Safety Fast! November 2016

THE MARQUE OF FRIENDSHIP

November 2016 Volume 60 Number 11 £3.95

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MEL JONES, UNIVERSITY MOTORS AND MG 24/10/2016 17:27

GO P3RSONAL Make your own fun with the MG3.

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Packed with awesome style and tech, the MG3 could be yours from just £8,399*.

MG3 from £8,399 NOW AVAILABLE ON 0% APR FINANCE* Model shown is MG3 3Form Sport in Ruby Red with black roof and White Trophy Stripe graphics pack.

Fuel consumption: URBAN 41.7 mpg (6.8 I/ I 00km), EXTRA URBAN 59.6 mpg (4.8 I/ I 00km), COMBINED 51.5 mpg (5.5 I/ I 00km), CO2 Emissions: 124g/km.

Model shown is MG3 3Form Sport in Ruby Red with black roof and White Trophy Stripe graphics pack at £10,574.00. *On the road price of £8,399 applies to the MG3 3Time with no optional extras. On the road (OTR) prices include VAT where applicable, vehicle first registration fee, delivery, number plates and 12 months’ ‘Vehicle Excise Duty’. From prices exclude optional metallic paint, accessories and graphics packs. Fuel consumption values shown are based on official EU test figures and are to be used as a guide for comparative purposes and may not be representative of actual driving results. *Conditional sale. 0% APR representative available on all MG3 models until 31 December 2016. A minimum deposit of 20% of the cash OTR price applies. Finance by MG Financial Services, a trading style of GMAC UK plc, PO Box 6666, Cardiff CF15 7YT, subject to status, availability and terms and conditions. Applicants must be aged 18 or over at participating dealers. Please see your local dealer or visit www.mg.co.uk/offers for details.

MG Sales Centre Ltd trading as MG Sales Centre are acting as a credit broker and not a lender.

MG Sales Centre MG_SafetyFast_Nov16_covers.indd 2

Lowhill Lane, Longbridge, Birmingham, B31 2BQ 0121 251 6533 | www.birmingham.mg.co.uk

24/10/2016 17:27

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MIDLAND

CLASSIC

R E S T O R AT I O N S

Servicing and MOTs, Restorations, Insurance Work, Full Trim Facilities, Full Race Preparation and Performance Modifications Offering a comprehensive range of services for all types of MGs and any classic motor car 5 minutes from Junction 6 of the M5 at Worcester

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Call 01905 622166

Page 1

Unit 4, Woodfield Business Units, Kidderminster Road, Ombersley, Droitwich, Worcs, WR9 0JH

THE HUTSON MOTOR CO. LTD. Parts & Panels for TA to TF

BUY DIRECT FROM THE MANUFACTURER

We manufacture a complete range of top quality ash frames and components, complete panelled bodies, individual steel parts. Full restorations undertaken on all classic cars.

Comprehensive paint shop and trim facilities.

Ash frame skeleton bodies.

Individual ash frame components and steel panels.

• Dashboards • Quarter Panels • Door Frames • Hood Finishers

T-Series ash frame sections & body panels are hand built in our Bradford factory.

Fully assembled complete panelled bodies for TA to TF.

Fast and efficient mail order • Helpful counter assistance Free Price Lists available Please telephone for your copy PAWSON STREET • BRADFORD • WEST YORKSHIRE • BD4 8DF TEL: 01274 669052 • FAX: 01274 669685 • Email: hutsonmc@talk21.com

www.mgcc.co.uk

JULY 2016 SAFETY FAST! 3

www.mgcc.co.uk

NOVEMBER 2016 SAFETY FAST! 3

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Inside this issue Regulars 7

Club Matters and Kimber House News

8

News

10

MGCC Merchandise

12

Products

14

Postbag

54

Race Torque

56

MGs on Track

57

Luffield Championship

58

BTCC 2016 – Brands Hatch Report

60

Calendar of Events

61

Out and About

66

Overseas News – From Portugal and the Czech Republic

70

Overseas Review

72

Centre Updates

84

Register Updates

92

Classifieds

98

Looking Back

Features 16

National Treasure Part II The success and frustrations of the MG 6R4

24

Club History MGF Boost by Stephen Cox

28

Mel Jones, University Motors and MG Edward Vandyk in conversation with Mel Jones

50

Season Finale at Super Snetterton Leanne Fahy reports on the MGCC race action from Snetterton

16 Newsletters 35

MGA Newsletter MGA Autumn tour closes 2016 events on a high; Your MGA: What’s it worth?

40

MGB Newsletter The MGB Register Weekend and The MGB Register Technical Day

44

MGF Newsletter The last British MG Roadster? London Bridge is falling down…

28

The MG Car Club, Kimber House, PO Box 251, Abingdon, Oxon, OX14 1FF Tel: 01235 555552 Fax: 01235 533755 E-mail: mgcc@mgcc.co.uk www.mgcc.co.uk.

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

Membership Type

Direct Debit Rate

Standard Rate Online

Standard Rate Post

Single

£45

£50

£50

Joint

£49

£54

£54

Young Members 15-20

£15

Available soon

Available soon

Young Members 21-24

£30

Available soon

Available soon

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

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www.mgcc.co.uk

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Welcome

Front Cover: MG TF 85, one of the last MG Roadsters built at the famous Longbridge factory.

Photo: Colin Grant

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The offi cial publication of The MG Car Club Incorporating ‘The M.G. Magazine’, ‘The Sports Car’ and ‘Brooklands Track and Air’, Safety Fast!

Copyright MG Car Club 2016

As we went to press last month, the sad news broke that production at Longbridge had ceased, and that the two cars in current production, the MG3 and MG GS, would now be imported directly from China, thus ending the car production at Longbridge which has seen cars built on the site since 1906, with only one gap in production when MG Rover went in to administration in 2005. We were obviously very saddened to hear this, and also that the end of production would result in 25 redundancies. But we found some solace in the fact that the sales, marketing, aftersales, and design and engineer departments, that employ over 400 people, would remain unaffected. As we said in our brief statement last month, the Club will continue to support this and future generations of MG cars, regardless of where they are produced.

November is the traditional month for the popular NEC Classic Motor Show, this year being held on November 11-13. The MG Car Club will once again have a large presence at this show, that seems to grow and gain in popularity year on year. One of the seven cars we’ll have on display is the stunning MG 6R4, featured in this month’s issue. I can’t wait to see it in the metal, so to speak! Another is the MGA belonging to ‘Wheeler Dealer’ Mike Brewer, who would like visitors to the MGCC stand to help decide the fate of his car. Whether to leave as is, or have it fully restored, it’s over to you! As a member of the MG Car Club, you’re entitled to a substantial discount on entry tickets to the Classic Motor Show in advance. Single tickets are available for £19.50 (quote code CSCMS16), a saving of £5, and Family tickets are £24.50 (quote code CFCMS16), a saving of £13.50 of the on the door price. To book tickets visit www. necclassicmotorshow.com or phone 0871 230 1088. See you there?

Until next month, drive safely.

Andy Knott

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www.mgcc.co.uk

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CHAIRMANS NOTES

BY IAN QUARRINGTON

T

ime. It strikes me that this year has really flown by. I do find it a little unsettling that we have already passed our Council and AGM again and the NEC car show is just around the corner. Some of you may know that for relaxation (yes, really!) I am a church organist and the Vicar has already got me listed for eight services in four days in the four churches in our parishes, up to and including Christmas Day! Just where all of us who are volunteers find the time, I really cannot work out. It is 12 months since I stepped into the role of Chairman; both my immediate predecessors warned me that time would be like a fire burning away as I try to keep many Club-related things moving along, and they both warned me about OBE...that is not the medal, but it stands for Overtaken By Events, and they were both right.

However, we have achieved such a lot in the last 12 months. Next month you will be able to read a precis

about what we discussed at Council, which includes details of presentations on some of the achievements and milestones we passed. The minutes from the meeting will be published and distributed and placed on the Members Only area of the website within the 28 days required by the M’s and Art’s, for those who take interest in the detail of the workings of Council.

At each race meeting the Club runs, Steph Gammons passes on old copies of this magazine in exchange for a donation to charity. This provides me with a chance to read how the passage of time has altered not just the magazine and its content and setting, but the style of writing of those who have penned this column. It also shows me how some things have remained steadfast for the MGCC. One edition from the late 1990s talks about the formation of new Registers in the Club...for 2017 we will be thinking about a Branch for Young People, based on the Young Persons Initiative.

Another edition mentions the arrival of the MG ZR van and this year saw the MG GS joining our number in the CRBs. You may have read that, sadly,

there is to be no more car production at Longbridge to continue this vein, but SAIC are still working away at new models to carry the famous Octagon badge, so watch this space!

Anniversaries abound within the Centres, Registers and Branches of the Club and we are blessed that, with such a large heritage and history, there are several opportunities in the next two years, at least, where we can celebrate the passage of time. Three examples that come to mind straight away are the Y Type, the MGC and the V8 Registers, all with well-laid plans to run events and tours. But is it really five years since Midget 50 and four years since MGB 50? One thing time cannot alter is the spirit that makes the Marque of Friendship so strong in our Club. When you have your 2017 diaries to hand, have a copy of our magazine with you, too. Keep in touch with your Centre, Register and Branch and you will be able to look forward to joining in the next season’s events. Where you have the time, please volunteer to help in any way you can. I am glad I have over the years.

Cornwall. Thanks to everyone who came along, we had a brilliant time showing people around. Thankfully the sun eventually made an appearance after a rather wet morning, so credit must be given to those who made the trip to the Club’s home in Abingdon. If you missed out, then fear not – we shall be organising another open day/coffee morning in the near future.

We’ve recently had a number of AGMs and meetings at Kimber House for the various CRBs within the MGCC who have all benefitted from using the John Thornley Suite (JTS). We want to remind members that the use of Kimber House and the JTS is available to anyone who would like to use it. If you would like to book a date, please contact the Club office.

If you’d like to use the facilities at Kimber House, just let us know

KIMBER HOUSE NEWS

T

he Club’s ‘Cars and Coffee’ morning on Sunday October 16 went down very well, attracting members from far and wide to Kimber House – with some travelling from as far as Devon and

‘Coffee and Cars’ went down a treat with MGCC members

www.mgcc.co.uk

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Keep an eye out on the website and Safety Fast! in the near future for photos of the new show cars at Kimber House. The MGBGT and MG TF that are currently in there will soon be replaced with two MGs that will have pride of place for any visitors that come to Kimber House.

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NEWS

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MGLIVE! 2017 – SAVE THE DATE!

MARQUE OF FRIENDSHIP AWARD. The Marque of Friendship award was conceived to recognise outstanding contributions by members within the MG Car Club. One was recently presented to George Ward, who runs the Hartley Wintney Natter. George started the Natter with Peter Harmer and Arthur Hay in January 1966 and George has led it ever since. On October 14, George and his wife Jo were presented with his award at Kimber House by Club Chairman Ian Quarrington. George had this to say: “I should like to express my thanks for honouring me with the MGCC Marque of Friendship Award.

I am truly humbled. As you obviously know, running a successful Natter and Noggin is largely a team effort.

As such, I would like to credit a few of the other Club members, past and present, who have made a signifi cant contribution. First, my co-founder Peter Harmer and the late Arthur Hay. Also the sadly passed Dennis Ogborn who started the MGA Register at the Phoenix in 1970, and Roger Peters whose early Tramps Balls kicked off the tradition of mid-summer BBQs. Steve Thorning kindly stood in briefl y as caretaker for me in the mid-80s.

Leading ladies over the years include Valerie Davison, Yvonne Rowe and, of course, Jo. Other current stalwarts are Barry and Glynis Knight, and Mike Wray. Part of the enduring appeal of the Phoenix Inn (apart from the beer) is the motoring pedigree of the pub, as the founding home of the Vintage Sports Car Club in 1934”.

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The MG Car Club is delighted to announce the provisional dates of June 17 and 18 for the Club’s annual festival at Silverstone.

MGLive! is the MG Car Club’s showcase event and attracts thousands of MG enthusiasts from all over the world. Traditional elements of MGLive!, such as register displays, trade areas and a live arena, will be joined by some new, exciting and innovative features that will put the ‘live’ into MGLive!

There will also be plenty to keep motorsport fans entertained throughout both days, including a full weekend of racing together with ‘access all areas’ to the pits and paddock providing an unparalleled experience over the MGLive! weekend. The event will also include a Sprint on Silverstone’s Stowe Circuit, as well as an Autotest taking place in the heart of the event.

MG Car Club General Manager Adam Sloman said: “MGLive! 2017 is going to focus on making the most of your MG – whether that’s working on it, competing in it or showing it. With that in mind, we’re putting a number of new features into the event and can’t wait to reveal those to you over the coming months”.

For more information about the MG Car Club and MGLive! please visit www.mgcc.co.uk

SOUTH EAST CENTRE AGM

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Date: Saturday November 19 2016.

Time: Starting at 12pm, with free refreshments provided beforehand.

Venue: The Three Horseshoes, Sidlow, Surrey, RH2 8PT. Agenda 1. Welcome and apologies for absence 2. Approval of the minutes of the 2015 AGM 3. Matters arising from the above 4. Chairman’s Report 5. Treasurer’s Report and adoption of accounts 6. Secretary’s Report 7. Election of Offi cers 8. Election of Committee Members 9. Any Other Business Nominations for election to the Committee and/or Offi cers should be submitted to the Chairman, Derek Edwards, 143 Carlton Road, Reigate, RH2 0JG, or email edwards. mgmadness@ntlworld.com to be received by November 12 2016.

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MG 6.3.5 REGISTER AGM

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Date: December 3 2016 Time: 3.00pm Venue: MG Sales Centre, Lowhill Lane, Longbridge, Birmingham, B31 2BQ Agenda 1. Opening Address 2. Apologies 3. Minutes of 2015 Meeting 4. Chairman’s Address 5. Secretary’s report 6. Treasurer’s report 7. Election of new committee 8. AOB Guest Speaker – Andy Kitson Any queries, please contact Secretary Mark Cropper on 0121 384 5562 or suey.thebark@ btinternet.com

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DECEMBER PHOTO COMPETITION We’re on the lookout for a photo of an MG in the snow for the festive issue of Safety Fast!. if you have one of your MG that you think would look great on a front cover, why not send it to andyknott@mgcc.co.uk or post it to The MG Car Club, Kimber House, 12 Cemetery Road, Abingdon, Oxon, OX14 1AS. The lucky winner will not only have their picture featured on the cover of the December 2016 Safety Fast! but will also win a £10 voucher to spend on merchandise in the newly revamped MG Car Club shop. Closing date for entries is November 15 2016.

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www.mgcc.co.uk

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KimberStores

Candles Stocking present; Filled tin scented candle with the Abingdon Admin Block Black Orchid and Vanilla The deeply fragrant aroma of exotic black orchid is combined with creamy sweet vanilla and touches of amber and musk.

White Lily & Silk A light and luxurious accord, with top notes of soft ripe fruits leading onto a heart of white lily, peony and silk flowers, and a base of sandalwood and white musk.

Fig & Wild Pear A fruity fantasy of sun ripened Izmir figs tossed with slices of juicy wild pear and tantalising hints of cool winter mandarin, lychee and saffron.

£7.50 each

Scalextric Peugeot 205 T16 E2 & MG Metro 6R4 MGCC Top Trumps

Designed by the MG Car Club Age 4 and older An ideal card game for travelling or at home.

This complete collection featuring 30 MGs, from Vintage cars to the latest MG GS, is a must for all MG fans

1986 Rallye Monte Carlo: Peugeot 205 T16 E2 and The 1986 Monte Carlo Rally 6R4 of Tony Pond The Scalextric Models come together in a presentation box

£85.00

£5.00 MG Sports Cars 1929-1936

OHC Midgets, Magnas, and Magnettes. Design, development and styling. The new book from Malcolm Green and a definitive round up of all the models

£30.00

MG Hoodie

Official MG Motor Hoodie in the popular bright red. Available in M,L and XL. 100% polyester

£35.00

Norev MGA Roadster MGCC Cufflinks

The MGCC shield reproduced as a pair of cufflinks

Chocolates with a Twist

Nut and bolt, weight approx 100g Also available; Adjustable Spanner and Spanner & Nut

£15.50

1/43 scale MGA Roadster in orient red Chrome detailing includes bumpers, windscreen wipers, headlamp surrounds, wire wheels and fine coach lines. The interior is black with red trim. Model is mounted on a removable plinth with a removable hard plastic cover.

£35.00

£13.25

MG P Type Canvas

A canvas sign,stretched around the frame with a banking plate. measures 30cm x 42cm

MGCC Document Wallet

A binder to keep all of your car documents in one convenient place.

With dividers for items such as Registration Documents, Service History, insurance etc. Supplied with a selection of clear holders in a variety of sizes, for photos, documents etc

£35.00

£35.00

Handmade Wooden Car

Individually hand crafted by local craftsman Colours; Mint Green, BRG, Tartan Red, Iris Blue, Chartreuse Yellow . Size 45cm x 16cm

£40.00 MGA Mug

Featuring an MGA 1600 Roadster

£8.00

MG Parking only

MGA T Shirt

Featuring an MGA 1600 Roadster.

Available in M,L & XL

£18.00

Metal MG Parking only sign with 2 mounting holes, measuring 30cm x 45cm. Available in red or green.

£25.00

MG Parking only

Metal MG Parking only sign with 4 mounting holes, measuring ....x.... Available in red or green.

£22.50

To order, please email ineke@mgcc.co.uk or phone 01235 849731 MG_SafetyFast_Nov16_3-49.indd 9

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NEWS

GOVERNMENT MOT CONSULTATION Europe-wide legislation looks set to shake up the MoT system in the UK in the coming years. The UK Government cites the reasons for the consultation they have launched as “due to EU Directive changes”.

What are the options proposed by the DfT in its consultation exercise?

Option 1 Remove the current exemption for pre-1960 vehicles and in doing so make all vehicles that are currently exempt subject to full annual roadworthiness testing.

Option 2 Introduce a basic ‘VHI’ roadworthiness ‘safety’ test – (either annual or biennial) for 40-year-old vehicles.

Option 3 Exempt 40-year-old ‘VHIs’ from annual testing and introduce a ‘VHI’ certifi cation process to ensure a vehicle has not been substantially changed (could be based on self-certifi cation or independent inspection or a combination). This is the preferred option.

Option 4 Introduce a biennial ‘VHI’ roadworthiness test for 40-year-old vehicles. ‘VHI’s which are Heavy Goods Vehicles, buses and coaches would need to be certifi ed that they have not been substantially altered.

Option 5 Exempt 30-year-old ‘VHI’s from annual testing and introduce a ‘VHI’ certifi cation process to ensure a vehicle has not been substantially altered (could be based on self-certifi cation or independent inspection or a combination).

For all information please visit https://www.gov.uk/government/ consultations/roadworthiness-testing-for-vehicles-of-historic-interest

BM

MGB WINS CLASS AT 2016 SPA SIX HOURS ENDURANCE RACE

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Well-known MGB race driver, Tom Smith, has won the GTS11 class at the 2016 Spa Six Hours race in Belgium. In his MG Motorsport FIA spec MGB, ably co-driven by Andrew Lawley on this highly challenging track. This did not come easy for the MG Motorsport team, as during qualifying the car had an altercation with a Porsche 911 causing signifi cant damage to the front of the MGB. In this race of attrition Tom and Andrew fi nally brought the car home in 19th place overall out of 107 starters. Once more the MGB has punched well above its weight to win its class and beat much more powerful opposition. In doing so, Tom chalked up his 100th race win, while his MGB 297 EFU claimed its 96th win; a considerable achievement.

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SOCIAL MEDIA NEWS We were delighted to share our MGLive! promotional video to our online audience during October, releasing the date for 2017’s event in the process.

We’re confi dent that next year will be the best one yet, as we include various changes making it entertaining for everyone who comes along.

On October 12, the Club celebrated its 86th birthday, and many messages were sent across social media celebrating the occasion – and

The Club turned 86 on October 12

10 SAFETY FAST! NOVEMBER 2016

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rightly so. Having been formed way back in 1930, the MG Car Club is one of the oldest clubs in the world, and in 2016 continues to support its members in the same spirit that it was created.

With the NEC Classic Motor Show just around the corner, we’ve been building up to the event with a number of stand reveals. Tony Pond’s MG Metro 6R4 will be one of the cars that represent the ‘heroes and heroines’ theme for 2016. Mike Brewer’s MGA will also be one of the cars exhibiting, and a huge buzz was created on social media when we announced that visitors to the stand would have their say on whether or not Mike should restore the car. We ran a poll on Twitter that got just under 300 votes; however the real decision will come at

the show when the serious voting will take place.

If you’re a Club member, why not take advantage of our discounted ticket offer for this year’s Classic Motor Show. Head over to the members area of the website for more details, or alternatively contact Kimber House on 01235 555552.

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The Metro 6R4 – just one of the special MGs on show at this year’s Classic Motor Show

www.mgcc.co.uk

25/10/2016 09:35

KimberStores BMH Poloshirt BMH Sweatshirt

100% cotton in Navy with MG, Safety Fast Logo, and race car badge. Available in S,M,L,XL,XXL

100% cotton in Navy with MG, number 5, race car badge on arm and number 5 on the back.

Available in S,M,L, XL, XXL

MG Christmas Cards

£35.00

A selection of Christmas Cards with envelopes available from the MG Car Club L-R - Christmas eve at the station.

Christmas at the Bell. Catching the post. £1.50 each

£45.00

MG Lapel Pin

MG Brass Lapel Pin in presentation box. £4.50

New MGB 1966 Marathon de la Route

1/43 scale diecast model of the Abingdon Comps Department 1966 Marathon de la Route outright Winning car.

MGCC Polo Shirt

Navy Polo shirt with Grey embroidered MGCC logo. Available in M,L,XL, XXL

£21.00

MGCC Lapel Pin

MGCC Metal Lapel Pin in presentation box. £4.50

Original MGB Book

With MGC and MGB GT V8: The Restorer's Guide to All Roadster and GT Models 1962-1980. The definitve guide to model evolution and 100% originality.Written by well respected MG author Anders Ditlev Clausager

£25.00

£35.00

MG 6R4

Mounted limited edition print, signed

by Tony Smith.

£26.00

MGCC Sweatshirt MGB Roadster

1964 MGB Roadster 1/43 scale model manufactured by Triple 9 in great detail. This British Racing Green model features chrome bumpers, wire spoke wheels and a cream interior. Limited edition model, limited to just 1500 pieces.

Also available in red

£25.00

Sweatshirt with MGCC with tone on tone embroidered logo 50% cotton, Available in M,L,XL. Colours available are Navy, Bottle Green and Bordeaux

£22.50

MG War Time Activities

MG 6R4

MG may be about cars to most, but how they helped during the war did not go unrecognised – with some people regarding the work in Abingdon being the pinnacle of the company’s successful history.

blank card with envelope

£1.50 each or 10 for £10.50

£8.00

BTCC MG6 – Scalextric – 1:32

The Jack Goff 2015 Triple Eight MG Racing.

MG6 Scalextric car

£45.00

MGB Canvas

Wrap around canvas print, will make a centrepiece in any room.

Size: 50cm x 40cm

£35.00

Large MG Car Club Badge

MG Parking only

£26.00

£22.50

Made to the highest quality, including fittings.

Metal MG Parking only sign with 4 mounting holes, measuring ....x.... Available in red or green.

To order, please email ineke@mgcc.co.uk or phone 01235 849731 MG_SafetyFast_Nov16_3-49.indd 11

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PRODUCTS IF YOU HAVE A NEW PRODUCT THAT WOULD BE OF INTEREST TO OUR MEMBERS, AND WOULD LIKE TO SEE IT IN SAFET Y FAST! WHY NOT CONTACT COLIN GRANT AT COLINGRANT@MGCC.CO.UK

MAGNECOR LEADS When it comes to ignition leads, especially the high-performance and racing variety, Magnecor are the leaders in quality and reliability, and cater for a variety of MGs, from an MGB to an MG6.

Magnecor assemble all their own lead sets in-house, all are hand-assembled by highly trained production staff, and are covered by a 10-year guarantee which ensures long lasting reliability and service life.

Two recent additions to the Magnecor range are sets for the MG6 and the MG3, with the Electosports 80 Cable being the lead of choice for many that have fitted them. The 8mm cable is an original equipment replacement, designed to improve original ignition system performance on road vehicles. Flexible, high-strength, all-silicone construction will allow cables to fit into original 7mm lead holders. Those that have fitted them to the MG6 have been raving about the difference they make, removing the hesitation and lumpy idle that can be associated with the petrol MG6. Below are a few quotes from MG3 owners that have recently fitted sets: Richard Bibby-Brooke: Main difference I’ve found is no more flat spot in second gear.

Lee Gould: Fitted them this evening to my MG3 (very straightforward). Only driven 20 miles or so since fitting – urban and dual carriageway. Very happy so far.

The difference is very similar to when we put Magnecors on the 6 – smoother and quieter tick-over; the engine seems a little more eager and has a bit more zip and no judder when moving off in first.

Malcolm McKnight: Fitted mine today. Was sceptical about feeling any difference as the oem leads on mine are only two years old. But, I was surprised at the difference, the car genuinely drives better, and feels more powerful.

For more information or to order a set of Magnecor leads please visit www.johnwoodsmotorcare.net phone 01244 851371 or phone MG and AMC Parts 02392 220 222

MIO MIVUE 658 DASH CAM In a world where ‘Crash for Cash’ has become an issue, the idea of being able to record your journey has become increasingly appealing. The Mio MiVue Dash cam is an impressive piece of kit that boasts impressive features such as integrated Wi-Fi to share you videos instantly to your smartphone. It includes an 8GB micro SD card that allows for up to five hours of high definition recording.

Fitting is simple, with a decent size suction mount to secure it to your windscreen, with a decent length of cable allowing it to be chased behind headlining and pillar trim, meaning your interior doesn’t become cluttered and messy.

Once installed, operation is very simple – switch on the ignition and recording begins automatically – the MiVue records GPS location while a three-axis G force sensor records force and point of impact should the worst happen.

With a simple, easy to use interface, impressive video quality and excellent additional features, the MiVue is a worthy investment for those seeking a little extra evidence in the event of an accident.

For more information or to buy go to https://eu.mio.com/en_gb/mivue-658wifi.htm

MG-MAGIC DAYTIME RUNNING LIGHT REPLACEMENT HEADLAMPS

Invisible in your MGTF until the engine is running, and combining style with added road safety, these replacement headlamp units are supplied on an exchange basis, with easy-to-follow fitting instructions and simple plug-in wiring.

Super Bright COB LEDs featuring automatic turn on with engine start, 50% dimming when side and headlamps are on for night time driving. Courtesy delay of 15 seconds after engine stop, giving time to find your way up the drive.

Cost is £275 plus an exchange deposit of £40 refunded on the return of your old headlamps, carriage paid.

For more information go to Web: www.mgmagic.co.uk Telephone: 07840 683305

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www.mgcc.co.uk

25/10/2016 09:35

BCC MGB handling kit for road and track · Upgraded 4 pot aluminium brake calipers · ‘Made in Sheffield’ coil and leaf springs and anti-roll bars* · Superpro bushes · BCC-Spax dampers Improve the ride, handling and performance on your MG without the need for major alterations to the car.

The very best quality British designed and made parts you can buy!

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NOVEMBER 2016 SAFETY FAST! 13

25/10/2016 09:35

POSTBAG

REMEMBERING BILL WESTON I was very sorry to read in the September T type Newsletter about the sad passing of Bill Weston. I remember attending my very first MG Silverstone on May 29 1965 in my TC HAB 397 (chassis no 7124) together with my sister Gill, 22, with whom I shared the car.

There was a five lap scratch race for TC, TD and HRG cars. W.J. (Bill Weston) won the T type event, having a close race just ahead of Pete Ross and Ian Matheson, all in TCs, these very impressive full race TCs with cycle wings and unsilenced side exhausts.

Others in the race included Paddy Willmer, Ron Gammons, Jim Pielow, Alan Scott, Roy Brading, Ken Cheeseman, P. Hollick, Roy Brading, Harry Whitehouse, etc. They really captured my imagination, especially the really quick cars drifting around the old club circuit Woodcote corner with a suitably controlled application of opposite lock balancing the car on the throttle and with the exhaust noise reverberating off the grandstands. A wonderful spectacle.

As the obituary stated, Bill competed in many other races at MG meetings, and on that day in 1965 he drove with equal enthusiasm and skill in two five-lap scratch races, plus a 10-lap handicap race and a 30-minute high speed trail. In my mind he was clearly the driver of the day at the peak of his game.

Bill Weston’s driving on that day clearly made a great impression on me as an 18-year-old. Within two years, I had bought my cousin’s TF and I had begun competing in speed events in the first year of the T register championship in 1967, and then with various Sprites and Midgets from 1969 onwards in circuit racing, and I am now my 50th season of motorsport.

There was a photo in Motor Sport Magazine of Bill Weston’s TC while in the Shelsley paddock at around that time, showing two different stick-on registration numbers on each of the TC rear wings. He wrote in to the magazine to say that one number was the TC number and the second one was the tow car number. A perfectly reasonable explanation. He added that the TC had embarrassed quite a few more modern cars with its speed. I am not surprised.

As far as I can make out, 1965 looks as if it could have been Bill Weston’s last MG Silverstone, as his name is missing from the following years.

Kind regards, James Thacker SEPTEMBER LOOKING BACK I saw your photograph on page 98 of the September edition of Safety Fast! and asking for any information.

My wife and I were on that Caledonian Club event, and that is our 1957 MGA, shown at the front of the photograph, which we owned for 20 years and only sold very recently.

I cannot give the exact year but I am guessing at about 1998 or 1999. The event was a day run to Dunoon, organised by Willy Scott, our current webmaster.

As you can see, the weather was atrocious and on the way to the ferry terminal at Gourock, our wipers packed in and we had to endure typical Scottish dreich (well-used Scottish word) weather without any wipers.

Fortunately, I kept a spare wiper arm and blade in the

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V.W. DERRINGTON LTD OF KINGSTON I am doing some research on my father, Victor William Derrington, of V.W. Derrington Ltd of Kingston, Surrey.

As you may well know, my father had a long-time connection of tuning MGs as well as racing them. He manufactured and sold a lot of tuning and accessories for these cars, as early as at least the M Type, XPAG-engined cars, XPEG-engined cars and then post war MGA, MGB, Midget and Magnette.

What I am trying to find out is whether anyone has early photos, experiences, anecdotes or anything pertaining to my father and his firm.

Though we closed in 1986, it is quite remarkable that items are still being made from his era, like steering wheels, grab handles, aeroscreens, anti roll bars and the HRG-Derrington crossflow cylinder head amongst other items, which shows great respect for the items he produced.

Thanking you in anticipation Stuart Derrington p.s. there is also a Facebook page, VW Derrington, which your members might find interesting.

boot and had to make do with leaning out of the side screens from time to time to clear the windscreen by hand!

In Scotland, however, we are quite used to taking part in wet weather and if it doesn’t rain on an event, it is considered a bonus.

The TF behind belonged to the late Ron Kent, an extremely active member of the Caledonian Club and who was responsible for making us very welcome when we joined the Caledonian Club some years previously.

At present I cannot identify the two MGBs or the two gentlemen under the umbrella, but I will discuss it at our next committee meeting and see if any other members can shed any more light.

Thank you for the nostalgia trip!

Barclay and Alison Henderson

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NATIONAL TREASURE Part 2 - The success and frustrations of the MG 6R4

By Martyn Morgan Jones Photos by Gez Hughes

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I

n 1982, FISA (Fédération Internationale du Sport Automobile) restructured the rules for international rallying. And this wasn’t some simple rethink: it was a sea change. Crucially, from 1983, Group 4, previously home to the fastest cars, would make way for Group B: a fire-breathing, no-holdsbarred category that would come to epitomise the hedonistic excesses of the 1980s.

Rally Ready Happy with the amendments/ improvements, Austin Rover revealed its homologation specifi cation 6R4 to the press at Knebworth House in May 1985, where it was immediately obvious that the car was now a most pugnacious and pugilistic device. To prove just how effective the changes were, Tony Pond and Marc Duez ‘chauffeured’ journalists around a ‘mock’ stage.

Thanks to the huge effort, dedication and commitment exhibited

by Austin Rover Motorsport, the 6R4 was fi nally ready to rally at international level. It also owed a huge debt of gratitude to a raft of specialist companies. Surprisingly though, despite there being a genuine, albeit commercial, connection with Cosworth, this was barely mentioned.

Much was made of the association with Williams, understandably. But it was the MG heritage that received top billing. Austin Rover appreciated the potency of the MG name. It was, and still is, a powerful and emotive marketing tool.

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“In developing and producing the MG Metro 6R4 rally car, Austin Rover is continuing a great MG tradition.

Many times in the illustrious history of MG, the factory has produced highly specialised cars aimed at sporting achievement. Fabled machines like the R-type racer, K3 Magnette, and series of record breakers culminating in the EX181, which topped 254mph with a supercharged 1.5 litre twin-cam engine. Now comes the MG 6R4 – the most exciting and significant purebred MG competition car ever.”

The 200 ‘Clubman’ cars were built

by Austin Rover, in a corner of the Longbridge factory (as the 6R4 wasn’t Type Approved, cars were sold in ‘kit’ form requiring buyers to carry out a modicum of fi nishing work). The 20 ‘International’ cars were completed at Cowley. All of the V64V engines were assembled at Standard Triumph’s former machining plant, in Capmartin Road, Coventry.

FISA homologated the 6R4 for Group B from November 1 1985. It had been a real race to get the cars built and inspected in time. Had the team failed, the next available inspection date was December 1… one week after the RAC Rally.

In November 1985, on the Lombard-RAC, the 6R4’s World Rally Championship debut, Tony Pond set nine fastest stage times and fi nished third overall. A brilliant international debut.

Power play Encouraged, Austin Rover Motorsport announced a full World Rally Championship programme for 1986, with 410bhp cars for Tony Pond and Malcolm Wilson. Sadly, the 6R4 would be outgunned by the opposition, which had overcome most of the lag problems associated with turbocharged engines (largely due to running very special fuels). The 6R4, which used pump fuel, suffered an ever-increasing defi cit in performance. Much to the team’s and Wood’s chagrin.

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“When we began the V64V engine project we’d approached FISA to get clarification of the fuel policy and were told, quite categorically, that Group B would utilise pump fuel,” recalls Wood.

“Which is why, when we started competing in the WRC, we were on a performance par with the other manufacturers. Sadly, the fuel situation wasn’t properly policed and other manufacturers began using ‘super fuel’ which contained a high percentage of toluene to boost octane. Consequently, power of the turbocharged cars rose from 400bhp to almost 600. We didn’t use toluene in our fuel, as it would have had a more modest benefit in our normally-aspirated engine.”

In addition to the fuel issues, the V64V engines were suffering from timing belt failures. Failures that could have been prevented, had Wood and his team been allowed more time for development. Time that had actually been planned-in. !The prototype engine ran troublefree for hundreds of hours,” tells Wood. “Regrettably, because of this, Austin Rover management and its PR Department made the decision to get the 6R4 into the WRC straight away.

But there were still six months of engine development scheduled; a period when we’d planned to test six engines to destruction and eradicate any problems.

“We’d already noticed cam drive torsional issues which were giving the cambelt a hard time and had changed

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the cam profiles to an asymmetric design, which helped settle things down. Even so, to cure the problem, we realised we’d need more belt wrap on the crankshaft pulley. This would require a longer belt and an additional pulley at the bottom of the front cover.

“Unfortunately, as the car was now fully committed to competing in international rallies, we had little time to design and produce the new pulley system...not to mention the extra time or personnel required for the testing.

All we could do was try to keep the existing engines together. It had been taken out my hands. Problems ensued and the reliability issues became very public. Eventually, I left Austin Rover and went back to my consultancy work and, subsequently, a decade working with Cosworth. I have very fond memories of the V64V, though. The problems were eventually ironed out and the engine, although now over 30 years old, is still winning today. And, it’s still the bestsounding rally engine ever!”

Engine woes aside, it wasn’t all heartache. An encouraging seventh, eighth and tenth on the 1986 1,000 Lakes Rally was followed by fourth on the San Remo. Hopes were high for the home event, the Lombard-RAC. Sadly, and despite the support of thousands of patriotic and flag-waving supporters, the team couldn’t replicate its 1985 performance. However, with cars finishing sixth, seventh, eighth and ninth, Austin Rover clinched the Team Award.

Tragedies The 6R4 was quick, but its rivals were even quicker. As alluded to, many of its rivals had circa 550-600bhp. Yet, power corrupts, or so the old adage and FISA would lead us to believe.

Apparently, FISA was becoming increasingly concerned over escalating power and increasing use of expensive composite materials – a classic case of the pot calling the kettle black!

These were certainly factors, but it was the accidents in Portugal and Corsica that brought Group B to its knees. During the 1986 Rallye de Portugal, Joaquim Santos’ RS200 crested a brow only to find the road swarming with spectators. Swerving to avoid them, and skidding on the sand that had been dragged onto the stage by spectators’ feet, it veered into the crowd killing three and injuring dozens.

In fairness, this was an accident that had been waiting to happen and should not really be attributed to

www.mgcc.co.uk

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MG METRO 6R4 International Spec.

Chassis Chassis-less construction with multi-tubed underframe, suspension subframes, integral rollcage, steel and aluminium stiffening panels, carbon fibre and Kevlar bodywork Wheelbase: Track Front: Track Rear:

8ft 7.1in 4ft 11.5in 4ft 11.7in

Suspension Front and Rear: coil springs, MacPherson struts, lower wishbones, adjustable anti-roll bars Steering Rack and pinion Brakes Front and Rear: 305mm ventilated discs, four-pot alloy calipers, hydraulic handbrake Wheels Dymag magnesium alloy Rim size: 8J x 15 Tyre Size: Front: 225/45/ZR15 Rear: 245/40/ZR15 Engine 90-degree, V6, quad-cam, beltdriven, 24-valve, Lucas electronic fuel injection, Lucas/Micos electronic engine management Cubic capacity: 2991cc Power: 410bhp @9.000rpm Torque: 270lbs/ft@6.500rpm Gearbox Five-speed manual, dog-engagement centre viscous-coupling differential, front/rear spiral bevel drives, with limited slip differentials, 35/65 torque split (optional 45/55 & 25/75) Performance Max. Speed – dependent on gearing (circa 110-140mph) Acceleration – 0-60mph 3.2secs Numbers built 20

www.mgcc.co.uk

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J

T

B

Group B. On many events, not only were there huge crowds; crowd control was non-existent.

Out of respect, every works team withdrew. A move that incurred the wrath of Jean-Marie Balestre, president of FISA, and of his vice-president who was running the Rallye de Portugal.

Then, on May 2 1986, during the Tour de Corse, Henri Toivonen’s Lancia Delta S4 left the road and slid down the hillside, hitting trees and rocks before bursting into flames. Toivonen, a sublimely gifted driver, and his navigator, Sergio Cresto, were killed.

In what was a knee-jerk reaction, Group B and the proposed Group S (planned to showcase groundbreaking innovations in lightweight design, materials, aerodynamics and electronics) were instantly cancelled.

FISA announced that Group B would

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be replaced by the more productionbased Group A, the changes taking effect from December 31 1986. Audi withdrew immediately; the other works teams decided to see the season out.

Taking stock Even before these tragedies, and despite winning the 1986 French Rally Championship, 1986 British Rally Championship, 1986 Scottish Rally Championship, 1986 National Tarmac Rally Championship and the Circuit of Ireland, Austin Rover had become increasingly disillusioned. This, plus spiralling costs, and the fact that only 50 Clubman cars had sold (albeit at full price) meant that the company was considering withdrawing from rallying.

And with just cause it seems, as for 1987, in the WRC, only Group A and Group N production-based cars,

with a maximum of 300bhp, would be permitted. Internationally, the winds of change were blowing and the outlook, certainly as far as the 6R4 was concerned, was bleak. The situation wasn’t looking that rosy in terms of national events, either.

Mercifully, a ‘stay of execution’ was granted. If power was reduced (a ceiling of 300bhp was introduced) the 6R4 could compete on British national rallies. Quick to respond, Austin Rover Motorsport updated cars to ‘Clubman 300’ specification, and advertised them for a paltry £16,000. Even greater discounts were available if you bulk-bought.

Gates of Harlow, a Ford dealer, did exactly that, buying 40 to convert into road cars. However, as the 6R4 was not Type Approved, the registration process was rather involved. In any case, due to excessive interior noise and heat, it wasn’t a practical road car. Nonetheless, Gates offered a bespoke conversion service, fitting anything the customer wanted, leather seats, carpets, electric windows, special paintwork, etc.

Unfortunately, just when the dark clouds that had hung so ominously over Austin Rover Motorsport were about to reveal a glimpse of a silver lining, the company was beset with even more problems. The cessation of the motorsport programme meant redundancies and there were other difficulties, too, the upshot of which meant that Austin Rover Motorsport closed its doors in May 1987.

O

F

o

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25/10/2016 09:36

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Survival Fortunately, later that year, a group of owners concerned about the 6R4’s future, formed the 6R4 Owners Club. Consequently, in 1988, Rover instigated the multi-discipline onemake Esso Metro Superchallenge, which proved to be a great success.

In rallycross, Will Gollop, Michael Shield and Barry Hathaway’s 6R4’s battled the Group B Fords, Peugeots, Audis and Lancias. The 6R4’s forte was tight, twisty circuits. Later, many tuners resorted to turbocharging, quoting figures of up to 700bhp! In 1992, Gollop’s 2.3-litre bi-turbo-powered 6R4 netted him the coveted European Rallycross Championship.

Over the years the 6R4 has been handicapped by various means, including reducing its capacity to 2.8 litres, and then 2.5 litres. Some championships penalised it by one to six seconds a mile, but still 6R4’s won. It’s not just in rallies that this car excels, either. From circuit racing to hillclimbing, autotesting to drag racing, the Metro 6R4 has contested them all. It’s even competed on the Pike’s Peak Hillclimb and Paris-Dakar.

Naturally, the opportunities that once existed for the 6R4 have certainly diminished. Nevertheless, the car has a

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huge amount of support, particularly from the website-based 6R4.net (Home of the Metro 6R4) and there are still many competing. They are not just making up the numbers either; they are winning, too. Reliability issues are now a thing of the past and there are few cars that are so well-loved and so respected. And few are blessed with such an orchestral soundtrack.

Charismatic, multi-faceted and hugely talented, the 6R4, a rallying icon, arrived a little too late to the Group B party and had not reached its full international potential before it was prematurely retired. But it will be long-remembered for its soul-stirring WRC outings...and it will also be long-remembered as one of the most successful national rally cars ever to have graced a special stage.

Thanks to: Williams Heritage Jonathan Williams Dickie Stanford John Davenport David Piper David Wood John Foden Michael Kitt 6R4.net

Michael Kitt / 1985 Group B 6R4 “I actually bought a factory Ford RS200 for about three years and it was during this period that I heard via a contact, that Tony Pond’s 6R4 was coming up for sale. I went to have a look ...and as soon as I saw it I knew I had to have it! This was back in the mid-90s. For a time, I was the lucky owner of two Group B cars! The 6R4 even came with some spares, including a genuine car cover, boxes of memorabilia, a letter from MG listing every event it had done, and what had been done to it. There were even some items from Tony. In fact, I used to chat with Tony on quite a regular basis. He was such a lovely chap and one of the quickestever rally drivers.

“I’m so very lucky to own this car.

I never ever thought that I’d own a 6R4, especially one with such a factory history. It did the ‘86 Monte Carlo with Tony, it was also rallied by Marc Duez on the ‘86 Rallye de Portugal Rally, the one where Henri Toivonen and Sergio Cresto were tragically killed. It was then converted to LHD for Harri Toivonen to use on the 1000 Lakes. He finished 8th.

Following this, it was converted back to RHD for David Llewellyn. He used it on Marlboro Port Talbot Rally, finishing 3rd overall. Ari Vatanen also drove it on an episode of Top Gear.

“I think that it’s the only 6R4 that’s 100 percent original. In its current specification it has special Corsica brakes, diffs and camshafts. The rear diff is a 3.9 ratio, and when it broke it took me six months to find a replacement ...and cost me a fortune!

“Because it’s such a special car, a few years ago I decided to have it stripped to bare metal and rebuilt. There are still a few things that need doing, but I hope to have these sorted soon.

“There is something so special about the 6R4. It’s such a charismatic car and it’s so well received wherever it appears. As I’ve said, I never thought I’d own one. I feel so privileged.”

www.mgcc.co.uk

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CLUB C U HISTORY IS O The eleventh of the serialised 12 part enlarged and updated Club History

MGF Cup racing was fast and furious.

A

MGF Boost by Stephen Cox

lthough the MGF has provided the single largest boost to Club membership in the period since September 1995, this has not occurred without planning and foresight. Having had a signifi cant input to the formation of the MGF Register, I was fairly sure that the minutes of the council meetings of 1994 would provide the proof of our collective thought processes.

Sure enough, in the minutes of the April 1994 council meeting, Don

Bishop of the MGB Register proposed that an embryonic register be formed to accommodate the then much talkedabout PR3 model being developed in what was then Rover Group, which in the previous month had become part of the BMW Group following their purchase of the company from British Aerospace.

I was then an area manager for that company, looking after the commercial relationship between ourselves and the UK Rover dealer network and had already seen and sat in a prototype at the Canley styling and design centre. I was

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later working at the Rover Group facility, Studley Castle, where the Club was housed in the late 1980s. It was a short walk to the Portakabin where it was managed, I was therefore in a unique position, knowing the truth but unable to say a word about it in the meeting!

Other than agreeing Don’s proposal, nothing more happened until the full council meeting of November 1994 when during “matters arising” there was much talk about how we should progress this opportunity. One idea was that we should ask Rover Group to place a membership application card in the handbook pack of each vehicle leaving the factory. At this point, I could contain myself no longer and decided to offer some advice.

It became apparent to all listening that I knew more than I was prepared to reveal and during the lunch break, Victor Smith engaged me in conversation about a vacancy on the board of directors and the opportunity for Rover to have input at board level through myself. The new car was still unconfi rmed in spite of all the preparations and I resolutely refused to confi rm it and the motions for debate

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CLUB HISTORY

records the following: “That provision be made, in advance, to ensure that should a new MG car be announced, the MG Car Club is ready to provide a service to purchasers of the new car”.

The Club had clearly started to think about what this product would produce in terms of extra membership and was making available a Register even before launch. Perhaps it should also have done this upon the launch of the MGB; what would that have done to membership then, I wonder?

That afternoon at the AGM, I was voted on to the board. My responsibilities became those of the Centres, Registers and Branches of the Club which gave me the opportunity to steer the initial fortunes of the PR3 Register.

Interestingly, the media and Club members had assumed that it would be called the MGD and it was often referred to as that at board and council meetings until March 7 1995, when the car was finally revealed at the Geneva Motor Show. Indeed, many entrepreneurs had rung the MG and Rover offices offering to sell us MGD registrations that they had reserved with the DVLA, hoping for a quick profit.

It was difficult not to give the game away. Whatever happened to all those number plates?

At the January 1995 board meeting, I revealed that I now worked for a division of the Company called MG Cars, as a regional manager. (Having seen the vacancies available in this division during October 1994, I thought how appropriate it would be, both as an enthusiast and as a board member to work in this part of the company.)

I was given permission to reveal the outline product details but not the name. I asked for secrecy to be observed and the minutes of the meeting do not record any details of this presentation. Subsequently, plans were laid to celebrate the new sports car’s arrival by an MG Car Club run to Geneva, to coincide with the launch,

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Abingdon Trophy cars line up at Prescott in 1998

in cars representing the history of the marque. This was organised by the then Overseas Director, Alan Kingwell who also provided support to the run with Bob Marshall, in a Land Rover provided by Rover Group. This event was also filmed by the BBC for the subsequent series “When Rover met BMW” although it was edited out of the final programmes to make way for the more interesting story of John Towers’ imminent departure as Rover chief following disagreements with the BMW board. All rather poetic when you consider six years further on, John Towers as the head of the Phoenix

Consortium, buys back Rover from BMW for the princely sum of £10, announcing this staggering situation to the world’s press on May 9 2000.

The initial meeting of the MGF Register was held immediately after the Council meeting at the Upper Reaches Hotel in Abingdon in April 1996 and it was attended by four people: Dr Rob Higgins, myself, already an owner with a company-provided MGF, Dawn-Marie Turner (subsequently to become my wife) and Nick Cox, who was about to order his car. It had been decided to leave the fortunes of the PR3 Register in the hands of Don Bishop until deliveries

Stephen Cox with his Abingdon Trophy MGF

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CLUB HISTORY 1995 Press photo of a 1.8i MGF

of the vehicles had started. Don had issued the first 20 or so membership cards by the time he came to hand the reins to the first chairman of the group, Julia Marshall (also a board director at that time). She was able to take delivery of her car a few days after the launch from the showrooms of Clive Sutton in Old Brompton Road, Kensington.

She was to receive a splash of publicity in the Daily Telegraph, following their headlines a week or so earlier asserting that the average customer was male and in his middle fifties. Here was a twenty-

something blonde female disproving that theory, and getting a half-page of fullcolour coverage in the process; not for nothing, she was the director responsible for the Club’s publicity.

This was an excellent start for the Register since Julia had mercilessly promoted the MG Car Club in the article and its support of the product through her involvement in MGF activities. Coupled with this was the support of the MG Cars department at Longbridge who had instituted an advisory “best practice” policy for its

dealers to offer membership of the Club with the delivery of each car as an added-value item for the customer.

Memberships mounted up quickly even after an objection by the MG Owners Club who felt extremely put out by this exclusive arrangement. Through the journalist Kevin Eason, then the motoring correspondent of The Times, Roche Bentley (General Secretary of the MGOC) had given this issue much publicity in the issue of October 7 1995. This increased the number of enquiries we received. At the same time, I was turned into the villain of the piece as the perpetrator. Roche, never one to miss an opportunity, had managed to steer Kevin Eason’s article into a wonderful advertisement for the MGOC’s insurance scheme with typical premiums quoted and a telephone number to ring for further information.

Both clubs had come out of the story with benefits to their respective organisations, proving yet again that there is no such thing as bad publicity!

The early days of the Register were taken up with trying to find out more about what the new owners wanted out of our Club. The committee had 1996 MGF Birthday celebration held at Gaydon

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CLUB HISTORY

The RV8 gave the Club a membership boost before the MGF was launched

grown to include MG dealer John Priest of Chesham and two more owners, Graeme Bishko and, thankfully, another blonde female, Caroline Woodley. The Daily Telegraph must have been on the run by now, as not one of the team met their specification!

At the Club’s annual festival at Silverstone in 1996, Julia had decided to find out more about our growing membership, by now running at around 400, and produced a brief questionnaire to help guide us forward. In spite of a knee injury and being on crutches, she hobbled around the parking area making sure that we found out what we needed to know. It became quite clear that F members were outgoing and sociable and wanted to use their cars for pleasure, which is driving around as part of an event, or to get to an event. Many had already ‘met’ via the Internet with a bulletin board being the meeting place and this was the major feature of the research: nearly all of those we spoke to were emailfriendly and were regularly trawling the ‘net. This feature also governed the future shape of the committee who, were all ‘net jockeys’. Remember that this was the early days of the internet.

The Register continued to grow.

The availability of less expensive used cars has widened the pool of potential members, as did the introduction of a lower-priced entry model with 1600cc engine. Since launch and up to the end of 2000, well over 33,000 had been sold in the UK, with a further 30,000 abroad. No other sports car had sold in these numbers in the home market up to September 23 1995 when MG returned to selling sports cars. By the end of production of MGF, over 77,000 had been produced and it

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was superseded by a conventionally suspended MG TF, a model which was put back into production by NAC for a limited period, producing less than 1,000 before SAIC turned off the tap.

Following the dark days of 1980, when the Abingdon factory closed, we could have become just another old car club. However, the arrival of the Metro, Maestro and Montego in the middle ‘80s, and the RV8 in the early 90s, had given the Club a much-needed boost in membership. The MGF and TF have increased the activity in the social scene behind the sporting side of Register activities and have, in the period since the original launch, added around 3,500 people to our Club.

Year 2001 and beyond, has provided us with a startling range of new products from the Longbridge factory to admire, from the appropriately renamed MG Rover Group. This was another opportunity to encourage new members to our ranks in the same way that the MGF had

done. SAIC continued to produce new models, using the Longbridge facilities to assemble MGs up until recently.

My tenure of the Chairmanship of the MGCC finished in 2005, having been appointed five years earlier, and I had been looking for gainful employment since the April of that year following the collapse of MG Rover Group.

Stephen Cox was a long-standing member of the Club. Having been the scribe for the Midland Centre, he became Treasurer of the MGA Twin Cam Group following the acquisition of a Coupe model and in that position he attended council meetings with Nick Cox. After a period as Club director he became chairman from 20002005. He competed with an MGF in the Abingdon Trophy and progressed to race in other Club championships.

During this time he became involved in the MG Sport and Racing development process, moved on in 2003 to work with Tatra Motors on a joint project to import their utility products to the UK. In 2006 he returned to the world of MG at Longbridge as Sales and Franchising Manager for the Nanjing Automobile Corporation who had purchased all the assets of the failed company. Stephen now lives in France.

The NAC MG TF LE 500 on display at Silverstone in 2007

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MEL JONES, UNIVERSITY MOTORS AND MG

M

el Jones now lives quietly in retirement in Devon and, after a working life spent largely at sea, now paints sailing boats as a remunerative hobby. Mel drives one of the very few remaining MG Montego Turbos which he maintains himself. The car featured in February 2013 Safety Fast! and the spare engine at the back of Mel’s garage is testament to his commitment to maintaining the vehicle as a roadgoing daily runner.

Sitting unobtrusively in the rear window of the Montego was Mel’s Motor Racing Register Members badge, numbered 169. The Motor Racing Register was published from 1961 to 1966 and gave biographical details of all the prominent drivers of the period and allocated each a number in the Register.

Mel’s entry in the 1965 issue of the Motor Racing Register gives but a flavour of his MG story and reads as follows:-

By Edward Vandyk

Mel Jones in Richard and Janet Barretto’s MGA 2016

Tel (home) Walton-on-Thames 24915 (work) Ealing 2611.

The story behind the synopsis is fascinating. As a precursor when I went to Devon to see Mel he gave me a copy of a photograph of Nuvolari’s Magnette, which won the Ulster Tourist Trophy in 1933, on display at Cockshoots, the Nuffield Distributors, and there in the background is Mel’s maternal uncle Neville. MGs are clearly in Mel’s genes.

In 1953 Mel bought an MG J2, registered AEV 652, for the princely sum of £100, although he was subsequently told at a Natter at the Sugar Bowl, Burgh Heath by Mike Hawke, who became prominent in the Club, that he should not have paid more than £85!

Although intending a career in the Navy the premature loss of his father, and his mother’s illness, meant Mel ended up working for his uncle Leslie

Jones, M. H. (Melville) 169 b. 1936, married. London MG Distributors. Pastimes include sailing.

Member BARC, BRSCC, VINTAGE SCC AND COMMITTEE MEMBER SE CENTRE MGCC. First race 1958 Silverstone (MGCC) driving MGJ2 Midget. Competes in rallies, hill climbs, sprints and restricted race meetings. Competed with MG J4 in 1962 at Silverstone, Brands, Oulton – mostly h’cap, speed trials and sprint events. In 1964, class 1st Goodwood (Whitsun) in vintage event driving MG J4. Address: c/o TeaM G Racing Assn., River Ash Estate, Shepperton, Middx.

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Mel in his J2/J4

in the family wine business. This was not a good time for Mel who still feels he sacrificed his proposed career in vain, as he and his mother ended up without any ownership of the business because his father had died intestate.

In any event, Mel was not happy stuck in a London cellar all day and his J2 provided his liberation.

Mel had broken the crankshaft of his J2 and, being unable to afford a new one, he had to find a good used one. He answered an advert from an MG specialist in Cowley Road, Uxbridge and, armed with his crack testing equipment of a small bottle of paraffin, some clean rags and some white dusting powder off he set.

In Uxbridge Stanley Richardson had set up a part-time spares and overhaul business, SH Richardson and Sons, which he ran evenings and weekends.

When Mel arrived there were several broken MGs lying around Stanley’s garden, along with a spares shed and workshop. Stanley was a consulting engineer and had a real passion not only for MGs but for Bentleys and Jaguars as well. Stanley had three J2 cranks and Mel set about testing them in front of the somewhat bemused proprietor. Mel chose the crank with no cracks and the biggest diameter journals which had not been ground down.

All of this impressed Stanley to the extent that after a discussion it was agreed that Mel would come and work for Stanley, who would give up his day job, and together they would build a business.

Stanley and Mel rebuilt the J2 engine and Mel then set about a rolling rebuild of the car, by which Mel meant using it as day to day transport whilst restoring the car at the same time. In this he was greatly assisted by Stanley’s knowledge.

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Mel’s interest in racing was kindled by reading John Thornley’s book ‘Maintaining the Breed’ which emphasised MG’s strong racing pedigree.

That interest was enhanced by Stanley’s acquisition of an MG J4 (with a broken crank!) which had been raced pre-war by ‘Hammy’ Hamilton. This was the racing version of the J2 and only nine had been built by the factory.

Tempting though it was as a means of fulfilling Mel’s growing desire to compete, Stanley simply wanted too much money for it. In the end, after Stanley’s demise, Colin Tiche bought the car and raced it.

However Mel’s finances were improving and he had the means to finish the J2 and started entering it for night rallies. The car at 847cc was not competitive and did not have enough lights. Despite being cold and draughty this was not enough to deter the young Mel. In one rally Mel was hammered past by Pat Moss in a 1000cc Morris Minor with only inches to spare, in the process smashing one of Mel’s headlights. Mel went on to break a half shaft in the event, but it was Pat’s comment that a “miss was as good as a mile” which showed the competition were turning more serious.

Mel had, at Stanley’s urging, entered the J2 for a Concours at the US air base at Ruislip. To his surprise Mel won it but it made him realise that static events were not for him. Arriving at work each morning to see the still-unsold J4 sitting there was not helpful either!

Mel next tried an MGCC navigational rally starting from the Sugar Bowl with his wife-to-be, Lyn, as navigator. Unfortunately an A40, which was on the wrong side of the road, hit the J2 head-on on a blind corner about two hours into the rally. The driver of the A40 was later charged with dangerous driving, which was little consolation as Mel’s insurance was only third party. The J2 was a write-off, in the conventional sense, but luckily, apart from Mel’s broken nose and the shock, no lasting damage was occasioned by either driver or navigator.

Stanley lent Mel a car which was a six-cylindered aluminium-bodied special built on a 1933 F Type MG Magna. The car sported a Riley radiator and had no weather equipment or heater. Mel felt Stanley could have done somewhat better by him, but in any event the relationship was nearing its conclusion because Stanley’s two sons had joined the business leaving Mel somewhat out in the cold.

Mel bought a 1932 M Type MG Midget as a temporary alternative to the J2 which he was busy recreating.

Mel’s purchase was in somewhat worse condition than he thought, as he

Silverstone J2/J4 and a Bugatti

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In a scrap with a Mini

realised when he put the tools in the boot and they fell straight out onto his feet! Mel had to take the body off the ash frame and have it welded up whilst he repaired the frame himself.

All of these experiences, along with his time with Stanley Richardson, had left Mel fully proficient to build a car from scratch, so when the J2 was restored to a rolling chassis Mel decided to clothe it with a replica of the doorless body of Hamilton’s J4.

1958 and time for a change. Mel saw an advert for a stores representative for the London MG Distributors, University Motors, or UM as it was known.

He was interviewed at a large garage off Hertford Street in the West End and was offered the job on the spot.

Mel was then asked to wait because the person who interviewed him felt there may be a better position open to him. The Sales Manager appeared and offered Mel the possible job of Demonstrator Driver and rep for the Wholesale Department. Mel went to the Stratton Street headquarters of UM, was interviewed and got the job.

UM Dashboard Plaque

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Mel’s job was to drive the demonstration cars both for the UM showroom and for the 120 MG dealers around the London area and Home Counties for which UM were responsible. Mel was sent home in a new MG Magnette, told to get a suit and report for work in a couple of days.

All of this at twice the salary at Richardson’s.

Having explained to his mother just how he came to be driving a brand new car, Mel went to see Stanley and their 18-month relationship ended on amicable terms.

Mel now needed somewhere to keep the M Type and the partly rebuilt J2 and Bob Hudson (of whom more later) came to the rescue offering garage space in nearby Shepperton.

Now Mel had daily transport and a better-paid job, he recognised that if he could source the parts he could rebuild his J2 as a J4. He had already fitted the larger diameter brakes developed for the F Type Magna which had also been used on the C Type racers back in 1932. Interestingly, Hamilton’s C Type racer, which he had before the J4, was the first car to be fitted with these brakes.

Before Mel left Richardson’s he had acquired a J3 racing engine, a used Laystall crank complete with fully machined con rods, and this was to be the basis of his racing engine.

Mel wanted to keep his racing experience current so decided to race the J2 whist developing it as a J4. He raced against Mike Hawke in his J2, for which you will recall he had only paid £85, a couple of times at Silverstone and Brands in MGCC meetings.

Before continuing Mel’s story with the J2/J4 we need to better understand the new workplace and the people in it, so different from Richardson’s, in which Mel now found himself.

University Motor, or UM, was MG’s, indeed the Nuffield Organisation’s, principal London dealership and had responsibility for all of the London and Home Counties MG dealers. There was a direct line of contact and communication between the MG factory at Abingdon and UM. This was a long-standing relationship into which the young Mel now fitted.

Mel’s immediate boss was Freddie Green who ran the Wholesale Department under the Sales Director Stanley Kemball.

The Sales Manager who had originally interviewed Mel was Ian Tarby.

Freddie, a widower, was always immaculately dressed and introduced himself as ex Crossley Motors. Crossley, little heard of nowadays, pioneered the four stroke engine and were an important producer of military vehicles in both world wars, a car producer between the wars and produced commercial vehicles until they ceased to trade in 1958. Freddie was much respected in the motor trade and could not abide rude or impatient people.

The Wholesale Department’s glassfronted offices were at the back of the showroom at Stratton House, 80 Piccadilly, next to Green Park tube station. The secretary, a Miss Heseltine, sat next door. She was one of the season’s Debs and carried a haughty air. Mel suspects she was the sister of a well-known politician. Ian Tarby had a separate office, as did the used-car manager, the jockey Gordon Richards’ brother, which he shared with Barry, the new cars registration manager.

On the floor above sat Stanley Kemball and the Managing Director, Major Bradstock. Kemball and Bradstock’s relationship with Cecil Kimber and Lord Nuffield went back to before the war and was the basis of UM’s unique position in the MG family.

MGCC Council meetings were even held in Stanley Kemball’s offices.

In the showroom, where current MG models were on display, two salesmen sat at desks. A lift at the back gave

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Reunion in Somerset, MGCC SW Centre meeting with Montego Turbo

access to the garage below where ‘Georgie’ Brookes was in charge of cleaning and polishing. ‘Georgie’ had a large win on the Pools and left UM shortly thereafter. Bill Bowie ran the service department at 7 Hertford Street, just off Sheppards Market.

Demonstrators were allocated 2, 3 or 4 UML numbers, the latter being Mel’s personal number. Mel recalls Major Bradstock had his own UML number, either 1 or 123.

UM’s accountant, Stewart ‘Stewie’ Morgan was also, coincidentally, the MGCC SE Centre Treasurer, demonstrating just how close MG, the MGCC and UM were at that time.

This was the UM family as Mel joined it in 1958.

Mel paid frequent visits to Abingdon to be updated on production methods and modifications, so as to be better informed in demonstrating the vehicles.

UM were the only distributor to have a Wholesale Department, so Mel ended up feeling he was working for the MG Car Company whilst being paid by UM. UM’s Wholesale Department had not only to run demonstrator cars of all models, for which Mel was responsible, but had to order cars for allocation to dealers as well as running the factory contracts with the dealers for London and the South East. These contracts were renewed annually and the power to hire and fire dealers was delegated to UM. The Wholesale Department’s fiefdom ran from Uxbridge to Southend and Harlow to Croydon.

The co-ordination of publicity also fell to the Wholesale Department and whilst Mel started off simply demonstrating cars to potential

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customers at the dealer’s instigation, it was not long before he was making dealer visits as part of the Wholesale Department’s wider brief. In this role he encountered a number of interesting personalities including Vernon Balls, a central London dealer who had raced Amilcars at Brooklands and J H T Smith of Parade Motors in Mitcham who had raced an MG-K3 at Brooklands, a car Mel subsequently acquired (the last MGA Twin Cam supplied to Mike Ellman-Brown was purchased through him). He also met Roy Salvadori at Elmbridge Motors, Kingston, and Dick Jacobs of Mill Garage, Chigwell. Dick’s long history of racing MG specials and production MGs from Y Types to Midgets, including the two well-known Twin Cams 1 MTW and 2 MTW, is set out in his book “An MG Experience”.

After the Twin Cam was announced in 1958, one of Mel’s first demonstrators was a Black Roadster with green trim, registered VYY 555, simply because all the UML numbers had been allocated.

Mel rallied this car with Mike Hawke as a UM entry and had the advantage that UM had managed to procure Dunlop SP3 Durabands instead of the standard Dunlop cross-ply tyres. This gave the car quite an edge and to complete the marketing they always drove with the hood down, wearing deerstalker hats!

Mel replaced this car with an Alamo Beige with red trim Roadster. This car attracted some adverse comment on the colour and when rallied was referred to as ‘Nipple Pink’! Mel did not have any problem with either car, despite their being Twin Cams, his observation being that he ran them in very carefully.

Mel’s first 4 UML was an Iris Blue 1600 MGA Roadster and when the MGB came out in 1962, Mel ordered an early home production car as a demonstrator in Old English White. He also rallied this car again on Durabands.

UM’s staff manned the Motor Show stand at Earls Court each January under Tim Binnington’s direction. Tim ran the show shop at Abingdon and numbered one Bob Olthoff amongst his staff.

At the time of the Motor Show, UM’s showrooms would be filled with the latest offerings from MG and, having sold his M Type to Ian Tarby, it was refurbished and put on display at Stratton House along with the current models. So successful was this formula of combining old and new that Mel acquired a 1930 MG-18/80 Speed Model for UM. The 18/80, registered MG 1011 and finished in black with red leather seats and red wire wheel spokes, was rebuilt at UM’s Commercial division at Hanwell and went on display, thereby stealing a march on UM’s neighbours in Piccadilly, Jaguar and Aston Martin, who only displayed current models.

Mel took the 18/80 to the inaugural meeting of the MGCC Vintage Register at Meon Stoke in Hampshire. Tim Binnington and John Thornley then adopted the same idea for the factory and acquired an 18/80 which they finished in identical colours to UM’s.

Mel continued to race the J2 and was initially accompanied by the UM spares van. He subsequently acquired an old Ford 10cwt Van which proved wholly inadequate for the job and which was replaced by a Bentley of all things.

To be continued …….

With the UM Spares Van

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25/10/2016 09:36

MGA NEWSLET TER Edward Vandyk Tel: 01488 608810 mgascribe@vandyk.co.uk

WELCOME TO THE MGA NEWSLETTER

MGA Display at Blickling Hall

Some 53 MGAs and their owners, including your Scribe, along with one each of those well-known marques, the ‘MG Porsche’ 924, the ‘MG VW’ Golf and the ‘MG Jaguar’ XK140, spent a fabulous weekend in Norfolk, centred on the Park Farm Hotel near Norwich, an inspired choice of location. There were road runs on both the Saturday, to the North Norfolk coast, and on Sunday to

the Norfolk Broads, ending at a display of 20 cars at the front of the magnifi cent Blickling Hall, a National Trust property.

Piers Hubbard, co-author of ‘Call it MGA’ lost his clutch slave cylinder, hence the Golf. More mechanical issues dictated that Dick and Linda Owens came in their Porsche, but Steve Lawrence and Hilary Hall, in their Jaguar XK140, no longer have

an MGA, having sold it some years ago. However he seemingly harbours such fond memories of his times on MGA Register trips that he has done more MGA trips with his Jaguar than he has with the Jaguar Owners Clubs.

Our Club styles itself the ‘Marque of Friendship’ for good reason.

Poor George Dutton was in trouble again; you may recall his head gasket

MGA AUTUMN TOUR CLOSES 2016 EVENTS ON A HIGH.

On the way to the North Norfolk coast

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At the Broads

that was replaced on the last day of the Lands End to John o’Groats tour in 2015. This time his MGA decided to lock him, and more importantly Stella, whose clothes it was holding hostage, out of his boot. Come the Saturday, having drilled holes underneath to access the unlocking mechanism and after a lot of head scratching, it was finally persuaded to open. This entailed a fair amount of both mental and physical effort which eventually saw

2017 EVENTS Spring Tour – May 5 to May 8 2017.

47 rooms are now booked at the hotel and the closing date for the block booking has passed, but it is possibly still not too late to book. It is worth checking with the hotel. Details on the Register website.

MGA Day – Sunday August 13 2017.

Jon Pollard is again organising our annual static MGA event. For 2017

four strong men pushing the boot lid forward so as to bend the (replaceable) hinges, thereby releasing the boot catch, rather than bending or damaging the boot lid itself. The cause of the problem was the plastic bag being used to keep Stella’s smart jacket clean and pressed, which had slid into the latch mechanism as the lid shut, thereby jamming it. Credit to Alan Whitfield for devising the method of release. The moral: “keep plastic bags well clear of this will be held at Croome Court in Worcestershire, one of the National Trust’s premier properties. See https:// www.nationaltrust.org.uk/croome.

More details will be posted on the Register website.

Autumn Tour – September 30 to October 1 2017.

This is being organised by your Register Chairman, Peter Morgan.

Based at The Potters Heron Hotel, Ampfield, Romsey, it will encompass the New Forest National Park and surrounding south coast countryside.

YOUR MGA: WHAT’S IT WORTH? The value of classic cars has risen rapidly in recent years, in part driven by the low interest rates following the 2008 financial crisis when many new buyers entered the market. They may have done so in the belief that a continuation of rising values would generate a better return on their money than more conventional investment opportunities.

At the same time, buyers justified their new investment to themselves (and their family possibly) on the basis that it would enable them to pursue a pleasurable hobby with their ‘asset’.

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Recent auction reports suggest that prices generally may now have stabilised.

However prices of individual cars will, as always, be dictated by supply, demand, and the popularity and desirability of the marque, model and the car itself.

In this article I look at MGA values and their trend over time. The whole question of value is ultimately determined by the price at which a car changes hands, but in the meantime, during ownership, value has a relevance with regard to insurance in particular.

This is a minefield into which I will

the boot latch when closing”. Some lessons there, although I still wonder quite what George and Stella had done to upset their car; nevertheless, that must remain between them and their MGA! This was all brilliantly organised by David and there was the opportunity on the Sunday to visit his son James’s collection and workshop, where he has such gems as his F3 Dallara single seater and Porsche 911 project.

In addition to the daytime activities there was a Gala Dinner on the Saturday, so all-in-all a real treat on which to end a season in which the weather has, for once, been relatively kind.

Details on the Register website.

Some other 2017 dates for your diary: MG Era at Brooklands April 2 2017 – a big turnout of MGAs please, so do get what many regard as the season’s opening event in your diary now.

Stockfest and Rare Breeds Tour August 20 2017 – we hope to run this event again in 2017, building on the success of this year’s show and tour. Although open to all, there is a particular emphasis on MGAs in all colours and configurations!

not stray, save to point out that there are two valuation categories used by insurers, namely ‘Market Value’ and ‘Agreed Value’. It is worth looking at these two valuation categories briefly before looking at current MGA values.

The Market Value is the likely cost of replacing a car which has been stolen or damaged beyond economic repair with one as near as possible identical.

As you can imagine, the discrepancy between the owner’s perception of value and the value placed on the vehicle by the insurance company can provide ample grounds for dispute. The Market Value does not need to be revisited as it

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MGA NEWSLET TER

determined, notionally at least, on a dayto-day basis by market forces.

Agreed Value – a term widely used in classic car insurance policies – reflects the sum that the insurer will pay out for a total loss, and simply reflects the agreement between the insurer and the car owner. Naturally, the Agreed Value has to be negotiated, and a potential difficulty comes in determining when to request a new valuation, let alone what that valuation should be.

With the several varieties of MGA available, and the rarity of some models, valuation, whether to determine a sale asking price or an Agreed Value, can be a challenge.

In order to analyse values I have used data from the www.carandclassic.co.uk site as well as eBay. In addition, I have taken data from MGAs for sale on the websites of dealers, as well as in Safety Fast! and other motoring magazines.

In total, over the nine-month period between December 2015 and September 2016, I identified 215 ‘for sale’ MGAs for inclusion in this analysis.

I had three principal rules relating to including cars in my analysis. First, I included any MGA offered for sale in the UK. Second, I included any MGA offered for sale elsewhere in the world, using the then current exchange rates but excluded those without licence plates or unregistered. Finally, I excluded all obvious ‘for restoration only’ cars, and although this necessarily involves a degree of subjectivity, their inclusion would, I felt, have given a completely anomalous result.

I checked for new entries at the start

of each month, although I recognised that adverts for cars for sale which are sold or withdrawn within the same month would not appear in the analysis.

My analysis indicates that on average about 15 ‘new’ MGA adverts appear each month, although there is seasonality, with increased numbers from late spring until the last quarter.

My analysis shows the following results:a. There is a high level of consistency in the advertised asking prices of MGA roadsters, with an average of around £25,000 for 1500, 1600 and 1600 Mk II models. b. A substantial pricing differential continues to exist between the value of roadsters and coupes, although this appears less of an issue with the 1600 MkIIs, where coupe prices have out-performed those of the roadster.

However, since spring 2016, 1500 and 1600 coupe prices have shown a faster rate of increase than roadsters, indicating that catching-up is under way. c. The average price across both Twin Cam roadsters and coupes is £36,200, with little price variation between both body types. d. De Luxe models, as expected, account for only a very small percentage of MGAs offered for sale (<2%). It is very difficult to draw any conclusions from a sample of three, but a premium of over 25% for a De Luxe roadster over a Twin Cam roadster is definitely worth noting. e. A final comment: as usual, the prices used in this survey are advertised asking prices only. No doubt potential buyers will have negotiated final (and

THE MGA REAR END AND THE ARMSTRONG SELECTARIDE! What can, or indeed should, you do to improve the ride or road holding of your MGA? This article offers some anecdotal thoughts about the rear suspension setup of the MGA of all flavours, be they early or late, Twin Cam

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or push rod.

A live rear axle with cart springs and lever arm shock absorbers is not 21st century technology. Indeed, it is essentially early, rather than mid, 20th century in origin, but despite that the

possibly lower) prices with vendors! f. The large number of club and specialist magazines, both in the UK and overseas, might suggest that the MGA market would be dominated by private sales, but my analysis shows quite the reverse. Two thirds of the adverts analysed were for trade, as opposed to private, sales. Indeed, in the December-March period three quarters of MGAs were being offered by dealers, suggesting possibly that private sellers were delaying marketing their cars until the spring.

It would be of interest to ascertain how many of these trade sales were being made on a consignment or commission, as opposed to an ‘owned stock’, basis.

I hope this survey provides some useful data to Register Members unsure of the value of their MGA, especially those who might wish to review their Agreed Values. My analysis should give any discussion some substance. I intend to continue logging MGAs offered for sale, with the objective of providing over time as large a data source as possible in respect of both cars coming onto the market and on pricing trends. As my data source grows, I believe it will increasingly reflect with more accuracy what is happening in the market.

It is not practical to reproduce my tables in full, but I am happy to supply any MGCC member with my current data on request. I can be contacted on 01284-766909 or at hquayle1947@ btinternet.com.

Howard Quayle – MGA Register Archivist

setup is not only functional but is also both practical and simple.

Why would one want to alter it? For everyday use, by which I do not mean the daily commute but rather the use we generally put our MGAs to, I find the road holding perfectly acceptable, always bearing in mind there is a live rear axle car. I do find the ride more challenging

NOVEMBER 2016 SAFETY FAST! 37

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Selectaride switch

on occasion; my passengers invariably do so as well.

Anecdotally I suspect that, as the years advance, more MGA owners give up on their ‘pride and joy’ because of access and ride quality issues than any other. Access cannot be improved; the ride quality possibly can be.

I would make two points here. The first is that the driver has the steering wheel to hang on to and is, or should be, in tune with the road conditions and anticipating any visible discrepancies ahead. The passenger has nothing to hang on to, generally, and is simply reactive to what the car is doing.

That reaction can be negative at an interpersonal level as well as physically; ongoing MGA enjoyment often depends

Selectaride in situ on MGA Twin Cam

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on harmony in the cockpit! The way you drive the car is probably more important in this regard than the rear-end setup.

Secondly, not only did MG modify the rear end during production but many cars on the road today will have aftermarket springs, some of which have specifications way off the original, as well as shock absorbers in varying states of repair. So ride and road holding will be optimised by keeping your MGA in good condition, not only cosmetically but operationally.

There are a number of modifications, if not always improvements, that can be considered. Much of the information below is dealt with in detail on Barney Gaylord’s truly excellent MGA Guru website and the link, for further reading,

is at http://mgaguru.com/mgtech/ suspensn/susp1.htm The most radical modification is probably to fit independent rear suspension which is available. To my mind, this would not only entail considerable damage to one’s bank balance but would also be, for me, simply too far from the original in terms of the character of the MGA There are tubular shock absorber conversion kits readily available which can replace the Armstrong originals and these can be adjustable. Having had various cars with that setup, I found little difference in ride or road holding, but others may have had a different experience. The Armstrong original shock absorbers can also be revalved.

There are various modifications that can be made to the rear springs, both in terms of modifying the original springs and by fitting parabolic or composite leaf springs. I must stress at this juncture that, apart from competition use, I do not think the rear springs should be altered in any way, and parabolic or composite rear springs seem a costly modification for limited benefit.

However, I would like focus on the solution I found for the ride quality problem over and above my being a more considerate, on one occasion only I am afraid, driver. It is a solution which seems to have gained the approval of the ‘chief passenger’ and one she commented on positively and unprompted, which I take as being as near to an objective test as is possible.

Earlier this year I came across a set of Armstrong Selectaride shock absorbers on eBay. These did not have MGA arms on them, having been set up for one of the cars where these were fitted as original standard equipment. Those models included the Bristol 408 and 409, the Jensen CV8 MkII onwards and Interceptor, and the Aston Martin DB5 and DB6. I sent them off to Vintage and Classic Shock Absorbers in Croydon (www.vintageandclassicshockabsorbers. co.uk) to have them refurbished and

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modified to the correct MGA arms and setup.

Armstrong produced three shock absorber types, all of which simply bolt onto the MGA rear fixing points.

The standard non-adjustable shock absorber is well-known to all MGA owners. The Armstrong Adjustaride was a commonly fitted competition alternative. The Adjustaride has 27 variable settings, ranging from (very) soft to (very) hard. On the car in competition using the right setup makes a significant difference.

However, it can only be adjusted in situ and this makes practical day-to-day use, apart from on a â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;leave and forgetâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; basis, impractical.

The Selectaride is however a different proposition. It has four different settings which I would describe as Soft, Less Soft, Normal and Hard. The adjustment

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is electronic and takes place from the cockpit whilst in motion. In addition to the shock absorbers themselves there is a special rotary switch, for which I have not found a modern alternative, and a dedicated wiring loom which can be replicated. The switch has numbered positions and can only be operated clockwise. The two shock absorbers have to be set up with identical opening settings and the rotary switch simply changes the setting to the next one and, be warned, the settings can get out of synchronisation, although that has yet to happen to me. Hard goes straight on to Soft, for example, and not back down the scale again. However, I was lucky; Vintage and Classic Shock Absorbers had a switch and wiring loom sitting on their shelf! Fitting the Selectaride to my Twin Cam Coupe was no problem, although a fuel line did need repositioning. I

Selectaride adjuster showing the four setting wires and contacts

fitted the rotary switch under the dash and out of sight, but that is a matter of personal choice.

Selectarides and switches come up on eBay from time to time.

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MGB NEWSLET TER David Broadhurst 01209 614704

I

WELCOME TO THE MGB NEWSLETTER

am pleased to get material from members which could be off assistance to everyone. The following is a case in point which I have, in fact, copied to Graham Dix to be included on the forum. It still bears publication here. It has been sent in by Richard Searle.

My ‘79 BGT failed its MOT due to the rear brake cylinders sticking.

They seemed OK during the pre MOT checks but I think the force applied during the testing must have pushed the pistons out further than usual, which due to the tiniest amount of surface rust on the ends of the pistons (not enough MGB’ing due to my other hobby ..triathlon) resulted in them sticking during the test. I brought two replacement cylinders (GWC1122 Z) the same day from a local supplier but I couldn’t get the brake pipe unions to fit (so much so that I was convinced I had been supplied the wrong ones).

The supplier was at a loss (a UNF male fitting suggested there wasn’t a problem), eventually suggesting I file the end of brake pipe’s UNF nut as it may have splayed (...umm?). Back home, and still with no joy with the replacement cylinders, the wheels were refitted and the MGB GT rolled back into the garage.

A closer examination of the parts confirmed that the OEM (faulty) ones had a chamfer around the hydraulic connection, but the replacements ones did not. I was confident that this was the issue as it’s not the first set I’ve replaced on the MG and I’ve never had a problem before, so I plugged the hole (blu tac has more uses than you think) in each of the new cylinders

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to avoid metal filings entering the cylinder’s bore and chamfered each using a 12mm drill bit ... not pretty I’d admit, but I don’t have a pillar drill just a drill stand ... but the chamfering did the job and I’m back up and running.

I’m not sure if this issue only applies to copy parts fitted after a certain year of MGB GT manufacture, but hopefully it will help someone? Obviously, if you have time to shop around purchase OEM, or copy parts with a chamfer. If you can only get copy parts without a chamfer this modification will work for you.

I have just found out that Tailgating is now an offence carrying a £100 on the spot fine and three penalty points – if the police are there to enforce it…

There is the possibility that vehicles over 30 years old will be exempt from MOT testing. Apparently the nature of the MOT test is changing to reflect more accurately the cars now coming onto the roads and that this new test would not be appropriate for our “classic” vehicles. I do not have more detail currently but watch this space.

By the time these notes are published the MGB Register Weekend in Yorkshire will be a Happy memory and what an excellent weekend it was. Congratulations to Geoff and Carol Edwards for the organisation, the hotel was very welcoming and comfortable and the friendliness of the natives was as is expected in Yorkshire. I drove 1100 miles from our home in West Cornwall, the events on the Saturday and the Sunday and the return trip which I completed in one nine hour go. We had broken our outward journey with longstanding

friends south of Birmingham. I feel that I must comment on the two motorway journeys. The conduct of a significant percentage of drivers is now appalling, tailgating, aggressive, behaviour and a disregard for speed limits that is worrying. During the entire 1100 miles I saw no evidence of proactive policing.

Cameras may, briefly, contain speeds but cannot influence behaviour. This reinforces my opinion that I need a lot of persuasion to get me to drive east of Truro. OK, we have our share of idiocy down here- there just aren’t quite as many of them. On a positive note my B used 24 gallons of 97 octane fuel and half a pint of oil.

Mike Newman was kind enough to do the write up of the event, and here it is….

THE MGB REGISTER WEEKEND I rolled the MGB out of the garage into the autumn rain for the final preparations for the journey to the Yorkshire Dales. Six hours later with the joys of the M6 behind us we arrived at the Coniston Hotel and Country Estate on the edge of the Dales six miles outside Skipton.

The hotel had arranged a separate parking area for us and by late afternoon 22 MGB’s had arrived, one making the long journey from Germany. After dinner on the first night we were given a taster of the wonderful scenery and type of roads we would encounter over the next two days by a Yorkshire man, Jack Tinker, from MGCC North Yorkshire. We also had a short talk by the 4x4 off road

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driving experience team who were based in the grounds of the Country Estate. A number of people took up the offer for a demonstration ride around the course the next morning.

The weather had changed to bright sunshine at the start of our Saturday route, this took us through some spectacular scenery, we had a welcome coffee break at the Craven Arms at Appletreewick which is a 16 Century Public House. with its recently built Cruck Barn, the fi rst one to be built for 400 years.

We continued our route through more charming villages and passing the Gouthwaite Reservoir beyond Fearby, where you could if you wish make a small detour to the Theakston’s Brewery Tap and Gift Shop. For lunch we stopped at Leyburn at the Tennants Auction House with its Garden Room Café. The afternoon was just as spectacular as the morning, just mind the cyclists that were around every corner, since the Tour de France went through this area in 2014. A break in the route at the Wensleydale Creamery

at Hawes was a great welcome, we now continued our route passing the impressive Ribblehead Viaduct, which was opened on August 3 1875, then on to Settle and back to the hotel to refresh ourselves ready to meet up with everyone for dinner.

The second day of our weekend started with a heavy mist covering.

One of the members of the North Yorkshire MGCC confi rmed that the mist was confi ned to the local area and the weather, only a mile away, was sunshine.

Several cars from the North Yorkshire MGCC joined us for the Sunday route, again we drove through many interesting places and viewed wonderful scenery which included Malham Cove with its spectacular limestone formation. The route continued passed Aysgarth Falls then on to the Carperby where the real James Herriot and wife spent their honeymoon. A few miles further on Castle Bolton came into view, which was built in the 14 century. The roads now get a bit more challenging with

hairpin bends going up hill and down hill into the village of Kettlewell, which was used for some of the settings for the “Calendar Girls”. The route now takes us pass Kilnsey Crag, popular with rock climbers, then on to fi nal stages of a scenic drive back to the hotel.

The fi nal evening a number of members form North Yorkshire MGCC joined us for dinner. Accompanied by a pianist lively chatter fi lled the air with people exchanging their tales of the last two days. A raffl e was held with 30 prizes to be won to raise funds for MGB UMD 534F this was ably co-ordinated by Roger Boys. A good evening and weekend was had

MGBs assemble at the Craven Arms, Appletreewick

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Bardon Bridge Ribblehead Viaduct

MGB members relaxing over an evening meal

by all, and already people were talking about next year’s event in Lincolnshire.

This will take place on the weekend of September 15-17 2017. The hotel is the Best Western Kenwick Park Hotel near Louth, Lincolnshire and the charge is £130 per night per room half board. If there are any queries then people can contact me on cfwilday@ aol.com or on 07943 306977. Details of runs, evening entertainment etc. have yet to be decided. 30 rooms have been booked.

A big thank you to The Coniston Hotel & Country Estate for their fi ne service and food and also to Geoff Edwards and his team for a super weekend.

Mike Newman

Empty roads and stunning scenery.

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MGB REGISTER TECHNICAL DAY SATURDAY NOVEMBER 19 2016

The Register have been working with the staff of British Motor Heritage at Witney to lay on an event for this year.

There are limited numbers, so you need to be quick to reserve your place.

The agenda for the day will be: 09.00 – Arrival and coffee in B25 - Classic & Retro_CLASSIC MOTORING 23/09/2015 board room 09.30 – Welcome and introductions 10.00 – Workshops:

Restoration – Richard Chapman of Manor Garage MG Specialists (45mins) - This will be centred on an MGB GT body shell pre-restoration. Richard will go through how he would restore the shell and demonstrate how the various panels form the structure of the car.

14:54 Page 1 You will be able to identify all the areas of rust on an MGB and how they can be restored.

Tel: 01787 828083

Welding – Graham Dix (45mins) - This will involve a demo of the most common welding technique for body restoration and an opportunity for you to practice your welding technique.

Panel work – BMH Staff (45mins) – This will involve a demonstration of how a body panel is prepared in respect of panel beating and finishing after pressing.

12.30 – Lunch 1.30pm – Lecture in board room.

This will be a talk on MX5 Gearboxs for MGBs or Mintex Brakes (to be confirmed) 2.30pm – Closure Please email the Chairman of the MGB Register, Graham Dix for an application form - graham.dix@ntlworld.com

&

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NOVEMBER 2016 SAFETY FAST! 43

www.mgcc.co.uk

PLEASE NOTE: ALL RIGHTS RESERVED MG_SafetyFast_Nov16_3-49.indd 43

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MGF NEWSLET TER Tim Morris 01932 882467 scribe@mgfregister.org • www.mgfregister.org Anniversary TF, one of the last UK built MG roadsters.

Photo: Simon Davies

WELCOME TO THE MGF NEWSLETTER

THE LAST BRITISH MG ROADSTER? With the news that MG-branded cars are no longer being put together at Longbridge comes the realisation that the MG TF will now be the last opentopped roadster being constructed in the UK under those special initials. If we do see another roadster, as many enthusiasts hope, then it will probably be imported from China. However, there is a recent precedent which involves our old friend and good rival the MX5. Fiat wanted a small, affordable, open-topped sportscar in its range, so hooked up with Mazda to produce the new Fiat Spider. It is not made in Italy, as you might expect, but begins life on the MX5 production lines in Japan. Indeed its interior, hood and underpinnings are all MX5 with different body panels and a 1.4 turbo Fiat engine. It looks good and I do wonder if this type of collaboration might be the way that MG could go in the future – could we see the two rivals combined with an MX5-based MG roadster? Wouldn’t it have been better, though, if MG were still producing

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roadsters in the UK? Sadly, that is looking highly unlikely now.

The MG TF itself has been out or production for six years and we learn that the MG6 has now joined it on the historic MG pile. Will that make our cars more desirable or will it just mean they gradually disappear as they become uneconomical to maintain? Is it already happening? Take a look at the various MG Rover Facebook pages and eBay and you will see plenty of F/TFs being broken. Perfectly good cars are being brought cheaply just to rip them apart and sell off the bits. Whilst this may be good news for those who do want to keep and restore their cars, it also means that an awful lot are falling by the wayside, cars that could easily be brought up to good condition again, but that would mean spending more than they are worth. You need to be an enthusiast to do that and thankfully there are plenty of those out there; most belong to the MG Car Club, I suspect!

Prices do seem to be rising slowly

but still vary wildly, and they are undoubt edly still the cheapest way to get into soft-top motoring and the MG brotherhood. As such, we embrace all new members and hope that you can join us on our many adventures in the UK and on the Continent.

There’s nothing quite like a group of MGs travelling together for day runs, weekends, visits, European adventures and so on – you’ll fi nd a local group near you, I’m sure. All you have to do is get in touch or go along to one of the Pub Meets. I’m sure you’ll be made welcome. Taking that fi rst step is often scary, as you are unlikely to know anyone, but worth it in the end.

You can fi nd more about our Regions and what they are up to via our own Register magazine, FasTForward, where roundups appear each quarter – or just take a look at our Internet forum or Facebook pages. Our Twitter feed is another good source to check out what is going on – we post up pics of most of our Regional adventures on there – just search for MGF Register.

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PHOTOGRAPHIC COMPETITION The entries for our annual photographic competition are coming in and you can view all the entries in our Flickr album here https://www.flickr.com/ photos/101253763@N04/sets/72157674839324606/. There is still time for you to enter by submitting your best three photographs of the past 12 months. They do need to feature an F or TF in there somewhere, and it doesn’t have to be your own car. We don’t like outlandish Photoshop pictures, so please don’t transpose your car to the middle of a desert or put it on Mars – we’ll have a laugh at them if you do send them in, but they won’t be entered in the competition. That doesn’t preclude some adjustments to the photo, however. Cropping, tone adjustments, contrast and so on are fine but try to avoid anything too weird.

The closing date for entry is November 19, so you have a couple of weeks left to send them to: tim.morris@mgfregister.org (sorry we left the dot out in the last issue of SF!). We can get problems with certain ISPs and our own domain, so if you don’t get a response PM me on our Internet forum and I’ll give you another address. You can see some examples of entries submitted here in the first week of the competition. I am sure there are plenty more to come yet.

Some of the entries in the first week of the photo competition

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ABINGDON, JERSEY AND ESSEX We have a new events team and they are now looking to 2017 and some more joined-up MGF Register events.

The first will be our annual Chairman’s charity weekend, which will move to a new venue but still be in Abingdon – the Crown and Thistle Hotel. It will remain a similar format to previous years, with an AGM on Saturday afternoon, Register dinner in the evening and a run out on Sunday. However there will be additions such as a lunch on Saturday before the AGMs, a speaker and the run on Sunday which will go out to the Chilterns, stopping off at a couple of places of interest on the way, including the infamous Hellfire Caves at West Wycombe. It will be slightly earlier than normal as well, taking place on the weekend of March 11-12, so make a note in your diary and keep an eye on our social media for confirmed details and prices. The Register’s foray to Jersey at the beginning of June is still open for booking through Scenic and Continental Car Tours, I understand. I mentioned this last month but forgot the dates which are June 1-5. Call SaCCT on 01732 879153 to book at £399 per person. The weekend features the Jersey International Festival of Motoring and includes visits to the event, as well as optional tours of the island itself. We also hear news of another challenging event organised by our Essex Region, which is scheduled for September 9-10. Based at a hotel in Essex, it has something to do with using Satnavs to navigate around the Essex countryside. It follows the successful MGFIM event last year and will be along similar Europeanstyle lines, so we hope to be able to meet up with many of our continental friends. Adrian has already started to scout out the routes so, again, make an early note in your MGF Register calendar and keep an eye on our social media/ website for more details as they happen.

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Tim flags away organiser Adrian Clifford, who was first away to try and resolve any snags that might come up on the route

LONDON BRIDGE IS FALLING DOWN… It may be that London Bridge is falling down, after around 70 MGs crossed it during the MGF Register’s Thames Bridges and Tunnels event – or should that be Tower Bridge, as I note that it really was closed a week after our event, for no less than three months!

This is the third TBAT event organised by our eager Essex region under the watchful eye of team leader Adrian Clifford. Adrian spent much of the summer walking through central London, checking the route and jotting down the minute details needed to traverse the capital city in the dark. Test runs in his own car followed and a detailed routebook was produced. If you go out on MG Car Club runs you will have encountered tulip diagrams and route directions before, but probably not to the same extent as this. As you can imagine, there are directions virtually every tenth of a mile and extreme concentration is needed by both the driver and navigator to ensure that no mistakes are made. It is of such complexity that it is unlikely

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that any of the 70 crews managed the entire course without at least one wrong turn! This is all part of the challenge, though, and finding your way back to the prescribed route once you have gone astray is another.

It all starts late afternoon in the shadow of the Wimbledon Greyhound Stadium in south-east London, not too far from the famous tennis courts and the odd Womble. This is already a densely populated area with a lot of traffic but Simon’s Diner is a little oasis amongst it all. Unfortunately the Diner suffered a serious flood a couple of weeks before our event was due to start and is currently being restored, We are extremely grateful to Simon and his team who managed to get the kitchens operational again just for our visit. This did mean it was takeaway only, but there were seats provided outside where you could sit and enjoy your freshly cooked fish and chips. You certainly needed some sustenance to keep you going through the evening: despite being a

short distance away the convoluted route and traffic meant that the run would last around four hours! Not too many cups of tea, then, as stopping places would be few and far-between.

As dusk fell, the Diner’s car park filled to the brim with mainly MGF and TF cars, although the event was actually open to all MGCC members with any MG. However there were a handful of MGBs, a V8, some Zed cars and, the oldest car on the event, a 1934 MG PA – their crews all keen to take up the cudgel. Our support van, piloted by British Legends’ Steve Tyler, got a little

Mykel Benecke presenting Simon from the Diner with a rally plate in return for a generous donation to Guide Dogs

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Guide Dog Kirk was a wow with the crews

Mykel designed the rally plate, here seen on an LE 500

Register flag flying, MGB and LE500 in the background

MGs crowd into the Diner’s car park

held up in a traffic jam on the A2, which was a shame as one of the last cars to get away wouldn’t start. A quick check under the bonnet, however, revealed a loose battery connection. Fully tightened up again, Kaspar was soon on his way.

Just as well that it wasn’t anything more serious, as he had to get back home to the Netherlands.

Adrian gave a full and comprehensive briefing, anticipating potential pitfalls on the route. What you can never take into account is the sudden appearance of roadworks and diversions, which seem to appear on weekend nights in the Capital with no warning. Such was the case tonight, which meant that the Queen, who I am sure had stayed up late especially, could not watch the MGs drive

by Buckingham Palace due to a detour.

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Before leaving the safe confines of the Diner, there were some presentations and thanks to be made: sponsorship and help from Steve as mentioned already, Ashley from Kestrel Printing and Keith at Hoods County Customs who all helped to cover the costs, and Simon for opening up the Diner specially for us and generously donating £175 from the night’s takings to our charity, Guide Dogs.

Mykel Benecke presented him with one of the event rally plates as a special thank you that he can put on the wall of his newly refreshed Diner.

TBAT certificates were awarded to Dieter and Rosie Koennecke for the furthest travelled having driven from Bad Hersfeld in Germany; the first entry to the event came from Rob and Tina Hoblyn in a Cool Blue MG TF; the Best Presented

and oldest car went to Tim Luffingham in the 1934 PA and the Car of the Night was Rob and Jane Parry’s 1995 MGF “Zip” Car. Despite not having a representative from Guide Dogs at the start (they seem to be harder to get hold of in south London than in Oxfordshire!) one of the entrants, Anne-Lise Collins, who is a Guide Dog Volunteer, turned up with her own dog, Kirk, who proved to be a great hit and also helped raise £51 in a bucket collection, with a further £415 raised on the night making £466 in total, plus the online donations.

I flagged the cars away from the start, careful not to let them out on to the busy road together, and wished all crews good luck. Some looked a little apprehensive as they studied the route plan but they all went off in the same direction, so it was a promising start!

From there, the cars wound their way past the great sights of London: Houses of Parliament, Tower Bridge, The Shard, Canary Wharf, the cobbled streets of Wapping and much more. The cars were heading for their final destination of the Holiday Inn at Southend, a little further

NOVEMBER 2016 SAFETY FAST! 47

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Rimmer

MGF NEWSLET TER

MEMBER PROFILE

This TF should have no trouble in the dark!

Dieter and Rosie receive their certificate from Adrian Photo from the top of a long pole at Simon’s Diner.

Photo: Andy Phillips

out than usual, but providing some refreshment and a place to stay, rather than making your own way home after a tiring four-hour trip through the streets of London. Not all crews made it to the end, some peeling off early to head for home as they passed their junctions back to the suburbs, or in some cases even further.

You might think this is an event that you only do once, but there were several

crews here that were back for a second or even a third time!

It was another great TBAT hosted by our Essex Region, and a big thanks to all of those involved in this tricky event and to all those who took part and contributed to making it a success and contributing to our charity. I do wonder, though, if this will be the last; the amount of work involved in organising this is phenomenal, the traffic is getting worse, the road works unpredictable and there could be an extension of the congestion charge in the future.

However, never say never!

In our quarterly magazine, FasTForward, we have a regular feature called F People, where we invite members to tell us about their MG and car history and how they ended up with an F or TF. Rich Maddox from our Central Region has come up with an idea for a Member Profile of people in his region. We’ll feature these ‘mini bios’ in FTF, but thought we’d put the first one in Safety Fast! as well. If any other member would like to be featured in a mini profile or a full F People feature, then please get in touch with me at tim.morris@mgfregister.org So here we introduce Carl Lambert:Carl has owned his current MGF since May 2014, having previously owned a BRG MGF VVC. He is a member of our Central Region and was the winner of our 2015 Photographic competition with a great shot of the car picnicking by a stream.

Car: 1999 Mk2 MGF 1.8 mpi in Tahiti Blue.

Interior: Beige leather.

Interior mods: Coffee/Cream leather. Leather door card inserts.

Walnut facia, steering wheel and door cappings. Leather gear knob.

New carpets.

Exterior: Colour-coded wind break. Smoked side indicators.

Flag badges. Resin type grille/boot badges.52mm uprated throttle body.

TT mk7 exhaust.

The future: Mike Satur hoops.

Underside prep. Waxoyled.

V fo a

w

GUIDE DOGS

85th Anniversary TF crossing Hammersmith Bridge. Photo: Sharon Hopkins

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Our charity year is coming to an end shortly, but I’m sure our Regions will have last-minute collections for Guide Dogs at all their Christmas ‘Dos’ coming up soon. Our two main charity events for this year have both finished now and you can read about the mighty Thames Bridges and Tunnels event here, and the last roundup of the Hard Top relay is in FasTForward. All raised a good amount for charity and you can still donate until the end of the year at mydonate.bt.com/ fundraisers/MGFRegister2016

te fa em

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25/10/2016 09:37

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25/10/2016 09:37

Simon Cripps preparing for the BCV8 race, next to Jonnie Wheelerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s car.

SEASON FINALE AT SUPER SNETTERTON

T

By Leanne Fahy. Photos by Luke Spencer and Rebecca Farrow

he season finale came and went in the blink of an eye, but what a great way to end the season. A flurry of thrilling races and spectacular performances on track made for a great end-of-season treat.

Despite questionable weather at times, everyone made it through safely. Read on to find out more.

MGCC MG Trophy Championship Chris Bray triumphed in the penultimate MG Trophy race of his career. Having recently announced his retirement following the last round of 2016, Bray began his final race weekend in style.

The clouds had gathered before the start of the race, but luckily the rain managed to hold off for the 20-minute duration.

Pole sitter Rob Perkins had led for the majority of the race, despite Brayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best efforts. However, as they thundered onto their final lap, Bray

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emerged in the lead. Perkins held on for a strong second place, narrowly missing out on his first MG Trophy victory.

Doug Cole rectified a steady getaway to steer his way back to a third-place finish. Behind, the battle for fourth overall and Class B honours was one to watch, as Andrew Rogerson and Paul Luti swapped places a number of times. Rogerson was ahead when it counted to claim the race spoils, whilst Luti finished fifth overall and second in class.

William Payne claimed race one Class C victory, ahead of Gianni Picone and Matthew Turnbull. Driver of the Race was awarded to Rogerson for his race one efforts.

A pole-position start in race two on Sunday was just the advantage Bray needed to double his success, and end his MG Trophy career in style.

As the race began, raindrops started to fall, declaring it a wet race.

Starting from second on the grid, Rob Perkins enjoyed the best start from the

front; however he immediately pulled off onto the grass with what appeared to be a lack of drive. With Perkins unable to continue, the top spot was swiftly occupied by Bray, who went on to claim an unrivalled victory.

Things were far from settled behind, with a flurry of Class B contenders battling over second place. Rogerson slipped into second place early on, and with the faststarting James Cole right on his tail, he certainly had work to do.

The order soon changed, when Luti, Lee Sullivan and Doug Cole came into play. Rogerson and Luti revisited their tussle from the previous day, with Luti eventually finding a way ahead.

Once in second place, Luti disappeared into the spray, leaving Rogerson to battle with Sullivan and Cole.

After 20 minutes of fairly tame racing, the chequered flag fell on another season for the MG Trophy Championship. With Bray and Luti confirmed in the top two positions, the

www.mgcc.co.uk

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battle for third was undecided until the very end. Sullivan managed to fend off Doug Cole for third overall and second place in Class B, by just 0.1 seconds.

Newly-crowned 2016 champion Will Payne clinched another Class C victory, to cement his authority at the top of the table. Turnbull and Paul Croker followed in Class C. Luti’s commanding drive deemed him worthy of the Driver of the Race award.

MGCC Watt Electrical BCV8 Championship The first BCV8 Championship attempt was red-flagged, when treacherous conditions befell Snetterton. A heavy downpour made things difficult on circuit, as cars began to aquaplane.

With visibility disappearing, the race was temporarily stopped.

With the river on the pit straight dispersed, racing resumed, albeit the race distance was shortened somewhat. Drama on circuit towards the end of the race caused a red flag and an early finish.

James Wheeler was the man to beat, as he immediately leapt to the head of the pack. Jordan Spencer had led the way for much of the outing; however he lost the position to Neil Fowler in the closing stages.

Rob Spencer managed to weave his way through the pack to place himself nicely in a points-paying position, dismissing the opposition, including son Jordan, for a third place finish. Andrew Young claimed fourth place, and the 2016 BCV8 Championship title, ahead of Jordan Spencer in fifth place.

Having just competed in the MG Metro race, a quick change of cars for Ben Rushworth saw him enjoy back-

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to-back success, with a sixth-place finish in his first BCV8 outing. Wheeler doubled his success by also collecting the Driver of the Race honour.

MGCC Drayton Manor Park MG Metro Cup Mike Williams dismissed treacherous conditions to claim victory and Driver of the Race in the first MG Metro Cup race. An early lead looked set to crown Williams as the victor; however a challenge from rival Oli Hood set a different plan in motion.

On a slippery circuit, Williams fell foul of the conditions, as Hood splashed into the lead. Before long, Hood was demoted to second place and into the path of Ben Rushworth in third.

With Williams back ahead, he remained unchallenged to the very end. Behind, Rushworth mounted an attack that saw him surpass Hood for second place. Hood’s third place came under threat in the final two minutes, when Lee Connell swept by to steal the position. Hood steered his way to fourth place, ahead of David Javes and Mark Eales.

Williams and Rushworth teamed up once again in race two, to provide a thrilling end to their 2016 championship feud. As the chequered flag fell it was Rushworth who was ahead on the final lap, to claim race victory and the 2016 championship title.

Williams stamped his authority early on, to lead the way ahead of Rushworth; however it wasn’t long before the latter sneaked ahead.

A fiercely entertaining encounter followed, as the pair swapped positions lap after lap, including an exciting sideways moment for Rushworth

around the infamous Coram.

With just a few laps remaining, Williams looked set to end his season in victorious style; however he lost out to Rushworth on the final lap.

Behind, Andrew Ashton claimed third place, ahead of Connell, Javes and Richard Garrard. Rushworth’s titlewinning drive also secured him not only the Driver of the Race award, but also crowned him Driver of the Day. MGCC Lackford Engineering MG Midget and Sprite Challenge James Dunkley cemented his authority on the MG Midget and Sprite Challenge, with another triumphant drive in race one. Once gaining control, Dunkley refused to relinquish his hold, to finish in top spot once again.

A dominant grasp on the race saw Dunkley steer to an impressive 19-second advantage by race end. With the leader out of sight, Andy Southcott made second place his own, after a solitary performance. Championship contender Stephen Collier steered his way to third place, despite fierce competition from the chasing Nick Day. As the chequered flag fell, just 0.6 seconds separated the pair.

Despite a spin for Ed Reeve, he enjoyed his return to racing with a fifth-place finish, ahead of Sam Healey in sixth place. Driver of the Race was awarded to third placed man Collier.

Race two was very much a repeat performance for Dunkley, as he triumphantly raced to another victory, and the 2016 championship title.

A cushion of 14 seconds by race end saw him ease his way across the finish line, ahead of Class B champion Andy Southcott.

NOVEMBER 2016 SAFETY FAST! 51

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MG Trophy Driver Chris Bray being interviewed post race.

The race for the Class B title was the one to watch, with Southcott and Collier both in line for the accolade.

As both raced their way towards the chequered flag, Southcott had the upper hand, as he sat comfortably in second place.

Determined to keep himself in the running, Collier made his way to third place; however it was Southcott who clinched the title, by just 0.5 seconds for the fastest lap. Collier held on to third place, ahead of Ed Reeve, David Weston and Nick Day. Southcott’s successful drive was enough to secure him the Driver of the Race award, doubling his trophy collection in one outing.

MGCC Peter Best Insurance MG Cup Dan Molloy claimed an untroubled victory in the first Peter Best MG Cup adventure. A dominant performance saw the MG ZR 190 driver lead the way from start to finish.

As he settled in the most desired position, Tom Halliwell clinched a second place finish. Behind, Alan Brooke managed to hold onto his third place, ahead of Dan Ludlow in fourth.

Molloy’s winning performance was also good enough to earn him the coveted Driver of the Race accolade.

Brooke claimed victory in a thrilling second outing, after a very close encounter with Molloy for the duration.

Early leader Halliwell was soon dispersed, when Brooke and Molloy came thundering through. Brooke stamped his authority early on; however as he and Molloy battled, Molloy saw his opportunity to sneak ahead.

Once in front, Molloy held on to top spot, ahead of Brooke and Halliwell, with Lewis Anderson and David Thompson in hot pursuit.

With the result far from decided, the final lap was a hive of activity.

Keen to nudge Molloy from his perch, Brooke fought back on the final tour,

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as the pair crossed the finish line millimetres apart. As the results came in, it was Brooke who claimed victory at the flag, a mere 0.053 seconds ahead of Molloy.

Brooke’s sterling drive was enough to catch the eye of our commentary team, to earn him not only Driver of the Race, but also the Driver of the Day award.

MGCC Motoring Classics Thoroughbred Sportscar Championship James Wheeler tripled his Saturday success at Snetterton with victory in the sole Thoroughbred Sportscar Championship outing, as well as clinching the Driver of the Race award.

As the race thundered into action, it was Rob Spencer who claimed control; however rivals Neil Fowler and Wheeler were right on his tail.

The order soon began to change when each driver searched for a turn at the front. A fierce performance from Fowler elevated him briefly into the lead, before Wheeler clinched the chance to sneak ahead. Once in control, Wheeler steered his way towards the chequered flag, to finish ahead of Spencer and Fowler.

Chris Edwards scored a Class C victory, ahead of fellow class winners Jim Bryan and Babak Farsian. Although not racing this weekend, Russell

McCarthy was on hand to receive his championship title applause from his fellow competitors.

British Motor Heritage Relay Race Ricky Riccardo and the Rickettes was the team to beat this year in the fourhour British Motor Heritage Relay Race.

Their fleet of BMWs were the perfect machine for the outing, to claim victory on circuit by over one minute, as they raced into the sunset.

The team led the way from start to finish on circuit, barring their visits to the pit lane, to demonstrate dominance in its finest form.

The Aero Racing team of Morgan machines were second on circuit, ahead of their fellow CDMC Morgan team.

With handicapped results taken into consideration, Chapman’s Chariots were the team to beat, having developed a healthy lead with their team of Lotus cars.

It’s difficult to believe but we have swiftly come to the end of another season, courtesy of a sterling finale at Snetterton. What a season it has been.

We have seen some fantastic racing all season, and now we have crowned another brilliant batch of champions.

The 2017 calendar is already taking shape, and we’re looking forward to another exciting year with you all next year.

Jonnie Wheeler’s B, being pushed to the assembly area.

www.mgcc.co.uk

25/10/2016 09:25

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review of MGLive! will take place, and the Race Co-ordinators’ meeting the following Saturday 22. No doubt the magazine will carry a report on both next month.

RACE TORQUE

T

By Ron Gammons

hose who were at Snetterton for the Club’s last race meeting of the year will have appreciated the quality of the racing and the ambience of the event. We suffered a major rain downpour on the Saturday afternoon which caused a temporary halt to racing, and much eager reviewing of the Met Office weather radar to ascertain how long it would take to clear. Fortunately, only half an hour was lost and we were able to complete all of the races.

We had a really good entry for the last of the Club’s Championship events, with a number of them right down to the wire causing some real heartfluttering before the final flag. The final Championship positions are listed in a box to the right; congratulations to all the award winners.

I won’t spoil the content of the race report, but the British Motor Heritage sponsored Four Hour Relay was a real cracker with excellent driving from all participating. The subsequent prize giving was full of compliments by one and all, and just a delightful way to end a season of racing.

54 SAFETY FAST! NOVEMBER 2016

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Mention should also be made of Mark Baulch, and Kirsty his wife, who took over as the host of all of the Club’s prize givings when our good friend John Horton passed away. John would have been proud (Mark and John had worked together previously). They have done a superb job throughout the year, and the competitors really appreciate the effort they have put in.

So as one year finishes, another starts; well that’s not exactly true, since 2017 has been on the drawing board for some months already.

Perhaps it is worthwhile repeating the dates in the PROVISIONAL calendar that we issued last month. That was: April 9 Donington, April 29-30 Brands Hatch, Silverstone June 17-18 or 2425 (we understand the earlier date is now the most likely), July 22 Cadwell Park, then to Oulton on September 2, and the finale at Snetterton on September 30 and October 1.

Hopefully we will be able to confirm these dates shortly.

During the month of October two major meetings will have taken place: the Council on October 15 where the

MGCC Watt Electrical BCV8 Champion – Andrew Young Class AB – Simon Tinkler Class B – Ben Tovey Class C – Andrew Young Class D – James Wheeler MGCC Motoring Classics Thoroughbred Sports Car Champion – Russell McCarthy Class B – Simon Cripps Class C – Kathy Sherry Class D – Martin Barrow Class E – Russell McCarthy MGCC Cockshoot Cup Champion – Ross Makar Class A – Jeremy Toes Class B – Ray Collier Class C – Ross Makar Class F – Adam Key MGCC MG Trophy Champion – William Payne Class A – Doug Cole Class B – Lee Sullivan Class C – William Payne MGCC Drayton Manor Park MG Metro Cup Champion – Ben Rushworth MGCC Lackford Engineering MG Midget/Sprite Champion – James Dunkley Class A – James Dunkley Class B – Steve Collier Class D – Nigel Lackford Class E – Pippa Cow MGCC Peter Best Insurance MG Cup Champion – Thomas Halliwell Class A – Clive Jones Class B – James Darby Class C – Thomas Halliwell

www.mgcc.co.uk

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DUNCAN WOOD DUNCANW@MGS-ON-TRACK.CO.UK WWW.MGS-ON-TRACK.COM SPONSORED BY

CASTLE COMBE...

TAKE TWO...

I

Nick Cooper and Dave Storer with their Midgets.

n contrast to our previous event at the circuit in June, this year’s second MGs on Track visit to Castle Combe was favoured with dry, settled weather. The majority of the circuit benefi ts from being recently resurfaced, and provides smooth running with plenty of grip, which our members exploited fully.

In damper conditions the difference in grip between old and new track surface has been known to catch out a few drivers, but on this occasion the excursions onto the grass were few.

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As at all our track days, a fi ne cross-section of MGs was represented, and ranged from Midgets with almost standard power outputs, MGBs both standard and tweaked, several V8s, one Frontline LE50, and a selection of TFs. The tin-tops were represented by ZR, ZS and ZT models, with a 380bhp ZT being particularly rapid, although no longer ideal for the school run.

Two of the Midgets present were driven by Dave Storer and by Nick Cooper. Dave, a Midget Register committee member, has owned his

MG on track

1976 car since 1980, having rescued it from a scrap yard, after an unequal battle with a lamp post radically altered the lines of the bodywork! Almost literally snatched from the jaws of the crusher, the car was reborn and now benefi ts from a stage II engine and fi vespeed gearbox. Dave recalls earlier visits to Castle Combe in the 70s when he was involved with a Formula Ford team that numbered Nigel Mansell as one of the drivers and, whilst Mansell’s driving career may have blossomed, it is almost certain that the tea served at Ferrari was never as good. Having owned the car for so long, Dave thinks it unlikely that he would ever part with it.

Nick Cooper has owned his 1275 Midget since 2010. Originally registered in Northern Ireland, the car benefi tted from a renovation undertaken by the previous owner, a retired engineer. Nick has added a subtly modifi ed cylinder head with roller rockers which has raised the power output to around 75bhp, although the observer might suppose that the car has considerably more than this; his cornering style has more than a hint of the Lotus Cortina or Alfa GTA about it, with clear air often apparent under the inner front wheel!

This will be Nick’s last visit to Castle Combe in the Midget as it is for sale, but we look forward to his return next year in his recently purchased MGC. An integral feature of an MGoT track day is the availability of reasonably

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MGS ON TRACK - 2016 CALENDAR Please visit www.mgs-on-track.com to register, check availability, or to book a track day.

Registered members will receive regular newsletters and notification of event opening dates.

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! priced instruction from ARDS-registered instructors.

However well you think you know the circuit, your car or your own abilities, a session with an instructor is certain to provide some benefit. The aim is certainly not to turn us all into racing drivers, but to maximise the capabilities of the car and perhaps draw our own latent talents a little nearer to the surface and increase confidence. The instructors will advise on braking and gear change points, the best lines through corners, and will demonstrate the value of smoothness amongst other techniques. Invariably this advice is offered clearly, calmly, and without criticism, implied or otherwise...and if they are scared they are very adept at hiding it!

Alan Wilshire is one of our most regular instructors and at Castle Combe he also presented the safety briefing before the track day commenced. His delivery was relaxed and sometimes humorous, but also informative and, I am sure, reassuring to the first-timers who were probably a little uncertain of what to expect from an MGoT track day. Safety is always the first priority and Alan’s briefing clearly explained the rules governing overtaking, the actions to take in the event of a mechanical failure or unplanned excursion from the track, plus the importance of driving at a pace that the individual is comfortable with.

Alan was joined as instructor for the morning sessions by Josh Cook, whom you may know as one of the drivers of the MG6s for MG Triple Eight Racing in the BTCC series. Whilst it was a clear contrast of style to his normal day job, Josh was complimentary about the general car control skills of our members, plus the level of driving etiquette that is inherent in one of our track days, although he probably won’t be introducing any of the latter back into BTCC! We have just two track days remaining this year, which are at Oulton Park and at Brands Hatch, and there may still be places available on our website for those looking to brighten the encroaching winter months.

www.mgcc.co.uk

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LUFFIELD CHAMPIONSHIP JOHN WILMAN, BEECHFIELD, FERN BANK, C H A P E L -E N -L E -F R I T H , H I G H P E A K . S K 23 0J J T E L : 07778 165186 W W W . M G S P E E D . N E T

A

s I write, the Northern season has ended and we are waiting for the final Southern meeting at Castle Combe on October 22. The results of this event will produce the final results and award winners from the overall and regional championships. As things stand at this stage, there are several close-run scores and the outcome will be, as ever, interesting. If you can’t wait for next month’s official article, the final results can be viewed on our website, www.mgspeed.net which will be updated soon after the 22nd.

It’s that time of year where I start the juggling process, which involves putting together next year’s calendar. It could prove to be a difficult task, as some of our traditional dates may have to be altered.

Central to the whole process is the date of MGLive! and until I know this I have to keep the whole business fluid.

One of the many problems is the status of the end-of-season Anglesey event. Unfortunately, the move to early October with a different organiser failed to ignite much interest. Our one and only entrant brewed his clutch on the day before the event and had to retire, leaving the Luffield presence at nil.

We have many long-term, highly enthusiastic, entrants and during the ’Off’ season I thought it would be nice to highlight one or two.

A roll of drums then for the brothers Walker, Andy and Nick.

Several years ago, they acquired a much-modified MGB V8 roadster which had been around for some time in other hands. It was generally thought to be a bit of a shed bodily, but the lads set to and rebuilt it to the point where it was, at least, safe. Since then, over a number of years, they have gradually developed all aspects of the car, and its performance speaks for itself. Despite having wiped off most corners of the car at various times over the years, it soon seems to be back on track, better than ever. This year, it even sported panels of the same colour with a shine on them. Nick has now acquired a factory V8 GT which is under development as a roadgoing car and I expect it to achieve great things in the future.

The thing about the brothers, which epitomises the ethos of our sport, is their unfailing good nature. Always willing to lend a helping hand to anyone with problems and you can always rely on a good brew, usually served by Mum, from the Walker motorhome.

Long may this spirit continue.

Sparks fly at Prescott. Photo: Colin Murrell NOVEMBER 2016 SAFETY FAST! 57

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BRITISH TOURING CAR CHAMPIONSHIP

BRANDS HATCH GRAND PRIX CIRCUIT Report Paul Goodman Photo Martin Cumming

I

n what seems to have been no time at all, the Dunlop British Touring Car Championship teams arrived in the Brands Hatch paddock for the final meeting of the 2016 season. An exciting prospect presented itself, with several drivers still in with a mathematical chance of winning the championship.

Sadly, neither of the 888 MG6 drivers were involved and the team was still recovering from being deprived of the one two finish at Silverstone for a technical infringement.

Ashley Sutton and Josh Cook would have no significant ballast to carry in race one of the day and they were optimistic about the expected performance of their cars on the Brands Hatch Circuit. The opening rounds of the year had been run on the short club configuration. This weekend the field of 31 cars would be released onto the awesome Grand Prix track with the legendary corners and fast straights. In early October, the weather can play a strong role as well, so the drivers were approaching the weekend with a mixture of excitement and trepidation.

Weather concerns dominated the Saturday sessions. When qualifying

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began, dark clouds hung over the circuit with rain threatening. A slow roll into the gravel trap by Aron Smith turned his VW upside down leading to a long delay.

Eventually the cars were released onto a drying track. When the flag fell Colin Turkington in the Subaru was quickest.

Tom Ingram’s Toyota was disqualified for a technical infringement, which meant that everybody behind moved up a place with Josh fifth and Ashley 15th.

Sunday dawned dry and sunny with no sign of any rain. When the red light went out for race one (round 28) Turkington got a good start and was never headed. Behind them Josh got a good start and was circulating in a rather lonely fourth place. Then as the race progressed, second-placed Rob Austin slowed with tyre problems, allowing Jason Plato in his Subaru and Josh to close up. Meanwhile Ashley was dicing with the title contenders and making progress to ninth at the flag.

Josh was desperate for a podium and managed to slice past Jason at Clearways on the final lap to clinch third place.

Hopes were high for 888 MG in race two (round 29) with both drivers starting in the top 10. Colin Turkington was, once again, ahead for the whole race, although

pressurised by Jason Plato until team orders came into play. Josh was again involved in the battle behind, but this time just missed out on the podium by finishing a very creditable fourth. In contrast, Ashley was forced to retire after an unfortunate accident with Yuasa Honda driver Matt Neal, who was slowing with a mechanical problem. The MG6 was badly damaged, giving the team a massive task to make the start for race three. A finish from Ashley was required in order for him to win the Jack Sears Trophy for best first-year (rookie) driver.

The draw for race three (round 30) put Josh on grid slot four with Ashley having to start 30th. All eyes were on the championship points with Gordon Shedden in his Yuasa Honda and exMG driver Sam Tordoff against each other on track for the title. Shedden did what was required and took the BTCC title for the second year in a row.

Meanwhile, the race was won by Matt Jackson’s Ford Focus. Josh recorded his third top 10 finish of the weekend by finishing seventh. Meanwhile, Ashley’s repaired car was far from straight, but he managed to finish in 24th place to win the Jack Sears Trophy.

As dusk fell, the awards were presented and the teams packed up at the end of another action-packed season. Josh finished 12th on 175 points in the championship, with Ashley close behind in 13th with 162 points. The two MG drivers have been great ambassadors for the sport and MG during the season. Hopefully, both will continue with 888 MG in 2017 when the cars will have the more powerful “2017 TOCA” power unit and improved RML suspension.

www.mgcc.co.uk

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CALENDAR

NOVEMBER Friday 11 – Sunday 13 Lancaster Insurance Classic Motor Show The NEC, Birmingham Come along and visit us on stand number 4-580 Call 0871 230 1088 or book online www. necclassicmotorshow.com Saturday 12 MGCC: Tyne Tees Centre York Social Trip by Train Contact: David Alexander – 01670 861178 or david. alexander2012@btinternet.com Sunday 20 MGCC: Caledonian Centre November Lunch Huntingtower, Perth Contact: Leslie Duncan – 0141 637 3475

DECEMBER Friday 2 MGCC: Lincolnshire Centre Christmas Dinner Lincolnshire Poacher, Bunkers Hill Contact: Sue and Ian – 01529 497849

Saturday 3 MGCC: 635 Register 2016 AGM and Christmas Dinner Location TBA Contact: Steve Haines – steve-haines@live.co.uk

Wednesday 7 MGCC: Lincolnshire Centre Christmas Dinner Worlds Natter, Cross Keys, Grasby Contact: Keith – 01472 602949

Saturday 3 MGCC: Tyne Tees Centre 2016 Awards Dinner Location TBA Contact: Lyn Ebdon – lyn.ebdon@mail.com

Monday 12 MGCC: Midget Register Aldon Rolling Road Shoot Out Aldon Automotive, Brierley Hill Contact: Mike Parker – 01235 525255

Saturday 3 MGCC: Anglia Centre Committee Meeting The Limes, Needham Market, Suffolk Contact: Peter Skipper – 01502 731141

Wednesday 14 MGCC: Lincolnshire Centre Christmas Dinner, Wishing Well, Dyke, near Bourne Contact: Simon – 01406 381330 or Paul – 01780 759100

Sunday 4 MGCC: South East Centre Black Horse Treasure Hunt Location TBA Contact: Derek Edwards – 01737 765891

Thursday 15 MGCC: Lincolnshire Centre Christmas Dinner Three Horseshoes, Scotton, near Gainsborough Contact: Dave – 01427 668398 or Bob – 01721 764144

Monday 5 MGCC: Lincolnshire Centre Christmas Dinner Abbey Lodge, Kirkstead, Woodhall Spa Contact: Dave and Fran – 01507 527945

Thursday 22 MGCC: Lincolnshire Centre MGF/TF Christmas Celebration Venue info available through contact Contact: Geoff and Vicki Edge – 01205 871973

THE 2016 NORFOLK RIVIERA RUN Thursday DECEMBER 29 2016

Organised by the Mid-Norfolk Club Meet of the MG Car Club – Anglia Centre

Start: The Green Man, Holt Road, Little Snoring, NR21 0AY Meeting from 9.00am with cars away between 10 and 10.30am. Coffee and breakfast butties, inc. vegetarian option, available from 9am - Please advise if required.

Finish: Norfolk Lavender, Heacham, Norfolk Lunches will be available at the finish please advise if required.

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

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

Entry Form I would like to attend the Norfolk Riviera Run on Thursday December 29 2016 Name .................................................................................................................................................

Address: ............................................................................................................................................ ...................................................................................................................Postcode.........................

Telephone:.......................................................email........................................................................

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

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

I/we would like.............................breakfast butties at The Green Man

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

I/we would like.............................lunches at Norfolk Lavender

Entries to: Paul & Janet Bloomfield, 64 New Holkham, Wells-next-the Sea, Norfolk NR23 1RX or email to rivierarun@mgccanglia.com

Please return this form by December 11 2016

60 SAFETY FAST! NOVEMBER 2016

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All enquiries to email: rivierarun@mgccanglia.com

www.mgcc.co.uk

25/10/2016 09:25

OUT&ABOUT

MGs gath er on Satu rday Sept ember 24 for the start of the MGF Reg ister Tha mes Tunn els and Brid ges even t, which raised mon ey to support Guid e Dogs. Phot o: And rew Colli ns

nne Germ an twin s Tizia na Mutschle r and Fabie errubb a GT, B MG 1977 their to Mutschle r next to chrom e bumper car which was conve rted in 2013after bumpers, photograph ed at John O’Groats e Wormald trave lling from Land’s End. Photo: Georg

Th e MG M-Type of Fra nk hle y dwarfed by the mig hty Vulcan pict ured at We llsbourne. PhAs Bo mber, oto: Ste ve Cla rk

TF at Rich ard Tisd ale and Thel ma Osbournethe’s MG gdon Works Abin for ion locat end the le, Brou ghto n Cast m Broo n Bria o: Cent res Su mme r Day Out. Phot

www.mgcc.co.uk

MG_SafetyFast_Nov16_50-98.indd 61

photographed in front Ken Cothliff’s 1972 MG B “Ma rmal ade”,Phot o: Ken Cothliff s.

Dale shire York the in e Castl n of Bolto

The stun ning MGC GT of Alan Ingh voted best in show at the Cu mbri a Classic Car Show helda m, at Dale main.

Phot o: Alan Ingh a m

NOVEMBER 2016 SAFETYFAST! 61

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WHEELS, WINGS, DIAMONDS 2016 INDABA

By Brian G Woodhams

T

Northern Centre MGB and MGA of Claus Pille and Steve Eden at Villa Africa

he 22nd International South African Indaba was hosted by the Northern Centre and held from September 2-6 in and around Tshwane, which was formerly known as Pretoria. The event was based at the Villa Africa Boutique Hotel in the eastern suburbs, and the Overseas contingent consisted of Walter and Bridgette Kallenberg from Germany, Gerard and Betty de Groot from Holland, and Janine and I from the UK. We were loaned a BRG 1968 MGB by William and Wendy Kelly of the Johannesburg Centre.

The Northern Centre was formed in

Contestants gathering for the Driving Tests

MG TC of Ed Hillary going for it

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1978 and is one of the handful of Centres in the World to have their own Clubhouse, and this was put to good use on Thursday evening by the early arrivals who were bussed there for a braai (BBQ) â&#x20AC;&#x201C; our thanks go to Dave Wheeler of the Northern Centre for providing the food. A very convivial evening ensued as we met up with friends old and new.

The event got under way on Friday with Registration and Regalia, and in the evening a braai supper in the boma was served. Pepi Gaspari, Chairman of the Indaba organising committee, gave the welcoming speech to the

participants, along with a few hints about what to expect in the coming days. The weather was glorious for the whole event, with clear blue skies and temperatures at around 30C; however, as is usual in this part of the world for this time of year, the atmosphere was very dry and dusty and cool at night.

On Saturday we were all up bright and early to go to the Silver Oaks shopping mall for the driving tests, with two courses laid out on a partitioned-off section of the car park.

It was good to see some younger participants, but Peter McNaughtDavis from KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) in his Midget damaged his suspension and shattered a brake disc in an overenthusiastic incident with a kerb.

We then moved on to Kitty Hawk Aerodrome for the Concours and Lunch with an air display thrown in.

The overseas team got involved with Alan Uzzell (event sponsor) and I drafted in as adjudicators in case of an appeal in the Concours. Gerard, Betty, Janine and I judged Car of the Day. This proved to be difficult, as it came down to a decision between the recently restored MG ZA of Bernard Mostert and the modern MG TF of Gary Chapman â&#x20AC;&#x201C; both of the Northern Centre. The end result was that Gary won the Concours whilst the MG ZA

Ashleigh Chapman in her lovely MG ZR

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MG Midget from KZN with broken brake disc

Henry, our loan MGB, at Kitty Hawk aerodrome

MG ZA, the Car of the Day, mit BMW-powered Fieseler Storch

1934 MG K1 Supercharged of Peter Posniak

The green tour at the Cullinan Diamond Mine

The Roger Lewis collection in Cape Town

was voted Car of the Day. It seemed a popular decision! On Saturday evening the Rocker Box racing preceded the themed Wheels, Wings and Diamonds evening. The Rocker Box final was won

by Glen Parker of the Johannesburg Centre in a close duel with Chris Brown of KZN, who was the winner at the 2014 Indaba. During the evening an auction was held in aid of the Northern Centre Clubhouse with some amazing bids. Around £2,000 was raised under the expert, very persuasive and funny Clive Winterstein of the Johannesburg Centre. The auction was followed by dancing to a folk/soft rock group.

On Sunday we were once again up early for another warm, bright day in paradise! A treasure hunt was incorporated into a tour of some of the historic sites in the area. We were split into four groups to avoid congestion, and there were MGs everywhere, often

going in the other direction! We visited Sammy Marks’ mansion, the Nan Hua Buddhist temple, Zonderwater Italian prisoner of war memorial, and the Cullinan diamond mine for a conducted tour. Sammy Marks (1844–1920) was an entrepreneur with fingers in many ventures including mining, coal, steel and agriculture.

The Cullinan diamond mine has been going for some 114 years and is where the famous Cullinan diamond or Star of Africa, at 3,106 carats, was found in 1905. Unfortunately, we found ourselves dashing back to Villa Africa for the Combined Centres of Southern Africa delegates meeting chaired

by Norman Ewing. At this meeting, Tony Craddock was elected the new President of this body following the passing of Ralph Clarke, and the meeting concluded just in time for the Awards Dinner. The African Nuffield

The Auction The African Nuffield presentation to the Northern Centre Chairman, Steven Grover, with National President Tony Craddock

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Trophy was awarded to the Northern Centre for all their hard work in making the event a success in glorious weather – well done Pepi Gaspari, the Chapman family, Steve and Hazel Eden, and the Indaba committee.

Our thanks must also go to Alan and Denise Uzzell of the Sports Car Centre for their sponsorship.

After the Indaba farewell breakfast, we made our way to Cape Town to meet up with members of the Cape Town Centre. On our return from a very pleasant long weekend we had a one-in-a-million chance meeting at OR Tambo airport with Walter and Bridgette Kallenberg who had been to the Kruger Park.

The next Indaba is in May 2018 and is hosted by the KZN Centre, which is our oldest Affiliated Centre, in the Drakensberg mountains – contact me for details and start saving!

The Northern Centre celebration

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NOVEMBER 2016 SAFETY FAST! 65

25/10/2016 09:26

OVERSEAS NEWS

Refreshment stop in the town of Smolenice, Slovakia

MG CAR CLUB – CZECH REPUBLIC

T

By Peter Cook

he Czech MGCC held their third major event in the south east of Bohemia, the wine growing area, over the weekend September 2-4. Appropriately, the overnight accommodation was at a winery in the village of Boretice (nearest airport Brno) where many different wines were on offer. The drink-drive limit for the country is zero, so wine tasting defi nitely had to take place after driving. The Friday evening was an open-ended social occasion, as many participants came from the Prague area, where the drive to Boretice could be anything from fi ve to seven hours on the weekend before schools started back.

The Saturday was an all-day drive of about 110 miles on mostly what we would call B roads, and organized by club members Milan Docekal, Lubos Kocman, and Tomas Kuska. Provided with directions, we set off at one minute intervals for a run which took up most of the day. With superb weather and fi ne scenery we passed through many villages and towns. One striking aspect of the run was that in the space of a few hours we went through three countries – Slovakia and Austria being the other two. Some of the members recalled that when the Iron Curtain existed, as children they had sat in their parents’ cars for hours at border crossings with Austria just so that they could

Michal and Magda Veselik with their MGB

obtain items not available in the then Czechoslovakia. As the Czech Republic is now part of the Schengen area there were no border checks for us, just the sight of dilapidated border posts. On arrival back on the Saturday evening we were presented with a hog roast and, again, the local wines. We were also entertained by MGB owner Dr. Daniela Karasova who led the sing-song with her set of Bohemian bagpipes. After traditional Bohemian melodies came a song in Czech dedicated to the MG and sung to the tune of Scotland the Brave – something we are very unlikely to experience at a UK club event. This was a very successful and enjoyable club weekend put on by a club which is barely three years old.

The Czech club has around 75 members and is growing. A notable difference with many other MG clubs is that its membership has a much younger profi le.

MGs are being imported all the time.

In fact, one club member travels with a trailer to the UK on a monthly basis where he buys both cars in need of TLC and spares to order. This means that there is a steady stream of later-model cars – Bs and Midgets, mostly – being launched onto Czech roads.

The 1935 KN 0440 is owned by Milan Docekal, the Czech Club’s Secretary 66 SAFETY FAST! NOVEMBER 2016

MG_SafetyFast_Nov16_50-98.indd 66

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NOVEMBER 2016 SAFETY FAST! 67

25/10/2016 09:26

OVERSEAS

THE EUROPEAN EVENT OF THE YEAR 2017

The EEOTY 2017 Programme Reception of participants officially starts on August 3 2017 at Exponor Congress Centre. Here we’ll have the Welcome Desk, and a drink to start the event, and the briefing, with details and answers to your questions regarding the following days. Dinner will take place at same premises, and you will drive back to the hotels.

Those participants who need to park trailers or trucks can do so at Exponor in a reserved location.

The next day, Friday 4, will be a full day out of town, going up to the Douro Valley, a UNESCO world heritage site, where we can take in the vineyards, either by boat and return by train with lunch on board, or by driving your MG on the national roads, including part of the famous EN222, with lunch at a wine farm. The evening will be free to allow you to enjoy Porto

The Douro Valley

by night relaxing or, if you feel a bit more energetic, at the Porto area of “la movida” at Galeria De Paris-Clerigos.

On Saturday August 5 we have prepared several trips around Porto, driving your MG, which will give you the opportunity to get acquainted with the countryside, and the Portuguese hospitality and gastronomy, with trips assisted by our volunteers (lunch included).

We have prepared 3 Rallye-tours.

Rallye 1: to the Vinho Verde region,

not far from Porto, driving across vineyards, Rallye 2: driving south of Porto close to the coast, still on Costa Verde region, turning around at Aveiro city, where you will find typical Portuguese boats crossing the town.

Rallye 3: is at the “PORTOeNORTE” tourist region, where you can visit Guimar es, the city where Portugal was born, and Braga, called in very ancient times bracara augusta.

You also may take advantage of these road-books, either for pre or after the event.

The Gala Dinner will take place at Exponor Congress Hall, with live music, presentations by the MGCC (UK) and officials from the EEOTY 2018. Relax… we’ll pick you up from the hotels by bus to take you to Exponor and back, safely.

Then comes the farewell on Sunday morning August 6. The plan is to drive your MG to the City Park in town, park there and enjoy this beautiful park. It is the biggest urban park in the country with 83 hectares (205 acres) and is connected to the ocean side.

We’ll have light snacks there, and say goodbye, hoping to see you next year, guess where!

More information is available from www.portomgclube.pt Please do reserve the dates August 3-6 2017, or more days if you feel that you would like to explore more of Porto and north of Portugal.

Historic town of Braga 68 SAFETY FAST! NOVEMBER 2016

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OVERSEAS REVIEW A MONTHLY LOOK THROUGH A FEW OF THE OVERSEAS MAGAZINES WE RECEIVE AT KIMBER HOUSE. REVIEWED BY DAVID COULTHARD.

W

hilst compiling the Overseas Review, one of the great pleasures is reading a ‘foreign’ view of an event I have attended. I was therefore delighted to see that Wheel Spin, the magazine of the MGCC Victoria in Australia, carried a report on no less than two events in which I have taken part. The Abingdon Works Centre-organised Old Speckled Hen Run is always worth the trip down from West Yorkshire, especially when the post-run cream tea is served up by a Wheel Spin contributor! Next, the magazine covered Zed15, which celebrated the 15th birthday of the MG Zed saloon range at Gaydon. The meeting seemed to have brought a tear to the author’s wife’s eye, but fortunately, it was a tear of joy, as she is a huge fan of the MG ZR! I can even see my car in one of the accompanying photographs.

The apparently unnamed magazine from the MGCC Danish Centre features MGLive! on its front cover, another one of my annual pilgrimages.

The picture shows the massed ranks of the MGF/TF Register parking area.

It’s not often that a fridge makes it into the MG mags, but Smeg’s new British Racing Green offering, launched at MGLive!, makes it into the pages of Bulletin, the magazine of New Zealand’s Wellington Centre.

As an aside, and in keeping with the theme of overseas view on Britain, I really would like to attend the ‘Terribly British Day’ advertised in Tappet Chatter from the MGCC Canberra, just for the name alone!

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One of my favourite exhibitions at MGLive! is the display of T-Type and XPAG specials in the race paddock area.

It’s great to see this tradition is refl ected around the World (well, sort of…).

Opposite Lock, from Sydney MGCC, features the three-year restoration of a TC Special by one of the Club’s members. It would appear that three years is nothing in comparison to the 12 years it took the author to persuade the previous owner to sell him the car in the fi rst place. Not one of the better looking T-Type specials I’ve seen, resembling a slightly overweight Lotus Seven. Wheel Spin (this magazine keeps cropping up, but it was a very ‘busy’ edition!) tells the story of the 1959 JFW Fibreglass Industries ‘Milano’ special, which utilised a J2 chassis and TC mechanicals. This very attractive special came in a gull-winged GT version and an open-bodied model.

The open car was quite handy on the race track back in the day.

Ironically, I didn’t fi nd a single T-Type special in the Sacred Octagon, the magazine of the New England T-Register. Despite its pages being fi lled with pictures from the ‘Gathering of the Faithful’, an event which almost the entire production of the T-Type seems to have attended, not one special did I see. Are the rules different in America, I wonder?

Speaking of T-Types, the MGCC Danish Centre magazine reports on its T-Type run, and features my kind of delivery van. It appears to be a Morris Minor pick-up, but with the World’s largest beer barrel on the back!

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25/10/2016 09:27

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NOVEMBER 2016 SAFETY FAST! 71

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CENTRES

ABINGDON WORKS

RICHARD MARTIN sfscribe@mgabingdon.org.uk www.mgabingdon.co.uk Such is the variety which opens up when you become involved in the MG world that the past few weeks have seen members attending: an event to commemorate the Battle of Britain; paying a visit to the Battle of Britain Bunker in Uxbridge; taking part in a village fete where top billing was shared with a side of Morris Men; attending the launch of a new MG dealer plus supporting the BTCC team at Silverstone, and these are just the ones I know about! Oh, and there was the Centre’s inaugural Autumn Leaves Run. We were also hoping to have a display of cars in Abingdon’s Market Place to promote the new exhibition in the Museum celebrating ‘MGs Racing,

Rallying and Record Breaking’, but, it’s the fair season so those plans got scuppered, possibly temporarily. The exhibition runs until December 20.

Many thanks to: Greg Smith (C-Type), John Harris (P-Type), John Venables (18/80 and MGA), John Watson (MGB) and Adam Sloman (MG Metro) for bringing their cars to display alongside the BTCC MG6 of Ash Sutton at the launch of Lodge Hill Garage as an MG dealer. The garage http:// www.lodgehillgarage.co.uk/ is just outside Abingdon on the Oxford Road and is difficult to miss, as it has a Spitfire on the roof!

The Centre’s Autumn Leaves Run attracted over 50 cars from 14

ANGLIA

ROB MUIR 01206 862619 Rob.Muir@hotmail.co.uk www.mgcc.co.uk/anglia

MGA Norfolk Tour September saw the MGA Register autumn tour of the north Norfolk coast and the Norfolk Broads, finishing at Blickling Hall where the National Trust kindly let us park up in front of the hall itself. This great event was organised by Norfolk member and MGA owner David Simons and even the sun came out for us.

Snetterton The end-of-season MG race meeting at Snetterton saw some quality racing spread over two days on the first weekend of October.

The Anglia Centre had dedicated parking in a lovely grassy area overlooking the assembly area and the Senna straight

It was good to see so many MGs in the dedicated area and to meet up with old friends.

All of the races were good but special mention must go to the BCV8 race on the Saturday. With rain clouds hovering as the cars made their way to the assembly area, it was debatable whether it would be a wet race. However, as the grid formed, the heavens opened and torrential rain hit the circuit. Poor Russell McCarthy aquaplaned into the pit wall on the second lap and the race was stopped. Sterling work saw him replace the front wing ready for the restart; his efforts, however, were thwarted when damage was found to the steering rack mount just moments before the restart.

The race was restarted and

72 SAFETY FAST! NOVEMBER 2016

MG_SafetyFast_Nov16_50-98.indd 72

MGs and Autumn Leaves. Photo: Malcolm Bailey

different counties, with one couple travelling to and from Suffolk on the day to join us! All enjoyed the fine weather in the company of friends old and new on a route which meandered through the Chiltern countryside, with many cementing friendships in one of the pubs marked on the route. We started the day at Notcutts Garden Centre, just a few miles from Oxford. It was the first time we’ve taken advantage of their hospitality and it was so successful, we’re talking with them about joining forces for a car show in early July 2017, so keep an eye open for details. Such was the support for the event that the Centre has decided to make a donation from the entry fees. £100 has therefore ‘rainmeister’ James Wheeler shot into an unassailable lead which he held to the finish, gaining him driver of the race. Andy Young drove a copybook race in his Class C MGC GT, finishing fourth overall and becoming the 2016 BCV8 Champion.

Well done, Andy, on your success after many years of effort.

MGC expert and proud father Vic was along, giving support to the latest line of the MGC dynasty.

Committee Meeting The next Anglia Centre committee meeting will be at The Limes Hotel, Needham Market, on Saturday December 3. You are welcome to

been donated to Guide Dogs for the Blind, so very many thanks to all who came along and made this possible; your support is greatly appreciated.

Finally, a welcome to all new AWC members; we hope to see you at an event soon. Our next gathering will be the traditional Boxing Day meet in Abingdon’s Market Place with Mike Parker (01235 525255) being the man to contact.

MGs at Lodge Hill. Photo: Martin Honey

attend, or if you would like any point discussed, please contact a member of the committee via the contact details on the website, or contact the secretary, Roger Moran, at secretary@mgccanglia.com Norfolk Riviera Run Looking ahead to next month and the popular Norfolk Riviera Run on December 29, details can be found on the Anglia Centre website, or by contacting the organisers Paul and Janet Bloomfield at rivierarun@ mgccanglia.com The run always fills up very quickly, so it is advisable to get your entry in early for this fun endof-year event.

A fine selection of MGAs in front of the National Trust Blickling Hall.

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NOVEMBER 2016 SAFETY FAST! 73

25/10/2016 09:27

CENTRES

CALEDONIAN

BOB MACGILLIVRAY 07870 407111 mgcarsscotland@gmail.com www.mgcaledonian.com

November! But it’s only three or four months to spring!

As you would expect, there is not much on this month, apart from the always enjoyable lunch to be had at the Huntingtower Hotel, Perth, on Sunday 20. It’s always an excellent, informal end to the season, so why not take a look at the website and book up?

I mentioned Bo’ness in some detail last month and for those of you who didn’t manage to get there, it has now been on Motors TV, and is likely to be repeated; and, separately, there is a full-length DVD available at a very modest £10. For details of that have a look at the Bo’ness website. It will make an excellent Christmas stocking-filler – but

not for me, as I have already bought one!

If you are interested in a good, long drive next year in your MG, then why not consider the 2017 European Event of the Year which is being held in Portugal? There has been a good representation of Caledonian people on the EEOTY events in recent years and it would be good if we can keep that up.

By the time you read this, I think bookings will have opened, but have a look at our website for an update.

I have mentioned before that we will again have a film night in January and although I have some material already, I’m always on the lookout for odd items, no matter how old or odd!

DEVON & CORNWALL GRANNY JANNER www.allegropeter@aol.com www.mgcc.co.uk/devon-cornwall-centre/

The route for the Cornish Riviera Run took us from Plymouth to Newquay. The Tavistock Town Crier was present to judge the car and period dress. After his cries he flagged the cars away, over Dartmoor to the first checkpoint at Plusha.

At Plusha, and at Davidstow, our ticket was punched and off we went through the ford or across the bridge, a dilemma: which way, right or left, but either way leads to the same place. Not much traffic, but enjoyable roads as we arrive at the lunch stop.

The next section of the run is along the coast, the sun still shining but a slight wind and a lot of people surfing in the sea. We stop

at Watergate Bay to stretch our legs and look around and we can see our destination in the distance.

Not long to go to the finish. The cars are parked on the golf course at the Headland Hotel, Newquay, overlooking Fistral Beach. In we go to the cream tea and awards ceremony and to admire the view.

The awards were: Plymouth – Bernard Curren MG TA. Period dress – Polly Redman Trevathan Farm – Steve Lovegrove MG TA. Period dress – Martin Moore Headland Hotel – Philip Chinery Riley 4/72. Period dress – The Edwards Furthest Distance – Geoff Bateman from Wigton

74 SAFETY FAST! NOVEMBER 2016

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Does anyone have any old films – if not MG-related, then certainly motoring-related – that they might like to lend for the night?

Even if they are on old film, I can get them transferred to a DVD. At some stage the committee will be discussing what theme, if any, we may feature at shows next year. It is the 50th anniversary of the MGC and also the 70th anniversary of the Y type. I am aware of a number of Cs, but are there any Y types in the Centre?

You may not have noticed, but in the October issue of SF! there were four Caledonian cars for sale. It’s not often that there are so many. Two at least have headed over the border, but it would be interesting to know of ‘new’ MGs coming into the Centre. If you have acquired something recently then let us Special Award – Angus Herdman Murrey Duff Award for the person who was so enthusiastic that he arrived a week early – Angus Wakeham Next, a visit to the Britannia Royal Naval College at Dartmouth for a look around the establishment to see how they whip the students into officers of the Navy.

The view from the saluting platform was of all the yachts at anchor in the harbour, and the sun glistening on the masts.

The cannons outside were all polished at one time by the midshipman for punishment.

Now it is done by outside cleaners. Off to the gunroom (mess room). In times gone by that is where they would eat, by the guns. The drill hall was next, with its poop deck around the top. The roof was bombed

know, especially if it’s of the older variety!

And finally, may I make a personal plea? A good number of years ago, Ashley Strachan produced a booklet of MMM cars in Scotland. I know it’s well outof-date, but does anyone have a copy they might like to sell?

And I’m still looking for photos, films, etc. from old events...

There must be some out there!

That’s all folks … see you at the Huntingtower!!

Clackmannanshire Scouts being presented at Bo’ness with a cup for winning an MG Quiz earlier in the year.

during the war, but there was only one casualty, as the students had not started term yet. We then headed upstairs to see the many valuable paintings of old ships and admirals.

Outside the chapel the flags are left hanging, never taken down or repaired. The museum had a number of model boats carved out of bone by French prisoners.

After thanks and goodbyes, a short ride to lunch at the famous fish and chip pub at Slapton Sands.

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY November 12 – Skittles at the Fox and Hounds, Bridestowe. Contact – Tony Short: anthony.short7@ tesco.net Tel 01392 832665 November 16 – Natter Evening at the Royal Inn, Horsebridge, to support your new Natter Leader Ian Cameron following Tony Bolt’s retirement.

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25/10/2016 09:27

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NOVEMBER 2016 SAFETY FAST! 75

25/10/2016 09:27

CENTRES

LINCOLNSHIRE JOHN HEBB 01522 683541 jhebb38@virginmedia.com www.mgcclincolnshire.co.uk

Luncheon Club: Wednesday 16.

The final Autotest of the year was held at East Kirkby on a warm, sunny day (we’ve been lucky with the weather this year), 12 tests in all, each with three attempts, the best run to count. At the end of all this the FTD was achieved by Bryan Pack in a Midget. Malcolm Clark (Midget) was first in the SWB Class, followed by Nigel Pack (Midget) with Geoff Hirst (Midget) third. The LBW Class was won by Robert Taylor (MGA). John Hebb (MG3) was second and Ena Fox (MGB) third. All the organisation was by Ian and Sue Mackenzie, who were not so lucky with the weather on the Saturday when setting the site up.

WH Brand, who were the MG Dealer of the Year in both 2014 and 2015, to celebrate and to raise money for the Nottinghamshire and Lincolnshire Air Ambulance, decided to organise an MG CarFest in 2016. WH Brand have been very supportive of our Centre, so we agreed to support the event. Initially, it was thought that some 30 or 40 cars might attend, but, from little acorns mighty oak trees grow – on the day nearly 200 cars of various ages and manufacture arrived at their premises at Whaplode Drove. Some members joined a ‘Drive In’, organised by Robert Taylor, from the Wishing Well,

MIDLANDS PAUL HIPKISS p.b.hipkiss@live.co.uk

Sunday September 25 saw our last competitive event of 2016, the Autumn Trial, which was staged at Burton Dassett Country Park near Gaydon in Warwickshire. The venue is excellent for a Production Car Trial, consisting of steep grassy banks, which are non-damaging, and occasional bits of woodland.

Peter Manning and Frank Sluter in their Midget

The weather was kind all day, although heavy overnight rain meant some sections were particularly difficult for some of the morning tests.

There was a good entry, with 31 drivers using an interesting range of vehicles, including a Ford KA, a 2CV and rather unexpectedly, a Toyota Celica. We are now used to seeing Adrian and Liz Tucker-Peake in their trials MGF, but on this occasion they were joined by David and Christopher Edwards in their similar but unmodified machine.

Adrian and Liz’s MGF won the Allen Trophy for best MG by one point from Peter Manning and Frank Sluter in their Midget.

There were some entertaining

76 SAFETY FAST! NOVEMBER 2016

MG_SafetyFast_Nov16_50-98.indd 76

proceeding in age order so as to form a ‘Time Line’ (ranging from L2 Magna to MG3) on arrival, while members who were more local made their own way.

With Club displays, stalls raising money for the Air Ambulance and refreshments available, it was an enjoyable day.

The Abbey lodge Natter had a walk around historic Horncastle conducted by Dave and Fran Noble, whilst the Wishing Well members were treated to a quiz.

The Admiral Nelson/TF Register decamped to Derbyshire for a long weekend, again enjoying warm September sunshine. The Luncheon Club took the form of a picnic held at the home of Richard and Vicki Withington, the numbers augmented by 18 Yorkshire members. Finally this month, congratulations to Centre member Adam Key who again won his class in the Cockshoot Cup race during the MGCC Race Meeting at Oulton Park in September.

MGs at the W H Brand Carfest

‘sub-competitions’ taking place among the entrants, with five drivers campaigning Austin 7s, Don and Helen Skelton winning this class. There were eight entries in the Liege class and this resulted in close competition, Ray and Hannah Ferguson taking the class from Mark and Warwick Endley. Oliver Irvine won the Best Novice award.

The hottest battle took place between three Imps which seemed to make light of some challenging conditions, with many zeros decorating the scorecards.

Steve Courts came out on top in this class and was overall winner of the Autumn Cup. Events like this do not happen by accident. Thank you to Tony Lake who, as Secretary of the meeting, ensured that the whole day went smoothly, and thank you to the marshals, officials and other helpers

without whom the Trial would not take place.

A more comprehensive report can be found on the Midland Centre website, www.mgcars.org. uk/mgccmidlandcentre where a large number of pictures of the Trial can be accessed via Facebook.

Our next competitive event, date to be confirmed, will be the Spring Trial at Lintridge Farm in Herefordshire. In addition to the usual format for this event, the Midland Centre Committee is looking at the possibility of including some activities aimed at introducing newcomers to trialling. These activities would be open to anyone aged 16 and above and it would be nice to attract some young people to the sport. Keep an eye on the Midland Centre website and Safety Fast! for more details nearer the event.

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NOVEMBER 2016 SAFETY FAST! 77

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CENTRES

NORTH WEST PAUL GOODMAN 01625 876300

First this month is a final reminder about the Annual Dinner Dance and Awards Presentation being held on November 19 at the Deanwater Hotel. There is still time to book a ticket and join us on what will be a memorable night.

Please contact David Rainsbury by email at david@rainsbury.com if you would like to attend.

With the nights now having drawn in, we will be indoors for our social events this month.

The Old Hall Farm Pub meeting will be on Tuesday November 8, followed by the Plough and Flail on Tuesday November 15. Then on Wednesday November 30 it will be our final lunchtime meeting of the year at The Hornsmill, Chester Road, Hapsford, Chester, WA6 0JE.

One of the functions of all these get-togethers is to look back over the past year, share our MG experiences and fun, and to make plans for 2017. Some events are already inked in on the calendar, both on the competition and social scenes. It looks as if we will be restricted to one sprint weekend at Anglesey (April 29 -30) and we will be running our traditional hillclimb at Scammonden Dam. As well as our regular monthly meetings, we will hope to be represented at many of the outdoor shows during the year. We are having two tall banners made which are easily transportable, to show who and where we are when out in the open air. These will be in addition to our traditional heavy-duty banner.

SOUTH EAST

JO RUFFELS joruffels@gmail.com www.mg-cars.org.uk/mgccse/

Despite the weatherman’s best efforts to scupper the event, Polesden Lacey turned out to be a great day out with unexpected sunshine.

A very impressive 134 MGs turned up for the Autumn

Gathering, with the venue proving to be as popular as ever.

An Edwardian house and estate situated on the North Downs, Polesden Lacey has long been one of the National Trust’s most popular properties. So much so

Cars at Polesden Lacey. Photo: Janice Leigh

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The winning photo taken by David Rainsbury

Back in September, the Cockshoot Cup Championship was decided over two races held a fortnight apart at Oulton Park.

Ross Makar won both of them, under heavy pressure from Gary Wetton, both driving MG ZR190s.

This secured the Championship for Ross, but only on ‘countback’ of dropped scores, with Jeremy Toes the runner-up driving his Midget. Ross secured Class C, Jeremy Class A, with Adam Key triumphing in Class F and Ray Collier the victor in Class B. Everything points to another wellsupported championship in 2017

with a return to Cadwell Park and Croft being mooted.

Those of you who attended the EventCity Manchester Classic Car Show will have seen the eight photographs which were the finalists in our competition displayed on our stand. Visitors were asked to vote for their favourite, with the winner being taken by David Rainsbury. His picture was taken at the Avro Heritage Museum, Woodford, on Drive It Day. The Avro Vulcan has had a complete re-paint recently and so we intend to repeat the visit in 2017.

that the Club are considering making it a regular fixture for autumn events.

Car of the Show went to Nigel Scutt (British racing green MGF) with the Premier Pride of Ownership award to Peter Barrell (TD) and Pride of Ownership first place awarded to Carl Foot (MG RV8). The full results can be seen on the web page: www.mg-cars.org.uk/ mgccse/news.html Earlier in the month, the East Kent Wanderers ran a successful French-themed day, kicking off with croissants and coffee at The Bistro, Etchingham Railway Station and culminating in a game of petanque and French cricket. An eclectic mix of MGs turned out for the day. Balloons were released from Etchingham Railway Station bridge in the hope that these would make it

over the Channel; the group are still waiting to hear back from anyone finding one of these in the fields of France.

Upcoming Events: Ashdown Adventurers – lunchtime run Wednesday November 2 Burrswood, Groombridge to Bodle Street Green for a shared curry buffet.

For details contact Richard Clark (ricky140clark@ntlworld.com) Tuesday November 8 Brooklands Natter – Early Guided Museum Tour, Brooklands (dannybyrne@talktalk.net) Monday November 21 – Technical Natter at Three Horseshoes, Sidlow (johnv. morgan@btinternet.com) Speaker still to be confirmed.

For other regular meetings and Natters please check these out on the MGCC web page.

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25/10/2016 09:27

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NOVEMBER 2016 SAFETY FAST! 79

25/10/2016 09:28

CENTRES

SOUTH WEST

BRUCE WESTON bruceweston@tiscali.co.uk www.mgccsw.com www.facebook.com/MGCCSW This year is the 80th anniversary of the formation of the South Western Centre of the MGCC. The Centre was not the first to be formed but, like others, was originally set up to promote competition in general and interest in the MG marque.

The centre continues to promote the original aims of the MGCC with an annual championship which

awards points for attendance at the various events held throughout the year.

By the time these notes appear, you will have missed or taken part in MGOG2 (MGs on Grass II) run by Dave Coppock as an Autotest with 12 cars taking part. This event was followed by Wiscombe Park Hillclimb where, in improving weather conditions, 140 cars took to the tarmac for a great day’s motorsport. The marshals, who had to endure bad weather to begin with, were rewarded by an afternoon of brilliant sunshine with little to do except watch and admire the variety of machinery, ranging from 1929–2014, pushing the limits of the track.

TYNE TEES

NOEL LINDFORD noel.lindford@btinternet.com

The 2016 Thames Bridges and Tunnels of London run took place on Saturday September 24, a charity event organised by the Essex Region of the MGF Register. The 70 MG entries included a supercharged MG PA, a supercharged ZT-T V8, Zip, an ex-race MGF VVC, and my MG TF 85. We gathered for dinner

Cars assemble for the start of the Thames Tunnels and Bridges Run

at Simon’s Diner, adjacent to Wimbledon Stadium, and it was great to see MGFs and TFs entered from Germany, Holland and France.

Following a very comprehensive drivers’ and navigators’ briefing (my brother Max was my navigator) cars were flagged away as dusk fell. The superb road-book took us on an itinerary which visited many iconic parts of the City from Westminster to Canary Wharf and Docklands, traversing many of the Thames bridges and tunnels.

The night-time views whilst crossing Waterloo Bridge were just stunning! This was, without doubt, the hardest road run I have ever entered, calling for intense concentration and teamwork to keep us on track for well over

80 SAFETY FAST! NOVEMBER 2016

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To celebrate 80 years of the SW Centre, a social run was organised for October 9, which would visit the hotel in Bath where Cecil Kimber presided over the inaugural meeting of the Centre, before finishing at Chew Valley Lake for a get-together. With competition still on the calendar, the Kimber Car Trial was scheduled for October 16 and would end the championship season for 2016.

So, time to make plans for 2017, check the car(s) over and decide what you will do to help promote the SW Centre.

The Annual SW Dinner will be held on Saturday February 27 at Limpley Stoke, near Bath, and the AGM will be held at Compton Martin on Tuesday March 7, which is also Natter night.

A date for your diary is May 13 2017 which celebrates the 80th anniversary of the first Kimber Classic Trial, which for the last 30 years has been centred on South Somerset and West Dorset and run by the SW Centre.

In 2016 there were 24 MMM cars and 38 pre-1955 entries. So why not join them for an historic event and visit a few of the green roads left which have not been turned into restricted byways.

Keep up-to-date by visiting the website or contacting the monthly scribe.

This month’s photos, taken by Colin Murrell, show SW members at Wiscombe. Andrew Morland, winner of the Don Smith Trophy, in the L1 and Neil Lock approaching the gate in his MG TF.

four hours’ continuous driving, all top-down on a warm evening.

Add an unplanned security cordon around Admiralty Arch, calling for a quick rethink on how to get to Buckingham Palace, which we managed to do, just with local knowledge of where we were. A superb, well-organised event, and we were relieved that we made it as far as the M25 east, where we chose the optional break-off point.

A brilliant road-run from the Essex Region MGF guys. Epic!

Saturday December 3: TyneTees Centre Awards Dinner to be held once again at the Gibside Hotel, Whickham. Arrive 7.30pm for 8.00pm. Tickets are available at £23.50 for a four-course Christmas dinner. This very enjoyable evening is open to all members, families and friends. Should you wish to make a weekend of it, overnight rooms (at advantageous rates) including breakfast are available at the Gibside Hotel. All enquiries and bookings to: Lyn Ebdon at lyn.ebdon@mail.com or 01434 607067. There should also be a booking form on our Tyne-Tees website at http://www.mgcc.co.uk/ tyne-tees-centre/future-events/

Events Coming Up Saturday November 12: York Social Trip by train. Why not join us on this unique social day out in York, boarding a train at a station near you on the East Coast main line. David Alexander has an itinerary which should appeal to all tastes. Contact David on 01670 861178 or email david. alexander2012@btinternet.com

Diversion to the Palace, straight on during the Thames Tunnels and Bridges Run

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25/10/2016 09:28

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1993 MG RV8 Pearl White, Stone trim. Superb example of an RV8, not concours but excellent.

Stunning in Mica Pearl White, tan mohair hood and yes, the registration is really MGR 3.9L (MGR 39L), the ultimate RV8 registration. Unique opportunity to own a superb piece of MG history. £26,495.00

1971 MGB ROADSTER Teal Blue, Autumn Leaf trim. Excellent interior. New seats and carpets. Moto Lita wheel, s/s sports exhaust, alloy rocker cover, K&N filters, servo. Body trim excellent. Reliable car looks great. Paint has a few knocks and pimples as expected. Great value. £8,995.00

1967 MGB GT V8 BRG, Biscuit/green leather trim. Fully restored last nut & bolt 5 years ago. Professionally converted to V8 spec, no expense spared. Webasto roof. Moto Lita wheel.

15” minilites. Fast touring car. Rare early GT. Superb! £23,995.00

All items Supplied - from body panels, interiors & engines to headlights & wheel nuts

Tel: 07722 175473 East Lydford, Somerset Email: usedmgspares@hotmail.co.uk

SHEPPERTON, MIDDLESEX TEL: 01932 241843 / 07836 281493 WWW.CHURCHSQUAREAUTOS.COM EMAIL: MGSALES@CHURCHSQUAREAUTOS.COM

MG MGF Racecar #65 ‘RACING RED

MG TF LE500 160vvc. Pre Production/Press car.

MG TF 135 Style pack. (just 48,000 miles)

MG TF 135 Style Pack.1 owner (just 23,000 miles)

1997 (PP Reg)Manual, Petrol, Finished in RED Winner of ‘D’ class MGCC Trophy championship 2010/11/12.

Mems3 kmap ecu, miltek exhaust, 4 way hydrogas adjusters, new Gaz shockers, 16” alloys 3 race old tyres, 85th uprated anti rollbar, front oil cooler, light weight racing hardtop, Raced in the MGCC Cockshoot cup.

Fresh engine, new headgasket etc lightweight clutch.

99% finishing record. Road reg. Road cars taken in part exchange. Set up data, possible race support given. P.O.A.

2008 (08 Reg) 27,000 Miles, Manual, Petrol, White. We have fitted a 160vvc engine, including a sports exhaust and Kmaps upgraded ECU. Black leather sport seats, black trim, black hood with a heated glass rear screen. Soft ride suspension, engine water level censor. Just 2 owners MG + myself . Possibly the only LE 160 vvc . Choice of black or silver alloys. Reluctant sale to help pay for New LE500 190 racecar. £6,895

2010 (10 Reg), Manual, Petrol, Finished in: Silver/ Black leather Style pack ltd edition 2011 year model with folding mirrors. Black leather sport seats, soft ride suspension, heated glass rear screen in soft top, engine water level censor, 16” twisted pepper alloys, silver interior trim. Recent ull service with a new cambelt, brake disc’s and pads alround and moted. Colour coded hardtop available with leather head lining £450. One of the last 130 MG TF’s made. £4,995

2011 model year TF135 Style pack. Ltd edition high spec models. One owner from new full service history services and just 23,000 miles. 2011 model fitted with folding door mirrors. Style pack fitted with a heated glass rear screen, remote boot opening, engine water level censor, soft ride suspension, wind deflector, full leather sport seats, silver interior console and trims plus unmarked 16” Twisted pepper alloys and Red 4 pot brake calipers. Superb. £6,495

MG MGF 1.8i (just 38,000 miles)

MG TF 115 Sunstorm (just 52,000 miles)

MG TF 160 vvc Sprint ltd ed. (just 59,000 miles)

MG TF 115 (just 38,000 miles)

2003 (03 Reg)Manual,Petrol,Finished in: Tahiti Blue/black leather. A very low mileage huge spec MGF 1.8i, Owned by MG plus 1 Lady from new.

Rare 03/03 MGF. Very high spec. Fitted with air con (just serviced), full black leather sport seats, silver interior trim, 16” SE alloys, abs, Glass heated rear screen etc, with full service history including old mots and bills. Headgasket replaced. Just serviced and a new clutch fitted plus moted. Outstanding. £2,995

2004 (04 Reg) Manual, Petrol, Finished in: Silver/ Black leather grey inserts High spec ltd edition model. This model looks like a 160vvc. Fitted with sports pack 2, Red 4 pot brake calipers, 16” alloys, front fog lights, chrome packs, smokestone cockpit etc . Headgasket/cambelt/water pump etc replaced recently .Low insurance .Just serviced and moted. Colour coded hardtop available for £350 + vat. Excellent condition. £2,995

2004 (53 Reg) Manual Petrol Finished in: Xpower Grey/black leather grey inserts Previously supplied by us twice. Rare 2004 TF160vvc Sprint ltd edition.

Sports pack 2 with 16” alloys, smokestone cockpit, chrome packs, fog lights, Documented service history with bills and every mot, high spec. This superb MG is just going though our workshop and having a new Headgasket/water pump/cambelt and mot. £3,695

2003 (52 Reg), Manual, Petrol, Finished in: Silver/Black TF115 1600cc just 38,000 miles, low insurance group. Full service history will bills 10 service stamps ,headgasket replaced at 20,000m.

Mud flaps all round, bumper protectors, Colour coded hardtop available for £350 +vat. Excellent condition. £1,995

VIEWING BY APPOINTMENT PLEASE

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MG_SafetyFast_Nov16_50-98.indd 81

This is just a small selection from our stock

FAMILY BUSINESS ESTABLISHED 1981 OUR OFFICE/ SHOWROOM IS AT 62B HIGH STREET SHEPPERTON TW17 9AU

www.churchsquareautos.com NOVEMBER 2016 SAFETY FAST! 81

25/10/2016 09:28

CENTRES

YORKSHIRE

DAVID COPEMAN 07920 064585 www.mgccyorkshire.co.uk North – Ken Cothliff 15 cars from the Natter supported the Burley Classic Car Show at the end of August. The weekend after was the Dales Run, our major event of the year.

Weather was good and there was an excellent attendance at the start, at the Bay Horse in Skipton. Over £1,000 was raised for our charities.

South – Geoff Norcliffe The Christmas celebration will be a daytime affair this year, with a visit to the Christmas Market in Knaresbrough followed by a late lunch. This will all take place on December 4 and if you want to go, contact Natter leader

Malcolm Perry ASAP. Before then, our November Natter will feature a photo and caption evening. Bring your pics and captions on a memory stick for showing on the night.

East – Chris Moore We recently held a Bubblecar Museum Camping Weekend.

A very interesting collection, not only of bubble cars but motorcycles, Bond cars, cycles and lots of memorabilia. The museum also has a lovely cafe.

Historic and Classic Event at Fort Paull – We had a glorious, warm, sunny Sunday for the show and there were some lovely cars, campervans,

ULSTER

CAROL WILLIS (028) 9079 9997 or 07831 345560 www.mgcculstercentre.co.uk carol.mgulster@hotmail.co.uk

The autumn sun shone strongly on October 1 at the opening Ulster Centre PCT and Grass Slalom of the season. It was held at Erwin’s potato farm at Cunningburn near Newtownards (to quote the doggerel: ‘At Cunningburn by the salt-sea, a young man was stung by a bee!!’). With a healthy entry of 24 competitors, a theme of ‘fathers and offspring’ was abundant as the blue skies brought out three generations of drivers and a splendid agerange of vehicles. Cars ranged from Terence Bradley and son Matthew in their charming 1928 Austin 7 to the more modern, 1990s Vauxhall Corsa of winning

duo Bailie and Will Thompson.

An excellent entry of MGs and derivatives included Mark Brien and Paddy Luft in their 1953 MG TD, Dermot and son Patrick Johnston and Richard McCracken with Reuben Erwin in early Frogeye Sprites, Paul Beardmore with daughters and Davy and Robbie Gomes respectively in Healey Sprite and modified Midget. A couple of VW Beetles of Robert McGimpsey with compatriot Trevor Faulkner, and father and daughter Gary and Valerie Milligan extended the variety of older cars being used for this kinder but very competitive event.

Trevor Reid set out three

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motorcycles, and military vehicles entered. The event fees all go to the cancer charity Her Breast Friend.

West – David Copeman MGs were left at home as members boarded a narrowboat for a day’s sailing along the River Calder, then taking to the Calder and Hebble Navigation canal. Thanks’ to Mick Thorpe for organising the day and his wife Judith for providing an excellent lunch.

Tiger – Pete Welbourn The final luncheon run for many Natter members this summer was south through Lincolnshire to attend the Lincolnshire Centre picnic at the home of Richard Withington. Many thanks to Richard for putting on the event and inviting us along.

challenging PCTs on what were initially damp fields, following removal of their potato and arable crops. However, with a brisk wind and drying conditions, and competitors rapidly learning the routes, the tests became quicker and easier. So it was finally down to a run-off between father and son Thompson to see off the competition and in the end, a dead-heat with zero penalties was pronounced for them both. On the grass slalom, Will also saw off the opposing Micra of father and son Wallace and Ben McKee, to win by a fraction of a second. Ben’s granny, Claire McCully, put in a quick time on her final run in the Micra to be the fastest lady competitor of the day.

The grass slalom generated much-desired ‘sideways’ action and some enthusiastic

Vale of York – Ken Cothliff Yet another wonderful sunny day brought out a good attendance for September. This time we had an exceptional selection of MGs. The Natter is gathering strength, and we are delighted with the support.

Taking up the treasurer’s job, Rod organized our first competition and raffle with some wine and “Speckled Hen” up for grabs. We also discussed a celebration of the festive season and our first Christmas lunch will be on December15.

If you are reading this and in the North Yorkshire area and feel like joining in, we’ll be happy to see you at lunchtime at the Masons, Hopperton, on the third Wednesday of the month.

competitors went on for a third and fourth run to make sure their cars were well undersealed with clay for the forthcoming winter!

The event was a great, fun day out for all competitors.

With a healthy group of new competitors and young drivers, the Centre was enthused by the turnout. Thanks must go to all the marshals and to the Erwin family for letting us abuse their potato fields; so everyone, please eat more spuds so we can be back there again next year!

Stephen Dawson Dates for your diary: November 5 AutoSOLO (all forwards driving tests) December 6 Mince Pie Natter – Shandon Park Golf Club with charity presentations to Alzheimer Society and Brain Cancer Research

www.mgcc.co.uk

25/10/2016 09:28

B13 - Barrie Carter_CLASSIC MOTORING 17/10/2016 10:50 Page 1

Due to rude anonymous email picture collectors who don’t bother to reply, I will only send details to those who have supplied a telephone number Morris Marshall 1957 Only 1000 of these very rare large imposing family saloons were made by BMC for the Australian market. Very few remain and this will be the only one in Europe. In store in Tasmania for many years at a tech college, it has now been recommissioned and its 6 cyl Healey 100/6 engine is in fine fettle as is the 4 speed manual box. The car appears to be rust free and very sound throughout. Interior is in red. A rare period car for the family or towing your historic race car. £7,500

Austin A40 Somerset historic rally car. This car has had 1 owner for at least 30 years and only for sale due to his age. It has covered many Rallies, Rusticana, Le Jog etc.

It is in lovely original condition inside and has upgraded brakes and a modified 1500 MGA engine, suspension, and wider wheels. The engine is at present being rebuilt and can be supplied in any guise. A lovely conditioned useful historic rally car, whose preparation would cost more than the price of the car. £8,750

XPAG engines built to any specification – supplied or exchange

Volvo 121 Amazon Estate

Nice and scruffy but not rotten. I’ve used it daily for about a year. Only needed track rod for the MOT – no welding needed.

Later type seats, fitted later V20 twin carb engine. Does all it should do and performs very well. Getting very rare now.

CM11.16/B13/rrp

£3,750

Established 1982

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AutoService Centre Paul Depper MGs, Watling Street (A5), Cannock, Staffs WS11 9NA www.pauldeppermgs.com | 01543 376222 | info@pauldeppermgs.com *stock permitting, on items ordered before 1:30pm tuesdays to fridays

NOVEMBER 2016 SAFETY FAST! 83

25/10/2016 09:28

REGISTERS

VINTAGE

JOHN VENABLES 01865 862573 johnandtriciav@gmail.com

As we approach the end of the year, Christmas will soon be upon us with all the usual festivities, so perhaps it is time to reflect upon 2016.

We started the year with our April spring event and returned to Dumbleton Hall near Broadway. We had 12 cars there and enjoyed good weather with a varied number of visits.

All too soon we were at MGLive! at Silverstone. We had a stand put together by John Day, which also won an award as one of the best stands, the theme being our heritage. We had the earliest Bullnose MG Super Sports known, alongside John’s beautiful 18/80. The bullnose found a new owner by the end of

the event and I am sure we shall see it about next year.

The next event was a week in Guernsey, which was very much enjoyed by the participants; a super hotel and a very varied week. I was down to go but had to drop out due to eye problems, sadly. This was organised by Marion Quarrington who is a Guernsey girl, so had good insider knowledge.

We now have to think ahead to 2017. We shall have a spring event again, details next month, and we shall have our AGM on Sunday March 5 at the Shillingford Bridge Hotel, again at 10.30 for 11.00am.

An interesting speaker has been arranged for a talk after lunch.

Youngsters love the Vintage MGs. Photo taken at a VSCC event

John Cooper, our treasurer, has just sold his 18/80 tourer.

We shall miss him in the very distinctive car, but he will stay with the committee until the AGM. The new owner is Lawrence Humphreys from Usk, and we welcome him to the VR. There are a couple more 18/80s on the market at present. I am sure they will soon find good homes eventually. These cars, along with

the Bullnose Super Sports, the flat nose and the 14/40s are the earliest MGs and interesting to drive and maintain, to say the least. The 18/80 has a good turn of speed and a well set-up one will maintain 60 mph all day.

It is now the time of year to do those little jobs before the new season arrives. The years seem to go so quickly – must be my age.

with many MMMers sourcing parts for rebuilds and having a general get-together/natter (excuses for not completing said rebuilds). Further details can be found at: http:// mgandtriumphsparesday.co.uk/

this will test the Dutch “Raiders” – a trialling ‘Orange Clog’, or a racing red J2, perhaps?

TRIPLE M

JEREMY HAWKE +44 (0)1225 863934 mgk3007@btinternet.com www.triple-mregister.org Winter Beckons So, here we are with November’s MMM notes. As you read this, the clocks will have gone back and for most of us the season will have drawn to a close. These jottings should have contained a write-up of the SW Centre Kimber Trial.

Alas, however, a combination of weather, day job and preparation time meant that I missed it; a shame, as not only is it jolly good fun and about as non-damaging as any trial can be, but also the last event that MBH and J2396 attended before she passed into my care, so we try to do it every year. A slight plus to this is that at least I start the list of winter tasks with a clean(ish) car. Though the heavy-duty electrical side of

things has now been renewed after the minor panic of earlier this summer, the brakes of the J2 are overdue a little TLC, along with a bit of sprucing up in the paint department as, next year, ‘Grandad’s car’ will be called on (Austin Sevens and M Types excepted) as the world’s smallest Wedding Limo! There is also, of course, the Powerplus still to be completed on 007, both competing for priority with…..a bathroom.

Such are the joys of life…

Early Warnings – 2017 Events for Your Diary Stoneleigh MG (and Triumph) Spares Day: Though not strictly an MGCC event, now confirmed for February 19, this is popular

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Kimber Classic Trial: Now moving from its usual Easter slot, for 2017, the 2017 event will be held on Saturday May 13 based around the same venue, East Coker, near Yeovil in Somerset.

Coming hot on the heels of the MMM racing at Brands Hatch,

Keeping with the trialling theme, our photo this month has been unearthed from the ‘P Type’ box – at least it’s one I can identify.

Taken by, I think, the late Wallace Birtwhistle and from the 1970s, it shows the now re-activated PB of then owner, Paul Fletcher, doing its thing in the mud. Apart from moving a few badges about, the car looks exactly the same today as it did back then.

www.mgcc.co.uk

25/10/2016 09:28

REGISTERS

SVW

PAUL CAMPBELL svw.safety.fast@gmail.com www.svwregister.co.uk

We’re pleased to provide details of the SVW Event in Colchester next July. John Dutton has been to stay with Robert and Jane Crayston and therefore has first-hand experience of the delights that await us – John reports below.

The 2017 annual SVW Register Event will be held near Colchester, bordering Essex and Suffolk, an area that typifies the English countryside, famed for being the setting of many of John Constable’s paintings; also very convenient for members coming from Holland and Germany, being close to the port of Harwich. The two-day Event is mid-week starting late afternoon on Tuesday July 4 and ending

after lunch on July 6. Rally HQ will be the Stoke by Nayland Golf and Country Club, www. stokebynayland.com Tel. +(44) 1206 262836. Booking now open quoting “MG Car Club ref.

085677”. Full details can be found on the website and in the next edition. Event organisers are Robert and Jane Crayston (VA Tourer) – email: robertcrayston@ btconnect.com.

For the third year, I was asked to display my VA Tourer at the Goodwood Revival, where they like it on the airfield next to the re-enactment group staging a WW2 scene. There are always several Spitfires and other aircraft to complete the vista. No one is

T TYPE

JOHN WARD 01621 773606 johnw.ward@yahoo.co.uk www.tregister.org NUMBUM’S TOUR OF BRITAIN You will recall in the September edition the adventurous story of the couple from Stockton-onTees who set off on a remarkable journey to circumnavigate clockwise the coast roads of Britain in their 1937 TA ‘Numbum’. Well, they got as far as Fort William before a number of factors forced them to abandon the easterly run over to John o’ Groats and sadly to return home just a little early.

All this was also done to raise awareness and to seek donations to the worthwhile cause of Harrison’s Fund for research into Duchenne

Muscular Dystrophy, and the committee had no hesitation at the T Register Autumn Tour Gala Dinner in awarding them ‘The Montague Burton Trophy’, an annual award in recognition for exploits in a T Type.

Enjoying the Goodwood Revival meeting

allowed airside unless in period military uniform, so this time I ordered an authentically correct RAF uniform – Squadron Leader!

This allowed me access to the MG and to chat with some of the other people I’ve got to know over a cup of tea at the ‘NAAFI’.

Saturday was terribly wet but I put the hood up on Friday evening before the deluge. Friday and Sunday were beautiful days, so we made the most of it and reserved Friday for some of the indoor activities.

Hot off the Press! Some of you will recall the VA Saloon that appeared at the SVW Event in Chichester last year. This was Cecil Kimber’s last MG at the time he died in the rail crash in 1945. The owner has been doing mechanical recommissioning work and took it out on September 24 for the first time since it was last on the road in 1963. I was highly privileged in that he drove over to me and took me for a spin. Photo(s) next month.

Another year draws to a close, and there is just one more item on the T Register calendar, which is an all-important committee meeting scheduled for October 30.

Important, for it will be debated and decisions made as to which course we take for the future of communicating with you, the T Register members.

Ample notice and opportunity

has been given for you to air your views, and all will be considered at the meeting. The outcome will be too late for these notes, but a full report will be in the final edition of the 2016 T Register News, now due out in the first week of November.

T Register Secretary Sally Silcock presents Owen and Pam Frankland with ‘The Montague Burton Trophy’

www.mgcc.co.uk

MG_SafetyFast_Nov16_50-98.indd 85

The Trophy at home with ‘Numbum’

NOVEMBER 2016 SAFETY FAST! 85

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REGISTERS

Y TYPE

JERRY BIRKBECK jerrybirkbeck@btinternet.com www.mgccyregister.co.uk Tel: 01926 258691 Mob: 07855 566325 Thatcher and ‘her’ Y Type I was sent a photo recently by Julian Bosworth, a Y owner, who had been forwarded it by a friend, of Meryl Streep (aka Margaret Thatcher) driving a YA in the film The Iron Lady, which was released in 2009. The Y is owned by Mike Kelloway, from East Sussex, and is I understand the third owner since the Y (Chassis No Y3200) was first registered on July 6 1949.

Whilst I am aware that Ys have appeared in films and TV, I would be interested to be advised of any that you are aware of. I seem to recall that during the 1990s (?) a white YA (?) was regularly seen in a BBC television series.

Y Types for Sale Those of you who follow the auctions and `For Sale’ columns of the Classic Car press will have seen very few Ys for sale. Those that are for sale are commanding relatively high prices and indeed some look very tempting for the money. I am sure that many of you are well aware that what makes `a good buy’ is dependent upon many factors, most of which are obvious. One key point that I have become aware of, having looked and bought an MG recently (though not a Y), is the temptation presented by low-mileage cars which have been used infrequently. You need to factor in the cost of durables,

MAGNETTE

STEPHEN TICKELL 01737 760330 stephen.tickell@gmail.com www.magnette.org

Lou Shorten Tribute weekend As is now traditional, our final event of the year took place at Norwich over the first weekend of October, and as usual there was a good turnout of people and cars. This year marked the

John Shorten with the new Register gazebo

second Lou Shorten tribute, so it was very fitting that so many people once again returned to Lenwade which Lou, together with husband John, had made the spiritual home of the Z Magnette for over 50 years.

Saturday dawned sunny and bright for open-house at Lenwade, and whilst this did not last right through the day, John had very thoughtfully put up a large marquee on his lawn, which provided shade in the morning and shelter from the rain in the afternoon! This was accompanied by our brand new gazebo, looking resplendent in bright red and sign-written to promote the Register. It was purchased with a donation from John in memory of Lou,

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which in this instance I had, such as a complete set of new tyres and inner tubes (the date is stamped on the tyre wall) even though the tread and tyre walls appear excellent. Anything over 10 years old ought to be replaced. In my instance the tyres looked fine, but they were 28 years old, and a brief drive on them made me appreciate just how hard and inflexible they were! They were duly changed.

I have also changed the fuel lines, which were rubber, and I am in the process of changing the rubber suspension bushes for

polyurethane bushes. Okay, it’s not a major expense – although a set of 5.25 x 16 tyres plus inner tubes for a YA or YT can amount to over £550 including VAT, plus delivery and fitting, which means you are about to spend around £600 on tyres alone. A useful point in haggling if the vendor is willing to do so.

Enjoy your Y during the next few months and use it – even though it may be cold. They are there to be used, and who knows what restrictions may be placed on the use of our cars in the future!

to provide a constant reminder of the wonderful legacy she has left us. John was formally thanked for his generosity and we were very pleased to also be joined by Lou’s daughter Jenny and husband Ed, who have been staunch supporters of our Norwich events for many years.

After the successful open day, we retired to the King’s Arms, a pub/restaurant in the small village of Reepham, just six miles away, where we spent a very enjoyable evening to round off a day that had clearly demonstrated the marque of friendship.

The weather on Sunday was similarly mixed, with a cool wind, but John and Cynthia Harris had wisely selected a mainly indoor venue, the Air Defence Radar Museum at Neatishead. Now run by

volunteers rather than the RAF (who still operate the adjacent base), the museum had kindly agreed to open on a Sunday specially for our visit.

After coffee and general chat, we were given an introductory talk followed by a tour of some of the exhibits, including radar control rooms from both WWII and the Cold War – the latter is actually a real installation that’s been mothballed since the 1990s.

There’s a huge amount to see in the various rooms, so most of us took a breather to enjoy an appetising buffet lunch, provided by the museum.

Thanks to John and Cynthia for arranging the visit, and to the museum staff for their warm hospitality.

Peter Martin & Stephen Tickell

www.mgcc.co.uk

25/10/2016 09:28

MG TA BODY FOR SALE

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MG_SafetyFast_Nov16_50-98.indd 87

NOVEMBER 2016 SAFETY FAST! 87

25/10/2016 09:29

REGISTERS

MIDGET

NEIL THOMAS 07891 684435 ns.tenby@hotmail.com www.midgetregister.com Wow, where has this last month gone? I guess my two-week cruise devoured most of the month. I missed my MG and became a little stir crazy by the 10th day, but at that time I was somewhere in the Atlantic and so daren’t jump ship! To get over it, when I got home, I just had to take my K Midget on to the track. This was on Friday September 30 at Castle Combe. Along with my regular track day compatriots, we took people out for five laps and they made a contribution to Hope for Tomorrow, a charity which raises money for mobile chemotherapy units. One of my passengers had just completed seven months of chemotherapy and wanted to make a contribution to the charity.

He was a lovely guy and I enjoyed taking him around. If you want to watch the 11-minute clip, go to this You Tube link: https://youtu. be/Flm76K6LPts I was gentle and began slowly, but speeded up. He loved it.

I’ll be at Castle Combe again on September 13, where my son will join me for his first Track Day Experience and he will be driving my K Midget, too. Yikes! Then on October 23, the extremely vibrant K Midget group are doing a Track Day on the Anglesey circuit. There will be 10 K and Zetec-powered Midgets taking part.

Now news of the Midget Challenge and end-of-year results. James Dunkley was the overall and Class A Champion.

MGC

GINNY CARTMELL 01208 821552 ginnycartmell@btinternet.com

With 2017 being such a huge year for the C Register, we thought we would cram in as much as we possibly could. To this end, we would like to kick off 2017, our 50th Anniversary year with a visit to Brooklands MG Era Day on Sunday April 2 and also include the night before, taking in the South East Centre’s Dinner and Dance on Saturday April 1.

Barrie and I, along with a few other MGC owners, attended the events this April and had a great weekend, taking in the Dinner Dance and MG Era at Brooklands the next day. The giant octagon display in front of the Club House was taken up by MG T Types; with the central area being reserved

for TAs who celebrate their 80th Anniversary this year. Although we can only boast a mere 50 years in 2017, we will have the privilege of that main display area next year.

Your contact for this event will be Jon Glover – Jon is not only a member of the South East Centre, he is also a member of Brooklands, so very well-placed to be the organiser on this occasion.

And, I must also add, has an MGC himself.

Jon will be selecting eight very special MGCs to go around the giant octagon in the centre of the paddock and a further 30 to display around the paddock.

These cars will need to stay in place throughout the day.

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Martyn Clews in his AH Sprite – Ernie Foster Cup Winner

James Dunkley – Class A and overall Champion

Andy Southcott won Class B. Nigel Lackford won Class D and Pippa Cow took Class E Honours. The Ernie Foster Shield, award by the Midget Register to the winner of Class D at MGLive!, was awarded to Martyn Clews this year.

A very well done to all

these worthy winners. A good season of racing was enjoyed

by Register members, and a big thank you goes to Gill Duffy and John Hutchison for putting on the events during the season. Roll on next year.

Well, until next month, that’s all for now folks. See you soon.

Overflow parking will also be available nearby. Whether you wish to display your MGC or just attend this great event, in the first instance please register your interest with Jon, to enable him to gauge numbers and any additional parking space needed.

The weekend, we believe, will start at the Fairmile Hotel, Premier Inn, Cobham, for those wanting accommodation in the area. The South East Centre Dinner Dance in Reigate is just a short drive away, we would recommend by taxi. Tickets for the evening will be available via the South East Centre. Terry Giles will be giving us more information on tickets very soon.

You might want to make contact with him and register your interest for the dinner... terry@ wireless-research.co.uk

To book your Brooklands MG Era Day tickets, you will need to wait until January, as that detail is not available as yet. For any other information regarding this event, please contact Jon Glover, details below. He will be more than happy to answer any questions you might have. jongloveractor@gmail.com; Mobile number: 07802 318950 MGC 50th Anniversary Regalia...

Our MGC 50th Anniversary Regalia is selling like hot cakes, and another clothing order has just gone in to our supplier at time of writing. For a list of anniversary merchandise available, or if you haven’t already pre-ordered andwould like to do so, please give me a call or drop an email to me.

www.mgcc.co.uk

25/10/2016 09:29

H1 - CLIVE WHEATLEY_H7 - CLIVE WHEATLEY 26/03/2015 11:29 Page 1

New Replacement MG RV8 Heatshield Fits above catalysts on the underside of the car. Stops heat ingress and paint burning on underside of car £119.50 NEW All Alloy 15 inch Replacement Wheels for the GTV8 £384 With an alloy centre and a highly polished alloy rim. Weighs approx 2kg lighter.

No further rusting.

Tel: +44 (0)1746 710810 Fax: 01746 710999 email: sales@mgv8parts.com (between Bridgnorth & Wolverhampton)

Full workshop facilities: servicing, repairs, MoT and prep.

RV8 wood refurbishment & mail order services worldwide.

RV8 Main header rail and filler. £59.95

Catering for all MGB, V8, V8 conversions & RV8 vehicles.

ALL PRICES INCLUDE VAT

www.mgv8parts.com

RV8 Front brake caliper clips & pins. £15.95

RV8 New Polyurethane rear anti-roll bar bushes. £16.70 for the pair

V8 Engine Steady Bar This is the best you can buy for the money! £50.60

BRAND NEW high torque starter motor.

British made £252

HERITAGE APPROVED

RV8 cars available for sale - please call

RV8 Spax Krypton filled dampers

Adjustable on car through 28 different stages £129.00 each (front) £142.25 each (rear) full set £522 - save £20.50

CM05.15/H1/kk

OVERSEAS MAIL ORDER AVAILABLE

RV8 Petrol Tank Sender with Seal & Locking Ring. £59.95

RV8 boot stays. £30.20 each

RV8 Bespoke Smoked Perspex Windstop. £234

Highgrosvenor, Worfield, WV15 5PN

Genuine RV8 heater valve (ZKC 5119 - the correct one) £54.95 RV8 Brake Servo. Made by the original manufacturer £118.80

RV8 front radiator cover Black £199.50 Part Carbon Fibre £227.80

genuine & conversion parts

New, better quality, harder wearing replacement overmats. Original patterns, colour & embroidered with MG logo. Pair RV8 mats £99.50

URGENT PROOF Please check this proof carefully for errors in style, content and layout.

Although every care is exercised in preparing your advert, we cannot hold ourselves responsible for any inaccuracies you may overlook.

SHOULD YOU REQUIRE ANY ALTERATIONS TO THIS PROOF PLEASE TELEPHONE BEFORE _ _ _ _ _ _ _ AND QUOTE ADVERT NO. _ _ _ _ _

Telephone 01206

Fax 01206 500180

We reserve the right to charge for any alteration to this proof which is a departure from the original copy

www.mgcc.co.uk

MG_SafetyFast_Nov16_50-98.indd 89

NOVEMBER 2016 SAFETY FAST! 89

25/10/2016 09:29

REGISTERS

V8

VICTOR SMITH 0208 392 9434 victorsmith@v8register.net www.v8register.net

Best-buy dash cams Since we last looked at dash cams they have continued to improve in terms of functionality and performance. There has also been a surge in the popularity of dash cams, so the results of the latest product test by the leading consumer group Which? are a useful guide if you are thinking of getting one.

Invaluable footage of an incident can assist in clarifying the truth where, for example, another driver clips your car and subsequently disputes your claim after an incident or they drove off.

A dash cam can also be invaluable in connection with so-called ‘cash for crash’ scams. The latest

dash cams have a ‘parking mode’ recording capability, too, that can capture a video record if your car is bumped into whilst parked.

The best buys with a Which? rating and typical store cost are all Nextbase models: the 312GW Deluxe rated 72% at £99, 212 Lite (71% at £69) and 512G Ultra (71% at £179). The Which? review of the 312GW Deluxe mentions a similar model, the Nextbase In-Car Cam 212, as £30 cheaper at £69, but it does not have the GPS feature (location and speed recording, but some might feel that is desirable if it were necessary to release a recording as evidence) and Wi-Fi (to transfer recorded

V8 Roadster rebuild project Following a major restoration of an MGB GTV8 previously owned by Dugald McNeill, Mike Macartney met up with his old friend and, as Dugald was

so attached to the car, Mike generously let it go back to him!

But Mike had thoroughly enjoyed driving the V8 so the MG V8 bug had bitten him! We soon heard Mike had bought another MG V8 for restoration, a V8 Roadster conversion. As he was preparing the car to start the restoration, Mike then offered to send in regular reports of the restoration.

The series of detailed illustrated reports Mike has sent for release on the V8 website have covered the lengthy preparation of the bodyshell and its transfer to a specialist for painting in Teal Blue.

The 80th report covered its return from the paintshop and the start of reassembly. It’s a fascinating series – follow it via the link on the ‘More’ webpage.

unenthusiastic workforce who didn’t really pay much attention to what was required, and the fact they did not get the buildings they were promised to set up the factory were just some of the issues they encountered. The moulds for the body, doors and other sections were literally constructed in the open air, which led to far from ideal working conditions.

There were also issues with local police and hotel staff watching and recording both Horwood’s and Ferguson’s every move.

Despite all this, three months after arriving in Chile, the prototype was complete. A little longer and a little heavier than the standard car, the fibreglass version was otherwise

identical in appearance to the standard car, apart from the absence of welded seams. It did, however, perform well on its test run.

So production could continue. More issues arose from the poorly informed workforce; however they seemed to listen more just before Ferguson returned to England. Production of the cars continued until the factory was closed down by the new reformist government of Salvador Allende, with production ending in 1974.

Just another interesting story for an FWD car.

The FWD Register’s next event will be at the NEC Classic Car Show, where we have been given a two-car stand.

data), but for many users not having those two features might well be acceptable and provide good value for money. The saving could be used for a dash cam fitting service at Halfords which neatly conceals the wiring.

A 32GB Micro SD card will provide good recording capacity and they can be obtained from many retailers like Clas Ohlson, Halfords, John Lewis and Maplin.

See our full report on the ‘More’ webpage at: www.v8register.net/ more.htm

FWD

BEN HATTON ben2692@hotmail.co.uk http://www.mgcc.co.uk/fwd-register/

You may remember that a short while ago we were made aware of an MG 1300 for sale in Chile. To hear of any MG 1300 is interesting but there was one major difference with this one…it was manufactured from fibreglass! We decided to do a bit of digging and discovered that these were specially manufactured in Chile between 1969 and 1973. And how the project came about and was undertaken was not straightforward from the start.

Production of the Mini Cooper by British Leyland’s Chilean subsidiary was already in full operation when it was decided to set up a parallel

operation to produce the MG 1300. BL sent designer Syd Horwood and a plastics engineer, Martin Ferguson, to set up and oversee the initial production of MG 1300 saloons.

Ferguson was tasked with producing a fibreglass mould and from that the first car body.

Horwood was to ensure that the car’s running gear fitted into the car perfectly and that the materials were available to produce the cars. They were both then to train the local workforce in what was required to make the cars.

However, the project was not straightforward from day one. Issues with customs, an

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www.mgcc.co.uk

25/10/2016 09:29

REGISTERS

ZR/ZS/ZT

JOHN THOMPSON Tel: 07854 275541 johnt5@btinternet.com www.mgcc.co.uk/zedregister NEWS IN BRIEF Yet more rain for much of the Snetterton weekend which concluded the Club’s racing calendar, with many of the championships being decided.

The race programme was suspended on the Saturday afternoon due to waterlogged track. It wasn’t until the Relay 24 hours later that the sun really came out. Tyre choice was a key decision for competitors. The final two rounds of the Trophy Championship saw the ZR of Will Payne crowned as champion. The ZR 160 runners can sometimes pass ‘under the radar’ in comparison with the lead runners in the 170 and 190 classes, but this was their year. Qualifying

for the two weekend races was combined, with Chris Bray and Robin Perkins sharing poles, Paul Luti heading the 170 class, and Will Payne for the 160s. In race one Robin Perkins took off and established a lead of nearly five seconds before being reeled in

by Chris Bray on the penultimate lap. Andrew Rogerson just pipped Paul Luti for the 170 class win.

In the final round, Rob Perkins’ race lasted just two hundred yards, due to clutch failure, while Chris Bray completed a double, with 170 winner Paul Luti a distant second overall. However, down the field it was Will Payne who celebrated as this season’s champion. Zeds have become well-established in the Peter

Best Insurance Cup this year. The season’s final two races were run over the weekend. In the first race Daniel Molloy headed home Tom Halliwell, both in ZRs, with the ZS 180 of Dan Ludlow fourth, followed by the 170s of Lewis Anderson and David Thompson.

Only 0.05 seconds separated the first two cars in the second race.

The K series powered Metro of Alan Brooke just heading Molloy this time. An honourable mention for Zed Register Treasurer Peter Burchill who steered his ZS 180 from the back of the grid through to an eighth-place finish. So another excellent season over.

There will be much checking and tweaking over the winter, I’m sure. Let’s hope that 2017 is as

good – It all starts at Donington Park in April.

Geoff Hirst EVENTS & SHOWS The final event of our 2016 calendar is fast approaching, and I’m sure many of you will be attending the Classic Motor Show at the NEC over the weekend of November 11-13. There’s a slight twist for us this year. We will be present on the main Club stand with our own display car. I won’t say what it is, you’ll just have to come and find out! We know the Zeds are classic cars, so this is a more than appropriate conclusion to their 15th anniversary year. See you there…

MGs at the BTCC Silverstone event

MG6.3.5

STEVE HAINES Steve-haines@live.co.uk www.facebook.com/groups/MG635Register https://twitter.com/635register The Register had its last major outdoor gathering at the BTCC Silverstone on September 17 and 18. Once again the MG Car Club came up with a cracking ticket deal with infield parking and the Club gazebo and shop set up on the Sunday. A great turnout of MG6s and MG3s, plus some new MG GSs, and the regular old favourite historical MG models were intermingled in the parking next to the Wellington straight.

It was good to meet friends old and new, as well as sign up some new owners and have a good catch-up.

It was a bit of a roller coaster of a weekend on the track for Ash, Josh and the MG/888 team, to say the least! Saturday

www.mgcc.co.uk

MG_SafetyFast_Nov16_50-98.indd 91

qualifying was extremely exciting, and some of us were lucky enough to be invited into the MG/888 garage to watch it all unfold.

Sunday started with anticipation. After a hard-fought race, the MG6s finished 1-2. A quick dash over to the paddock saw a champagne celebration on the podium. Things turned a bit sour however, as they were disqualified over dubious technicalities! The team rallied as best they could to put in fastest laps in race three. Huge thanks to MG Motor for allowing owners access to the grid, garage and drivers.

Our AGM is on Saturday December 3 at 3.00pm at the

MG Sales Centre in Longbridge, followed by our Christmas meal at the Guild in Bromsgrove.

Please add your names to the Facebook event, or email Steve Haines as soon as possible if you wish to go, so we can confirm numbers and menu choices.

Don’t forget you can purchase any Christmas regalia from our eBay page: www. ebay.co.uk/usr/mg63_uk2015 and clothing from Top signs:

www.mgcc.co.uk/shop/product/ topsigns/

Ash and Josh on the Silverstone podium

All white. MG GS, MG6 and an MG3

NOVEMBER 2016 SAFETY FAST! 91

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CL ASSIFIEDS

CARS FOR SALE How to Advertise Members can advertise their cars free of charge in Safety Fast. The advert will also be posted on the Club website in due course. This is for one insertion only. To place an advert or for additional insertions email Colin Grant at colingrant@mgcc.co.uk with details of your car, around 60 words, together with an attached picture, your contact information, price of your car, the area where you live, and membership number. Cost for nonmembers to advertise is £20. All adverts should be submitted by the 15th of the month for the following months issue.

1953 MGTD2

In Clipper Blue. This is an outstanding example of a fully restored and eye catching TD. It was originally exported to Singapore as a RHD car but spent most of its life in the USA with one family.They began the restoration in 2007 with a full frame, nut and bolt re-build. The car has new, soft top, full and half tonneau covers, side screens, carpets, rear rack, stainless steel exhaust, suspension, carpets, upholstery, wing mirrors, and lots more. I have also fitted an anti-roll bar and a 5speed gearbox. I can supply lots of pictures but she does need to be seen. 12 months MOT will be supplied. Double knee operations have prompted the sale. £25,000 fixed price. For more information contact Dennis on 01732 369227 or Email dennis.w.king@btinternet.com (Tonbridge, Kent)

1997 MGF

In purple. 56,000 miles, MoT July 2017. Recent tyres all round, Cambelt and water pump. £1,950 to include hard top (recently resprayed) and holder. 01420 83836 evenings (Hampshire)

Brooklands green with biscuit interior, currently recording 89,000 miles. A factory specification rubber bumper model, lightly restored in 2014. Immaculate bodywork and trim, with additions of electronic ignition, trickle charger and DAB/CD/MP3 radio. Regularly serviced irrespective of cost at a specialist garage. MOT until May 2017.

Sunning car - very reluctant sale must be seen. £5,500.

Tel: 07704676491. (Durham)

2.5L V6, 53 Plate, Trophy Blue, 5Dr Hatchback, Full Leather, A/C, Radio/CD Player, FSH, 73K, Very Clean Interior, New Inlet Manifold, MOT till Oct 2017, Very Well Maintained, Towbar. £1850 Tel: 01379 677866/07831 130005 (Norfolk)

MG Magnette ZB 1958

3 former owners since 1958 not including the current registered keeper. MoT Sept 2017. Extensive documented restoration in 1998 by MG specialist L Shorten, Norfolk including full body strip, shell shot blasted and repaint. Engine rebored, crank regrind and unleaded conversion. Gearbox overhauled, new wiring loom, new headlining, door panels, carpets, seals as required.

Lovely vehicle. Receipts for more recent repairs. Tel 01953 788429 £13,000 ono. (Norfolk).

Race/Track day Car. Road going/Standard engine spec, MOT until Oct 2017. 650lbs front springs, reverse eye rear. Rear Cage, Cobra Seats and race belts. Alloy bonnet and fiberglass wings/ tailgate.

Minilite style wheels and AO48 tyres. This car is set up for circuit racing but is fantastic as a fast road/track day MGB. £5750 ono Telephone: 07958025664. Email:adamentwistle@hotmail.com (Cheshire)

MGTF160

Registered Oct 2003, colour trophy yellow, mileage 35700, petrol 1796cc. Very good condition, leather seats, soft top and additional hard top and new car cover.

Replacement head gasket fitted May 2010. Service record available.

MOT till May 2017. Additional photos available. £3500 ono.

Contact Roy on Tel; 01273 514906 email: mamagroy@gmail.com

92 SAFETY FAST! NOVEMBER 2016

MG_SafetyFast_Nov16_50-98.indd 92

MGTC 1947

In need of full restoration. A complete car including 4 new bonnet panels and 2 new doors.

Repatriated from US with a V5 registration certificate. Offers from £8,250. Tel: 07703282102 or email bholt015@aol.com Shepperton Middx 3 miles from jct 11 on M25

MGB GT 1977

MG ZT- T ESTATE 190 + 2002/52

Only 58,000 miles. Full service history with 13 stamps totalling over £8,000! MG + 2 owners. Timing belts replaced at 36,802 miles with receipt. Electric tilt/ slide sunroof Climate control. Rear Parking Sensors. Roof rails. 2 keys. CD stacker. Full size alloy spare wheel All previous MOTs. Very smooth and powerful V6 2.5 litre engine.

MG Reg. number by negotiation. £2750. Please contact on 01292 560200 or 07989 318737 for any more information and lots of photographs. (Ayr SW Scotland)

A superb and rare automatic B which underwent a full bare metal nut and bolt restoration a few years ago to original specification, and has only travelled 7,000 dry miles since.

Detailed engine bay, unleaded and immaculate throughout. £12,000 ono. Genuine sale due to health reasons, full details and more pictures available email: john.d.miller@btopenworld.com or Tel: 07769993944

MGZS 180

Keithbroomhall185@btinternet.com

1979 MG Midget 1500

1970 MGB Automatic

MG TD 1950

Genuine Car for Sale. Complete except for front wings. LHD, black with green interior - correct Xpag engine.FOR FULL RESTORATION Dry Stored - Only £5750.

Phone 01594 835659

1967 MGB GT Mk 1

Mineral blue. All matching nos.

Father and son ownership till 2011.

27,000 miles from new, supported

by MOTs etc. Sympathetically restored as required whilst maintaining originality. Good History including original bill of sale. Used regularly by MGCC owner.

Probably the lowest mileage Mk 1 BGT in existence,Superb. £12,500 No dealers please.

Tel 07793 470660 (KENT)

MG ZS 1.8

Silver, half leather. MOT June 2017.

Head gasket, cam belt, water pump and PAS belt recently replaced. Low milage and drives superbly. £1295.00 ono.

Telephone 01594 826082 (Gloucestershire)

www.mgcc.co.uk

25/10/2016 09:29

CL ASSIFIEDS

BARRY WALKER .....for the very best in vintage MGs.....Estd.1968 OR â&#x20AC;&#x201C; SEE THEM ALL AT CLASSIC CAR SHOW. NEC NOV 11/12/13

British Motor Heritage approved

MGTC 1952

Built 21.09.1949 XPAG 10295 T Register No.1406. Tartan Red Cellulose, Ivory stoved wheels with red interior and weather equipment. Tonneau, luggage rack, wind wings, dual bulb side lamps, high level tail lamp, petronics ignition.

Present owner 50 years covering 37,000 miles. Original logbooks and expense log with lots of receipts.

Needs a little tidying, number plate not included. Haggle around ÂŁ25,000. Contact Alan Turner on 01803 557543 or al.an@talktalk.net

1936 MG SA Tickford

Full ground up restoration in NZ completed in 2011, County Cream and Dark Blue with mid-blue upholstery. The car is all original with the exception of the engine and gearbox (from an MGC, 3 litre) which gives it pace and reliability. The original engine and gearbox are included, reconditioned. The car is now in NZ but will come to the UK June 2017. ÂŁ77,000. Email Bob Douglas at: bobandlynne1950@gmail.com

MGRV8 1996

Oxford Blue with only 19263 miles.

Very good condition throughout.

Garaged all year and off road during winter months. Complete with original tool roll and other accessories. Good tyres and original wheels. ÂŁ19,950, or Sensible offer.

Telephone Email: 1933 MG K301382543563.

LE MANS replica No â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;ifsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; or â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;butsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; with this car. Checked & registered with the MGCC & MMM register. A proper jamesvhworsley@btinternet.com. ( VSHFLÂż Fife ) FDWLRQ FDU RQ IDFWRU\ RULJLQDO . VHULHV FKDVVLV JHQXLQH FF . HQJLQH FRUUHFW D[OHV SUH VHOHFW JÂśER[ $GDPDQW VWHHULQJ /H 0DQV ERG\ IXOO GDVK 0DUVKDOO VXSHUFKDUJHU )XOO GHWDLOV RI WKLV DFFXUDWH VSHFLÂż FDWLRQ DYDLODEOH 2ULJLQDO UHJLVWUDWLRQ IURP QHZ DQG UHDG\ URDG DQG UDFH SUHSDUHG IRU DOO PDMRU HYHQWV '2 127 FRQIXVH WKLV ZLWK WKH PDQ\ TXHVWLRQDEOH . UHSV LWÂśV WKH QHDUHVW \RXÂśOO JHW WR D IDFWRU\ FDU ÂŁPOA (See website for more details)

MG3 Form Sport 2016

MGB Roadster 1967

1800cc. 4 Synchro with overdrive, Hopkinson handling kit, Fast Road cam, Sports Distributor and Coil, S/Steel exhaust, Unleaded, Leather seats. This MG was restored by me 1989-1993 using a Heritage bodyshell and all new panels except for the aluminium bonnet. It has since covered about 50,000 miles. A very usable motor car, it drives beautifully. Excellent, but used, condition with 10 months MOT, bills and History. ÂŁ11,000.

Contact: 01275 856887 (Bristol)

Change in circumstances forces reluctant sale( this is the second MG3 I have owned)..2015 model (longer service intervals, but no stop/start) purchased new from Brown and Gammons in January this year, so warranty to end of Jan 2019. Approximately 9500 miles, in very good condition. ÂŁ6400 ono.

North Bucks. Tel 07912 072372 or 01908 271068 Email: davegibson103@gmail.com

MGZTT 190 V6 2002

MGTF 160 VVC 2002

X-Power Grey, Black leather. 38k miles. MGSH. MoT 01/17. Colour coded MG Hardtop. X-Power lowered springs, SPAX adjustable shocks, Goodyear GSD2â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 4/5mm, Goodridge hoses. Water pump, Timing belt, Tensioner by Main Dealer. All Discs, Pads, Alternator done c.37k, Brake caliper & Aux belt, New Battery. Invoices & MoTâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s available. Three spare rims, one with 7mm tyre. Drives superbly.

Generally reasonably good; although some cosmetic at wheel arches. ÂŁ1,295. Tel: 07721 048738.

(Glasgow.)

www.mgcc.co.uk

MG_SafetyFast_Nov16_50-98.indd 93

102,000miles; FSH from new; Starlight silver; Leather/alcantara trim; dual zone climate control, driverâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s intelligence pack; xenon headlamps; SS sports exhaust; sat.nav; premium sound system; shark fin aerial; dog guard. Clutch, discs, inlet manifold all replaced in last 2 years; workshop manual; MoT Dec. 2016; ÂŁ1175.

Tel. 01291 691279.

(Severn Bridge area)

MGF

Y Reg, in Silver metalic. Full red and black leather. MOT with head gasket, water pump and cam belt all recently replaced. A great example of this lovely car. Reluctant sale, a real bargain at ÂŁ1295 ono.

Tel: 01594 826082 (Gloucestershire)

THE UNIQUE 1932 OLYMPIA MOTORSHOW â&#x20AC;&#x153;R.E.A.L.â&#x20AC;? BODIED MG J2 7KH RQO\ RQH WR H[LVW RI WKH NQRZQ WR KDYH EHHQ SURGXFHG 5LQJ IRU PRUH KLVWRU\ $Q RSSRUWXQLW\ WR DFTXLUH RQH RI WKH PRVW KDQGVRPH UDUHVW 0*ÂśV HYHU PDGH 7RWDO QXW EROW UHVWRUDWLRQ ZLWK 3KRHQL[ F EDODQFHG FUDQN URGV JDV Ă&#x20AC; RZHG KHDG IRUJHG SLVWRQV UHEXLOW RULJ ERG\ZRUN DQG QHZ OHDWKHU XSKROVWHU\ DQG ZHDWKHU HTXLSPHQW WKURXJKRXW $ FROOHFWRUVÂś GUHDP RU DQ HQWKXVLDVWVÂś ZLVK FRPH WUXH" +RZHYHU LI \RX $5( RYHU IW WDOO \RX EHVW VXUUHQGHU LW WR WKH ZLIH QRZ DVVXPLQJ VKH LV VKRUWHU , DP SURXG WR RIIHU WKLV FDU DV \RX ZLOO EH WR RZQ LW DQ\ WHVW MXVW ULQJ QHYHU WR UHSHDW

MAGNIFICENT 2-SEAT 6 CYL â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Fâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; MAGNA 8QNQRZQ IRU PDQ\ \HDUV WKLV PDJQLÂż FHQW FDU KDV EHHQ IXOO\ UHVWRUHG DQG SURSHUO\ PDLQWDLQHG ERWK ERGLO\ PHFKDQLFDOO\ E\ SUHYLRXV RZQHU 7KH WZLQ FDUE UHEXLOW 0DJQD HQJLQH LV RQH RI WKH PRVW UHOLDEOH Âż WWHG E\ 0* DQG LV GULYHQ WKURXJK WKH YHU\ VRXJKW DIWHU JDWH FKDQJH (19 PDQXDO JÂśER[ 'HHS UHG FRQWUDVWLQJ KLGH EODFN ZHDWKHU HTXRSPHQW /HJ URRP OXJJDJH UDFN Âą MXVW D VXSHU WRXULQJ FDU ÂŁ67,500

1935 MG PA SPORTS $ EHDXWLIXOO\ UHVWRUHG 3$ ZLWKRXW EHLQJ RYHUGRQH $ WUXO\ XVDEOH 0* ZLWK QR VSDUHV ZRUULHV WKDW \RXÂśOO EH SURXG WR RZQ )XOO\ VHUYLFHG HQJLQH UHEXLOW VWHHULQJ GH OX[H JDXJHV DHURVFUHHQV VWRULHJXDUGV DQG VXSHUE OHDWKHU LQWHULRU $OO QHZ ZHDWKHU HTXLSPHQW MXVW Âż WWHG 7KLV LV VR GHÂż QLWHO\ ZRUWK YLHZLQJ DQG WKHUH LV D FRPSOHWH VXSHUFKDUJHU LQVWDOODWLRQ DYDLODEOH DV DQ H[WUD ÂŁ45,000 (s/charger available at cost) 1938 MG SA SALOON. 5DUH FRQFRXUV FRQGLWLRQ &RPIRUW DQG TXDOLW\ ÂŁ67,500 1932 MGJ2. 7KLV FDU LV EHLQJ WRWDOO\ UHVWRUHG WR FRQFRXUV FRQGLWLRQ IURP WKH FKDVVLV XS LQ RXU RZQ ZRUNVKRSV QRZ 'HHS UHG &ROOLQJEXUQ LQWHULRU $Q\ LQVSHFWLRQ LQYLWHG 'XH WR EH DYDLODEOH &KULVWPDV COMMISSION SALES: Our highly regarded service is always available to you.

Tel: 01789 400 181. Fax: 01789 400230. Mob: 07836 244103 Email: barry@barrywalker.com Web: www.barrywalker.com

NOVEMBER 2016 SAFETY FAST! 93

25/10/2016 09:29

CARS FOR SALE

CL ASSIFIEDS

How to Advertise Members can advertise their cars free of charge in Safety Fast. The advert will also be posted on the Club website in due course. This is for one insertion only. To place an

Tickford

restoration in NZ 11, County Cream th mid-blue upholll original with the engine and gearGC, 3 litre) which reliability. The origearbox are includ. The car is now in e to the UK June Email Bob Douglas 1950@gmail.com

MGRV8 1996

Oxford Blue with only 19263 miles.

Very good condition throughout.

Garaged all year and off road during winter months. Complete with original tool roll and other accessories. Good tyres and original wheels. £19,950, or Sensible offer.

Telephone 01382543563. Email: jamesvhworsley@btinternet.com. ( Fife )

M.G. in North Herts

MGOC Recommended Workshop and Power Steering Installer MoT & Failures Repaired Servicing, Welding, Restoration M.G.A. – B – C – V8, Midget

port 2016

umstances forces his is the second ned)..2015 model intervals, but no hased new from mmons in January anty to end of Jan tely 9500 miles, in ition. £6400 ono.

07912 072372 or

Rear of Langley Garage London Road, Langley, Nr Hitchin, Herts SG4 7PJ

01438 729288 07860 473298 www.mg-repairs-hertfordshire.com

advert or for additional insertions email Colin Grant at colingrant@mgcc.co.uk with details of your car, around 60 words, together with an attached picture, your contact information, price of your car, the area where you live, and membership number. Cost for nonmembers to advertise is £20. All adverts should be submitted by the 15th of the month for the following months issue.

MIDGETS! WANTED

Contact the Midget Specialist MIKE AUTHERS on Abingdon 07703 465 224 CHROME 1979 MG Midget 1500 in BUMPERED MIDGETS Brooklands green with biscuit inteexcellent condition bought up to rior, currently recording 89,000 £8,000. View current stock at miles. A factory specification rubber

www.mgmidgets.com bumper model, lightly restored in 2014. Immaculate bodywork and trim, with additions of electronic ignition, trickle charger and DAB/CD/MP3 radio. Regularly serviced irrespective of cost at a specialist garage. MOT until May 2017.

Sunning car - very reluctant sale must be seen. £5,500.

Tel: 07704676491. (Durham)

n103@gmail.com

enquiries@mgsforsale.com

1953 MGTD2 01707 876089 In Clipper Blue.

This is an outstand-

www.mgsforsale.com

07831 purple.

56,000556666 miles, MoT July

1997 MGF

A superb and r which underwe metal nut and b few years ago t specification, an travelled 7,000 Detailed engine and immaculate £12,000 ono. G to health reaso more pictures john.d.miller@ or Tel: 0776999

Keithbroomhall185@btinternet.com

MGTC 1947

ing example of a fully restored and eye catching TD. It was originally exported to Singapore as a RHD car but spent most of its life in the USA with one family.They began the restoration in 2007 with a full frame, nut and bolt re-build. The car has new, soft top, full and half tonneau covers, side screens, carpets, rear rack, stainless steel exhaust, suspension, carpets, upholstery, wing mirrors, and lots more. I have also fitted an anti-roll bar and a 5speed gearbox. I can supply lots of pictures but she does need to be seen. 12 months MOT will be supMGZS 180 plied. Double knee operations have V6, 53 Plate, Trophychrome Blue, MGB Roadster Oldfixed English 2.5L White (XTW646L) prompted the sale.1973 £25,000 5Dr Hatchback, Full Leather, A/C, price.

For more information bumpers, overdrive, blackcontact powder coated wire wheels, Old English Radio/CD Player, FSH, 73K, Very Dennis on 01732 369227 or Email improvement, Black leather interior White coachwork now requiring Clean Interior, New Inlet Manifold, dennis.w.king@btinternet.com MOT till Oct 2017, Very Well trim, Mota-Lita (Tonbridge, Kent) steering wheel, vehicle purchased in 2013 from £1850drives Martlet & Crown at a cost of £8500 andMaintained, invoices forTowbar. £4k since, Tel: 01379 677866/07831 130005

nicely, just arrived, £6,495.00

(Norfolk)

URGENTLY WANTED ANY MG ANY YEAR, ANY CONDITION SEE OUR WEBSITE FOR A COMPLETE LISTING OF OUR STOCK

www.mgsforsale.com MG Magnette ZB 1958

3 former owners since 1958 not

Do not confuse the above vehicles with cheaper inferior quality models offered elsewhere. Part exchange including registered any make of Motorthe Car withcurrent generous allowances.

Discounted cash purchases. Viewing by appointment only keeper.

MoT Sept 2017.no obligation Extensive please (available evenings & weekends) to purchase. All our vehicles carry a warranty, have an MOT and are fully serviced prior to collection/delivery. documented restoration in 1998 by

MG specialist L Shorten, Norfolk including full body strip, shell shot blasted and repaint. Engine rebored, crank regrind and unleaded conversion. Gearbox overhauled, new wiring loom, new headlining, door panels, carpets, seals as required.

Lovely vehicle. Receipts for more recent repairs. Tel 01953 788429 £13,000 ono. (Norfolk).

V6 2002

FSH from new; Leather/alcantara climate control, nce pack; xenon sports exhaust; m sound system; og guard. Clutch, old all replaced in kshop manual; £1175.

9. ea)

Race/Track day Car. Road going/Standard engine spec, MOT until Oct 2017. 650lbs front springs, reverse eye rear. Rear Cage, Cobra Seats and race belts. Alloy bonnet and fiberglass wings/ tailgate.

Minilite style wheels and AO48 tyres. This car is set up for circuit racing but is fantastic as a fast road/track day MGB. £5750 ono Telephone: 07958025664. Email:adamentwistle@hotmail.com (Cheshire)

etalic. Full red and OT with head gasand cam belt all . A great example r. Reluctant sale, a 295 ono.

2

MGTF160

Registered Oct 2003, colour trophy yellow, mileage 35700, petrol 1796cc. Very good condition, leather seats, soft top and additional hard top and new car cover.

Replacement head gasket fitted May 2010. Service record available.

MOT till May 2017. Additional photos available. £3500 ono.

Contact Roy on Tel; 01273 514906 email: mamagroy@gmail.com

FOR SALE MGTF 1.8litre

First registered July 2003. 55,000 miles. 5-speed. MOT 6/5/17

In need of full r plete car includ panels and Repatriated from istration certifi £8,250. Tel: 077 bholt015@aol.c Shepperton Mid 11 on M25

MGB GT 1977

MG ZT- T ESTATE 190 + 2002/52

Only 58,000 miles. Full service history with 13 stamps totalling over £8,000! MG + 2 owners. Timing belts replaced at 36,802 miles with receipt. Electric tilt/ slide sunroof Climate control. Rear Parking Sensors. Roof rails. 2 keys. CD stacker. Full size alloy spare wheel All previous MOTs. Very smooth and powerful V6 2.5 litre engine.

MG Reg. number by negotiation. £2750. Please contact on 01292 560200 or 07989 318737 for any more information and lots of photographs. (Ayr SW Scotland)

1970 MGB A

In 2017. Recent tyres all round, Cambelt and water pump. £1,950 to include hard top (recently resprayed) and holder. 01420 83836 evenings (Hampshire)

1967 MGB G

Mineral blue.

Father and son 27,000 miles fro

by MOTs et restored as req taining original including origina regularly by Probably the low BGT in existenc No dealers plea Tel 07793 4706

MG ZS 1.8

MG TD 1950

Genuine Car for Sale. Complete except for front wings. LHD, black with green interior - correct Xpag engine.FOR FULL RESTORATION Dry Stored - Only £5750.

Phone 01594 835659

Silver, half leathe Head gasket, cam and PAS belt rec milage and £1295.00 ono.

Telephone 0159 (Gloucestershire

X-Power Grey with black mohair hood. Black interior with green piping.

Extras include: Chrome twin exhausts. Chrome door sills. Alloy gear knob. Wind deflector.

Tonneau cover.

Very good condition paintwork. Unmarked boot & interior with overmats.

Electric windows and mirrors. Sony CD/ radio & AUX with removeable front.

6-spoke alloys with locking wheel nuts. Good tyres. Full sized spare wheel with new tyre.

Owner going to work overseas, hence sale. £1,895. 07792 422209 94 SAFETY FAST! NOVEMBER 2016

MG_SafetyFast_Nov16_50-98.indd 94

www.mgcc.co.uk

25/10/2016 09:29

Telephone 01753 644599

Mobile (07836) 222111

martin@runnymede motorcompany.com

www.runnymedemotor company.com

1978 MGB Race Car, This cracking little MGB race car in Daffodil yellow and affectionately known as “Juicy Lucy” was owned by my wife from 2002 until 2009 during which time she and I regularly competed in various sprints and hill climbs and some MG Car Club race meetings. Prior to her ownership in 1995 the car was the subject of a complete rebuild, photographic evidence of which is contained within the considerable history file. Also within that file are photographs of the internals of the engine showing the upgrades carried out to the cylinder head during the rebuild. Since then “Lucy’s” competitive life has continued by way of various track days and more sprints and hill climbs during which time she has always been regularly maintained. Her specification includes fuelling through a 45DCOE side draught Weber carburettor and Facet race fuel pump, 4 speed all synchro gearbox, Aeroquip oil and brake lines and large oil cooler, alloy rocker cover, electric cooling fan, oil catch tank, 800lb competition front springs with competition shock absorbers and stiffer front antiroll bar, brake cooling ducts, headlamp cowls, “Works” hard top, OMP race seats with 5 point race harness seat belts, “Safety Devices” roll cage, “Lifeline” fire eater system, aluminium race fuel tank, alloy bonnet, Fibreglass boot lid (originals also with the car) and “Minilite” alloy wheels. Lucy has always been a good reliable car for club events and will no doubt give hours of pleasure to the next lucky owner. Huge fun for little money at £12,950

MGB Roadster, first registered 27-11-1972. (Road tax exempt) finished in Bronze yellow with attractive and contrasting dark blue interior. This is a 3 owner motor car with an impressive specification, presented in condition consistent with light use and great care. The specification includes electronic ignition, a full stainless steel exhaust system with tubular exhaust manifold, unmarked Minilite style wheels, 4 speed all synchromesh gearbox with overdrive, Motolita steering wheel, virtually new hood,, excellent chrome and an odometer reading showing a correct mileage of 79,000. This is a car that we were delighted to take into stock and we consider it to be a credit to its previous owners. The interior is in really excellent condition for a 38 year old open car and is always an excellent barometer by which to judge just how a car has been used. It has equally impressive coachwork and chrome and from conversations with one of the previous owners we have deduced that it was the subject of a restoration some 12 years ago by MG specialists Mechspec of Doncaster. Mechspec were also responsible for a full rebuild of the engine and drive train which included the engine being over-bored by 40 thou and the fitting of a Peter Burgess eco tuned unleaded cylinder head with an uprated Piper 270 mild road camshaft. The gearbox, overdrive and rear axle were also rebuilt about 3000 miles ago and the car has been used sparingly since. Further works have included upgrading the electrical system to take a 12 volt battery instead of the twin 6 volt batteries fitted as standard equipment. This car is particularly nice to drive and the suspension gives a feeling of confidence on the road. It has a current Mot certificate until February 2017 and the car needs no further preparation before enjoying the rest of the summer sun. Realistically priced for one in this condition at £11,950 Please call Edward 07767 414249 when enquiring about this car

Please view our website at www.runnymedemotorcompany.com for further information or contact Martin Brewer on 01753 644 599

MG_SafetyFast_Nov16_50-98.indd 95

25/10/2016 09:29

SPARES FOR SALE HOW TO ADVERTISE

Members can advertise their spares for sale/wanted free of charge for items up to £250.

Over £250, or for non-members to advertise, there is a charge of £20. To submit your advertisement email Colin Grant at colingrant@mgcc.co.uk. Please remember to include your membership number in all correspondence

Four Wire Wheel Spinners used but great condition good chrome. 12 threads per ins, (mga or early mgb ? ) I am in Lincolnshire, contact me by email: alancook19@sky.com sensible offers considered plus p&p

MGTD

One steel wheel (no rust) silver. £30.00 Five hub caps all serviceable 3 with medallion not quite concours £ 30.00 Left hand steering rack, as new £60.00 Automec complete copper brake pipe set (new) £35.00 Contact Steve Ellams on 01943 872607 or Email: s.d.ellams@icloud.com.

Flying Jacket

Eastman B15 USAAF Second World War spec Size 48 XL. Fur collar, alpaca lined, warm and rugged, great for winter driving.

Cost £500 new, accept £195 plus p&p. Tel: 07887 409044

MGB GT Rubber bumper model

1 x o/s front wing in red (as new) £250.00 1xn/s front wing tatty £50.00 1275 Midget Left and right front wings, white (removed from BRAND NEW HERITAGE SHELL) £250.00 each.

Some other parts available FROM £10.00 each. Telephone Peter Hiley on 07850 656265 (Huddersfield)

MG ENTHUSIAST MAGS

Loft clearance. MUST CLEAR almost complete, back issues 1984-2003, most in binders.

Invaluable MG information and articles. FREE for the complete collection plus charge for postage or can be collected.

E-mail: raygsmith@hotmail.com

MGB

Tonnau cover for 1972 model, full length preferably mohair or fabric in black with small headrest pockets in good condition.

Contact Peter 07970 621097, peter.ace@hotmail.co.uk

96 SAFETY FAST! NOVEMBER 2016

MG_SafetyFast_Nov16_50-98.indd 96

MGB and Midget Spares

Clear out of Midget and MGB spares including : MGBGT windscreen with chrome infills, radiators, dashboards , windscreens, suspension parts etc. David Edwards. Tel; 07896304108. email:rdtskiclub@gmail.com.

MGB GHN5 (1976) Spares

1pr Tube type axle half shafts c/w as new bearings. £80/pr.

1pr rear wire wheel conversion splined hubs. £50/pr 1- OE vinyl hood cover c/w header rail, rear retaining bar and hood bag. £120 1- Grey pack-a-way hood frame with bag.(‘76 hood cover fits) £90 1- Hand brake cable. £5 1-Black rear seat squab (as GT) £20 1- Rear antiroll bar OE £10 1- Front antiroll bar 5/8” OE £10 2- Elec cooling fans(V8 OE) £30ea.

1- Cooling fan guard (OE) £10 Collection Leicester area due to weight/bulk of most items.

Contact Keith 0116 2898806 or 07551 653890.

Moss Black Leather Seats

With white piping (list price almost £1000) in almost perfect condition complete with headrests, only used for a very short period, I'm only selling because they don't suit the missus! One plastic cover missing over reclining mechanism but you'll never notice once fitted, not a mark stain or rip to be found and the bottoms are as new.

Many other B parts, to many to list, give me a ring on 07771877851 I will send seat photos to interested parties.

Then we can haggle. Collection only. (Rochdale Lancashire)

MGB 1970

Wire Wheels 5 4.5J x 14 ins Painted Wire Wheels £120 00 Back Bumper £ 20 00 Good Condition Call Pete on 01937587480 07754959212

Polycarbonate Windstop

Effective for shielding occupants from wind buffeting and backdraft. Stores in boot when not in use in its own storage bag. To fit MGB and C. Would cost new £234.95. New and unused complete with fittings and instructions. £100 + £5 carriage.

Contact Lynn on 07973 402095 or email lynn.lodge@live.co.uk

MGTA (Late) R

(pair) £75.00 Rotax DDS larg dynamo £85.00 Paid of M/J brak Original nearsid support both pa Chrome Midge New £90.00 P Type Rad to w support offside P/TA headlamp Lucas TC RF91 £50.00 Lucas RF96/3 c £20.00 Lucas RF95/3 c £20.00 Lucas RF95/2 c £20.00 Pair 1130 sidelig dot. £40.00 1 1130 sidelight badge £20.00 Lucas type D20 £15.00 Lucas wiper mo £30.00 Tel: 077608546 email: baggiesla (Nr Monmouth)

Head Light Re

Includes instruct ting MGA and pr other MG varian postage.Oil Pres Probably from 19 car – face of gau Motors Cowley O background. Cal psi.O.I.R.O. £60 Telephone 0174 (Dorset)

MG Memorab

Carlton Ware Ol box £80.00 Academy MG TC scale New £30.0 2 X Airfix MG K3 £10.00 each.

Rare MG TD Sc Rossi 1/24th Sca Ellman-Brown C Doepke MG TD complete 1/10th MG K3 Safety F 17" in square. N Historic Marque framed MG TC 2 Rare factory/sho Black & White P Twincam 24x18 £175.00.

Telephone: 0159

MGB

Alloy bonnet £100. Buyer to collect.

Luggage rack new and unused.

Stainless steel, rubber pads, bolts onto boot lid. £50 Buyer to collect. Tel 01494 813903 (South Bucks)

MG Midget wor any 1275 or 150 skinned and glas good condition, c but can be easily colour like the or Tel. 0770346522

www.mgcc.co.uk

25/10/2016 09:29

PETER BEST www.classicinsurance.co.uk

get Spares

get and MGB : MGBGT windme infills, radia, windscreens, s etc. David 896304108. @gmail.com.

1976) Spares

xle half shafts ings. £80/pr. eel conversion 0/pr cover c/w retaining bar 120 way hood frame od cover fits)

able. £5 t squab (as GT)

ar OE £10 bar 5/8” OE

ans(V8 OE)

uard (OE) £10 ster area due to ost items.

16 2898806 or

eather Seats

g (list price almost perfect ete with headfor a very short selling because e missus! One sing over nism but you'll e fitted, not a to be found are as new. rts, to many to ing on will send seat ted parties. ggle. Collection Lancashire)

.5J x 14 ins eels £120 00 0 00 Good ete on 7754959212

Windstop

ding occupants ng and backoot when not in orage bag. To fit uld cost new d unused comand instruccarriage.

07973 402095 ge@live.co.uk

00. Buyer to col-

w and unused. ubber pads, d. £50 Buyer to 4 813903

MGTA (Late) Ribbed wings

(pair) £75.00 Rotax DDS large body 6 volt dynamo £85.00 Paid of M/J brake shoes £10.00 Original nearside J2/F2 screen support both parts £25.00 Chrome Midge with Rad Cap New £90.00 P Type Rad to wing headlamp support offside £15.00 P/TA headlamp glass £15.00 Lucas TC RF91 cut out 12 volt £50.00 Lucas RF96/3 cut out 12 volt £20.00 Lucas RF95/3 cut out TC 12 volt £20.00 Lucas RF95/2 cut out TC 12 volt £20.00 Pair 1130 sidelight shells red dot. £40.00 1 1130 sidelight shell metal badge £20.00 Lucas type D20 dash lamp £15.00 Lucas wiper motor ND 30 £30.00 Tel: 07760854622, email: baggieslamb@gmail.com (Nr Monmouth)

Head Light Relay KIt

Includes instructions, new, For fitting MGA and probably several other MG variants.£15 plus postage.Oil Pressure gauge.

Probably from 1920/30’s Morris car – face of gauge has ‘Morris Motors Cowley Oxon’ on silver background. Calibration to 100 psi.O.I.R.O. £60 plus postage.

Telephone 01747 838375 (Dorset)

MG Memorabilia For Sale

Carlton Ware Old number 1 with box £80.00 Academy MG TC plastic kit 1/16 scale New £30.00 2 X Airfix MG K3 Kits New £10.00 each.

Rare MG TD Scultpure by Al Rossi 1/24th Scale from Mike Ellman-Brown Collection £75.00.

Doepke MG TD large model not complete 1/10th scale £75.00.

MG K3 Safety Fast Tin Wall print 17" in square. New £20.00.

Historic Marque Technical poster framed MG TC 25x18 £30.00.

Rare factory/showroom 1959 Black & White Print Framed MGA Twincam 24x18 Very Rare Print £175.00.

Telephone: 01594 835659

MG Midget works hardtop. Fits any 1275 or 1500 midget. Double skinned and glass windows, good condition, currently black but can be easily painted another colour like the originals. £250 Tel. 07703465224.

www.mgcc.co.uk

MG_SafetyFast_Nov16_50-98.indd 97

The best policies for either classic or modern MGs

MGB HOOD

Unused white lined hood with header rail. Stored for some years so could do with some TLC. Windows in good condition. Also set of hood irons from 1962 roadster in need of refurb and hood stowage cover, probably original. £230, Email: njn@scotfree.plus.com Located in Scotland delivery by arrangement.

WANTED WANTED MGB WORKS HARDTOP.

MGB Works hardtop (not aftermarket type) needed, preferably in good useable condition (minor blemishes acceptable).

Please email details (photos if possible) including price and location to tcotebrook@fsmail.net.

All emails will be answered.

MGC

WANTED

Front @ or Rear steel wheel hubs. MGC Manual LHD and RHD pedal box with pedals if possible. Steel wheel Axle.

Contact Shaun Holmes on Tel: 07515368936 or email: shaunwh@hotmail.com

WANTED MGA early type 1955/56

Jaeger oil/ temp gauge any condition.

MGA Derrington exhaust manifold.

MGA rear axle for wire wheels.

Please tell 07795670881

SPARES FOR SALE

How to Advertise

Members can advertise their spares for sale/wanted free of charge for items up to £250. Over £250, or for non-members to advertise, there is a charge of £20.

To submit your advertisement email Colin Grant at colingrant@mgcc.co.uk. Please remember to include your membership number in all correspondence

MGB Mk1 Second hand parts All in good condition.

Radiator original ARH260, £50.

Call for a quote today

01621 840400

MGB, MGC & Midget Competition Parts

www.bighealey.co.uk

For the ‘best’ in MG high-performance Parts Hotline: +44(0)1543 472244 E-mail: sales@bighealey.co.uk DENIS WELCH MOTORSPORT, YOXALL, BURTON ON TRENT, STAFFS DE13 8NA, UK

Rostyle Wheels For Sale – off MGBT X3 wheels are good condition and x1 is ok.

All with tyres. £75 + p&p the lot

07860 906032

ADVERTISERS’ INDEX MGA Parts

4Sight Lighting Company................................83 Adrian Flux ......................................................77 Airflow .............................................................77 Barrie Carter ...................................................83 Barry Walker ....................................................93 BCC Parts ........................................................13 Beech Hill Garage............................................96 Brian Brown Classics.......................................94 British Motor Heritage......................................33 Brown and Gammons.....................................15 Bucks Sports and Classic................................75 Carole Nash Insurance ....................................65 Chertsey Minors .............................................75 Church Square Autos ......................................81 Classic & Sports Cars (Essex)..............................

Classic and Retro.............................................43 Clive Wheatley .................................................89 Colin Groom Vehicle Storage ..........................77 College Motors Burford ...................................79 Colne Classics .................................................73 Crown Classic Cars .........................................73 Dennis Welch...................................................97 Distributor Doctor.............................................73 Don Trimming ..................................................73 Evans Division of Hydratech ............................53 Fishers Services...............................................69 Footman James ..............................................63 Frontline ..........................................................59 Halls Garage ....................................................79 Heathrow Transmission ...................................75 Hindsight .........................................................75 Hoyle Suspension............................................65 Just Right Autos Ltd.........................................55 Kimble Engineering Ltd ...................................75

Chrome wire wheels, four 4.5 J x 15, sixty spokes vgc. Crankshaft, needs a grind. Four speed gearbox and prop shaft. New unused clutch plate. Offers, Adrian Price 01590 683120 ajrp44@tiscali.co.uk

MG Books

MGB and Midget Parts

Longstone Tyres ..............................................34 Manor Garage ................................................73 Martin Smith Used MGTF Spares ..................81 MG Mecca.......................................................81 MG Motorsport ...............................................79 MG Sales Centre ............................................IFC MGF Mania......................................................69 Midland Classic Restoration ..............................3 Mike Authurs Classics (MG Midgets) ..............94 Mike Rolls ........................................................79 Mike Satur .......................................................53 MJS Auto and Marine .....................................67 Motor Wheel Services .....................................89 NTG Services................................................OBC Oselli Ltd..........................................................71 Paul Depper MGs............................................83 Peter Best ..........................................IBC, 75, 97 Rees Bros ........................................................87 Retro Sports Cars ...........................................67 Rimmer Bros Ltd .............................................49 RJJ Car Shipping and Transportation .............75 Robin Lackford Motor Engineering .................69 Runnymede Motor Company..........................95 Scenic Car Tours ................................21, 23, 31 Skiptune ..........................................................53 SMR ................................................................94 South Coast MG Rover ...................................87 Steve McKie Sports Cars.................................75 Sussex Classic Car Parts...................................6 Sussex Sports Cars .........................................75 The Hutson Motor Co Ltd ..................................3 The MG Automobile Company..........................6 Vitesse Global Ltd ...........................................39 Webcon ..........................................................71

MGB Engine and non o/d gearbox for spares or repair. Midget back axles, many other B & Midget parts.

All cheap to clear, 01494 813903 (South Bucks) buyer to collect.

MG PA

Original body tub,no doors, excellent scuttle top and drip panel. £175. Phone 01594 835659

The MG Companion by Kenneth Ullyett. £20. MGB Special Tuning by BMC. £10. How to Power Tune MGB MG TD Spares 4 Cylinder Engines by Peter Burgess.

Set of 5 steel wheels (nice condition) £15.Tuning Rover V8 Engines by 5 Hub Caps c/w wheel nuts.

David Hardcastle (Hardback). £15 2 Front brake drums How to give your MGB V8 Power FAST! 97 Rear SAFETY brake drums (Updated) by Roger Wil iams. £15NOVEMBER2 2016 £200-00 the lot.

MG TF Workshop Manual.

Collect only Stroud, Gloucestershire.

Brooklands Technical Books. £15

25/10/2016 09:29

Wanted

4 x centre (Minilite re Must be in 775183 or

Wanted

Chrome b

by MGCC blue colou sunroof. C 020 8657 4 Email phot eldridge.pa

Wanted

Does anyo MGB GT, 1 60M, Colo

LOOKING BACK IF YOU CAN TELL US MORE ABOUT ANY OF THESE CARS OR THE EVENTS, WE ARE ALWAYS KEEN TO HEAR FROM YOU AT KIMBER HOUSE; CONTACT THE MGCC ARCHIVIST PETE NEAL ON PETERNEAL@MGCC.CO.UK.

The official publication of The MG Car Club The M.G. Magazine’, Maga ine’, ‘The The Sports Car’ Incorporating ‘The Brooklands Track and Air’, Safety Fast! and ‘Brooklands Copyright MG Car Club 2016 Editor: Andy Knott 01235 849730 / 01235 555552 andyknott@mgcc.co.uk Deputy Editor: Colin Grant 01235 849733 colingrant@mgcc.co.uk Editorial Committee: William Ball, Dennis Wharf, Colin Grant, Adam Sloman, Steve Clark 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 Distributed by: Air Business. Merlin Centre, 4 The, Acrewood Way, St Albans AL4 0JY Tel: 01727 890600 President: John Day Vice Presidents: Ron Gammons, Don Hayter, Peter Best, Bill Silcock.

Chairman: Ian Quarrington Vice Chairman: Dave Tynan

W

e kick off this month with a nostalgic look at the splendid 14/40 of Cyril Mellor being flagged away at the start of the 1994 ‘Old Speckled Hen’ Tour by Dennis Ogborn, whilst Bill Wallis looks on. In the background can be seen the old MG Factory Admin Block. (Photo

by Steve Iles) Next up we have the driver of this gleaming TA receiving an award from June Wallis. Can you tell us where and when this took place, and what the award was, please?

Treasurer: Richard Colston Directors: Dave Saunders, Paul Plummer, William Ball, Julian White, 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), Chris Kynoch (01235 849731) and Ineke Sherman (Merchandise 01235 849731)

Our final offering this month is a superb shot by Chris Phillips, taken in 2002, of a gaggle of MGFs getting up close and personal in the ‘MG Challenge’. Information regarding where this race took place, plus any other details, would be most welcome.

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

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

Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of information at the time of going to press, neither The Publisher (herein referred to as Hine Marketing), the Editor, nor the MG Car Club can accept any responsibility or loss occasioned to any person acting or refraining from action as a result of any material in the publication.

The opinions of authors are their own and Hine Marketing, the Editor and the MG Car Club are not bound to agree with opinions expressed herein. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. Safety Fast! and The MG Car Club badge are protected through trademark registration in the UK and in the foreign countries where Safety Fast! circulates. Readers are warned that if they attempt any mechanical or other modifications or methods referred to herein, they do so at their own risk and no liability will attach to the MG Car Club, the Editor nor Hine Marketing. Neither shall the MG Car Club, the Editor nor Hine Marketing have any responsibility for the accuracy of the content of the editorial, neither the content of any advertisement published in Safety Fast!

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

The MG Car Club, Kimber House, PO Box 251, Abingdon, Oxon, OX14 1FF Tel: 01235 555552 Fax: 01235 533755 E-mail: mgcc@mgcc.co.uk www.mgcc.co.uk

98 SAFETY FAST! NOVEMBER 2016

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