gunby Hall, now with additional features since our last visit; this year’s deal means that all attendees will have free access to the house, including non National Trust members. The photo shows some of the brains at work in the quiz.

Much has been planned for 2016 but at the time of compiling these notes nothing has yet happened. That is usually the case with the scribe who has the task of putting together an interesting report at the beginning of March.

Anyway I can highlight the run by the Arden Group on February 14 to the newly re-opened British Motor Museum (formerly the Heritage Motor Centre), fi ttingly on the second day of its relaunch and thus replicating Arden’s similar visit when the original Heritage Centre opened some 26 years ago. A good turnout of MGs was witnessed and all enjoyed the new exhibition facilities and displays including access to the brand new Collections Centre. Your scribe, as a volunteer guide and data compiler at the BMM, took particular pleasure in participating, proudly wearing the new uniform for the fi rst time.

Entries are coming in for the Spring Sprint at Curborough on April 3. We will be using the popular fi gure of eight course which ensures good entertainment for spectators as well as entrants! Hot on the tail of this event comes Pride of Longbridge on April 16 where the Centre will have a dedicated display area, whilst the very next day will see us decamp to Ledbury for the Spring Trial. Now that’s commitment.

Meanwhile, the team organising the Welsh Rallye, now fully subscribed and scheduled for

the weekend of May 13-15, has fi nally resolved the one remaining issue, namely the theme for the Saturday night dinner. Stand by sci fi fans, for Stormtroopers, Darth Vaders and Chewbaccas should be in plentiful supply as we celebrate the Star Wars saga. Not content with that, the venue for the 2017 Welsh Rallye has already been selected. We will return to the Metropole Hotel in Llandrindod Wells, the base for so many previous events. Too early for any further details but bear it in mind when planning for next year.

North Worcestershire Natter are an enthusiastic lot. Not satisfi ed with meeting twice a month, a third gathering took place on February 29, thus celebrating the Leap Year. And a good turnout too as the group settled down to a fi rst rate pub dinner. Dominating the early part of the evening was the performance of a very errant mouse. You see, long standing Midlands Centre committee member Andy Robson has a real problem; the owner of a specimen LE 500

kept safely in a garage, he has discovered that his pride and joy is being eaten alive by a rodent infestation. Items of clothing left in the car have been devoured stitch by stitch and droppings left in the boot! Attempts to corner the little creature, the mouse that is not Andy, using mouse traps have seen the bait eaten but the trap unsprung. As Andy’s voice rose to a crescendo about what he would like to do to the mouse (or Mickey as we began to call him), the Natter, as true mates, expressed the greatest sympathy whilst nearly choking on their prawn cocktails. But the saga continued, for next day and employing B&Q’s latest state of the art traps, Mickey was caught. And then there was another one, again caught. Meanwhile comments continue to pour in, including one from Midlands Secretary Paul Hollingworth who helpfully pointed out that all LE 500s came with a cat installed! Are there even more lurking away devouring the wiring harness? Come to the next Natter to fi nd out.

Enjoying the scenery during a previous Midland Centre Welsh Rallye



CENTRES

NORTH WESTPaul Goodman 01625 876300

CENTRE

SOUTH EASTJohn Bennett 01227 637813 [email protected] www.mgcars.org.uk/mgccse/

CENTRE

The light nights are fi nally with us and there are lots of opportunities this month to jump into your MG and join our events. To start with, there are three pub meetings. On Tuesday April 12 the Old Hall Farm group will be enjoying their second offi cial meeting. Then on Tuesday April 19 the Plough and Flail evening meeting will, hopefully, be outside in the car park with a great display of cars. Our lunchtime meeting will be on Wednesday April 27 at The Davenport Arms, Congleton Road, Marton, SK11 9HF.

Many of you will already have heard of Drive it Day. This takes place on Sunday April 24 and is intended to show the public our commitment to owning and using older and historic cars. We are asking North West Centre members to drive to our gathering that day which will be at the new AVRO Heritage Museum at Woodford, Cheshire. The museum opened in late 2015 and tells the story of the company from the earliest days of fl ying right up to the Nimrod. There is a Vulcan bomber on site and an additional Vulcan cockpit in the museum in which visitors can sit. We would like you to arrive around 1.30 for photo opportunities and then you can visit the museum. Full details of the location are on the museums website www.avroheritagemuseum.co.uk. Please check on this website because the

access is subject to change as the rest of the site is currently being redeveloped.

At the end of the month we are organising our Anglesey Sprint Weekend. On Saturday April 30 the cars will run against the clock over two laps of the short circuit and then on Sunday May 1 the full circuit will be tackled by the drivers. We will be hosting several guest clubs as well as the Luffi eld Speed Championship so there will be a great variety of cars in action. We need a large number of volunteers to run the sprint with on track marshalling and off track administration

being equally important. The circuit is a great place to spend the weekend with good camping facilities and plenty of good places to stay. Please contact me if you would like to get involved.

Looking further ahead, the Cheshire Candles Run is on Sunday May 22. This is starting at Chester and should be a great day out. You can register on the Run’s website.

Finally, don’t forget our photo competition. The Event City show is confi rmed for September 17 and 18 and our stand is booked. The winning shots will be displayed over that weekend.

A sunny evening at the Plough and Flail in 2015. Photo: Paul Goodman

Whilst I hate repeating myself in this column, though not, I’m told, in telling my jokes, April has such a feast of events that they all deserve a second mention lest anyone missed seeing them highlighted last month.

This is especially true of our annual Dinner/Dance for which there is just time to book. The Reigate Manor Hotel is again the venue, the date is April 9 from 7.00pm, the cost of £36 per head is very reasonable, but the entertainment is new, coming from Jahson. The website tells me that he has been a lead singer for The Drifters, that he is a ‘totally professional entertainer’, and that he even owns a classic British car. Unfortunately, this is not an MG but you can’t have everything for £36! As ever, Terry Giles has done all the hard work so how about making his effort worthwhile by signing up. He is on 020 8660 0908.

On the very next day, Brooklands is staging its MG Era Day, a chance to wallow in MG nostalgia at the site of some of the Marque’s most memorable racing achievements. This year marks the 80th anniversary of the T Type which makes it an exact contemporary of the Spitfi re. Interesting! Unfortunately, you have probably missed the chance of an advance ticket because applications closed on March 29, although some fast talking to Steve Castle at the Brooklands Museum might yet save the day if you call him right now! You can always blame me for not mentioning the event last month!

Terry Giles returns to the fore on April 24 with his Spring Run. This event will meet between 9.00 and 10.00 at Botley Hill Farm, Lipsfi eld Road, Warlingham, CR6 9QH where breakfast will be available. The run, said to be ‘low stress’, will then take in the best of North Kent countryside and will fi nish at the Royal Engineers Museum in Gillingham.

April is brought to a thrilling climax by our Chairman, Derek Edwards with his re-enactment of D-Day. He’s not actually taking the party across the Channel in a landing craft but he is arranging jointly with the Epsom MGOC a weekend trip to the

Normandy Beaches starting on the 29th based on the Mercure Hotel in Lisieux. Derek can be reached on 01737 765891 although full details are on the website including entry forms. NB: I gather from Derek that the ferries are already heavily booked so if you want to be included in this great trip, act now!

Still nobody has shown any interest in taking on the role of Scribe (did I mention the generous salary?) so I shall have to start cold calling for volunteers. This is something I had to do briefl y for a living once and I had hoped never to repeat. Please save me from having to do so again!

An Octagonal array of MGAs at last year’s Brooklands MG Era Day. Photo: Jon Glover



CENTRES

TYNE TEESNoel Lindford [email protected]

CENTRE

SOUTH WESTDavid Mothersdill [email protected] www.mgccsw.com

CENTREThe year in the South West started with the annual dinner on February 27, when some 70 members and guests sat down to a three course meal at the Limpley Stoke Hotel near Bath. We were joined by competitors in the Luffi eld Speed Championship with the intention of having a joint prize giving. This failed to materialise as embarrassingly the car bringing the Speed Championship trophies broke down on the M25 and we had a prize giving without prizes! We were pleased to welcome Club Chairman Ian Quarrington as a guest, enabling Centre members to get up to date with happenings within the main Club.

After an enjoyable meal most of the assembled guests gravitated to the bar, where by chance the Loughborough Operatic Society had taken up residence as they were also staying at the hotel. A lively and loud evening ensued, spontaneous renditions of all songs from sea shanties to arias ringing around the room for some hours. We called it a night at about 1am, however there was talk of the night fi nally winding up well after 4! There were a few sore heads at breakfast, many members taking advantage of the idyllic scenery and fi ne weather for a sobering walk along the river bank.

This year’s competitive season is about to commence with the ever popular Kimber Classic Trial on April 9. Starting at Lanes Hotel in West

Coker near Yeovil, the trial covers a distance of some 80 miles through very scenic countryside with up to a dozen special sections to provide a competitive element to the day. With a lunch stop in a country hostelry and great comradery this is an excellent day out, either as a competitor or as a marshal. All offers of help would be welcomed by Bruce Weston, any late entries to Andrew Owst, full contact details and more information available as ever on the Centre website.

May sees us again encouraging grass roots Motorsport and a scenic drive with MGs on Grass and the Wye Valley Social run on the 7th and 15th respectively. Both events are suitable for all MGs and the emphasis as always is on enjoying the company of fellow enthusiasts in your car. Again check the website of www.mgccsw.com to get entry forms, event organiser contact details etc. Hope to see you on an event soon!

SW Centre Chairman Jim Lott presenting Club chairman Ian Quarrington with a memento of the Centre annual dinner

The Tyne-Tees Marshalling Team were out in force in February, along with their distinctive Tyne-Tees Marshals Banners.

On February 20 they were at the Northern Classic Trial in Wythop Forest in the Lake District, overlooking Bassenthwaite. An entry of 30 bikes and 40 cars tackled the trial and Matthew Alexander took the picture of a very nice MG TB being driven by John Bell from Hebden Bridge. TTC Members John Brown, Matthew Alexander, Stuart Bankier, Donald Dalton and David

Alexander were on duty (and enjoying it!) on a very wet day. See a detailed report on our Out & About web page www.mgcc.co.uk/tyne-tees-centre/out-and-about/

The following weekend they were out again on the Saltire Classic Rally, marshalling the start and fi nish controls at a Special Test near Kenmore at the head of Loch Tay. Unlike the Northern Trial the weather was fantastic with a clear blue sky and stunning scenery with snow topped mountains. There was a good range of cars on the event dominated by Escorts but with three MGs having a spirited run. Thanks to David Alexander for this report.

Events coming up: April 24 Cobweb Run Celebrating Drive It Day: This is a circular tour through some beautiful parts of the Northumberland, North Tyne Valley, Scottish Borders and Cumbrian countryside. The start and fi nish will be from Brocksbushes Farm at the junction of the A69 Newcastle to Carlisle road and the A68 to Darlington. Entry forms available at www.mgcc.co.uk/tyne-tees-centre/future-events/ or contact Ian Graham, the organiser, on 0191 413 6321 who can send one to you. Ian can be emailed at [email protected] for more information. Limited to 60 cars so be quick!

Friday May 6: Fish & Chip Supper Run Meet at Durham Services (A1M J61) from 6.30pm, for a 6.45pm start. The 35 mile route concludes at an excellent fi sh restaurant on the coast. Please contact Dennis Hope [email protected] or 07970 115202, but you can also just turn up on the night.

Sunday May 15: Regularity Production Car Autotest: to be held from 10.00am on the seafront at Seaton Carew, in conjunction with Hartlepool & District MC. Entry fees are £20 per crew. Full event d etails from Tony Coates [email protected]

Thursday May 19: Visit to Nissan Sunderland We have assembled an MG Timeline of 30 cars from 1933–2010, and all cars are now allocated, but there are places available as passengers, if you would like to take part; we are limited to 60 people on the tour. Cars need to be at Nissan for 9.30am for a factory tour from 10.00am to noon. If you would like your car to be on the reserve list, contact me on 07432 152095.

Saturday May 21: Northern Natter Supper Run starting and fi nishing at the Ridley Arms, Stannington. This 35 mile run will start at 4.30pm and be back for dinner at 6.00pm. David Rawlinson has details and menus, so contact him on 01670 790212. John Bell in his MG TB on Northern Classic Trial

MG CAR CLUB TYNE-TEES CENTRESunday 12th June 2016

PRINCE BISHOPS RUN ST. CUTHBERT’S RUN

Please enter details below:

Now please select which run you would like to enter, and any pre-booked breakfast requirements.

Entry fee £17.50 per car for MGCC members, £20.00 for non-members. All entrants will receive a Rally Plate, Tulip style Route Book, and based on 2 per car, a hot drink at the start and a traditional cream tea at the finish. Refreshments for extra passengers are charged at £5.00 per person, so please include with your payment.

Total payment (entry fee + any pre-paid breakfast items) = £ …………….

Please send your form and payment by post to: Noel Lindford, 3 Springbank, Peterlee, Co. Durham, SR8 1FA,making cheques payable to MGCC Tyne-Tees Centre. Email: noel.lindford @btinternet.comIf you have Internet banking facility and would like to pay by this method the details are as follows:Sort Code: 40-43-13 Account No: 41051067 quoting PBR or SCR and your surname.Closing date: 3rd June 2016 Both events have MSA approval * Limited to 60 cars in total *

ENTRY FORM

Your details:Mr/Mrs/Ms: First Name: Surname: Address:Postcode: Home Tel: Mobile:Email: MG Car Club Membership Number (if applicable):Total number in car: including Driver, Navigator and any Passenger(s):

Your Car’s details:Make: Model: Year:Registration: Years owned:

Stokesley to Durham City

Seahouses to Durham CityThis 86 mile route starting from Stokesley, traverses North Yorkshire,takes in some breath-taking scenery over wonderful driving roads, then onwards across the County Palatine of Durham,following parts of the routes taken by the medieval Prince Bishops of Durham.

This 77 mile route starting from the harbour at Seahouses, in sight of the Farne Islands where St. Cuthbert lived, takes in stunning scenery over superb driving roads in Northumberland, then onwards across the County Palatine of Durhamto St. Cuthbert’s final resting place.

Both runs come together in Durham City and end at Palace Green in front of the World Heritage Site of Durham Cathedral (by kind permission of Durham University).

Prince Bishops Run Bacon breakfast rolls are available at the start, and can be pre-booked for £3.00 each, so if you wish to pre-order, please include with your payment.

I would like to pre-pay for bacon rolls@ £3.00 each.

St. Cuthbert’s RunBacon or sausage breakfast rolls are available at the start, and can be pre-booked for £3.00 each, so if you wish to pre-order, please include with your payment.

I would like to pre-pay for breakfast rolls bacon Y/N sausage Y/N @ £3.00 each

Two tours through history - one magnificent finish!


MG CAR CLUB TYNE-TEES CENTRESunday 12th June 2016

PRINCE BISHOPS RUN ST. CUTHBERT’S RUN

Please enter details below:

Now please select which run you would like to enter, and any pre-booked breakfast requirements.

Entry fee £17.50 per car for MGCC members, £20.00 for non-members. All entrants will receive a Rally Plate, Tulip style Route Book, and based on 2 per car, a hot drink at the start and a traditional cream tea at the finish. Refreshments for extra passengers are charged at £5.00 per person, so please include with your payment.

Total payment (entry fee + any pre-paid breakfast items) = £ …………….

Please send your form and payment by post to: Noel Lindford, 3 Springbank, Peterlee, Co. Durham, SR8 1FA,making cheques payable to MGCC Tyne-Tees Centre. Email: noel.lindford @btinternet.comIf you have Internet banking facility and would like to pay by this method the details are as follows:Sort Code: 40-43-13 Account No: 41051067 quoting PBR or SCR and your surname.Closing date: 3rd June 2016 Both events have MSA approval * Limited to 60 cars in total *

ENTRY FORM

Your details:Mr/Mrs/Ms: First Name: Surname: Address:Postcode: Home Tel: Mobile:Email: MG Car Club Membership Number (if applicable):Total number in car: including Driver, Navigator and any Passenger(s):

Your Car’s details:Make: Model: Year:Registration: Years owned:

Stokesley to Durham City

Seahouses to Durham CityThis 86 mile route starting from Stokesley, traverses North Yorkshire,takes in some breath-taking scenery over wonderful driving roads, then onwards across the County Palatine of Durham,following parts of the routes taken by the medieval Prince Bishops of Durham.

This 77 mile route starting from the harbour at Seahouses, in sight of the Farne Islands where St. Cuthbert lived, takes in stunning scenery over superb driving roads in Northumberland, then onwards across the County Palatine of Durhamto St. Cuthbert’s final resting place.

Both runs come together in Durham City and end at Palace Green in front of the World Heritage Site of Durham Cathedral (by kind permission of Durham University).

Prince Bishops Run Bacon breakfast rolls are available at the start, and can be pre-booked for £3.00 each, so if you wish to pre-order, please include with your payment.

I would like to pre-pay for bacon rolls@ £3.00 each.

St. Cuthbert’s RunBacon or sausage breakfast rolls are available at the start, and can be pre-booked for £3.00 each, so if you wish to pre-order, please include with your payment.

I would like to pre-pay for breakfast rolls bacon Y/N sausage Y/N @ £3.00 each

Two tours through history - one magnificent finish!



CENTRES

YORKSHIREDavid Copeman 07920 064585 www.mgccyorkshire.co.uk

CENTRE

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

CENTRE

North – Ken CothliffFebruary’s meeting was slot car racing.

We welcomed a new member of the Natter – Paul Fletcher from Menston, near Guiseley. He partnered your scribe for the racing.

Nick Mann had this time organised it into a ‘Le Mans’ style race with two drivers to each car, and a time limit in which to get in as many laps as possible. Drivers swapped half way through, and the ‘co-driver’s’ responsibility was to relocate the car on the track if it came off. On top of that Nick had organised draw cards rather like the ‘Chance’ cards in Monopoly, which gave the teams bonus or penalty laps. The evening fi nished with the teams Marsden and the Beningfi eld joint winners.

South – Kathryn TwibyOur usual Natter venue was unavailable this month due to renovations so we gathered at the House Martin in Doncaster.

This was Alastair’s last as Natter leader, and with thanks from everyone Malc stepped forward and has taken the poisoned chalice. Geoff has agreed to be the next scribe

East – Brian RylanceThe February Natter was invited to raise their sights, alas not to attempt more challenging MG events, but to look afresh at the stunning architecture in and around Hull. Our own Barry Tomlinson entertained and educated us with a

presentation, one which highlighted features on buildings we rarely have the time to look up to and appreciate.

West – David CopemanFor the February meeting two young enthusiasts Alice and Sophie organised a Feely Bag Quiz to entertain the members which was enjoyed by all who took part.

At the Awards Lunch Chris and Dawn Flanagan received the Paragon Trophy for organising the Daffodil Run for the last two years and Sophie Flanagan received the Young Enthusiast Trophy for her help throughout the year. Other West members to received trophies were Jimmie Johnson Auto Sport, Cliff Hobbs Auto test, Geoff Hirst and Cliff Hobbs Paragon Team, Carol Copeman Centre Enthusiast, David Copeman Airedale, Carol and I also received the Kimber Distance Award and fi nally the Chairman’s Pot went to the 2015 committee members, four being from this Natter: Cliff, Janice, Carol and myself.

Vale of York Lunchtime NatterThe Yorkshire Centre’s new lunchtime meeting: the fi rst meeting will take place on Thursday April 21 2016 from 12.00pm onwards at The Masons Arms, Hopperton. The pub serves food and has a large car park

The meet is being organised by Centre members Ken Cothliff and Malcolm Reeves.

The Natter will meet at lunchtime on the third Thursday of each monthDirections:Just off Junction 47 A1M towards York, after 200 yards take fi rst right turn signed Hopperton; Masons Arms is 100 yards on the left. HG5 8NX.

Further details can be found on the Natter’s calendar online www.mgccyorksire.co.uk; here you can click on the map to get driving directions from your postcode to the Masons Arms.

Sophie Flanagan being presented with the Young Enthusiast Trophy

We ran our fi rst autotest of the year on February 27 at Delamont Country Park with 28 competitors comprising expert autotesters right down to beginners. There were two tests which were run four times each and the driving that day was a sight to behold! Congratulations to David Thompson (Nova) who won the day with 399.0 secs closely followed by Tim Tomalin (Mini Special) 408.3 and James Wilson (Mini Special) 415.3 secs. Congratulations also to the Class Winners – Gordon Buckley, Richard Earney, Mark King, Tim Tomalin and Kevin McNamee. After competing with us during 2015 Kevin, Johnny and Ellie McNamee joined the Centre this year and we are delighted to have them on board. Saturday March 5 was the day of our Annual Dinner and Prizegiving held for the fi rst time at Scrabo Golf Club and reports from all who attended said the food was super. Our ballot was held in aid of Alzheimers, our charity again for

2016, and it raised £250.00. Thank you to all who bought tickets.

In September we were involved with The Balmoral Bash, an inter-club charity event organised by TSCC aided by MG, PPMC, UAC and Queens. Richard Earney in his Mini was the overall winner and John Clarke invited Wallace McKee of the TSCC to present the award.

We were fortunate to have Ken Stewart, co-ordinator of the Dundrod Circuit, present our AutoSOLO awards with Andrew Earney taking Overall and winners of Class Two and Class Four being Stephen Dawson and Michael Reid respectively. The PCT together with the Grass Slalom award was won by Bailie Thompson. In the Autotest Championship, The Leslie Porter was awarded to Michael Reid (MG Midget) and the Vivian Scott to Paul Lowther (non MG – Stryker) and our Driver of the Year was Paul Lowther. Stephen Dawson picked up The

Leslie Ardill Award together with the North-East Centre Trophy. The Abingdon Trophy was presented to Noel Cochrane and Trevor Reid for their commitment to The Ulster Centre certainly over recent years. I will get the full list of prize-winners put on the website for you to peruse. We had a very special award to present this year – Lifetime Achievement Award presented to Mike Armstrong and Mike Wilson with gratitude from the Members of The Ulster Centre. What they have done for the Club since the Centre was formed in summer 1968 is unbelievable and they continue to contribute, MG seems to be in their blood. Very well deserved boys from all of us!

Dates for your DiaryAutotest April 2 – NI Championship Round at The Maze – DubshedApril 3 – Invitation Tandem Autotest at The Maze

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REGISTERS

SVWAnne Bush [email protected] www.svwregister.co.uk

REGISTER

TRIPLE MJeremy Hawke +44 (0)1225 863934 [email protected] www.triple-mregister.org

REGISTERMMM Track Days:On February 20, Mark Dolton wangled MMM drivers their own session at Goodwood. Though the weather was distinctly chilly, a good time was had by all. Our picture (courtesy of Colin Murrell) shows the newly rebuilt Dolton P Type with Mark’s sister Elizabeth at the helm. No doubt Tony will be dusting off his overalls shortly to show them both how it’s done. Never one to rest, Mark has nabbed MMM drivers another slot at the Castle Combe MGOT event in June.

Stoneleigh 2016: The Register stand featured Andy Kings’ PB Cream Cracker PB0521, fresh from exercise

at Goodwood the previous day (photo Bruno Wüsthoff) and in the background a nicely restored NB 4-seater, currently on offer from Barry Walker. It’s always nice to see one of the less common models in original specifi cation. The R egister library did brisk trade at this event which is now well established as an early social gathering in the calendar.

Upcoming events:April 9 – The Kimber Classic Trial. Details at the SW Centre web page at www.mgccsw.com. Too late to enter, but why not come down and sample the atmosphere spectating? Better still, marshals are always needed.

June 7-12 – MMM Ulster Touring Event. Fully booked but there might just be the odd cancellation. Details on the Register web page at www.t r i p l e - m r e g i s t e r.org/UlsterTT/UlsterTT31.asp

July 16 – Pre-War Prescott. A non-

competitive good all round weekend social with MMM cars welcome, lots to see and do, with a few runs up the famous hill thrown in for good measure. Details can be found at: [email protected]

July 17 – The MMM Summer Gathering. Held as usual at the Green establishment in Farnham Royal near Slough. Further details can be found on the MMM website: www.triple-mregister.org/events.asp and also from Peter at: [email protected] or 01753 643468.

July 29-31 – The Cercle MMM Luxembourg 2016 MMM Tour. Email [email protected] to see if there’s still places available.

Whilst browsing the internet on a wet day recently, I came across an interesting chart on Bas de Voogd’s website www.basdevoogd.nl It refers to the optional extras available for the SVW range of cars and makes interesting reading, especially when compared with standard fi ttings on modern cars. For those without internet access, we hope to publish it in the next newsletter.

Lastly, a reminder re the SVW event 2016 which will be held in the Ardennes Region of SE Belgium. The two-day Event is mid-week starting late afternoon on Tuesday June 14 and ending after lunch on Thursday June 16.

The Ardennes is a beautiful mixture of undulating forest and farmland with old sandstone buildings, deep limestone river gorges and scattered historic towns and villages. The ancient towns of Spa, Monschau, Maastrict and La Roche are all within a half-hour drive for anyone wishing to stay longer and explore beyond the set routes. We hope the central location of the rally this year near Liege will encourage SVW Register members to join this event from nearby countries as well as those from further overseas.

Rally HQ will be at The Chateau Bleu (13 rooms) in Trooz where both evening meals will be served for the whole group. Unfortunately, there are no larger hotels in the immediate area, so The Chateau Harze (22 Rooms) about 20

minutes away, has also been block-booked for us. If preferred, cars can be securely parked off-road overnight at Rally HQ and a free shuttle bus will be available to take people back to Harze on both evenings after the meal, with pick up after breakfast each morning to return to Trooz before the start of each road run.

The cost for the two-day Event is 600 Euros per double room (440 Euros for a single room). This covers the room, breakfasts, fi xed-menu lunches, fi xed-menu dinners for both days and entry to The Chateau Moldave, the award-winning Baugnez 44 Museum and the Gileppe Dam. Each extra night’s B&B either side of the Event is 90 Euros for a double room per night (70 Euros for a single room per night). Charges at both hotels are the same during this event. Special diets can be catered for as long as the organisers know the personal requirements before the event.

The route will cover about 60-65 miles each day, gently touring this fabulous region. There is also a garage near Trooz which specialises in old cars, so if necessary your cars can be repaired/serviced locally if the parts are available. (Please bring some spares with you to ‘share’ amongst the group).

To book for this Event, please contact The Chateau Bleu directly (Booking Code: SVW Event 2016). Phoning from outside

Belgium: 0032-4351-7457 or email: [email protected]

The owners Norbert and Marcella both speak good English, French, Dutch and Flemish, as does their son Kevin, who is also their excellent chef.

The non-refundable deposit taken to confi rm the booking is 50 Euros per person, and can be paid directly by credit card.

Phone booking is preferred, but if you wish to book by email, please refer to the guidance on the Register website under events or last month’s Safety Fast!.

A VA tourer enjoying the summer sun on a hot day on a rally in France.



REGISTERS

Y TYPEJerry Birkbeck 01926 258691 Mob: 07855 566325 [email protected] www.mgccyregister.co.uk

REGISTER

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

MG ERA DAY BROOKLANDSSUNDAY APRIL 10 2016 On June 19 1936 the fi rst of the new style MG Midgets was announced, replacing the J Types and the P Types and for the fi rst time sporting a push rod overhead valve engine as opposed to the established overhead camshaft unit. This became known as the TA and was to become the mainstay of MG sports car production right through to the last TF 1500 in July 1955.

So 80 years on it is programmed to herald the arrival of the TA at the annual MG Era Day at the birthplace of British Motorsport Brooklands Museum at Weybridge.

The date is April 10 2016 so still time to fettle the T type and get along to join hundreds of others to celebrate this momentous occasion.

There will be special collection of as many TAs as we can muster immediately outside the iconic Clubhouse and close by will be the parking area for as many other Ts as we can fi t into the space. Of course Brooklands is a great place to visit with its unique collection of historical memorabilia with sheds, workshops and all things nostalgic including of course fl ying machines, aeroplanes and now even London Transport buses. Plenty of refreshment available or bring a picnic and you can even book to try out the infamous ‘Test Run’ up the hill.

See all the details on www brooklandsmuseum.com

We have even revamped the T Register logo in celebration so look out for it at all the Register Events this year.

On the subject of other events the 2016 T Register T Party is now confi rmed.

The 2016 T Register T Party will be held on Sunday July 3 at the Bicester Heritage Flywheel Event at the old RAF Station at Bicester OX27 8AL.This is a relatively new event but quickly gaining wholesale acceptance by classic car clubs nationally and this year there will be 16 car clubs in attendance. It is a two day event but we have arranged to have a designated parking space on the Sunday only in the display area and for a set fee for pre registered Club members of £23 which includes for

car, driver and one passenger and a free souvenir programme to be collected at the event. Bookings close at midnight on Sunday June 26 2016 and as usual the sun will be shining so bring the picnic and the sun parasols.

Register by going online to www.fl ywheelfestival.com/clubs/ticketoffer

Make sure you book for the Sunday option and choose a ticket for displaying on your windscreen, also choose the correct car club and give vehicle make, model and registration number whether you require a display parking pass or not.

Remember this? Would you believe it, it was already three years ago! It was of course at the 50th Anniversary of the T Register at Brooklands in 2013. Well, we plan to do something like it again.

Ys at Seventy2017 marks 70 years since the fi rst Y rolled off the production lines at Abingdon. The Y Register is looking at ideas as to how we might celebrate this and are seeking your views on possible locations.

Thoughts at the moment are looking at a three or four day touring event as the major activity, supplemented with a Spring Weekend perhaps in the East of England around Lincolnshire, and East Anglia.

At this stage we are looking to your ideas and these will be discussed at our next Committee meeting and of course at the AGM later this year.

Please do forward your ideas to me (at the email address below the header details of this note) and/or please phone me.

MG Events in March and April 2016The copy requirements for Safety Fast! mean that completed articles for printing have to be with Editor Andy Knott a month before publication. I like to use any photographs/articles that you may wish to write, but will need them with me by the end of April for inclusion in the half yearly Y Newsletter that is published in June.

1951 YA 458 YUDIt’s always pleasing to receive articles from members and I must thank David Gregory for

his report, together with a photograph of the interior – which looks to be an excellent job. Here he describes his early experiences together with a report of `Vintage Stony’, an often mentioned event held every New Year’s Day in the historic town of Stony Stratford. Here is David’s tale:

As a young man MG PAs were my daily transport until the family outgrew them. Now retired, I still have a yearning to re-live the excitement they provided. To this end I bought a more affordable partly restored YA with a slipping clutch, worn out engine and scruffy trim. After a long search for a trimmer I found PJM in Market Drayton who made the interior a very nice place to be. The engine and clutch I sorted myself. Now usable and reliable, the YA did many shows and trips out with my local club. Confi dently we decided a trip to Brittany would make a nice holiday, but on the second day a half-shaft let go; fortunately another was located and shipped out, so we only lost a couple of days. As the summer came to an end I saw no reason to stop using the car, so looked for events and amongst others found Vintage Stony, where Stony Stratford town centre is taken over by the most amazing cars every New Year’s Day. It is a very well run event that lasts from 10am till about 3pm when the cars start drifting away. Marshals direct the cars to parking spaces in the car parks

and side roads, the town square being reserved for pre-war vehicles. Until now there has been no booking, but that may change due to the increasing popularity of the event. Many of the shops, cafés and restaurants open specially and the town has a very welcoming feel about it. Various prizes are awarded, but that is not what it is about, just being there is all that is required for a great day out.

David Gregory, 1951 YA, 458YUD



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REGISTERS

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

REGISTERFirst a quick reminder about the Black Country Museum and Cotswolds weekend, July 2-3. If you’re hoping to stay at Wroxall on the Saturday night, and/or join us for dinner there, please contact Alan Cleobury – don’t phone Wroxall Abbey directly. Of course you’ll be welcome to come to the museum and Cotswolds run whether or not staying at the hotel, and everyone is invited to the Register AGM at Wroxall, 10.30am on the Sunday (following coffee from 10.15).

Also you might just be in time to book for the 20th annual Z Magnette Day, in the Palatinate region of Germany, but you’ll have to contact Thomas Cordes ([email protected]) without delay.

Headlamps and heatersJeffrey Bridges is on course to have his newly restored ZA completed through its ‘shake down’ in time for the season’s events, and it looks to be an excellent job judging from the photos

– Jeffrey has done a lot of the interior work himself. He did share one unexpected hurdle encountered though, which was an MOT failure on the grounds of uncorrectable headlamp aim and beam spread.

The car was fi tted with reproduction Tripod units and H4 bulbs, so this result seems to fi t with my observations documented in a newsletter article last year – although mine didn’t actually fail an MOT. Having fi tted non-tripod Lucas F700 headlamps with BPF bulbs, Jeffrey’s car sailed through. As reported, I suspect the glass and moulding quality on original Lucas headlamps may still be superior to modern versions, but at least with BPF bulbs there’s a reasonable likelihood that the main and dipped beams will be properly focussed and directed.

On the subject of follow-ups, Geoff Knight has an alternative suggestion to improve the heater blower rather than replacing it, based on

Geoff Knight’s blower modifi cation

MGAEdward Vandyk 01488 608810 [email protected]

REGISTER

The waiting is almost over. April brings us MG Era at Brooklands on the 10th and Drive It Day on the 24th. The show season will also be upon us with our local shows and autojumbles kicking off as early as Easter Monday.

This could be the year to ‘do it’ rather than just dream about it but that requires preparation and thinking ahead. That intrepid MGA world traveller from down under, Dave Godwin, has prepared a pre-trip check list for his latest ‘Around the World in Classic MGs’ adventure and whilst it may seem over the top for the local show or road run it gives a good steer, pun intended, as to where to look and what to look for. Whilst it is not practical to publish it in a useable format in Safety Fast! you can download it from the MGA section of the MGCC website or contact me by email or phone and I will send you a copy. The absence of the compulsory MoT for pre 1960 cars may be a blessing but is not without its potential issues if, for example, a mechanical failure leads to an accident. The onus would then, I believe, be on the owner to show that the car was roadworthy and demonstrating that you had a plan to ensure roadworthiness possibly based on, but not limited to, Dave’s plan, and had followed it, might go some way to addressing this point.

In mid May, 2016, ten Aussie Adventurers, led by Dave, in fi ve classic MGs will return to Vancouver, Canada and take a leisurely 7,000 mile drive to St John’s, Newfoundland. On reaching St John’s, three of the cars, including Dave’s MGA, will have traversed the world, having started from Beijing, China in 2010! So it really will have been ‘Around the World in Classic

MGs’ and this has to warrant a separate Safety Fast! article – something to look forward to. Incidentally Dave’s hood – see photograph – has to be a ‘Round the World’ one off but I have yet to tease the ‘how’, let alone the ‘why’, out of him!

A word from the MGA Registrar, Stuart Mumby. When directing queries or requests for information from the MGA Register to him, by email and other means, please always quote your Membership Number. This will ensure that the benefi t of membership of the Club go where they belong – to members.

The last few weeks have seen an attempt by some of us to collate all known facts about MGAs fi tted with the Dunlop Disc Brake All Round option, also known as MGA De Luxe as well as MGA 1600 MkII Competition and possibly MGA 1600 MkIIb cars, with a view to a subsequent article. Separating substantiated fact from assumption, supposition or simply fi ction remains an ongoing process so this seems an opportune moment to remind you that the MGA Register has a De Luxe Co-ordinator, John Barrett, who lives in Norway and can be contacted on +47 97128265 or at [email protected]. If you have anything to add to our knowledge of these rare cars please contact John and let him know.

Finally an invitation to all members of the MGA Register to the Rare Breeds Tour and Car Show which I am organising as part of Stockfest to be held on August 21. This will be a repeat of the 2015 event with hopefully good weather all day this time. The rain at about 2pm put a bit of a dampener on the afternoon in 2015 but at least ensured we drank the beer tent dry; we will have fi ve fi rkins this year as a consequence! The event

is being run in association with the MGA Twin Cam Group and we would like to see as many Twin Cams, De Luxes and push rod MGAs there as possible and in particular on the Tour. Priority will be given to MGAs and MGs in that order for at least half the places on the Tour, which is limited to 60 cars. This is a ‘something for everyone’ event and part of our annual village festival, Stockfest, at which there will be a beer tent, hot food and a vintage fair as well as live music and marionette shows for both adults and children, a surprisingly popular performance when we have done this before.

You are welcome to picnic on site, ideally with your Sirram or Brexton picnic sets, and the music, with fi ve live bands, will go on until 8pm although you can come and go as you like and, if you come in your MGA, admission is free!

The websites are live at www.rarebreedstour.co.uk and www.stockfestcarshow.co.uk and whilst there is no need to register for the Show there is now a booking form for the Tour on the website.

Dave and Laurel Godwin in Patagonia

scientifi c analysis of the airfl ow in the original. For full details you’ll have to read the magnette.org tech-tips article, where you can see how he blocked off empty space in the housing to force more air through the duct.



REGISTERS

www.mgcc.co.uk

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

MIDGET REGISTERHello to everyone again this month. Hope you are all well? It’s been great to hear from young Ed Yeates from Essex this month. Ed has a Midget (see pic), but at only 16, he can’t drive it on the road yet. His dad Mike, who owns an MGC GT, is very supportive of Ed and has been helping him with it. Ed can’t wait until he can take his test. It’s fantastic to know that there are young people interested in Midgets and who will be there to keep these little cars going in the future. I’ve also heard from John Shepherd from the north east. John has a lovely little Midget fi tted with a 1600 Toyota engine (see pic). He has taken it on Track Days with MGOT and thoroughly enjoyed the experience. He’s wanting to fi t a new petrol tank soon but not before adapting it to fi t baffl es. He has been advised that welding the inside of new tanks is an issue as the coating that the metal has on it prevents a weld from taking hold. Has anyone heard of such a thing? I haven’t.

Meanwhile Mike, our chairman, has been chatting to Koichi Morikawa, a Midget owner from Japan. Koichi owns a 1963 Mk1 Midget and tells us that Japan has had a hot winter allowing him to drive his Midget on February 24, once the snow had thawed. Great to hear from you Koichi.

The Register would also like to thank David, Martin and Chris from BMH for bringing along their splendid newly sprayed Midget and new engine and staying with the Register on the MGCC stand at the Stoneleigh Spares Day. It was very kind of you, thank you.

Of course this month it’s ‘Drive it Day’ on April 24. I hope many of you will take your Midgets out and enjoy driving them on this day. I’ll certainly be out in mine.

I must quickly mention the MR Facebook page. This is getting busier by the day and clearly a popular site to visit. I posted a pic of my very

wet Frogeye at a previous Old Speckled Hen Run recently and within a couple of days it had reached nearly 1,800 people.

Well last month I posted a picture of Mike Parker practising his cricket and lo and behold he’s been offered to play for a team in Australia. And so as we now have a contact in Japan, the Register has decided to fund his visit and on route to stop off in Japan to help set up a Midget Register there. Some people have all the luck.

We are now up to nine Midgets booked for our weekend to Exmoor in July. I can’t wait. See you next month, well if I’m still the Scribe after the AGM that is!

Young Ed Yeates’ Midget

A good selection of cars gather for the start of the 2015 MGB Register Spring Run

John Shepherd on a Track Day at Donington with MGOT

MGBNeil Hyett 01869 241180 [email protected] www.mgb-register.org

REGISTERWow this year is fl ying by; here I am writing

the April Notes when it only seems a couple of weeks since the New Year. Anyway, these are my last Register Notes as I am handing over to David Broadhurst. I have enjoyed the role for what must be getting on for fi ve years but the time is right for a change. As David is now editing the Register Newsletter it seems fi tting that he also takes over the Register Notes which will hopefully give more continuity between the two. I am not leaving the Committee but moving on to a new role.

In fact, as I write these notes we are only a few days from the AGM. As John Watson reported last month he is standing down as Chairman but we are also losing other long standing committee members who have all done sterling service over many years. We thank you all gentlemen for your efforts and support. We will publish the new committee after the AGM, so all will be revealed.

The annual FBHVC Drive it Day is this year on Sunday April 24 and to mark the occasion, Bicester Heritage are holding one of their Sunday Brunch Meetings. For those interested we have arranged a special parking area for MGBs and even better, you can get in for half price. We are a registered club for the event so when you apply for the admission tickets you need to select ‘Registered Club Member Vehicle’ option on the application form and follow the instructions. The

entry fee will be £2.50/adult (plus an online booking fee). If you’ve not been to Bicester Heritage it is well worth a visit. You will certainly fi nd plenty to see for a few hours.

Goodbye, Happy MGB’ing.

A few dates for your diary:Spring Run on Sunday April 10 2016 – The run will fi nish at the magnifi cent Ragley Hall near Alcester. Although the run is only a few days away why not check if you can get a late entry. Remember this event is open to all MG models.

Register Weekend September 16-19 2016 – Join us for a weekend away in Yorkshire based at the Coniston Hotel (www.theconistonhotel.com) near Skipton and enjoy a weekend of scenic driving, excellent food and of course socialising. There will be full day tours

on the Saturday and Sunday set in stunning countryside including viewing the Ribblehead Viaduct, visiting Wensleydale, the original home of the famous cheese, and Kettlewell, the setting for ‘Calendar Girls’. If of course you don’t fancy doing the organised tours on both days you can always do your own thing.

Although Skipton is northward for most of us it makes an excellent base for touring Yorkshire, so why not stay on for a few days after the weekend and make a week of it! Numbers are restricted to 35 cars and we already have a few bookings. If you haven’t been on a Register weekend before I can guarantee you will have a great time so if you are thinking of joining us, don’t leave it too late so as not to be disappointed.

All details and booking forms for all the events are on the website.









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REGISTERS

FWDBen Hatton [email protected] http://www.mgcc.co.uk/fwd-register/

REGISTER

MGCGinny Cartmell 01208 821552 [email protected]

REGISTERMGC Weekend Amendment...In last month’s Safety Fast! you will remember I reported on the exclusive use of the Hailwood Suite, at Mallory Park for our MGC Register event July 2-3 – Well it would seem the MG Car Club Race Committee thought they had booked the Suite also! The compromise we have come to is that we will share the facilities and enjoy the day together. We are advised that they would like us to complete our buffet by 2.30pm in order that prize giving will take place throughout the afternoon. There is no need to vacate the area, but consideration must be made when the awards are being given. This can be looked at as a bonus we hope, because you will be able to see the internal working of the racing fraternity. All being well, we will have fantastic sunshine and after enjoying your lunch you will want to get out trackside and enjoy the racing from Gerrard’s Bend or other areas of this great spectator circuit.

At time of writing we still have some rooms available at Wroxall Abbey Hotel, including space for Dinner, Saturday night. Please don’t hesitate in contacting me for more information if you would like to get involved or have any questions with regards to this event.

April 10 Era Day at Brooklands...We hope we may see some of you at Brooklands, later this month. We have been told that this is a great gathering of MGs, together with a superb aviation heritage museum; let’s hope the sun shines here too. We have a hand full of Cs going that I know of, but plenty of room for more. For this event it is Jon Glover you need to contact, he will be able to give you ticket availability and details on local accommodation... [email protected]

New Member...You will see below one of our latest new members to join the MGC Register, James Corbett, with a beautiful 1968 built Roadster, though not registered until 1970. James will be driving this car to Wroxall Abbey Hotel and on to Mallory Park this July, so we will be able to have a good look at his MGC and chat with him. One amusing story from him, that he went to a Sunday morning car boot sale for a second hand fishing rod and also came home with an MGC, what a good catch...!

The last month has been a very busy and productive one for the FWD Register. On February 20 we held our AGM at the MG Sales Centre Longbridge. Several key issues were discussed and a new committee was elected. I have taken over from Tanya Field as Register Chair, and Ian Kimpton ([email protected]) has taken over as Vice Chair and adopted the new role of Registrar, assisted by our Historian Colin Corke.

Just a little bit of information about myself. I’m 23 and have had an interest in classic cars and vehicles from a very young age. An interest in MGs developed after I purchased my MK1 MG Metro three years ago. It is currently being fully restored to original specification, but some of you may remember it being featured in the MG90 timeline at Silverstone last year.

A major discussion topic at our AGM was surviving models of MG Metros, Maestros and Montegos that were once a the most populous sight of MG on UK roads, but numbers are now down to just a few hundred. (Not forgetting that we also cover MG 1100, 1300 and the 6R4!) To raise awareness of the Register, we have decided to start a database (for Registrar use only) and launch a ‘Where are they now?’ campaign with the aim of identifying as many surviving vehicles as possible.

I would like to appeal to any members of the MGCC who own one of these once popular cars to please contact Ian Kimpton, [email protected] with your registration number, VIN, colour, a photo if possible and any other information that you may wish to share about the history.

The FWD Register attended the Practical Classics Restoration Show at the NEC with the support of the MGCC, our first solo event, to great success and received great feedback from our visitors and other clubs alike. Vehicles on display – MG Metros: Colin Corke’s excellent 1982 original launch spec in Cinnabar Red on ramps, was displayed alongside Martin McFeely’s unrestored and well travelled vehicle in Silver Leaf with Opaline front wing – a car that attracted comments such as: “That’s how I remember them” or “That’s exactly how mine was”. And for the MG Maestros: Wayne Bates provided us

with his rare 1988 Atlantic Blue and Ian Kimpton allowed his immaculate 1990 White Diamond, that featured on the Meguiars stand at the NEC Classic last November, to come into very close contact with the general public!

This was a great opportunity to launch our ‘Where Are They Now?’ campaign which yielded some very interesting conversations with people restoring one, or cars simply pushed into garages, sheds and forgotten about, not to mention new sources for spares, long since thought unavailable!

One example was a woman whose father owned an early MG Maestro, parked up in his garage for 23 years, which he simply didn’t use. Various other Maestros, Metros and Montegos also came to light. A promising start and has proved a good foundation to build on. So if anyone knows where some of these cars are, please get in touch with Ian.

Our next event is our annual FWD Register Spring Run on April 2. We start at Kimber house, go on to the Mini Plant at Cowley, travel to the British Motor Museum and finish at the MG Sales Centre at Longbridge. Please join us with any MG or BLARG vehicle, you will be very welcome!

Finally I would like to thank Tanya for her work over the last 12 months as Chair for the FWD Register, and I’m very much looking forward to a progressive year ahead.

The Register stand at the Practical Classics Restoration Show




REGISTERS

ZRZSZTJohn Thompson 07854 275541 [email protected] www.mgcc.co.uk/zedregister

REGISTER

MGFTim Morris 01932 882467 [email protected] www.mgfregister.org

REGISTERAs many of you will know the Register organises the ‘After Hours’ party at MGLive! and this year we are pleased to host the return of ‘Not the Hoople’. For those who came to the MGF20 party last August you’ll already know them as they played the night away on top of the Heritage Motor Centre (or British Motor Museum as it now seems to be). Adam Denton will be our superstar DJ when the band are not on stage and we’ll hold the Glo Car competition as soon as dusk falls, which is usually after the band’s first set. To start the evening off there will be a barbecue and of course the bar will be open in the marquee. It’s ideal for those camping over on Saturday night, or if you fancy making a complete day of MGLive! and staying on for some After Hours fun.Not only would we invite you to join the party, but also to join in with your Glo Cars. We’ll have the same categories as before: Pro Glo, for those with fitted neons, lasers, lights and so on, and perhaps the easier one of Impro-Glo: lights that are not permanently fitted, torches, glo sticks, bubbles, windmills or even dress yourself up in a day-glo tutu! The essence is on making as much light and noise with your sound system as possible! I’d quite like to know if you are entering so please email me on [email protected] so I can rest assured that there will be some entries!

Thames Tunnels and BridgesThis fantastic charity event takes place on the evening of September 24 and we’ve already had lots of entries for it, so if you want to take part in one of the most challenging navigational events in the MG calendar whilst admiring the sights of central London at dusk in the process then you’ll need to get your entry in soon. We will be limiting the numbers of cars entering as there is not a large amount of space at the Wimbledon start point but it’s still early and there is still space for you now. It’s open to any MGCC member with any type of MG, not just F/TFs, and to enter you just need to register via the MGF Register online shop at www.mgfregister/org/shop

Donington HistoricThe Donington Historic festival takes place on April 30–May 2, and our Heart of England Region will be hosting the Register’s presence at the event and will be camping over. If you’d like to join them then please contact Keith at [email protected] and he’ll give you a special code to buy discount tickets to the event as well.

Brooklands MG DayFinally we’ll see you at Brooklands on April 10 for their MG day and hopefully you will have contacted

me already if you would like to park up in the Register area. I might be still looking for some monogram cars for a special display so if you have one and can come then email me pronto at [email protected]. If you miss out on this one then make sure July 24 is in your diary for the BTM Classic Car Show when we’ll be having another Brooklands display at this mixed vehicle event.

Uxbridge Car ShowOur Thames Valley region is organising the Register presence at this West London event on Sunday July 17 – several of the local regions are already going but if you would like to come along to this large general classic car show then let Ian Wright know at [email protected]

That’s enough to be getting on with but there is plenty more on our internet forum or Facebook page including the Hard Top Relay which has started now.

The MGF Register Hard Top Relay gets under way – here it is overnighting in Devon with Pete & Lin Opie

Events & showsThe first meeting of the 2016 Racing Championships takes place on April 3 at Donington Park. There will be a full account of the first races from Geoff Hirst in the next magazine.

News in briefAs a brief reminder the MG Era Day will be taking place in a few days time at Brooklands Museum on April 10. Hopefully we will have glorious spring weather again this year. We have been in the process of booking space for the Register. We aren’t too sure of the parking arrangements this year but hopefully cars will be grouped together better this year. If not come and find us and introduce yourselves.

The following weekend is the Pride of Longbridge gathering on April 16. This event has always been popular with Zed owners. Last year marked ten years since the closure of the former MG Rover plant, and saw a record number of vehicles in attendance. 2016 marks a significant milestone for our cars so hopefully we should see similar numbers this time. This year the main club will be in attendance. We will be supporting the main club in promoting the Zeds and ZED15/MG Saloon Day being held later this year. We will be distributing ZED15/MG Saloon Day flyers during the day to all attendees.

ZED15 updateHopefully you will have seen that a ticket shop for ZED15 has been set by Kimber House. Admission price to the event is £8 per car in advance, or £10 on the day. A wristband to gain entry to view the collection inside the revamped British Motor Museum can be purchased for an additional £10 per person in advance, a saving of £4 off the normal entry price. • The event opens at 10am• Admission to the museum for children under

5 years is free• Admission to children(5-16yrs) is £9For further information on our other forthcoming events and Register information please visit site our Facebook page.

For more information about the British Motor Museum visit their website – www.britishmotormuseum.co.uk Provisional programme of events 2016Sunday April 10 MG Era Day Brooklands, SurreySat April 16 Pride of Longbridge BirminghamSat/Sun April 30 – May1 Brands

Hatch Race Round Brands Hatch, KentSat/Sun June 4-5 MGLive! Silverstone, NorthantsSun July 3 Mallory Park Race Round Mallory Park, Leics Sun July 9 ZED15/MG Saloon Day BMM Gaydon, WarksSat Sept 3 Oulton Park Race Round Oulton Park, CheshireSat/Sun Oct 1-2 Snetterton Race Round Snetterton, NorfolkFri/Sat/Sun Nov 11-13 Classic Motor Show NEC, Birmingham



A SELECTION OF MGTF LE500’SBREAKING FOR SPARES

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This is just a small selection from our stock

MG TF LE500 #015/500 (just 45,000 miles)

2008 (58 Reg) Manual, Petrol, Finished in Vibrant Orange/Black leather Here we offer a LE500 ltd edition. # 015 of just 500 made. Fitted with Air conditioning, Black leather sport seats, heated glass rear screen, 16” 11 spoked alloys, sports pack 2, soft ride suspension, engine water level censor, etc, just have a cambelt service + new brake disc’s Mot etc. Superb. £5,495

2005 (55 Reg) Manual, Petrol. Finished in: Silver/black leather grey inserts Previously supplied by us and just 36,000 miles. A superb 2 owner Spark ltd edition these were the last limited model made by MG/Rover. They are high spec, eg, Black leather sport seats with grey alcantara inserts,sports pack 2 with unmarked 16” alloys,chrome packs, silver interior trim, engine water level censor. Also fi tted with a heated glass rear screen and mudfl aps.MG Car Club members car. Supplied with a new headgasket /water pump /cambelt. Superb condition. £4,795

MG TF 135 SPARK (just 36,000 miles)

Here we offer a MG6 ‘SE’ Hatchback model, having covered a very low mileage of just 27,000 miles. This high spec ‘SE’ model is fi tted with Satellite navigation, 17” alloys, air conditioning, cruise control, rear park sensor etc,. Outstanding condition throughout. Special sale price was £6495 .......Now £5,295

MG 6 ‘SE’ GT Hatchback (just 27,000 miles)

Raced by us and fully rebuilt over the winter of 2014, re-trimmed interior, New Engine is a 1840cc 150 bhp fi tted with JE pistons,Carrilo steel conrods,Arrow steel crankshaft, Alloy sump, LW fl ywheel, Cambridge Race camshaft, Weber 45, LSD, 4 syncro,s/c,c/r gearbox, Alloy race fuel tank,etc As raced in the HRDC & Ecuire GTS series, just 3 races since and just 150 miles usage unraced in 2015. Thousands spent on this Superb condition MGB. Was £26995 Sale price £25995

MG MGB FIA Historic Appendix ‘K’ racecar 1964 (B Reg)150 Miles

2008 (08 Reg)Manual, petrol. Finished in Vibrant Orange with Black leather sport seats. Fitted with air conditioning, sports pack 2 ,heated glass rear screen, engine water level censor, etc. These TF’s are fi tted with later ‘N’ series engines. Just had a major cambelt service plus new brake disc’s pads and moted. The a/c has also just been serviced. Superb low mileage example. £5,995

MG TF LE500 MG Press/showcar(just 23,000miles)

2009 (59 Reg) Manual, Petrol. Finished in Intense Blue/black leather Ltd edition LE500, fi tted with a colour coded removable hardtop, heated glass rear screen soft top, air conditioning, engine water level censor,black leather sport seats,soft ride suspension, sports pack 2 ,16” 11 spoked alloys, wind defl ector, etc.#278/500. Full service history, just had cambelt service. Stainless sports exhaust fi tted. Black alloys can be changed for silver ones. £6,895

MG TF LE500 #278 +H/top (just 32,000miles)

MG TF 135 Facelift (just 26,000 miles)

2005 (05 Reg)26,000 Miles Manual, Petrol. Finished in: Silver/Black leather TF135 Facelift model one of the last made. Just one Lady owner having covered just 26,000 miles. Fitted with soft ride suspension, facelift alloys, glass heated rear screen, engine water level censor, full black leather sport seats. Service history plus every mot. Supplied with a new headgasket/cambelt /water pump. £4,795

MG TF 135 facelift model (just 53,000miles)

One of the last made MG TF’s, Facelift model, Full service history. High spec fitted with a Heated glass rear screen, soft ride suspension, unmarked facelift alloys, engine water level censor, full black leather sport seats, Silver interior trim, front fog lights. Colour coded hard top available @ £350+vat. Just been through our workshop, serviced including fitted with a new headgasket/cambelt /water pump brake disc’s and pads . £4,295



LookingBack

If you can tell us more about any of these cars or the events, we are always keen to hear from you at Kimber House; contact the MGCC Archivist Pete Neal on [email protected].

We thought that it might be time to look back at the days when our sports cars were being built at the Abingdon factory. No robots, no moving lines, no computers, just a dedicated workforce with a pride in the job.

We begin with a photo by Stuart Seager of an MGA bodyshell already ‘prepped’ on the top deck, being lowered onto a waiting chassis.

Our next picture, also by Stuart Seager, shows a Midget having its windscreen fitted whilst a line inspector checks the installation of the brake pipes and master cylinder.

Following on from this we have a photograph of a visit to the factory in 1966 by a group from the Midland Centre who can be seen pausing on the body deck to watch the assembly process of an MGB.

Finally, we have included a picture by Ron Willis of the factory in 1980 after production had ended and most of the equipment removed. A sad ending for all concerned.

LOOKING BACK



CARS FOR SALE

MGB Roadster LE 1981 Supplied new by British Leylanddealer Tourist Trophy Ltd, this won-derful example was registered newon the 1st October 1981confirmedby the original Sales Invoice. Anincredible detailed history file andoriginal service book, some 22 oldMOT certificates and tax discs con-firm the low miles, 25553. MOTFebruary 2017, – Folding hood, bothhalf and full tonneau covers andfront spoiler, lockable glovebox,Kenwood stereo with 4 matchingspeakers (the original Pioneerstereo is also with the car), Recentadditions: battery immobilizer,leather seats with lumbar support,wooden steering wheel. £14695o.n.o. For further information callStewart on 07881963541 .

ZB Magnette 1958. Very good condition throughout,lovely to drive. 32K miles. FullyMOT'd, History and paperwork.£13,750. For more informationplease call 01295 811348.

MGA LHD 1622 (1960)Total rebuild ,chassis off (2000/3)original panels / poly bushed / 3/4anti rollbar / lockheed servo frontdisc brakes / stainless exhaust sys-tem with maniflow four branch /full petronix ignition system / 1800unleaded head /rebuilt carbs /rebuilt engine with +40 Hepolitepistons / rebuilt gearbox / oil cool-er / rebuilt Radiator /single battery& tool box / leather seats / full ton-neau /seatbelts /all mots /summeronly / garaged /excellent touring /driving / looking / fun car / 17000+miles since rebuild mostly long dis-tance /Switzerland /Angouleme / LeMans Classic / uk jollys / will bevery sad to see it go but happy forthe new owner. Offers on £20,[email protected](East Devon)

MG TD 1953 Family owned for 42 years, olderrestoration, runs well but not con-course condition, some “original”features. Much loved but not usedso much now so we are looking fornew owners to cherish and enjoy.Cream with red leather interior,new mohair hood, new steeringwheel and stainless steel exhaust.£18,000. Telephone 01379 852386 (South Norfolk)

MG ZR 105, 20033door, British Racing Green. MOTuntil 1/8/16, 67,500 miles, FSH. Ibought the car at nine years oldwith only 29,100 miles on the clock.One owner for its first eight years,then hardly used for the next yearor so by its second owner. The carwas initially serviced by the regis-tered dealer, Windsors Of Wallaseyand ever since by Peter JonesEngineering who effectively tookover from Windsors. The ZR hasattended The Pride Of Longbridgeshow for the past 3 years. AskingPrice £1050 ono. Tel: 0772 9183 724

MGTF 1954 1250cc Red with new red leather interior,RHD, full tonneau, black hood &side screens, luggage rack. Full bodyoff restoration in 2009, engine over-hauled, unleaded head - polished &ported, rebuilt carbs with correctair filters, re-cored radiator, over-hauled 4speed gearbox. Matchingnumbers car, much admired - recentprise winning example in excellentrunning order. £28000. Call John01795 875846 or email [email protected] more information.(Kent)

MGTF 1954 1250ccThe time has come for someoneelse to enjoy this lovely TF. In excel-lent condition, it drives really well, isalways garaged and only driven inthe dry. It looks the part in red withwire wheels, spot lights and chromeluggage rack. It comes with blackhood and tonneau cover, dust coverand stainless steel exhaust. UK carwith its original registration num-ber, first registered 28th June 1954.£29,500. Tel: 01386 882179 Mob: 07786 853010. Or Email: [email protected](Broadway, Worcestershire)

MG Midget 1971 For rebuild or spares. Chromebumper. 1250cc Gold Seal engine.The car was driven to a lock-upgarage in 1986 and has not movedsince. Green log book.Best Offers. Buyer collects. [email protected](West Oxfordshire)

MGTF 1500Owned since 2008, looks immacu-late but exterior does have smallsigns of 7 years of enjoyed owner-ship. The interior is in excellentunworn condition the side-screensrefurbished, the roof water-tight. Recent work includes new wiperblades/arms and fitments, doorstays, pedal rubbers and revcounterreduction box and cable. Steeringrefurbished and new rubber sealsfitted in 2012. Annual service withthe greasing every 500m . StrongOil pressure throughout range.Peter Edney fitted 5-speed gearbox,gives unstressed travel at 70 mph. Upgrades: unleaded, electrics andKenlowe and sat-nav power.Ethanol inhibitor used to preservethe fuel system. Peter Edney refurbishment to chas-sis, wood and body in early 2000'still excellent. £24950. Contact Neville: on 07971446060. Email: [email protected]

MGA 1600 Roadster 1959,Complete resto 1990, 1950ccOselli unleaded engine, Hi-Gear 5speed box, alternator/negativeearth/single 12v battery, VredesteinClassics, chrome wires, 123 distrib-utor, Aeroquip brake lines, Kenlowe,mohair hood and matching ton-neau, red leather interior, heater,great chassis/floor/paint/panel fit,chrome boot rack. £25,000.Contact Steve Johnson on 01789414642 or 07850 123216.

How to AdvertiseMembers can advertise their cars

free of charge in Safety Fast. The

advert will also be posted on the

Club website in due course. This is

for one insertion only. To place an

advert or for additional insertions

email Colin Grant at

[email protected] with details

of your car, around 60 words, togeth-

er with an attached picture, your

contact information, price of your

car, the area where you live, and

membership number. Cost for non-

members to advertise is £20. All

adverts should be submitted by the

15th of the month for the

following months issue.

CARS FOR SALE

MGB Roadster 1970Tartan red, lovely car, full refurbish-ment in Scotland by the previousowner,bills and history file, mohairhood, black leather interior, wood-en dashboard trim, full years MOT.£11,500 For more photos pleasecontact Dick on 07802 637896(Cirencester)

MGTF 160 VVC 2006 2005MY car in Ignition Blue withnavy hood and glass rear screen.36000 miles and two owners sincenew. Just serviced and MOT’d to04/02/2017. Fully loaded, passengerairbag, rare air-con, new Oxfordleather seats, auto changer, servicehistory and all receipts, Trophyalloys, windstop, chrome pack.Beautiful condition. £4000 ono.Contact James (07908) 887771(Chelmsford).

British MotorHeritage approved

BARRYWALKEREstd.1968

Tel: 01789 400 181. Fax: 01789 400230. Mob: 07836 244103 Email: [email protected] Web: www.barrywalker.com

1936 MG NB TOURER. One of the rarest ohc MGs. Thisbeautifully restored Magnette with its 1300ccstraight 6cyl. engine will take you touring both home& abroad with reliability, comfort & huge luggagespace. Two-tone green. Offers close to.............£65k

1934 MG PA Deluxe. A rare chance for an all-matching nos.PA. Well known to MGCC & VSCC (non race) events,this superbly presented MG has been fully serviced andprepped by us, and offers pride of ownership, rallyingand events or really enjoyable road use with minimummaintenance. Beautifully finished in Raven black withApple Green Collingburn interior and full weather gear.Top of the range car............................................£48,500

. . . . . for the very best in vintage MGs. . . . .BANK’S NO GOOD, SUMMER’S COMING, CARS GOING.. .come on:

1932 MG F1 MAGNA. I know these aren’t everybody’s‘cup-of-tea’, but if you want practicality, very littlemaintenance, MG’s most reliable early engine and a carthat is clearly underpriced, you should give this muchconsideration. Totally restored, fully proven on the road,loads luggage space, this is a cracking opportunity tosnatch a seriously USABLE investment...........£49,500

1949 MG TC SPORTS. Just arrived. A nicely just-wornrecent restoration that has had the bugs ironed out &with a nice patina. Goes seriously well. Everything worksas it should – it’s a car you will USE! Dark red, beigeleather, beige roof. Open to sensible offer

* 1933 MG J2. Near concours condition. Cycle wings with heavy crank. Beautiful car...£46,500

COMMISSION SALES: Our highly regarded service is a lways avai lable to you.

1948 MG TC SPORTS. Never before on the UK market, thisall-matching nos. TC has been completely restored. Areally enjoyable car to drive; just feels ‘right’. Perfect forthe coming summer in Old Eng. White with wineleather. A great TC...Open to sensible offer

1934 MG PA SPORTS. A beautifully restored PA without being overdone. A really usable thing that you’ll be more than proud to own. Fully serviced engine, rebuilt steering, deluxe factory dash, aeroscreens, stoneguards and superb leather interior. All new weather equipment fi tted, this is really worth viewing .....................................£45,000 (Optional s/charger available at cost)

07831 556666

www.mgsforsale.com

www.mgsforsale.com

01707 [email protected]

Do not confuse the above vehicles with cheaper inferior quality models offered elsewhere. Part exchange any make of Motor Car with generous allowances. Discounted cash purchases. Viewing by appointment only please (available evenings & weekends) no obligation to purchase. All our vehicles carry a warranty, have an MOT and are fully serviced prior to collection/delivery.

SEE OUR WEBSITE FOR A COMPLETE LISTING OF OUR STOCK

ANY YEAR, ANY CONDITION

URGENTLY WANTEDANY MG

A Pair of MGB Limited Edition Roadsters A rare occurrence indeed! We are proud to have on offer two MGB Limited Edition Roadsters. Only 420 of these delightful models were produced. The ‘end of the line’ MGBs were fi tted with front spoilers and on the Roadster version with the choice of distinctive alloy wheels or wire spoke wheels. (212 cars were fi tted with alloy wheels and 208 cars had wire wheels)

The Limited Edition cars were all built at Abingdon in 1979 and were in fact the last MGs to be built at the famous factory before its closure in October 1980. £POA



CARS FOR SALE

MG Maestro 2.0i 1989Flame red/grey interior. Usual spec-ifications and totally original exceptfor Turbo wheels and uprated head-lamps and protectors. Full servicehistory from new, one previousowner, present one for 15 years.Maintained regardless of cost, a rarecar in outstanding condition.Reluctant sale £7750ono. Tel 01526388680 or 07949031818(Lincolnshire)

1950 MG TD Mk 1 In Chariot Red with black leatherinterior. Same owner for 50 years,very original car. Runs well thoughnot concours condition. Much lovedbut not used enough now so we arelooking for a new owner to cherishand enjoy it.. £16,000 ono. 01483200281 or [email protected](Surrey)

MGB Roadster 1966 Black bodywork, black leatherseats, overdrive, chrome bumpermodel. Chrome wire wheels, newhood, Motolita steering wheel,unleaded, tax exempt, HeritageCertificate, history. Appeared in'Midsomer Murders' and is 50 yearsold on 18th April 2016. Same ownerlast 7 years. MOT Feb 2017.£14,950. Telephone 07881 487 336 (Henley on Thames).

Wanted Does anyone know of my wife’sMGB GT, 1974, Reg. No. ROC 60M,Colour, Blaze. (Red/Orange). Shesold the car in 1995, to a gentleman,name of Tim Collins, from theStamford, Lincs./East Midlandsarea.She would now very much liketo buy it back. Any informationwould be greatly appreciated.MGCC member. Telephone 01384 422178. E-Mail, [email protected].

1978 MG B GT11,000 miles only from new2 Owners. MOT March 2017. GoodClean Condition. All Documents.Price: £4,995Contact: Bernie – 01695 572660 or [email protected]

1970 Midget Mk.3 British Racing Green for sale,1275cc engine. Mileage showing20086 – cannot confirm if this isoriginal. The car was re-shelled in2002, and engine recently re-built tounleaded standard. Car numbermodel GAN5-83482G. Blackleather interior, with wire wheels.Had been standing, so recentlybrakes have been completely over-hauled, new battery and fuel pumpfitted. MOT passed 16 June 2015.This car is a great little runner, andwould make a good first buy for anenthusiast. Leeds area. Could betrailer delivered by arrangement.£6950.00 ono.Phone Neil on 07852986638; e-mail:- [email protected]

MG Midget 1976 - HERITAGE REBUILD1500cc rebuilt using complete newbody and driven 12000 summermiles since. This car was fullyrestored to use. Every panel fullysprayed off car undersides/hiddenparts stone chipped/waxoiled. Stillrust free. Excellent Mechanicalorder. Thorough Spring Service & MOT.Email/ring for full details & decentphotos. [email protected] Private saleNorthamptonshire £7000 ONO

1971 MGB GT 3.9 V8iOlder reshell. Factory GTV8 gear.Range Rover engine/ ignitionelectrics. RV8 Plenum/bonnet.Suspension and ALL running gearrecently renewed. Stainless exhaust.Hella heads. Pioneer FM/DAB/CDChanger. A very well-presented,protected, rustfree all-weatherexample in Brilliant Metallic Silverwith leather seats. £14350 (sparesneg) View at Rowlands Castle.Roger 07903978867 or Email:[email protected]

MGA 1650 1959 Built to 1980’s MGCC MGAModified championship regs. Body& chassis steel as original, allydoors, boot, bonnet floors etc. Fullwidth low perspex windscreen,steel roll over cage bolted to chas-sis, all removable. Race provenengine, steel crank/flywheel, modi-fied pistons/rods race cam all light-ened balanced etc, Weber carb,close ratio straight cut gears. Modified brakes, shocks etc, 6’’steel wheels with little use. Avonroad tyres plus set of wheels withold racers etc. All standard lightsetc fitted road legal, no MOT or taxrequired because of age. Lastrebuilt/raced 1996, stored sincewith a little road use. RegWWP444. Owned by me since1977 'ish. Various spares availabl.£19,000 ono. Contact me EricHoult on 07872521382 [email protected](Cornwall)

Austin Sprite 1971 Tartan Red, one of only 1022 madein VGC, ( potential Concoursentrant ) Professional restorationby MG Specialist in 2001 and lessthan 8,000 miles since, all wholly inmy ownership. Complete withToolkit, Hood Cover & Tonneau.Extensive history, Mots, Tax Discs,Corres with previous Owners andHeritage Certificate. A very rareopportunity to purchase one of thevery best " Spridgets " . £8995 ono. Contact Rob. Email: [email protected] : 07481 478443(Northants)

MG MIDGET 1978 1500,Debumped. No MOT, Owner for 5years. Would make a great summercar. Could be improved with someminor work. Needing the space andlack of time. Ring Steve for moredetails on 07743 527314. area. Email:- [email protected] for more photos. £1995. (West Yorkshire)

MGB Roadster 196567000 miles, u/l head, s/s exhaust,servo brakes, new sills 1997, electricfan.Since 2006, new wheels andtyres, Mota-lita steering wheel, car-pets, , front suspension, headlights,single 12V battery conversion.Original Phillips radio.MOT and fullservice in March 2016. £9,000.For more info contact Jones on01672 841950.(Marlborough)

MG TF 135 1796cc Starlight Silver with replaced navysoft top with heated rear glassscreen, black interior, graphite greywheels. 60,000 miles. Upratedhead gasket replaced at 40,000miles. Service History available.MOT till September 2016. Onelady owner since January 2003. Atidy car in good condition. Includingmatching hard top and glass wind-stop. £1,950. Telephone 01299253389

MG TF LE500 2010 15,000 miles, Intense Blue, LeatherTrim, Air Con., Hardtop, ReverseSensors, I years MOT, Just Serviced.£5,900. Telephone:- 01491 838737 (S.Oxon).

MGB Roadster LE 1981 Supplied new by British Leylanddealer Tourist Trophy Ltd, this won-derful example was registered newon the 1st October 1981confirmedby the original Sales Invoice. Anincredible detailed history file andoriginal service book, some 22 oldMOT certificates and tax discs con-firm the low miles, 25553. MOTFebruary 2017, – Folding hood, bothhalf and full tonneau covers andfront spoiler, lockable glovebox,Kenwood stereo with 4 matchingspeakers (the original Pioneerstereo is also with the car), Recentadditions: battery immobilizer,leather seats with lumbar support,wooden steering wheel. £14695o.n.o. For further information callStewart on 07881963541 .

ZB Magnette 1958. Very good condition throughout,lovely to drive. 32K miles. FullyMOT'd, History and paperwork.£13,750. For more informationplease call 01295 811348.

MGA LHD 1622 (1960)Total rebuild ,chassis off (2000/3)original panels / poly bushed / 3/4anti rollbar / lockheed servo frontdisc brakes / stainless exhaust sys-tem with maniflow four branch /full petronix ignition system / 1800unleaded head /rebuilt carbs /rebuilt engine with +40 Hepolitepistons / rebuilt gearbox / oil cool-er / rebuilt Radiator /single battery& tool box / leather seats / full ton-neau /seatbelts /all mots /summeronly / garaged /excellent touring /driving / looking / fun car / 17000+miles since rebuild mostly long dis-tance /Switzerland /Angouleme / LeMans Classic / uk jollys / will bevery sad to see it go but happy forthe new owner. Offers on £20,[email protected](East Devon)

MG TD 1953 Family owned for 42 years, olderrestoration, runs well but not con-course condition, some “original”features. Much loved but not usedso much now so we are looking fornew owners to cherish and enjoy.Cream with red leather interior,new mohair hood, new steeringwheel and stainless steel exhaust.£18,000. Telephone 01379 852386 (South Norfolk)

MG ZR 105, 20033door, British Racing Green. MOTuntil 1/8/16, 67,500 miles, FSH. Ibought the car at nine years oldwith only 29,100 miles on the clock.One owner for its first eight years,then hardly used for the next yearor so by its second owner. The carwas initially serviced by the regis-tered dealer, Windsors Of Wallaseyand ever since by Peter JonesEngineering who effectively tookover from Windsors. The ZR hasattended The Pride Of Longbridgeshow for the past 3 years. AskingPrice £1050 ono. Tel: 0772 9183 724

MGTF 1954 1250cc Red with new red leather interior,RHD, full tonneau, black hood &side screens, luggage rack. Full bodyoff restoration in 2009, engine over-hauled, unleaded head - polished &ported, rebuilt carbs with correctair filters, re-cored radiator, over-hauled 4speed gearbox. Matchingnumbers car, much admired - recentprise winning example in excellentrunning order. £28000. Call John01795 875846 or email [email protected] more information.(Kent)

MGTF 1954 1250ccThe time has come for someoneelse to enjoy this lovely TF. In excel-lent condition, it drives really well, isalways garaged and only driven inthe dry. It looks the part in red withwire wheels, spot lights and chromeluggage rack. It comes with blackhood and tonneau cover, dust coverand stainless steel exhaust. UK carwith its original registration num-ber, first registered 28th June 1954.£29,500. Tel: 01386 882179 Mob: 07786 853010. Or Email: [email protected](Broadway, Worcestershire)

MG Midget 1971 For rebuild or spares. Chromebumper. 1250cc Gold Seal engine.The car was driven to a lock-upgarage in 1986 and has not movedsince. Green log book.Best Offers. Buyer collects. [email protected](West Oxfordshire)

MGTF 1500Owned since 2008, looks immacu-late but exterior does have smallsigns of 7 years of enjoyed owner-ship. The interior is in excellentunworn condition the side-screensrefurbished, the roof water-tight. Recent work includes new wiperblades/arms and fitments, doorstays, pedal rubbers and revcounterreduction box and cable. Steeringrefurbished and new rubber sealsfitted in 2012. Annual service withthe greasing every 500m . StrongOil pressure throughout range.Peter Edney fitted 5-speed gearbox,gives unstressed travel at 70 mph. Upgrades: unleaded, electrics andKenlowe and sat-nav power.Ethanol inhibitor used to preservethe fuel system. Peter Edney refurbishment to chas-sis, wood and body in early 2000'still excellent. £24950. Contact Neville: on 07971446060. Email: [email protected]

MGA 1600 Roadster 1959,Complete resto 1990, 1950ccOselli unleaded engine, Hi-Gear 5speed box, alternator/negativeearth/single 12v battery, VredesteinClassics, chrome wires, 123 distrib-utor, Aeroquip brake lines, Kenlowe,mohair hood and matching ton-neau, red leather interior, heater,great chassis/floor/paint/panel fit,chrome boot rack. £25,000.Contact Steve Johnson on 01789414642 or 07850 123216.

How to AdvertiseMembers can advertise their cars

free of charge in Safety Fast. The

advert will also be posted on the

Club website in due course. This is

for one insertion only. To place an

advert or for additional insertions

email Colin Grant at

[email protected] with details

of your car, around 60 words, togeth-

er with an attached picture, your

contact information, price of your

car, the area where you live, and

membership number. Cost for non-

members to advertise is £20. All

adverts should be submitted by the

15th of the month for the

following months issue.

CARS FOR SALE

MGB Roadster 1970Tartan red, lovely car, full refurbish-ment in Scotland by the previousowner,bills and history file, mohairhood, black leather interior, wood-en dashboard trim, full years MOT.£11,500 For more photos pleasecontact Dick on 07802 637896(Cirencester)

MGTF 160 VVC 2006 2005MY car in Ignition Blue withnavy hood and glass rear screen.36000 miles and two owners sincenew. Just serviced and MOT’d to04/02/2017. Fully loaded, passengerairbag, rare air-con, new Oxfordleather seats, auto changer, servicehistory and all receipts, Trophyalloys, windstop, chrome pack.Beautiful condition. £4000 ono.Contact James (07908) 887771(Chelmsford).



CARS FOR SALE

MG Maestro 2.0i 1989Flame red/grey interior. Usual spec-ifications and totally original exceptfor Turbo wheels and uprated head-lamps and protectors. Full servicehistory from new, one previousowner, present one for 15 years.Maintained regardless of cost, a rarecar in outstanding condition.Reluctant sale £7750ono. Tel 01526388680 or 07949031818(Lincolnshire)

1950 MG TD Mk 1 In Chariot Red with black leatherinterior. Same owner for 50 years,very original car. Runs well thoughnot concours condition. Much lovedbut not used enough now so we arelooking for a new owner to cherishand enjoy it.. £16,000 ono. 01483200281 or [email protected](Surrey)

MGB Roadster 1966 Black bodywork, black leatherseats, overdrive, chrome bumpermodel. Chrome wire wheels, newhood, Motolita steering wheel,unleaded, tax exempt, HeritageCertificate, history. Appeared in'Midsomer Murders' and is 50 yearsold on 18th April 2016. Same ownerlast 7 years. MOT Feb 2017.£14,950. Telephone 07881 487 336 (Henley on Thames).

Wanted Does anyone know of my wife’sMGB GT, 1974, Reg. No. ROC 60M,Colour, Blaze. (Red/Orange). Shesold the car in 1995, to a gentleman,name of Tim Collins, from theStamford, Lincs./East Midlandsarea.She would now very much liketo buy it back. Any informationwould be greatly appreciated.MGCC member. Telephone 01384 422178. E-Mail, [email protected].

1978 MG B GT11,000 miles only from new2 Owners. MOT March 2017. GoodClean Condition. All Documents.Price: £4,995Contact: Bernie – 01695 572660 or [email protected]

1970 Midget Mk.3 British Racing Green for sale,1275cc engine. Mileage showing20086 – cannot confirm if this isoriginal. The car was re-shelled in2002, and engine recently re-built tounleaded standard. Car numbermodel GAN5-83482G. Blackleather interior, with wire wheels.Had been standing, so recentlybrakes have been completely over-hauled, new battery and fuel pumpfitted. MOT passed 16 June 2015.This car is a great little runner, andwould make a good first buy for anenthusiast. Leeds area. Could betrailer delivered by arrangement.£6950.00 ono.Phone Neil on 07852986638; e-mail:- [email protected]

MG Midget 1976 - HERITAGE REBUILD1500cc rebuilt using complete newbody and driven 12000 summermiles since. This car was fullyrestored to use. Every panel fullysprayed off car undersides/hiddenparts stone chipped/waxoiled. Stillrust free. Excellent Mechanicalorder. Thorough Spring Service & MOT.Email/ring for full details & decentphotos. [email protected] Private saleNorthamptonshire £7000 ONO

1971 MGB GT 3.9 V8iOlder reshell. Factory GTV8 gear.Range Rover engine/ ignitionelectrics. RV8 Plenum/bonnet.Suspension and ALL running gearrecently renewed. Stainless exhaust.Hella heads. Pioneer FM/DAB/CDChanger. A very well-presented,protected, rustfree all-weatherexample in Brilliant Metallic Silverwith leather seats. £14350 (sparesneg) View at Rowlands Castle.Roger 07903978867 or Email:[email protected]

MGA 1650 1959 Built to 1980’s MGCC MGAModified championship regs. Body& chassis steel as original, allydoors, boot, bonnet floors etc. Fullwidth low perspex windscreen,steel roll over cage bolted to chas-sis, all removable. Race provenengine, steel crank/flywheel, modi-fied pistons/rods race cam all light-ened balanced etc, Weber carb,close ratio straight cut gears. Modified brakes, shocks etc, 6’’steel wheels with little use. Avonroad tyres plus set of wheels withold racers etc. All standard lightsetc fitted road legal, no MOT or taxrequired because of age. Lastrebuilt/raced 1996, stored sincewith a little road use. RegWWP444. Owned by me since1977 'ish. Various spares availabl.£19,000 ono. Contact me EricHoult on 07872521382 [email protected](Cornwall)

Austin Sprite 1971 Tartan Red, one of only 1022 madein VGC, ( potential Concoursentrant ) Professional restorationby MG Specialist in 2001 and lessthan 8,000 miles since, all wholly inmy ownership. Complete withToolkit, Hood Cover & Tonneau.Extensive history, Mots, Tax Discs,Corres with previous Owners andHeritage Certificate. A very rareopportunity to purchase one of thevery best " Spridgets " . £8995 ono. Contact Rob. Email: [email protected] : 07481 478443(Northants)

MG MIDGET 1978 1500,Debumped. No MOT, Owner for 5years. Would make a great summercar. Could be improved with someminor work. Needing the space andlack of time. Ring Steve for moredetails on 07743 527314. area. Email:- [email protected] for more photos. £1995. (West Yorkshire)

MGB Roadster 196567000 miles, u/l head, s/s exhaust,servo brakes, new sills 1997, electricfan.Since 2006, new wheels andtyres, Mota-lita steering wheel, car-pets, , front suspension, headlights,single 12V battery conversion.Original Phillips radio.MOT and fullservice in March 2016. £9,000.For more info contact Jones on01672 841950.(Marlborough)

MG TF 135 1796cc Starlight Silver with replaced navysoft top with heated rear glassscreen, black interior, graphite greywheels. 60,000 miles. Upratedhead gasket replaced at 40,000miles. Service History available.MOT till September 2016. Onelady owner since January 2003. Atidy car in good condition. Includingmatching hard top and glass wind-stop. £1,950. Telephone 01299253389

MG TF LE500 2010 15,000 miles, Intense Blue, LeatherTrim, Air Con., Hardtop, ReverseSensors, I years MOT, Just Serviced.£5,900. Telephone:- 01491 838737 (S.Oxon).

ANY MG WANTED

ANY CONDITION07774 484497 • 01923 840236

[email protected]

Northwood, Middlesex

www.mgandporsche.com

4 bedroom, 4 reception, 4 shower/bathroom, double garage with vehicular access to good-sized garden and workshops (22’ x 12’ & 16’ x 8’). Ideal for plane/car construction.

FOR SALE:

For details contact [email protected]

Detached house with 2 workshops in Lechlade, Glos. Guide price: £750,000.

Classic Cars for the Driving Enthusiast

Telephone: 01274 561098 Mobile: 07798 768676 Web: www.gasolinealleybingley.co.uk


MGB Roadster Historic Zero Road Fund Registered 1972 Bright Red Black Leather interior piped White. Black Soft Top/Hard Top. Manual Gearbox O/D. Walnut Effect Dash. Historic Zero Rated Road Fund License, MOT £8,750

MG B Roadster Registered 1969. 6 previous owners. Old English White, Black Leather interior, Wire wheels O/D Comprehensive rebuild 1995. Unleaded Engine Conversion, wet weather covers, new soft top. Photographic history of rebuild and invoices £9,950

MGB GT LTD Edition 27,230 miles, 4 previous owners will all original books. Platinum with Grey Cloth interior. Registered Feb 1981 this car is fi nished in Silver with grey Striped Cloth interior, 5 spoke Alloy Wheels, O/D. Excellent condition, very desirable example, much sought after Ltd Edition version. Usable every day £6,750

MG TD roadster 1954 (LHD) Fresh from a private collection in Spain. British Racing Green. Beige Leather interior and soft top. All soft top in 1st class condition with side panels present £19,950



CARS FOR SALE

MGRV8 1995 Oxford Blue, Vin no 1750, 32,850miles, mfgd July 1995, Japan reimportin 2002. Has working aircon.Motolita steering wheel & MGOCpower steering fitted. Body work ,beige leather trim and walnut veneerin good condition. Tonneau Cover.Always garaged and mostly dry use.Taxed and MOT to April 2016. Has aquantity of spares to go with Car.£18,500. Contact Peter on 01865376535 or 07711 [email protected](Oxfordshire)

MG TF 1250 1954 MG Red, biscuit interior. Owned for26 years. Last three years newsprings, fuel pump, brakes & 4 tyres(Vredestein sprint classics).Complete strip, repair, re-spray1998. Average mileage 1000 paincluding T-Type Autumn Tours &local club runs. (see February 2016Safety Fast, Anglia report!) All origi-nal spec. in first class condition. Agenuine club car. £29,000. Will meet to view. Phone Trevor on 01485 572767Norfolk, nr. King’s Lynn.

MGTF 135 Anthracite Grey2004Very good condition, with just41,000 miles on clock. Replacementhead gasket/water pump/ and cambelt fitted professionally November2014. Also has S/S heater pipes tounderside of car. Heated rear glassscreen and wind deflector. MOTexpires April 2016 a new one willbe obtained prior to sale. £2,500 -MG Car Club member. Call: 07990 761863 (Norfolk Area).

MG TFOpportunity to buy the 4th fromlast ever built! Two owners, Aprilservice with cambelt change andMOT. Dry stored since owned. Thecar has an upgraded Alpine MP3CDplayer which incorporates ParrotBluetooth and Alpine in-line amplifi-er behind the glove box. The car isin excellent condition. £6750.07884962907 or Email:- [email protected]

MGA Twin Cam CoupeOriginal UK delivered RHD, olderrestoration still presents well, shinyOrient Red paint, good panel gaps,red leather original trim. Low com-pression engine performs well, quietgearbox with good synchros, recentwork on brakes and suspension.Chassis number YM1 2061. £26,500. Ovno Contact Neil, 01280 469047 or07816227512

1967 MGB GT Mk 1 Reluctantly seeking a new home andfastidious keeper for this much treas-ured “concours standard” car afteralmost 40 years of ownership andClub membership. With a known his-tory since it was first registered thisis unquestionably one of, if not thebest and most original and fullyrestored example of a Mk1 ‘BGT thatexists. Very rarely seen (restricted tooccasional dry road condition usageonly) I ask only those with genuineinterest to make contact for furtherbackground details and photo’s ofthis exceptional vehicle. [email protected](Gloucestershire)

MG TD 1953Owned for 18 years. Dark redbody and matching leather.Reconditioned engine and lead freeconversion. Bodywork in good con-dition. Offers in the region of£18000. Tel 01621 788488 or e-mail;[email protected] (Essex)



CARS FOR SALE

MGRV8 1995 Oxford Blue, Vin no 1750, 32,850miles, mfgd July 1995, Japan reimportin 2002. Has working aircon.Motolita steering wheel & MGOCpower steering fitted. Body work ,beige leather trim and walnut veneerin good condition. Tonneau Cover.Always garaged and mostly dry use.Taxed and MOT to April 2016. Has aquantity of spares to go with Car.£18,500. Contact Peter on 01865376535 or 07711 [email protected](Oxfordshire)

MG TF 1250 1954 MG Red, biscuit interior. Owned for26 years. Last three years newsprings, fuel pump, brakes & 4 tyres(Vredestein sprint classics).Complete strip, repair, re-spray1998. Average mileage 1000 paincluding T-Type Autumn Tours &local club runs. (see February 2016Safety Fast, Anglia report!) All origi-nal spec. in first class condition. Agenuine club car. £29,000. Will meet to view. Phone Trevor on 01485 572767Norfolk, nr. King’s Lynn.

MGTF 135 Anthracite Grey2004Very good condition, with just41,000 miles on clock. Replacementhead gasket/water pump/ and cambelt fitted professionally November2014. Also has S/S heater pipes tounderside of car. Heated rear glassscreen and wind deflector. MOTexpires April 2016 a new one willbe obtained prior to sale. £2,500 -MG Car Club member. Call: 07990 761863 (Norfolk Area).

MG TFOpportunity to buy the 4th fromlast ever built! Two owners, Aprilservice with cambelt change andMOT. Dry stored since owned. Thecar has an upgraded Alpine MP3CDplayer which incorporates ParrotBluetooth and Alpine in-line amplifi-er behind the glove box. The car isin excellent condition. £6750.07884962907 or Email:- [email protected]

MGA Twin Cam CoupeOriginal UK delivered RHD, olderrestoration still presents well, shinyOrient Red paint, good panel gaps,red leather original trim. Low com-pression engine performs well, quietgearbox with good synchros, recentwork on brakes and suspension.Chassis number YM1 2061. £26,500. Ovno Contact Neil, 01280 469047 or07816227512

1967 MGB GT Mk 1 Reluctantly seeking a new home andfastidious keeper for this much treas-ured “concours standard” car afteralmost 40 years of ownership andClub membership. With a known his-tory since it was first registered thisis unquestionably one of, if not thebest and most original and fullyrestored example of a Mk1 ‘BGT thatexists. Very rarely seen (restricted tooccasional dry road condition usageonly) I ask only those with genuineinterest to make contact for furtherbackground details and photo’s ofthis exceptional vehicle. [email protected](Gloucestershire)

MG TD 1953Owned for 18 years. Dark redbody and matching leather.Reconditioned engine and lead freeconversion. Bodywork in good con-dition. Offers in the region of£18000. Tel 01621 788488 or e-mail;[email protected] (Essex)

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1936/7 Ashley Cleave Brooklands/Shelsey SpecialAs previously said my Ashley Cleave special,as raced at Brooklands in 37, is still for sale. It can be bought as is or I can complete it. Itis a recognised Brooklands competitor. Shelley Special, dominant in trials, circuits sprints, h/c and with over 500 awards. Reviewed by

Bill Boddy in Motor Sport. It is eligible for many varied and coveted races and events, and a possible Goodwood entry. It starts at 35k asis with the rolling chassis restored and the rest negotiable. I've had it for 23 years. Or you could be a real anorak and buy an inelligable

for anything pointy tail pub car for 50k. Price according to spec when finished, starting at £35k but make me an offer.

XPAG engines suppliedProfessionally rebuilt (there are a lot of

amateurs out there) to any specifications –please call for further details.

MGTD/C. This is one of the very rare competition models, with bigger valves, carbs, and twin shocks. About 1200 of these were built. This one is LHD, easy to change, itsinterior is good and correct, the paint has a few chips and scrapes, and it drives very well. These are very sought after cars and |’m not asking the usual top dollar. £22,995.

MG T-Types and complete collections purchased in any condition. Garage clearouts. Many parts for sale. Collection and delivery arranged world-wide. Advice free, and I hope, correct. If not, try someone else.

Barrie CarterMG TA fittedwith an TCXPAG engineand box,Thomkinssteeringconversion andlater TC wheels.It is a local car

and being sold for its owner. I sold this about 4 years agoand it is used regularly at local shows. Nicely pattinated, [Ihate that word] and with excellent weather equipmentincluding a full tonneau. Essentially a TB in spec. Notexpensive. £25,995

1939 TB with a lovelycycle winged body. Thiscar was built manyyears ago in Australiaand is well known tomthe TB register. Ibought it for me, butI’ve too many toys. Itsits in my garage at

home while I play with it. The car that is.... It is a lovely TB fittedwith a mildly modified XPAG engine and steering upgrade, it drovefast and well when I last used it. Our local auction house valued itat £35K which is par for the course for a TB, and this is unique.I’m not fussed if it goes, but ring if you are interested. £29,950

MG TF 1500 MODELIts had an historicand lovely body offrestoration to highstandards and beenin the sameownership for 23years covering showsand continental tours.

It has a period modified replacement engine and correctmodified head. It is comfortably quick and performs extremelywell. This cosseted TF is glowing in chariot red (didn’t knowchariots were red) with excellent weather equipment andluggage rack and all ready for that Easter tryst! £24,950

COMING SOON...MORRIS MARSHALL 1958

Similar to an A90Unheard of in this country.

A Tasmanian car in lovely condition.2.6 Healey engine, arriving shortly.

£12,250

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STORAGE IN SECURE INSULATED BUILDING AVAILABLE FOR YOURCLASSIC CAR THIS SPRING. BOOK YOUR SPACE NOW!

BROKERAGE AND COMMISSION SALES

WIRE WHEEL REBUILDS AND RESTORATION, RESPOKING, TRUEING, BLAST CLEANING & POWDER COATING,

CLASSIC & VINTAGE WIRE WHEELS.PLEASE ENQUIRE BY E-MAIL

1999 JAGUAR XK8CONVERTIBLE 4.0AUTO Platinum Silver,Oatmeal leather, FSH,replacement engine,excellent condition.........................£7,995

2000 MGF VVC B.r.g. leatherseats, 53,000miles, Janspeedexhaust, sixspoke alloys,recent service.£1,995

LARGE QUANTITY OF NEW OLD STOCK MG PARTS, ALSO SOME TRIUMPH, JAGUAR & HEALEY PLUS USED AND RECONDITIONED SPARES FORMG’S FROM 1936-1980 INCLUDING ENGINES/GEARBOXES, CHROME TRIM, BODY PANELS, WIRE WHEELS, INSTRUMENTS, WEATHER EQUIPMENT.

PLEASE ENQUIRE BY E-MAIL

2001 MGF VVC SESilver blue, oneprivate owner,leather seats, 16inch alloys, rearspoiler, 55,000miles. £1,995

1999 JAGUARXK8 Convertible,Platinum Silver ,Oatmeal leather,black mohairelectric hood,99,000 miles.FSH, replacementengine, full mot,drives beautifully.£7,950

1994 ROVER820SIAUTOMATIC, Caribean Blue,Sunroof, electricwindows, towbar,only 49,000miles, full mot£1,500

1998 MGFVVCRed, biscuitleather, MOTJanuary 2017,120,000 miles.Lots of history,drives well,summer project.£995

2001 MGFGold, very cleancar, 63,000miles, goodservice history,full MOT£1,750

A53 - Rugby Classics_CLASSIC MOTORING 15/03/2016 16:41 Page 1



CLASSIFIEDS

SPARES FOR SALE

HOW TO ADVERTISEMembers can advertise theirspares for sale/wanted free ofcharge for items up to £250.Over £250, or for non-membersto advertise, there is a charge of£20. To submit your advertise-ment email Colin Grant at [email protected]. Pleaseremember to include your mem-bership number in all correspon-dence

MGB & ZR 4 x refurbished Rostyle wheels,2 with near new Nexen and 2with part used Pirelli. Also fur-ther wheel with legal tyre asspare. £80 or offer. Buyer col-lects. New 3 button remote for ZR,may also suit ZS/ZT. £20.Can be posted. Roger Latham 01702 580472(Essex)

MG TF HardtopBMH Heritage hardtop in LeMans green with ivory leatherinterior lining and heated rearscreen. VGC.MG wall storage brackets andlogo car cover included in sale.£285 ono.Buyer to collect Tel 07796 318754(Nottinghamshire)

MGTD SparesPair left and right windscreensupport brackets (these mounton the scuttle with three screws,then on to side of windscreen)They are in good conditionincluding chrome £160 the pair.New old stock wiring loom,never been used £125Original used boot good tacodrive cable for LHD car £30Original engine oil dip stick partNo. mowog24407. Used but stillgood £30.Original used wiper motor,been in dry storage over 50years. Will require painting and-servicing £45Late TD or TF clutch controlrod. This is an original in verynice condition £25TD or TF original fan bladesused but very good condition£30 pairTD small headlamp supportbrackets(these come out of theside of grille and support thelarge head lamp bracket). Theseare original, could do with arechrome or painting £30 pair.TD lucas 471 new old stockrear lamps been in dry storageover 50 years £85TD original rear spring U bolts.Rust free and threads all good.Set of four £20TD pair of Lucas 471 rearlamps, new old stock, neverbeen on car. Dry storgae25years £90.All above plus P&P or collectyourself from Swansea. ContactPhill on 01792 587337 or mobile07974 760536

MGBTwo black front seats with head-rests from a 1979 MGB road-ster. £70Working starter motor from a1979 MGB £20Set of clocks and gauges for1979 MGB. Between £10 and£20 each.Boot rack for MGB roadster £20Please call Dave on01375360956

Lucas1XLucas LJR3 Cut out/Fusebox beleived to be MGTA Type.£65.00 + P&P1xLJF2 cut out fuse box. Nocoils only fuse holder. May beuseful to someone. P&P onlyContact 01925 26257

MGTD/TF Half shaft complete with nut.Brand new unused. £165.00MGTD badge bar/auxiliary lightsholder. Brand new never fitted,unblemished. Complete with apair of Lucas 576 lights, SLRand SFT. both used and ingood condition(see photo)£85.00 for all three items.Both +p&p or collect fromHayling Island. Tim 02392462737

TOOLS FOR SALE2 Trolley jacks a 3 ton and a 2ton. 4 axle stands. A goodselection of A/F and someWhitworth sockets and span-ners suitable for working onMGs. All good condition £70 thelot buyer collects. Telephone07875116803 (Weybridge Surrey)

MGAFour original 15”x 4” 48 spokewire wheels and tyres. Spokesand splines all good, tyres areelderly but useable, £150.James 02476 673894 (West Mids)

Air Con System Removed from MGRV8 (1995)Complete and in working condi-tion. £100.00 onoTel. 01454 613561 Email:[email protected] only (Bristol area)

V8 Holley carb, manifold,chrome air filter with servicekits, almost as new £500 nooffers.Rear chrome rear bumperLeyland £75, very good. Buyercollects. Contact 01494 813903(South Bucks)

MGAOff side (right hand) front wingin fiberglass. £86This is a brand new item whichhas never been fitted and isunpainted, the holes for thelights have been cut out.This is a bulky item so buyercollects. Contact Nick Hooper.tel 01404 42116. Email: [email protected](East Devon)

Workshop ManualsAnd other motoring literature forsale. Details and prices onapplication. Telephone: 01384422178.

MG SparesMG100/1300 bonnet £25.Maestro 2.0i set new boxed14in factory wheeltrims (partNo.NAM7911MV) £40New Unleaded fuel conversionkit (cost £100) £40.Set PB pistons in +40 & +60oversize £60 per set.YType offside inner wing/bonnetthreshold panel (unused) £40.Tel; 01526388680 or07949031818 (Lincolnshire)

MG MidgetModsports competition fibre-glass one-piece front bodywork,with wide arches. A bit tatty, butusable. £15 or offer. Windscreenframe, currently surrounding acracked screen. £10 or offer. Tel: 01985 840830 or [email protected]

MGB/C Parts for sale:1) MGC UK inlet manifold, com-plete with 2 x 2” SUcarburettors, linkage, heatshield and fuel lines, ready toʻboltʼ on and set up £425.002) MGB 5 speed conversionbellhousing, USA manufacture,£195.003) 2 x AP CP2383 rear calipers,for 10.5” solid discs, (fixingbrackets available on eBay)£525.00 the pair. Email:[email protected], Tel: 07788 664991. (Silverstone)

MGB Roadster Pair of early style seats, withouthead rests and non recliner,with black vinyl seat covers withwhite piping, new seat foams 3years ago and little used sincevery good condition. Outrightpurchase so no exchangerequired £180. Also matchinginterior door cards etc availableif required. sale due to conver-sion to leather.Telephone: Jack 01280848529(Buckingham)

MGB SPARES BHA4973 rear lamp assemblies2 off. Good used condition £40the pair with free delivery to UKMainland.Outer sill panel near side £45plus p&p. H2A438 Heritage RH front chas-sis leg £160 plus p&p. smallsection removed from front ofleg so leg is now 36 incheslong.Can bring to MG Live. Tel: Jack01280848529 (Buckingham)

ORIGINAL MGA FACTORYHardtop, Genuine factory fiber-glass type by UniversalLaminations.£695.00 ono.ORIGINAL MGA TWIN CAMLHD STEERING RACKvery rare. £349.00 ono.Tel 07795670881

1997 MGF VVC spares From stripped car. Most partsare still available. Includingdoors, bonnet, alloys, doorcards and hydrogas units.Colour code 'HAM', trim 'PUU'.Parts are in N. Ireland. For fur-ther details, please phone Paul(club member) on 02894452222or 07785900561. NO textsplease.

MGCNew/unused packaway hoodneeds new header rail- £150Pair of wire wheels - £503 ton trolley jack - £40Tel-0161 485 1832 or 0795 285 7453

1974 MGBGT spares.One pair of doors,one offsidefront wing,and a complete car-pet set in chestnut brown.All new and unused £850.00.Contact Paul Everitt on 020 8686 5053,[email protected].(Croydon Surrey).

MGB/RV84 x 14in Minator mag typewheels shod with Yoko S306185/70R 88H tread 5mm £200the set.RV8 front anti roll £40.MGB middle box 2in stainlesssteel £40. Buyer collects.Contact John 01494778751.(Bucks)

WANTEDWANTED

WIRE WHEELS 15 X 4.5J Alloy Rim 60 Spoke.Please Tel: 07795670881(Genuine MGA enthusiast).



CLASSIFIEDS

WANTEDFor an MG WA

I really do need two sets ofbrake shoes and pull off springsfor a WA, ie four shoes in total.(The internal diameter of thedrums are 133/4”) Conatct01983 716404 or email [email protected]

WANTEDMGA

1955 OR 1956 Roadster.Complete or uncomplete car. Inneed of full or part restorationany car considered. GenuineMGA enthusiastPlease tel: 07795670881

WANTEDMGB Black interior trim kit forroadster 1973/4 with mouldedtunnel carpet set MGOC (ulti-mate club set). Also deluxe bootcarpet set with spare wheelcover 14” as new. Have youthese items for sale. Contact01494 813903

WANTEDMGB chrome front bumperblade original BMC/Leyland,must be excellent or rechromed.Tel 01494 813903

WANTED MGF Mk1 (up to 2000MY)Centre Consol in black.Please contact Mike Hudson on07759201577 or [email protected]

Contact the Midget Specialist MIKE AUTHERS on Abingdon 07703 465 224 CHROME

BUMPERED MIDGETS in excellent condition bought up to £8,000. View current stock at www.mgmidgets.com

MIDGETS!WANTED

MGOC Recommended Workshop and Power Steering Installer

MoT & Failures RepairedServicing, Welding, Restoration

M.G.A. – B – C – V8, Midget

Rear of Langley GarageLondon Road, Langley, Nr Hitchin,

Herts SG4 7PJ

01438 729288

07860 473298

M.G. in North Herts

www.mg-repairs-hertfordshire.com

ADVERTISERS’ INDEX4Sight Lighting Company........................................61 Adrian Flux ...............................................................73 Airflow ......................................................................34 Aldon Automotive ....................................................53 Barrie Carter ...........................................................95 Barry Walker ............................................................91 BCC Parts ................................................................33 Beech Hill Garage ....................................................94 Brian Brown Classics...............................................97 British Motor Heritage ............................................IFC Brown and Gammons .............................................11 Car Cover Shop .......................................................79 Carole Nash Insurance ..............................................6 Chertsey Minors .....................................................79 Chisbon Restorations ..............................................53 Church Square Autos ..............................................89 Classic and Retro .....................................................55 Clive Wheatley .........................................................45 Colin Groom Vehicle Storage .................................59 Colne Classics .........................................................85 Crown Classic Cars .................................................73 Dennis Welch ...........................................................79 Distributor Doctor ....................................................59 Don Trimming ..........................................................79 Dreadnought Garage ...............................................22 EJW Classic and Sports ..........................................93 Evans Division of Hydratech ....................................34 EZ Power Steering ..................................................39 Fishers Services ......................................................69 Footman James ......................................................71 Frontline ...................................................................98 Gasoline Alley ...........................................................93 Halls Garage.............................................................73 Heathrow Transmission ...........................................79 Hoyle Suspension ......................................................6 Just Right Autos Ltd ..................................................8 Just Tickets ..............................................................22 Kimble Engineering Ltd ...........................................85 Luffield Cars Limited ...............................................69 Manor Garage .........................................................85

Martin Smith Used MGTF Spares .........................89 MG Mecca ...............................................................97 MG Sales Centre .....................................................15 MGF Mania ..............................................................59 Midland Classic Restoration ......................................3 Mike Authurs Classics .............................................97 Mike Rolls .................................................................97 MJS Auto and Marine .............................................40 Moss Europe Ltd .....................................................39 Norton Insurance .....................................................82 NTG Services ....................................................... OBC Oselli Ltd...................................................................40 Peter Best .................................................IBC, 79, 85 Prestige MG .............................................................73 Property for Sale ......................................................93 Rees Bros .................................................................69 Retro Lifestyle ..........................................................26 Rimmer Bros Ltd......................................................33 RJJ Car Shipping and Transportation.....................85 Robin Lackford Motor Engineering ........................69 RPS Ltd ....................................................................45 Rugby Classic Motor Garages ................................95 Scenic Car Tours ..............................................13, 27 SMR .........................................................................91 Snowdens of Harrogate...........................................85 South Coast MG Rover ............................................53 Sports and Vintage ..................................................79 Steve McKie Sports Cars ........................................85 Summit MG..............................................................61 Surrey Sports & Classics .........................................79 Sussex Classic Car Parts ..........................................4 The Hutson Motor Co Ltd ..........................................4 TMS Storage..............................................................3 Trickett Welding .......................................................82 Vitesse Global ..........................................................61 Webcon ...................................................................55 Yorkshire Motors .....................................................85

www.mgmecca.co.ukTel: +44 (0) 1953 717618 Fax: (0) 1953 717850

1979 MG MIDGET Pageant blue, black trim, superb little car, body is in excellent condition, recent respray, all new chrome conversion, new hood, new carpets, new dashboard, recovered seats. Exceptionally pretty car in excellent order. Ready for lots of summer fun. £5,995.00

MGA ROADSTER 1500. For total restoration l/h/d sold as is @£7,500 or Totaly restored orig spec from : Steel wheel 1500 £29,995, Wire Wheel 1500 £30,995. Please call or mail for full spec sheets and example photos /extras etc.

1965 MGB Roadster. BRG, black/white trim, chrome wheels, rare o/drive. Total last nut and bolt renovation, with pictures. Car has matching numbers

original show standard regardless of cost (would cost easily in excess of £35k). Car is immaculate inside/underside/outside. A rare car indeed. £24,995.00

1980 MGB GT LE. Pewter. Rare last of production special spec. LE, alloys, webasto roof. Has had total body renovation 7 years ago. One lady owner for many years. £5,495.00

1980 MGB ROADSTER Blaze, black cloth trim. Wood dash. Body is superb, underside immaculate, fully restored by engineer, with photos. Boot rack. All new chrome. Webber carb. New u/l engine. Would be

£8,995.00

1939 MGVA. Green, red trim, sunroof. Genuine

and taxed. In original condition with lots of lovely patina. Would be a shame to over restore. Will be having new tyres and brake overhaul before sale. £19,950.00

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

MIKE ROLLSSERVICES FOR MGs

Specialising in all MG’s

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TRADE MEMBER

TEL/FAX: 01258 820337Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri: 8am-6pm, Wed: 8am-5pm, Sat: 8am-1pm

201<

Units 9/10 Fifehead Business Park, Manor Farm, Fifehead Magdalen, near Gillingham, Dorset SP8 5RR E-mail: [email protected] • www.mikerolls.co.uk

Mail Order “Friendly Quality Service”

MG TD 1950, this car was originally a righthand drive US export and thenreturned back to the UK in 2002 and re-registered in 2004, it has sinceundergone a full body off restoration with photographic and invoice history,it now looks stunning in its gleaming red body work complimented with beigeleather interior and matching mohair hood and side screens, not only doesthis car look beautiful, but it drives superbly. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£23,995

MGB GT, 1969, British racing green, Chrome Bumper, Tax exempt,Overdrive, Wire wheels, Full sunroof, Autumn leaf interior with new frontseat covers, Electronic ignition, Stainless steel exhaust system, Restored by usin 2000, Service history, In excellent order. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£6,500

MG TF 135, 2003, Dark green, Biscuit leather interior. MOT March 2013, TaxFeb. 2013. Radio C/D player, hood cover. Recent head gasket, coolant pipe,cambelt and clutch. Good service history. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£3,650

MG Midget, 1980, Flamenco Red, much money spent including up-ratedsuspension front and back, K & N Filters, Various new mechanical parts, Fulltonneau,and Motolita steering wheel, It comes with a very good servicehistory, Bootrack, Kenwood radio/CD player and Black vinyl seats. The car isMOT'd up to September 2013 and taxed until end of July 2013. . . . . .£3,500

MG TF 135, 2002, Silver, MOT July 2013. New head gasket, coolant pipes,cambelt and service carried out by ourselves. Navy hood, black cloth seats. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£2,995

MG TF 115, 2003, X Power Grey with grey hood, Has recently had a newheadgasket, bottom engine rail, Stainless steel coolant pipes and full service,MOT to May 2013, Taxed to Feb 2013, 71835 Miles, comes with Radio/CDplayer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£2,750

MGF, 2000, Alumina Green, 62,000mls, Green hood, Green leather seats,Chrome roll hoops, Recent headgasket replacement, Taxed Jan 2013, MOTMarch 2013. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£1,950

MGF 1.8i, 1996, British Racing Green, cloth interior. MOT Maarch 2013. Taxend of January 2013. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£950





B32 - MIKE ROLLS SERVICES_MIKE ROLLS SERVICES 13/12/2012 09:50 Page 1

2015

MGF COPPERLEAF - 2001MGF, 2001, 1.8 Injection fi nished in Copperleaf Red, MOT’d March 2016. It comes with Black cloth seats, Heated rear glass window, Radio/CD player with ipod jack, stainless steel sports exhaust and under fl oor coolant pipes.Very tidy car with some history etc.

£1,500.

MGB ROADSTER - 1969.British Racing Green, Tax exempt. This car was re-shelled using a Heritage bodyshell in the late 90’s and is still in exceptional condition as per photos, it has recently been re-commissioned by ourselves with re-con overdrive, new clutch, detailed engine bay, re-furbished 1/4 lights and windscreen frame, new chrome bumpers, re-wrinkled dash, stainless steel trophy exhaust manifold

and system to bring this car back to a high s tandard . It also comes with

Chrome painted wire wheels, Motolita wood rim steering wheel, original style black leather seats re-treated with Connolly hide care, Kenlowe fan, 123 Ignition, history fi le and new MOT. Excellent car

£14,995



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