Safety Fast! September 2015

SEPTEMBER 2015 ÂŁ3.50

Volume 59

Number 09

inside this month MGCC_SF_September15_Covers.indd 1

THE MARQUE OF FRIENDSHIP The MGF Reaches Twenty Lake Como and the Stelvio Pass MG GS: First Drive GT 40 in Bavarian America

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Sales Dept: +44 (0) 1275 465 336 Servicing Dept: +44 (0) 1454 416 177 info@fineandclassic.co.uk See more of our available selection at

www.fineandclassic.co.uk car has benefitted from a complete repaint (3 years ago), which has

1958 / MGA Mk1 Fine & Classic is proud to present for sale this desirable MGA Mk1 1500, one of only 5,869 RHD cars sold originally to the home market.

The car has undergone a complete 'body off' chassis and mechanical restoration to a very high and exacting standard, which has been carried out by its previous motor engineer owner who acquired the car in 1983.

A comprehensive history file containing receipts for all works and services accompanies the vehicle and to improve on the road communication it has been fitted with the later mk2 rear light cluster and front side lights, with separate indicators. The car comes complete with its original weather equipment and tools.

This is a truly lovely period British Sports car, ready to be used and enjoyed.

Guide Price: ÂŁ33,995 ,

1958/ MGA Mk1 Fine & Classic is proud to present for sale this delightful MGA Mk1 1500. Fully restored in 1986/7, it has covered just 14,974 dry miles since the restoration and has won numerous awards.

The car has been meticulously maintained, with all receipts for work and previous MoT certificates included and comes complete with full weather equipment (including a full tonneau cover). All tools, handbooks and a service manual are present.

Originally exported to the US in LHD form, the car was brought back to the UK in 1985, when it was converted to RHD and had a full body off restoration to a very high standard by marque specialist Mark Danes Classic Cars of Somerset. It was then purchased by its only UK owner in 1987.

This is an exceptional traditional British sports car to be cherished and enjoyed.

Sales: +44 (0) 1275 465 336

MGCC_SF_September15_Covers.indd 2

Guide Price: ÂŁ35,995

www.fineandclassic.co.uk

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Inside

this

issue

September 2015

Mike Christie’s MG TD negotiated the tight hairpins and steep inclines to reach the top of Furka Pass. Photo: Mike Christie

18 Crimping bullet connectors and Faston terminals How to get a good crimped bullet connector or Faston

21 Dealer Profile The MG Sales Centre at Longbridge

32 Lake Como and the Stelvio Pass Mike Christie and Derek Moore go touring in their MG TD and YB

38 MG GS: First Drive Adam Sloman samples the new MG SUV in China

58 BTCC 2015 Report from the Snetterton round

Regulars 7

Editor’s Welcome A summary from Andy Knott

9

From the Chair Club Matters from Bill Silcock

10 News MGs on parade at the British Athletics Anniversary Games, Ken Costello 1927-2015 and more

14 Kimber House News Welcome Chris Kynoch

16 Products and Book Reviews The latest products in the world of MG

24 Event Reports MG Track Festival 2015, MGF20 and more

60 MGs on Track Calling all first timers and novices!

61 Luffield Championship Latest news from the MGCC Luffield Speed Championship

www.mgcc.co.uk

MG Safety Fast September15 03-46.indd 5

62 Events Calendar MGCC events taking place in September and October

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

67 Overseas News GT 40 in Bavarian America

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

72 Centre Updates News from the MGCC Regional Centres

82 Register Updates News from the MGCC Registers

92 Looking Back A selection of snippets from the MGCC archives

93 Classifieds Cars and Spares offered for sale

Newsletters 43 SVW Newsletter SVW Register Weekend 2015, Advertising the VA in the Second World War and more

48 T Type Newsletter FAK 57 and George Phillips, The 2015 T Register T Party and more

54 MGC Newsletter A 50th Birthday Treat, News from the MGC Register Chairman and more

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MG Safety Fast September15 03-46.indd 6

www.mgcc.co.uk

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WELCOME

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

Copyright MG Car Club 2015 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, Victor Smith Regular Contributors: Alwyn Morgan

Andy Knott

Words from

Editor

PR and Communications: Lauran Gallacher 01235 849735, Chris Kynoch 01235 849731 Advertising: Hine Marketing 01452 730770 Published by: Hine Marketing, Hill Farm Studios, Wainlodes Lane, Bishops Norton Glos, GL2 9LN. Tel: 01452 730770 Printed by: Precision Colour Printing. Haldane, Halesfield 1, Telford, Shropshire TF7 4QQ Tel: 01952 585585 President: John Day Vice Presidents: Ron Gammons, Don Hayter, Peter Best.

Chairman: Bill Silcock Vice Chairman: Ian Quarrington.

Treasurer: Richard Colston Directors: Dave Saunders, Paul Plummer, William Ball, Peter Skipper, George Wilder, Richard Martin.

Company Secretary: Colin Grant Staff Members: Julian White (General Manager 01235 849732), John Hutchison (Competitions Secretary 01235 849738), Andy Knott (01235 849730), Liz Allsworth (Membership Secretary 01235 849734), John Inness (Exhibitions 01235 849737), Colin Grant (01235 849733), Lauran Gallacher (01235 849735), Adam Sloman (Assistant General Manager 01235 849731) and Kim Oshea (Finance Officer 01235 849736) Honorary Members: Michael Allison, Ron Gammons, Peter Best, Don Hayter, John Quenby, Sir Stirling Moss, Paddy Hopkirk, Norman Ewing, Rob Oldaker, Steve Hanegan, Gerry McGovern, June Wallis, Ann Hawke, John Dutton, John Day. Company limited by 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

It was great to see MG Car Club member and former MG Trophy Champion Jack Goff take his maiden BTCC victory in the Triple 8 MG6 at the Snetterton. If you want to come along and support the team the MGCC have once again organised space and discounted tickets for the penultimate BTCC round being held at Silverstone, so why not come and cheer for Jack and Andrew Jordan at the home of British Motorsport on September 26-27, as we hope for a great end to the season for the MG drivers. MG Car Club members can benefit from discounted entry tickets of just £24 per person, which includes free infield parking as well as access to the paddocks and entry to selected grandstand seating.

The touring car weekend features a busy schedule of racing with many support races on track in between the main events. Tickets can be purchased on the MGCC website www.mgcc.co.uk Ticket sales will close at 4pm on Friday September 4, so you need to be quick getting your ticket orders in.

Two MGCC employees, Adam Sloman and Lauran Gallacher, recently headed out to China as the guests of SAIC to attend the ‘MG Track Festival 2015’ in Shanghai, you can read their report on the event starting on page 24. Whilst in China they got to sample the new MG GS SUV, due out in the UK early next year; to say they were impressed with what they sampled would be an understatement. Adam’s experience and thoughts on the MG GS are also published in this issue starting on page 38. Keeping with the international theme this month, Brian Woodhams reports on the GT40 event, hosted by the North American MGA Register in Michigan. It looks like a good time was had by all. Also, we follow the exploits of Mike Christie and co as they joined a Scenic & Continental Car Tours trip to Lake Como or Garda via the Stelvio Pass in their MG YB and MG TD, covering 2,500 miles in 10 days; both cars consumed about three-quarters of a pint of oil and returned about 27 miles per gallon, and neither let their owners down. A testament to the reliability of well maintained 50+ year old MGs if ever there was the need for one.

For those of you heading out to Le Touquet-Paris-Plage, for the European Event of the Year 2016 on June 8-12, details are published on page 71.

Until next month, drive safely

@mgcarclub

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

www.mgcc.co.uk

MG Safety Fast September15 03-46.indd 7

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FROM

THE CHAIR

Bill Silcock

Club Matters from

As you might remember we could not present the Member of the Year and The Wilson McComb Trophies during MGLive! at Silverstone as the recipients were not there on Sunday. In mid July we were able to recover this situation at Kimber House and make the presentations in an appropriate way. On behalf of the Club I was able to present the Member of the Year award to Peter Neal, the club’s long serving volunteer archivist. For as long as I can remember Peter has spent four days a week as curator of the club archive, and is almost always able to satisfy enquiries from Club members and the media. His dedication and in-depth knowledge are invaluable to the Club.

Andy Knott has the responsibility to decide who has made the most significant contribution to Safety Fast! over the previous year, and to award that person the Wilson McComb Trophy. This year Andy decided that this award also should go to Peter for

his series of articles on the changing times of the marque at Abingdon. It is the first time that both these awards have gone to the same recipient – recognition of Peter’s considerable contribution to the activities of the Club.

As the summer season progresses our next race meeting will be at Oulton Park on September 12, and the next Luffield championship events will be at the Anglesey venue on September 5-6, followed by Thoresby Park in Sherwood Forest and Wiscombe in Devon and Gurston Down near Salisbury over the weekend of September 12-13. I would encourage members to go along and support our motorsport enthusiasts, who are nearly always willing to chat to fellow MG folks – providing they are not trying to fix their competition car with a tight deadline!

We have again been able to negotiate discounted tickets for the British Touring Car Championship at Silverstone on September

26 -27. With our usual reserved infield parking for Club Members this is always a popular event, and tickets are available via the Club website or from Kimber House.

There are many other Centre and Register events scheduled over the next weeks, and I would encourage you to take part in any that you find interesting. You can always find details in Safety Fast! or on the Club’s website.

One of the pleasurable duties the officers and directors of the Club carry out is to support the Centres, Registers and Branches, and as I look after the Caledonian Centre I recently took the opportunity to join them on their tour to Orkney. As we have come to expect over the years they organised everything, even including the weather – but unfortunately not the midges.

Whatever you’re doing with your MG, please make the most of the remaining summer days.

“I know... spirit of the rules... using a trailer etc, but I intend to win that concours with an immaculate car!”

www.mgcc.co.uk

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NEWS NEWSLETTER

Ken Costello 1927-2015 Ken Costello, the man whose MGB V8 conversions persuaded BL to build the MGB GT V8, has passed away at the age of 88.

Founder of engineering firm MG Costello, Ken was a hero in MG circles as well as a racer, flyer and automotive designer.

Ken Costello brought out his MGB V8 Costello in 1970. He started with a standard MGB and shoehorned a 3,528cc Rover V8 into the engine bay. This power unit was mated to a standard MGB Mk II/Mk III all synchromesh gearbox and the performance has been described as ‘electrifying’.

Ken’s dedication to refining and re-engineering MGBs and Cs ensured Costello MGs are recognised classics today. Costello MGB V8 enthusiasts are loyal to their machines and have a fond regard for the Costello V8s because their production was an example of a private venture seeing an ideal combination where a car and a Rover V8 transplant would transform the performance of what was then an ageing sports car design and suspension package. It is no surprise that his name resonates as one of the most valued in the British motor industry.

MG celebrates the official opening of its flagship showroom Earlier this year MG Motor UK announced it would be opening its flagship showroom in the prestigious area of Piccadilly, London.

This new showroom, part of MG’s major expansion of dealerships, is a significant move for the marque. Having a flagship showroom in London places MG in the heart of the growing economy and shows that the brand is back and here to stay.

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Jim Simpson 100 Years Old Jim Simpson, who worked for many years at the MG Factory, celebrated his one hundredth birthday on July 25. Jim was born and bred in Abingdon, and first joined MG as an office boy in October 1930 at the age of 15. After a few years he left due to illness but, after completing his army service, he returned and remained with MG until his retirement just before the factory closed in 1980. During the remainder of the war he worked in Material Control and then, when car production restarted, he moved to the Goods Inwards office. By the time he retired he was in charge of Goods Inwards, Goods Dispatch and palette control.

In 1945 Jim was persuaded to join the works’ volunteer fire brigade. He wasn’t very keen at first but soon found that he really enjoyed their weekly practice sessions and also the competitions they entered with fire brigades from other factories. By the time he retired he was Chief Officer.

Sometime after his retirement Jim was contacted by an American, Gary Watson, who was making the film ‘Inside the Octagon’. This led to introductions to several other American enthusiasts and

Success on and off track with MG Whilst MG Triple Eight Racing’s Jack Goff was celebrating his debut win in his MG at the MSA Dunlop British Touring Car Championship at Snetterton, 19-year-old Ryan Sykes was getting to grips with his very own MG off the track.

It’s not every day a customer’s new car is handed over by a racing driver, but for lifeguard Ryan Sykes that’s how he received his brand new MG3. Ryan is the son of the owner of Norfolk-based 5 Star Cases, one of Jack’s sponsors, and from the start of the partnership between MG and Jack, Ryan has

NEWS The MG Works Fire Brigade circa 1973 with Jim Simpson second from the left in the front row

this resulted in an invitation to St Paul, Minnesota as guest of honour at a large meeting of MG owners which is held every five years. Despite never having flown before, at the age of 86 Jim accepted the invitation and spent a wonderful ten days which included an interview for the local TV station and a trip around the race track in a 1930 M type which, in its heyday, had been raced at Brooklands. Several of his American friends keep in touch and visit when they are in this country as they love to hear Jim’s very clear memories of the old days at MG.

been hoping to own one of his own.

Ryan said: “My dad started working with Jack in 2013, but it wasn’t until Jack started racing for MG Triple Eight that I started looking at MGs and saw what they had to offer. I thought the MG3 was great, so when my old car packed up I knew I wanted one.

I got the chance to personalise my car and make it how I wanted it to look, which was pretty cool. I’m glad I did though, because my sister wants one now!”

Ryan’s dad, Keith Sykes, said: “I would have normally dismissed a brand new car, but with the PCP it’s a no brainer. I get peace of mind knowing that Ryan is no longer driving around in a car that would cost a lot more to maintain. It’s also great to know that the days of ferrying him around are gone, I think it’s fair to say that we won’t ever have to now that he’s got his pride and joy!

“I’m really proud to support MG through Jack, and now we’re continuing that support by owning an MG3.”

Phoenix Natter 50th Anniversary The Phoenix Natter, Hartley Wintney is celebrating 50 years on the second Friday in January 2016 and we want to mark the occasion. George Ward started the Natter with Peter Harmer and Arthur Hay in January 1966 and George has lead it ever since. So we are looking for expressions of interest from any past and present Natter members who would like to join us at either the Natter Dinner on Friday night (January 8) and/or a lunchtime gathering on Saturday January 9 at the Phoenix PH in Hartley Wintney, Hants.

Please will all interested parties contact Jo or George Ward – 01252 876783 or email jo@ ese-assoc.demon.co.uk

www.mgcc.co.uk

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NEWS

NEWS NEWSLETTER

Macmillan Donation from the MG Car Club The MG Car Club, alongside the MG Trophy Championship, recently donated two cheques to Macmillan Cancer Support.

The MG Trophy raised a total of £700 for the charity, donated from just the drivers.

Tyre sponsors Dunlop give the Championship eight free tyres a year that are then used in a £10 raffle for the drivers. The rest of the money was raised from miscellaneous donations and extras from their annual general meeting.

Pete Macwaters, MG Trophy Championship Co-ordinator, said: “This is our second year with Macmillan and they’re all-encompassing when cancer support is concerned, they cover diagnosis and see it right through. Every year we take a vote on a charity, and the drivers have been very keen to support Macmillan in what they do.”

The Car Club also donated an additional £8,018.31 to the charity – the remainder of what has previously been raised, which happened to be the Oxfordshire Macmillan branch’s largest donation of the year so far.

Julian White, MGCC General Manager, said: “The club has enjoyed its relationship with Macmillan over the past couple of years, and we were delighted to present them with a further cheque, helping them continue the fantastic support they provide so many people with.”

Macmillan are a source of support, helping with all the things that people affected by cancer want and need. They fund nurses and other specialist health care professionals and build cancer care centres, but also give so much more than medical help.

For more information on Macmillan, visit their website at www.macmillan.org.uk or telephone 020 7840 7840.

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MGs on parade at the British Athletics Anniversary Games Classic MGs owned by MG Car Club members took part in the MG Motor Parade at the British Athletics Anniversary Games on Friday July 23.

Top athletes were paraded around the stadium at the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, home of the London 2012 Olympics, in front of thousands of spectators.

British Olympic Bronze medalist Robbie Grabarz (who visited Kimber House back in

2013) led the parade in Darren Allsworth’s MG TF, followed by Renaud Lavillenie, the World Record holder in the Men’s Pole Vault, who was driven around the track in Chris Bray’s MGA, and Tiffany Porter, the American 100m hurdler who now competes for Team GB, enjoyed the parade from Dave Tynan’s TF. And last but not least, Usain Bolt, who later took victory in the 100m, was treated to a ride in Richard Martin’s MGB. The four classic MGs were top and tailed by the MG3 and new MG6.

Congratulations to Peter Neal who was recently presented with the prestigious Member of the Year trophy by MG Car Club Chairman Bill Silcock, for his services to the MGCC and especially his fastidious work in preserving and cataloguing the Archive at Kimber House. Peter was also presented with the Wilson McComb trophy for his excellent contributions to Safety Fast! in 2014.

Former Glory Move to New Premises Former Glory, the well-known MG Specialist, have moved premises from their Perivale location and are now located at Postcombe Service Station, A40 London Road, Postcombe, OXON OX9 7ED. Nigel Guild, the proprietor, said the move has allowed them to expand their services to customers and include servicing, bodywork and MOTs, plus the extra floor space has allowed him to expand the number of cars on display.

The new premises were opened during the first week of August and are now fully operational. If you wish to know more details on offer or are interested in a classic MG give Nigel a call on 01844 281700 or email: nigelguild@hotmail.com

www.mgcc.co.uk

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10/08/2015 10/08/2015 08:53:25 08:53:25 21/08/2015 17:18

NEWS NEWSLETTER

Social News P ARTS Kimber House

cation ques.

range

,

Media of

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parts for the Engine • We’ve had a great variety of articles and photos on social media in August, ranging ng System • from a framed print given to us here at ust System • Kimber House, a classic advert that had some brilliant feedback and• Jack Goff’s spension maiden British Touring Car Championship & Rear Axle • victory at Snetterton.

What surprised us most though was Hello octagonally MGCC members!

Firstly, I’d like to thank nterior • an old painting of an MG TC next to a steam Julian, Adam, and everyone associated with the club for giving y Panels engine, that generated 303 likes and• 101 me such a fantastic opportunity in the world of sports PR and shares on our Facebook page – the biggest communications. It’s something I’ve been desperately trying to get ght Work • amount this month. into since graduating last year, and now I finally have my break, The • classic ‘Your Mother Wouldn’t and I couldn’t be happier. ectrical I have moved to Abingdon from Loughborough in

1279 Leicestershire, and have settled into the town and working life

P

Like It’ MGB GT picture was close behind in second with likes, with many of our fans reminiscing about the adverts that persuaded them to buy their beloved MG. An interesting article from one of the journalists that was G part of the Kimber House Media Day was found to be popular – providing a fantastic insight as to how the cars differ in various different ways.

Club photographer Colin Murrell should get a special mention for the fantastic pictures he sent in from the Oldtimer Grand-Prix at the Nurburgring and Silverstone Classic. They received lots of praise across all of our social media channels, with the clear favourite being the MG TC LeMans Special at a soggy Silverstone that Colin and us here at Kimber House believe is the shot of 2015 so far.

And to finish with, former BBC Dragons Den star Theo Paphitis was the biggest celebrity name the club got in touch with this month, as we tried to convince him over Twitter that he should swap the Ford Anglia he has just begun racing with for an MG. We personally think he’d look good in one, don’t you?

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COMING

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more comfortably than I perhaps would have expected, especially with this being my first full-time job.

From a young age I’ve been N around cars but unfortunately not I MGs. My father is Vice-President of the Toyota MR2 Mk1 Club, and has been heavily involved in what they do for a number of years.

I’ve always loved being a part of the various local and national events that they’ve been a part of, and still do. Despite my strong affection for the MR2, I have become infatuated with the thought of driving a mk1 ZR 160 or a 1.8i ZS facelift hatchback with body kit (this is me politely asking if anybody has one for sale).

In terms of work and education, I graduated from the University of Central Lancashire at Preston in July 2014 with a 2:1 BA Hons in Sports Journalism – three years of my life I will look back on and cherish. During my time here, I completed various writing roles at websites and magazines. In 2014, I helped out ITV Sport with their coverage of the FA Cup which was fantastic, and I am due to assist them again, this time for two weeks during the Rugby World Cup in September/October this year. During the last rugby season, I took on the role of Matchday Media Intern at Leicester Tigers, which gave me a huge insight into Sports PR – something I really enjoyed, whilst confirming the area of work I wanted to go into.

And now here I am at Kimber House sitting in front of my desk reading this introduction of myself and realising I’m getting quite old!

On a slightly more serious note though, I am very optimistic about the future of the club and what I can bring to the table, but also what I’m able learn from the very experienced and knowledgeable members, enthusiasts and fellow colleagues within the MG Car Club. I am honoured to be working for such a historic marque where I can channel all of my enthusiasm and energy into propelling the club forward in the interest of members and fans worldwide.

S

ZINE.

WISE N BY Chris Kynoch MGCC Junior PR & Social Media Officer

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F: www.facebook.com/MGCarClub T: @MGCarClub I: @MGCarClub

www.mgcc.co.uk

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Classic Car Specialists focusing on Servicing, Sales Restoration, Classic Car Specialists focusing on Servicing, Restoration, Modification and bespoke refinishing for a work widetorange ofrange classic marques.

Modifi cation and bespoke work refinishing a wide ofcar classic MG’s In House Body shopfor and Paint Facilities arts the • Fixed price servicing d MGB We stock a wide range of parts for

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• All restoration work undertaken

MG T-Series, MGA and MGB

We stock parts for the: • Engine • • Engine refurbishment • Braking System • including lead-free • Exhaust System • • conversions • Suspension • • Front & Rear Axle • • Classic car sales MG TA £44,995.00 • Interior • including The opportunity has come up to purchase this very special MG TA, This car has been owned by the same owner since 1964 and as you can Green TF £29,995.00 • Body Panels • commission sales see it’s had no expense spared through the whole of its life having up to Very rare metallic green MG TF in beautiful condition this car • Bright Work • £70,000 spent on it. has just undergone a full engine rebuild including unleaded head 7712 The period style modifications make it such a pleasure to drive • UK & Europe in our workshops only 2 weeks ago, • Electrical • even on the modern roads of today. It has been on many Classic & We also repainted the car in 2013 along with fitting a five speed collection and historic rallies in the UK and to SpainI have many special photos gearbox conversion, New wiring loom, New us front seats New Call 01279 877712 and history of the car through its rallies and life to date What also delivery service hood, Side screens and full length tonneau.

ON LINE SHOP COMING SOO makes this car special is that it was once a Police Car registered to The car has been maintained regardless of cost and well Back S EtheRLancashire V I C Constabulary I N G | (TA0873) REST OinRtheAyearT2000 I Oit went N | R A C E P R E P | B Olooked D Y after.

REFINISHING off to Alistair Naylor Brothers for a total rebuild and since then the Unit 2immaculate to 6 Woodside, High Easter car has been kept in condition. In 2009/10 the car had a Road, Leaden Roding, Essex CM6 1QQ. total Engine,Gearbox and Back Axle rebuild just to keep it up to the on Servicing, Restoration, Modification Email: info@classicandsportscarsessex.co.uk Classic Car Specialists focusing condition the owner and car deserved. and bespoke refinishing work for wide range of classic car marques.

Web: www.classicandsportscarsessex.co.uk Classic Car Specialists focusing on aServicing, Restoration, Modification and bespoke refinishing for Facilities a wide range of classic car marques.

In House Body shop andwork Paint In House Body shop and Paint •Facilities Fixed price servicing

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Tel: 01279 877712

MG PARTS MG PARTS

We stock a wide range of parts for the • Fixed price servicing T-Series, MGAofand WeMG stock a wide range partsMGB for the • All restoration work We stock parts for the: MG T-Series, MGA and MGB undertaken • All restoration work We stock parts •for the: • Engine undertaken • Engine refurbishment • Braking System • Engine • • including lead-free • Exhaust • Engine refurbishment Braking System • conversions including lead-free • Suspension •• • Exhaust System Black TF £27,995.00 conversions • Front & Rear Axle • Suspension • • owned since 2003 this MG TF is in beautiful condition, • ClassicFamily car sales • Interior • Front Rear Axleof• a local car to ourselves so we•have had& the luxury MGB GT £9,995.00 including • Classic carit’ssales servicing and looking after it for many years now.

• Body Panels • Stunning Teal Blue MGB GT which went through a restoration • Interior • commission sales including Specifi cation; Black, Biscuit Brown Interior Trim, programme back in 2011/12 and still looks beautiful today, BrightPanels Work •• •• Body commission sales Black Carpet, Full Tan Weather Gear Including Two previous family owners from new.

• Electrical •• • UK & Europe • BrightWire Work Tonneau,Moto-Lita Steering Wheel, Painted Wheels, Motolita steering wheel, Minator alloy wheels, Electronic ignition, collection and Luggage Rack, Heater, Unleaded head New and carpets Electrical •877712 • UK & Europe CARS THIS ARTWORK ISseats THE PROPERTY OF CLASSIC FOR SALE MAGAZINE. Call us •01279 delivery collectionservice and ONCall LINEus SHOP COMING SOON 01279 877712 delivery service SHOP SOON S E R V I C I N G | R E S T O R A T I O N | R A C E P R E P | B O D YON R ELINE FIN I S HCOMING ING NO PART OF THIS ARTWORK MAY BE REPRODUCED, STORED OR OTHERWISE Unit 2 to 6 Woodside, High Easter Road, Leaden Roding, Essex CM6 1QQ. S9, E Broadfi R V I C I Nelds G | RFarm, E S T ODunmow R A T I O N |Road, R A C ERayne, P R E P Braintree, | B O D Y R Essex.

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BY ANY PUBLICATION UNLESS PRIOR PERMISSION Unit 2OTHER to 6 Woodside, High Easter Road, Leaden Roding, Essex CM6 1QQ.IS GIVEN BY Web: www.classicandsportscarsessex.co.uk Email: info@classicandsportscarsessex.co.uk THE PUBLISHERS - MS Publications (2001) Ltd. Web: www.classicandsportscarsessex.co.uk

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Tel: 01279 877712 Tel: 01279 Tel: 01376 877712 569355

URGENT PROOF MG Safety Fast September15 03-46.indd 15

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PRODUCTS

PRODUCTS

BMC 1100 and 1300, An Enthusiast’s Guide

by James Taylor Reviewed by Colin Grant At first sight you may wonder why we are reviewing a book about the BMC 1100 and 1300s but of course there was the sporting MG model. The range was very popular in the UK, being the bestselling car between 1962 and 1971, the Ford Cortina breaking that run once in 1967.

The book, which is well written and researched by James Taylor, covers the origins of the ADO16 (factory designation) right through its history including the many variations and export cars. It may not be well known that the MG 1100 variation was announced less than two months after the Morris 1100 had been released. Also that it might have been called the MGC1100, but this was vetoed by MG at Abingdon as they wanted to keep the letter designations for sports cars. Interestingly all MG 1100 and 1300 models were built at Cowley.

The MG model was of course the sporty version and there is a whole chapter in the book dedicated to the sports models of the range, including its companion the Riley Kestrel. The MG version was the first to have a twin carburettor engine together with the MG name tacked onto the rocker cover. Later a 1300 model was introduced, again with twin carburettors, although early models had a single carburettor. The MG version was exported to America where the MG name was very popular. Unfortunately it had mixed reviews with quality control being an issue. This was gradually addressed but in the end a specific version called the Austin America was introduced with many improvements to suit the American market.

Overall a fascinating and enjoyable read and a must for any MG enthusiast who is interested in the history of MG. Available through the Clubs web site www.mgcc.co.uk/shop/ category/books/ priced at £16.99, plus £5.00 UK and £7.00 overseas post and packing.

The BMC/BL Competitions Department DVD Filmed at this year’s MGLive! event in June, this is the historic record of the 60th anniversary gathering of the former Abingdon ‘Works’ Competition Department. Over 50 important vehicles are present along with many of the ‘Works’ drivers, co-drivers, management, mechanics and other personnel. An occasion that is unlikely to ever be repeated, but thanks to this release you can now enjoy the weekend up close.

The DVD is available from the Club Web site at www.mgcc.co.uk/ shop/category/dvd/ and is priced at £11.00, plus post and packing at £3.00 UK and £6.00 overseas.

BRAND NEW MG3 PERFORMANCE EXHAUST MG Specialists and MG Motor Main Dealer, Brown & Gammons are proud to announce that they have brand new MG3 performance exhausts available now.

Designed and manufactured in the UK by a leading performance exhaust manufacturer exclusively for Brown & Gammons, the exhausts are made in stainless steel with mandrell bends, exquisite mig welding and new modified tail finishers.

Preliminary reports suggest that the new exhaust offers an extra 3hp and just under 3lbs of torque.

As a promotional offer, Brown & Gammons are offering the first 25 exhausts at the discounted rate of £349.99 and they are available to post now. Brown & Gammons can also offer a fitting service in their award-winning MG Motor authorised workshop if required. To order please call on 01462 490049 – in stock now.

Watch this space – MG3 ITG Air filters coming soon.

MGB Register Grille Badge New from the MGB Register is the Register Grille badge available online at http://www.mgb-register.org/MGB-Register/Grill_Badge. html, or by post with a cheque for £19 with p&p to Roger Boys, 11, Fairacre, Woolton Hill, Newbury RG20 9UF. Tel: 07966 132295.

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www.mgcc.co.uk

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MERCHANDISE

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MERCHANDISE

Travellers Flask A 1ltr Club logoed stainless steel vacuum flask, which keeps liquid hot or cold for several hours, which is perfect when on road trips, heading to the beach, or on camping trips. Priced at £15 plus £5.00 UK post and packing.

12V Jump Starter Multi-Function Car Emergency Start, and Back Up Battery Charger For Laptop, Mobile Phone, Digital Camera Features: Car Jump Starter and battery charger for laptops, smartphones, cameras and gaming consoles • Great for the outdoors where running out of battery power may be an issue, such activities include travelling, camping, expeditions and more • Three lighting modes: strong light, strobe, SOS • Supports emergency starting a 12V vehicle, diesel or petrol, but the engine must not exceed 8 cylinders After being fully charged, the item can start a vehicle.

It can fully charge a mobile phone around 5 times, and only needs about 1 hour to fully charge the mobile phone. And it can support a laptop for about 30 minutes.

Priced at £60 plus £5.00 UK post and packing.

Cooler Bag This large 600d-Polyester Cooler bag is just the job for keeping beers, wine and food cool, whether going on a picnic or just carrying home the shopping. This bag has carrying straps and a useful front slip pocket. White Polyester outer covering with navy straps and MGCC logo.

Priced at £11.00 plus £5.00 UK post and packing.

Call it MGA Second Edition To mark the 60th Anniversary of the MGA, The MGA Register has commissioned a second edition of the book, first published in 2005. Piers Hubbard and Roger Martin have updated their original work with many newly discovered facts together with the evolving stories from the past 10 years.

The second edition is now in a larger full colour format and includes three new chapters. The book is case bound 297 x 240mm.

Priced at £25 plus £5.00 UK post and packing.

BMC 1100 and 1300, An Enthusiast’s Guide by James Taylor This well written and researched book covers all the BMC 1100 and 1300 models with a chapter dedicated to the MG and Riley versions.

It looks at the design and development of the model range that at the time confirmed BMC as a pioneer of new automotive ideas.

Priced at £16.99 plus £5.00 UK post and packing.

The BMC/BL Competitions Department DVD Filmed at this year’s MGLive! event in June, this is the historic record of the 60th anniversary gathering of the former Abingdon ‘Works’ Competition Department. Over 50 important vehicles are present, along with many of the ‘Works’ drivers, co-drivers, management, mechanics and other personnel. An occasion that is unlikely to ever be repeated, but thanks to this release you can now enjoy the weekend up close.

Priced at £11.00, £3.00 UK post and packing.

To order any of the above merchandise please visit www.mgcc.co.uk/shop or phone the MG Car Club on 01235 555552 www.mgcc.co.uk

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FEATURE

Crimping bullet connectors and Faston terminals

By Victor Smith

W

hether you are doing maintenance on the electrical system on a classic car like an MGB or installing new wiring for additional equipment, getting a good crimped bullet connector or Faston is essential.

Bullets come in two types, one for crimping and the other for soldering.

Crimping bullets are the same size to fit the connector tubes but they are specific to the wire type – for example heavy wire for headlights, medium for relays and light wire for instruments. If the wire goes into a bullet then it’s the right size. The bullets and connector tubes are available in packs from Maplin or auto-electrics parts suppliers like Holden Vintage & Classics and Halfords.

A professional crimping tool puts a nice hexagonal crimp all the way round the bullet and an alternative, lower cost tool, simply puts a flat on each side of the bullet. Bullet connector tubes come in single, double or five-in-five-out types.

Faston or Lucar connectors were seen on cars from around the 70s and they are a simple spade connector. The crimp pliers have one half of the tool with a ‘U’ shape and one with a ‘W’ shape to point the ends of the tails into the crimp and also a wire stripping section for various thicknesses of wire. It gives a neat crimp and then the tail flaps have to be wrapped round the wire. A heat shrink plastic

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sleeving provides a really professional finish to a crimped Faston.

Soldering as well as crimping a connector is felt by some engineers to be unwise if the crimp is done well.

The bullet and crimp terminal manufactures have spent time and money developing a system that would work under the conditions experienced in a car, that is fast and cost effective to install and would last a long time. Soldering the connector should be approached with great care, since a poor job can make the crimp unreliable. Something often overlooked when soldering stranded wires is that if the soldering is done properly and the wire was at the right temperature, the solder will flow by capillary action between the strands for as much as 5 to 10mm away from the joint. What this does is reduce the flexibility of the wire in the area where the wire exits the connector without strain relief, so any vibration might lead to an early failure. The relaxation of the spring force on Faston

Faston or Lucar crimping tool

terminals when soldered is also a concern, so soldering in addition to good quality crimping is best avoided.

‘More’ at www.v8register.net/more.htm

www.mgcc.co.uk

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DEALERPROFILE

The MG Sales Centre is located on the iconic MG Motor UK site in Longbridge, Birmingham.

Surrounded by 68-acres of land incorporating MG’s Design Centre, UK Technical Centre, Engine and Gearbox test facility, Assembly plant and European Headquarters, the MG Sales Centre is one of MG Motor UK’s premier dealerships.

T

he building the Sales Centre occupies was built in the mid 1960s on the Flying Ground within the Longbridge complex. Its original intention for use was as a design studio, but with its high vaulted ceiling it soon became a commercial vehicle showroom, and even housed a caracole to turn the commercial vehicles around. The shape of the new building was reminiscent of that of the elephant house in Dudley Zoo so the newest Longbridge facility soon got the nickname ‘Elephant House’. The building underwent many changes of use up until the collapse of MG Rover in 2005 when in its final incarnation it was MG Rover Direct, selling used and new MG Rovers.

The building remained unused up until 2007 when NAC bought the MG name and Longbridge site; NAC was then acquired by SAIC Motor and the company renamed as MG Motor in 2009. It wasn’t until September 2011 the building was to open as the official Sales Centre for MG Motor UK, shortly after the launch of the MG6. One of the Sales Executives, Simon Bennett, has been with the Sales Centre since the start. Coming from a motoring

The MG3 - Go Enjoy

background, Simon was at the 2011 Goodwood Festival accompanying drives with Toyota for the 10th anniversary of the Prius when he caught sight of the fresh looking MG6, so approached the guys on the MG stand and expressed his interest in the car. Being a diehard MG enthusiast he even had an MG family connection: Simon’s dad worked at Morris at Coventry which took on the overspill from Longbridge in 1970s and 1980s. Simon was soon setting foot on the hallowed

Longbridge ground as an employee and remembers the ‘rabbit in the headlights’ moment when entering the potential Sales Centre for the first time, with leaves from the surrounding trees all over the floor, and only two cars in the building, the last ever MG TF and Zero concept car cordoned off in the corner.

With only one product to sell the early days of the Sales Centre were quite tough, with 75% of sales of the 1.8 petrol MG6 GT and Magnette being sold to MG

The MG Sales

Centre Beautifully British

www.mgcc.co.uk

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DEALERPROFILE

A popular colour, Hello Yellow MG3

or Rover enthusiasts who knew of the marque and were loyal to the brand, the GT outselling the Magnette 5-1. In late 2012 the MG6 diesel launched and this is when things really started moving for the Sales Centre, ‘calling my bluff’ to those critics and motoring journalists saying ‘I wouldn’t buy an MG6 as it’s only available in petrol’, people started to sit up and take MG Motor UK seriously. The diesel engine was designed specifically for the MG6, with the gearbox being fabricated to be mated to that engine, working in harmony to produce a fantastic torquey drive with excellent gear ratios. About the same time a few Chinese specification MG3s arrived at Longbridge and the hype surrounding the supermini started going viral on the social media and forum sites as MG3s were spotted around the leafy Longbridge lanes and the M42 motorway. The MG3 hit the showrooms in September 2013 and was an instant hit, which resulted in uplift in sales of the MG6. The MG marque was here to stay!

Since the launch of the MG3, MG Motor UK and the Sales Centre have been doing various road shows with the car, and the Sales Centre even had a display in the Merry Hill shopping Centre for a lengthy period. The result of this, word of mouth and the TV AD campaign pushing the benefits of the affordable, low insurance group, fantastic to drive, supermini, resulted in MG Motor UK becoming the fastest growing brand in 2014. With the launch of the revised MG6 in 2015, being acclaimed by the motoring press due to the better economy, better interior and low CO2 emissions, and the launch of the MG GS next year it really is exciting times going forward for MG Motor UK and the Sales Centre.

What can the Sales Centre offer you?

Sales The Sales Centre has two Sales Executives willing to help make the purchase of a new or approved Used MG an enjoyable and stress-free experience. As previously mentioned, Simon has been with the Sales Centre since it opened in September 2011. The other Sales Executive, Ron Morgan has over 20 years experience in the motor trade, having worked for many large dealer groups across the West Midlands.

As well as the 9-14 cars in the Sales Centre showroom, displaying the full MG Motor range with a number of examples of MG3, MG6 GT and MG6 Magnette models to view, there is also a range of approved used MGs on the premises and a selection of demonstrators available to take a test drive in.

Aftersales The Sales Centre also has a thriving service and parts department overseen by David Clark.

Josh and Phil take care of your aftersales needs and liaise with our fully trained technicians who work inside the

Ron and Simon, MG Sales Executives

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Plenty of cars on display in the MG Sales Centre

An MG3 gets a PDI check ready for it’s new owner The new MG6 heads down the line in the factory, located over the road form the Sales Centre owner

iconic MG Birmingham factory. Who better to service and repair your car than the guys and girls who build them! MG also hold a multi-million pound stock of parts and accessories to improve or repair your MG! Why not pay the Sales Centre a visit at Lowhill Lane Longbridge Birmingham West Midlands B31 2BQ, where you’re assured of a warm welcome, and see for yourself the passion for the marque and the wonderful MGs on offer.

MG Sales Centre – 0121 251 6533 – www.birmingham.mg.co.uk/

Just some of MGs glory moments captured in a montage proudly displayed in the MG Sales Centre

www.mgcc.co.uk

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EVENTS

O

REPORT

ne of the things that draws people to MG is its history and its heritage – one part of the world that is relatively new to MG’s incredible story, is China.

MG’s owners SAIC have gone to great lengths to try and connect with MG’s unique history, most recently using the MGB and C GT to support the launch of the new MG GT.

SAIC have always been very proud of MG’s rich history and of the key role the Car Club has played in that history, hence the reason why they chose to form a World Heritage partnership with the MGCC. So it wasn’t surprising that during MGLive! this year myself and Lauran, along with MG Trophy champ Chris Bray, received an invite from our colleagues

with MG in China, to what they described as ‘MGLive! meets Glastonbury’ – the MG Track Festival 2015.

A few short weeks later and we found ourselves in the sweltering heat of a Chinese summer, at the Tianma Circuit, an hour north of Shanghai.

The scale of the event was breathtaking – the main stage comprised a pair of Tower Bridge-style towers with the main

MG Track Festival 2015

By Adam Sloman

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REPORT

stage between them, backed by a massive video screen.

The construction of the set alone took over a month, with the circuit flanked by lasers to light the car’s path to and from the stage. All around the circuit people were at work – there were people operating TV cameras and lights, photographers and sound engineers, while even more people occupied a make-shift production office, coordinating all the sound, lighting and visuals.

Unusually, MG did not charge for the tickets, instead offering them up for free, with people applying for tickets – clearly the process worked, with 3,000 people in the stands and hundreds more outside, with some even trying to climb the fences to get it!

The show began with a car boot sale, believe it or not, with the MG GS being used to display and sell a whole host of MG-branded goodies, from bags to brollies and key rings to cups – the team from MG were kept busy as the punters queued up to part with their cash. Each person was given an MG hand fan and a light-up MG banner – the crowd was a sea of glowing and flashing octagons!

As the sun began to set the music began, opening with the sound of engines as examples of the current MG range, joined by a Trophy yellow TF, screamed past the crowd, much to their delight.

The event played host to some of the most famous pop stars in China, including

CALENDAR EVENTS

the winner of the local version of TV talent contest ‘The Voice’!

The show was split into five sections, all titled with the letters M and G, with our section being named ‘My Gift’ – and so we headed out to the stage, Lauran in a Morris Minor with Chris Bray, while I drove an MGC GT out in front of the crowd. We got a great response from the audience – as popular as the new MGs seem to be in China, there’s clearly a lot of interest in the classics.

Once on stage I explained to the crowd all about the Club, Abingdon and MGLive!

– it’s quite odd to be asked a question in Chinese and answer in English! Thankfully there doesn’t seem to be a Chinese translation of ‘MGCC’ or ‘MGLive!’ so if you concentrated, you knew where you were supposed to speak! Following my interview on stage, Lauran got the chance to show off her language skills by speaking some Chinese (say “ni hao” to her next time you see her!) before Chris was quizzed about his time in the MG Trophy and before long we headed off into the night and let the rock stars return.

The show finished with a superb fireworks display, while MG workers appeared on stage to sing a song they’d written about the marque.

It was incredible to see the effort that SAIC are putting into the MG brand – cynics might dismiss it, but on this evidence, they love MG every bit as much as you and I…

L-R: Chris Bray, Lauran Gallacher and Adam Sloman

www.mgcc.co.uk

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EVENTS

REPORT

MG Saloon Day 2015

By John Thompson

Photos Kelvin Fagan

M

G Saloon Day has become a popular event in the MG calendar. It has been running for many years, originally under the organisation of the MG‘M’ Group (1998).

As Zed ownership increased from 2002 onwards the event became increasingly popular within the Register. In 2012 we began jointly organising this event owing to this increase, and more recently organised it solely by ourselves. It’s our aim to maintain the spirit of this event and continue to do so for many years to come.

Visitor-wise the event attracts a complete mix of cars ranging from the early MG saloons through to today’s MG3 and MG6 models, but it also welcomes the non MG variants too from the early and BMC years through to MG Rover era.

The location for this year’s event was Burghley House near Stamford. This stunning Elizabethan house is one of the largest and grandest of the age. It has been the location for many a feature film and costume drama, and some memorable motoring events. Having agreed a date and venue for the event, arrangements were made with Burghley House for an initial site visit in April. A location in the grounds was chosen and approved – an excellent open grassed area sloping up towards the house in the background. At the request of Burghley, large sweeping horseshoes of cars were planned to accommodate and display the anticipated number of visitors with the individual models grouped together.

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The day itself sadly dawned rather wet with least some of us having to drive through the wet stuff en route to Stamford.

But fortunately it cleared away quite early on and for the remainder of the day we were blessed with glorious warm summer weather. Approximately one hundred cars supported the event which is very respectable number although the early morning rain might have deterred some from setting out. On arrival attendees were given a voting slip for our Show & Shine competition. Divided into ten categories the forms were gradually handed in with the winner’s presentations being made during the afternoon. There is plenty to see and do at Burghley House and many drifted off to visit the house and gardens – an ideal location for a picnic and family day out.

With the conclusion of the presentations at 4pm and after thanking everyone for attending, our visitors began to head off home, bringing to a close what had been an excellent and successful day.

We would like to thank those from the Lincolnshire Centre who volunteered and helped with the setting up and marshalling on the day. Thank you for your support.

A T T i b

Winners of the Show & Shine Competition: Best MG ZR – Julie Thorn T33 ORN Best MG ZS – Mick Thorn T44 ORN Best ZT/ZT-T – Robert Harding – X12 MGR Best MG FWD – Wendy Kneller – B454 VUD – Metro Turbo Best MG 635 – David Williams – VE63 YNP – MG6 Best Other MG – Geoff Blackwell – DNN 288T Best Visiting Car – Martin Chapple – M600 LMC – Rover 200 Coupe

F

E

E S



Maestro & Montego Owners Club Cup Best Montego – A17 PFT* Best Maestro – Phil Pope – F197 TRW Best in Show – Robert Harding – X12 MGR

M

S I

*The FWD Register has contacted the owner of the best Montego to let them know they had won as they had left the event before the prize-giving.

Congratulations to all the winners and thank you to everyone who voted. Thank you also to Car Club Chairman Bill Silcock for presenting the prizes.

R

N A … …

P D E C

www.mgcc.co.uk

21/08/2015 17:20

Abingdon to Abingdon Road Run to celebrate the MG Car Club’s 85th Birthday.

Sunday October 4th 2015

An invitation to owners of MGs of all ages, cars & owners, to celebrate the Club’s 85th birthday!

The MGCC and AWC are organizing an event based around the Abingdon to Abingdon Trials of the 1930s.

The concept of this non-competitive event is to enjoy an Autumnal run through beautiful Cotswold countryside in the company of fellow enthusiasts. Starting and finishing at the Westwood Hotel in it’s tranquil setting between Abingdon & Oxford where refreshments will be provided at both ends of the day.

Fee includes refreshments, Road Book & numbered Rally Plate.

Entry £27.50 per car of two people. Additional passengers £13.00 each.

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21/08/2015 17:20

REPORT

EVENT

The Regional flags welcomed the cars to Gaydon

A Fun Filled Anniversary – The MGF Reaches Twenty

By Tim Morris

T

he Heritage Motor Centre in Gaydon has played a significant role in the history of the MGF and in 2015 added another trophy to its belt by hosting the 20th Anniversary of the launch of the car. Whilst the MGF was officially launched at Geneva on March 7 1995, the very first sighting outside of the confines of Longbridge was actually a week or so earlier when the car was revealed to the invited dealer network at Gaydon.

So we came full circle on August 1 when around 600 MGFs and TFs descended on the Museum’s semi-circular aprons, where the MGF Register re-created another striking feature which had not been seen within MG circles in the UK since the second MGF Birthday party in 1997 which was held… where else but Gaydon again.

Colour coded parking. Not as easy as it sounds and a lot of pre planning by Adrian Clifford went into allocating sufficient space

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– now you know why we asked for your car’s colour when you pre- booked. Of course over the years there have been dozens of different colour variations so it was not always easy to get cars in the right location, unlike 1997 when there was only a handful to deal with. It actually went remarkably well with cars that couldn’t decide what colour they were, siphoned off into a special monogram section or as feature cars, such as Ruth Evans’s TF which starts off red at the front and finishes black at the back.

Dave Jenkins had collected around 20 of those monogram cars, several of which were colour changing chromatic, for a striking display along the front row with feature cars, a timeline from 1995 to 2010, and those cars who had driven to the show from overseas completing the front row line up. All others parked facing away from the Museum and resembled a patchwork quilt of bright colours, or up on the hillside in

the overflow parking with a great view over the showground, a smattering of other MG types amongst them.

Another blast from those past heady days of 1995 was Julia Marshall who was the very first Register Chairwoman and we had tracked her down to come along with her own special memories of those times. Julia was also the first person to actually order an MGF and was featured Some individual interpretations from Ruth Evans and Alsion Dale

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EVENTS

REPORT

Elaine Ball got in to the spirit of the Glo Cars with a Glo Costume

in the Daily Telegraph cuddling her brand new MGF. It was a pleasure to welcome her back to the Register after all this time and to cap it all she came third in the fun driving tests.

The day though was dedicated to the F and TF and with traders, including MGF20 partners Church Square Autos and Martin Smith, selling F and TF related goodies you could easily find a nice birthday present for your own car.

Throughout the day there were talks from F/TF personalities including Ian Pogson, Roger Parker and the man who came up with the original design ideas for the MGF, Steven Harper. In the arena there were parades of featured cars and interviews with owners along with some light hearted competitions – the Loudest Exhaust (which was won not by a fancy aftermarket system but by a standard factory fitted Trophy system, much to the consternation of some owners) and the Driving Tests, one of which involved parking in a garage with a bucket on your head.

There was some serious competition however in the form of the latest MGF Register major Pride of Ownership contest. The honour of being the MGF20 champion was keenly fought and our judges from Kimber House spent a lot of time examining the cars and speaking

to the owners for we wanted those who were truly proud of their cars as well as those keeping them in great condition and presenting them well. After much deliberation the top awards went to the current King and Queen of MGF Concours/ PoO – Helen Scutt with her blue TF Spark won Best MGTF and husband Nigel won Car of the Show with his green 2000MY MGF, with Peter Dunn winning the Best MGF class and Hannah Hoblyn Best Other MG with her MG3. Best Modified car went to Nigel Hanlon; although only a recent owner of this 1997 modified MGF, he brings the car back into the MGF scene after it was missing for a few years. The Visitors Trophy was won by Dave Jenkins with his unique Poseidon monogram TF after counting up the votes from visitors to the show who could choose any car at the show, other than their own of course.

As 5pm approached most of the cars had drifted off back to hotels or campsite but many would return later for the MGF20 party which featured live band Not the Hoople and our final competition of the day – one of the Register’s signature events, the Glo cars, along with a really great barbecue dinner perched right on top of the Motor Centre. The final trophies of the day went to Paul Davies who won the Pro-Glo and Alan Bradley who topped the ImproGlo chart. Our special guest judge was Yutaro Sekimoto who had come all the way from Japan just to judge this competition… well actually he had come for the whole weekend but still showed a remarkable dedication to the MGF and consequently took back to Japan with him the Furthest Travelled Trophy.

Some may have thought it was all over… but it wasn’t, for we were back at Gaydon bright and early the next morning for an MGF20 Heritage road run to the very place of creation of all MGF/TFs – Longbridge. Around 90 cars turned up, a little unexpectedly but they did make for an impressive sight as they wound their way through small Black Country villages

Four chairmen – Keith Williams, Julia Marshall, Tim Morris and Richard Martin

Three of our speakers – Ian Pogson, Roger Parker and Steven Harper

Some of the Essex team who did a great job with the colour parking

on their way to the Lickey Hills. Arriving at the MG Sales Centre there was a final surprise behind the scenes – a glimpse of some of the birthing pains of the MGF itself – the three original prototypes, PR1, 2 and 3. A fantastic way to finish off a fun filled anniversary weekend.

The three loudest exhausts at MGF20

Colour Coding on the aprons. Photo: Damien Jennings

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Nigel and Helen Scutt preparing for the POO on the campsite

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FEATURE

Lake Como and the Stelvio Pass

W

hilst sitting around a table enjoying the late summer sun the subject of a ‘run’ came up. We mulled over several possibilities and then I remarked that I’d like to ‘do’ the Stelvio. Derek immediately said that he would too and the germ of a trip with his YB and our TD was started. We’ve collectively owned these two cars for over 90 years.

Over the next couple of months we started to look at several ways to do the run. We decided that we’d try going with a company who organises these events.

Looking through Safety Fast! we decided to try a company called ‘Scenic & Continental Car Tours’ who arrange tours to Lake Como or Garda via the Stelvio, and we are so glad we did! This company does almost everything bar actually driving the car; from arranging the ferry crossings, booking all of the hotels, providing suggested routes with ‘tulip’ type planners and supplying a very comprehensive itinerary pack. One of our concerns was the parking arrangements for the cars, and with one over-night exception, this could not be faulted.

Spring and summer 2014 were spent preparing and driving the cars. I try and drive the TD every day, weather and salt free roads permitting, and both cars made the trip to several Centre events and attendance at Brands Hatch for the MG Race Weekend, as well as other motor-racing events throughout the summer.

But more major repairs were called for on the TD. For some time I felt that the clutch, although behaving well, wasn’t quite

The YB heading up the Stelvio Pass

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By Mike Christie

right. So in July I decided to change it.

About six years ago after breaking a third gear I decided to replace the original gearbox with a 5-speed from Hi-Gear Engineering.

This is a very worthwhile conversion and can be done over a weekend.

Brakes are probably the most important component of a car attempting the Stelvio and several other passes as we planned to do, and as I hadn’t done a major overhaul for several years I decided that now would be a good time. Over a week or so I replaced all of the old brake parts with the new and I adapted a Gunson Pressure Bleed kit using an old master cylinder cap which made bleeding the brake system a doddle.

Driving the car a lot over many years I’d got used to how the ‘old’ brakes worked. It was only when I started to strip them down that I realised in what poor condition they were, and when I drove the car with the new brakes for the first time, how terribly the ‘old’ brakes had been performing.

Soon the day of departure arrived.

We had chosen an early September trip, reasoning that the tourist season in Europe would be drawing to a close and hoping that the notoriously crowded Stelvio would be less so.

Derek lives just north of the M25 and we live just south, so we arranged to meet in Dover at the last petrol station before the port. We arrived within 15 minutes of each other and our small convoy made its way to the check-in and Border Control.

Scenic & Continental Car Tours had arranged the ferry tickets and had supplied a very helpful check-list of essentials to take.

Although we are all seasoned travellers in old MGs on the Continent, the list was a useful reminder.

The first stop was at the Novotel in Nancy, a drive of about 290 miles. There is a ‘National’ route that goes alongside the Autoroute to Rheims, but we chose the faster motorway and paid the ‘expensive’ tolls.

Derek had brought along his SatNav and throughout the trip this ‘piece-of-kit’ proved to be very useful. Although comprehensive written instructions were provided by Scenic & Continental Car Tours, the Novotel is fairly difficult to find but ‘Jane’ got us there without a problem. The hotel was great, nice rooms, good food and importantly secure parking for the cars.

The second day’s drive was to Hotel Stocker in Italy. We chose a suggested route to avoid the motorways since the

Both MGs arrive at the top of the Stelvio Pass

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FEATURE drive was said to take only seven hours. Big mistake! The route was crowded, with many, many road works and delays. Seven hours turned into a nightmare 13, and when we eventually reached the town where the hotel was situated it was dark and only with the help of a friendly barman in a neighbouring hotel were we able to find our hotel. We checked in only to be told that we’d missed the evening meal by 10 minutes, however we were directed to a pizza restaurant in the village and each enjoyed a very welcome and extremely large pizza.

The other problem with the Hotel Stocker was the lack of secure parking. The proprietor said that we should park our cars

up the road and round the corner and that they would be quite safe, since “nobody steals things here”. We explained that despite her reassurances we felt this was not a good idea, especially for the TD, so she agreed that we could park on a piece of land at the side of the hotel; which we did.

The rooms were comfortable, breakfast was tasty and we were told that the weather for our drive to Stelvio Pass would be good.

We repacked and checked the cars, perused the maps, wished each other luck and we were off.

The Stelvio, what a drive! It starts off benign; a gentle leisurely drive through the National Park with wonderful scenery, and then the first hairpin is reached. From here a board marks the 48 hairpins to the top. The climb is magnificent; steep short runs and extremely tight turns most of which our TD took in second gear changing up to third for

the short runs. It’s not so much the tightness of the hairpins that makes this climb so exciting, it’s more that they are so steep that it’s often impossible to see beyond the hairpin and up to the next one. A car coming down who hopefully is keeping to the right hand side of the road and not taking a ‘run’ at the turn is invisible until the apex of the turn. And there are 48 turns.

The pace is relentless. Second gear, third gear, second gear, third gear and on and on and on.

We stopped only once on the ascent, at around the 23rd hairpin. Derek’s YB had developed an overheating and water loss problem caused, we only discovered a day later, by a pin hole in the bottom hose. But a quick top-up with water and we were off again. Three men on push-bikes also passed us. It’s a slow hard climb to the top of the Stelvio by bike, but many do it. (We did pass

Looking back over the Furka Pass after the climb in the TD.

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FEATURE

The weather changes ever so quickly on the passes

Ready for the the southern descent to Bormio

them later.) Happily there was little other traffic.

With an immense feeling of elation we reached the top, in low cloud. We’d done it.

Our 60 year old cars, mine with a passenger, loaded with luggage for 10 days and various spares and tools, had made it to the top of the Stelvio. MG built strong reliable cars and we were so proud to be driving two of them.

Lots photos of the cars at the top of the Stelvio were taken by us to prove our ascent, and by other people admiring them.

After a coffee at one of the cafés we went back to our cars to find that the low cloud had lifted and we were able to take photos of the hairpins below us before commencing our journey.

The south side descent of the Stelvio is great fun. The road is wider and the 12 hairpins are not so sharp. The run into Bormio for lunch marks the end of the first pass. Bormio is a pretty town with interesting alleyways leading into concealed courtyards.

Cafés and restaurants are plentiful and we enjoyed a leisurely lunch alongside bikers and motorcyclists before setting off for our main hotel on Lake Como.

It had rained briefly in Bormio but as we drove to Lake Como the heavens opened and we drove the last 40 miles with the hood up.

September time in the mountains around Lake Como often brings thunderstorms and although there were several during our stay

The Hotel

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there, we were lucky since most of them were at night.

We reached our hotel, the ‘Lario’, late afternoon and drove into the hotel’s underground car park. After our experience at the Stocker the shelter of this gated and very secure car park was very welcome.

We unpacked the cars and checked in.

All of the staff at the hotel during our stay couldn’t have been more helpful or pleasant.

This is a place that can be thoroughly recommended. We were very pleasantly surprised the next morning to find the storm had passed and the day was sunny and very warm.

We decided to take advantage of this and planned a boat trip down Lake Como to the town of Como on one of the regular ferries that criss-cross the lake.

The ferry is a great way to appreciate the scale of the lake and the trip to Como took about an hour and a half. Como was busy but we had an enjoyable lunch and then took the funicular railway to the viewpoint above the lake. This is well worth the trip and there’s a regular 15 minute service. The views were spectacular.

Before we left England we had prebooked a trip on the Bernina Express for the next day, Sunday. Advertised as the slowest express train in the world, this single track line goes from Tirano to St Moritz, twisting and turning through a sequence of spirals, loops and tunnels to the highest through-

Problems on the Stelvio

The Furka Pass

station in Europe, before descending to the resort of St Moritz. What a wonderful train ride which is thoroughly recommended. The views are spectacular and a camera-buff’s dream.

St Moritz is exactly as we had expected, ostentatiously chic. As it was Sunday most of the shops were closed, thank goodness, as from the little we saw in the windows there was nothing we could afford or that our credit cards would allow us to buy. Fearing big prices we sought out a café for a coffee but could only find one which was open and very busy. We got a table fairly easily and with some trepidation checked the menu prices. We were pleasantly surprised, they were very reasonable and we spent a pleasant half hour ‘people watching’. The lake at St.Moritz is beautiful and we walked along it to the station to the take the train back to Tirano.

Derek suggested that he and I try to find the village of Cresta the following day, which, we had been reminded on the train journey, was the site of the famous toboggan run.

We never did find Cresta. We passed only one sign-post to it some miles away

The view of the Stelvio

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FEATURE

Lake Como

from where we thought it was and didn’t find another, but we did find a wonderful pass, the Splugen. This pass is off the beaten track and was therefore quite deserted when we travelled it, but again it was spectacular, loads of steep hairpins and hidden lakes, and a wonderful drive. We had lunch in a small ‘skiing village’ then drove into St Moritz before out-running a thunderstorm that chased us back to the hotel.

We left our hotel on Lake Como on Tuesday morning in good weather for the trip into Switzerland and our overnight stay at Hotel Schweizerhof on Lake Lucerne. The suggested route was via the St Gotthard, Furka and Grimsel passes but we decided we’d add another, the Susten.

The run to the start of the St Gotthard was pleasant and easy with very little traffic other than in the towns; however the compulsory purchase of a vignette to allow us to drive on Swiss roads was a bit expensive.

The St Gotthard pass is civilised and easy to drive with good parking places to enjoy the view. The Furka Pass is much more interesting with tight hairpins and steep inclines. This was the only pass in which I found necessary to take a couple of hairpins in first gear!

At the top of the pass is the Rhone Glacier. We saw this glacier from the town at the bottom of the valley during our trip in the YB and TD to Switzerland on the MG European event in 2008, but it is no longer visible from there because of the rate that it is melting.

Inside the Rhone Glacier

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The view across the stunning Lake Como

Attempts to stop the Rhone Glacier melting

The Lake at St. Moritz

The Bernina Express

Derek, who had been to this glacier before, told us that there was a tunnel into the ice and we decided to stop and go inside. It’s a strange feeling being under thousands of tons of ice in a blue tunnel.

Such is the problem of the rapid melt of this glacier that efforts have been made to stop the deterioration by covering the south face with large linen sheets, but this appears to be ineffectual.

The Grimsel Pass was next and this proved just as exciting as the Furka but with a little more traffic.

Our final pass, the Susten, did not disappoint either and proved a fitting end to our driving ‘the passes’, and so to our hotel overlooking Lake Lucerne. This hotel like all of the others was well chosen for its accommodation and food and the car parking was suitable for our cars. We covered about 200 miles that day.

The next day’s drive to the Hotel Gulliver in Luxembourg was long, about 312 miles, and uneventful. The Hotel Gulliver is large

Clear road ahead

and modern, but again well chosen for our needs. The accommodation and food were both good and the parking secure.

The run through Luxembourg to Calais is not the most exciting. The motorways are busy and not well maintained and we were held up a couple of times by road works and lorry accidents. 265 miles, but we arrived in Calais on time and the weather was good.

Over dinner on the ferry we talked about our adventure and just how perfectly out ‘little’ cars had performed.

Interestingly all of the roads in the passes were in very good condition and well maintained, as were most of the roads we drove whilst abroad. What a difference when we hit the M20 on the way back. It was bumpy and in very poor condition as are most of our roads. If our friends in Europe can get it right why on earth can’t we?

Statistics – in the main the weather was good and even when we had rain it wasn’t on the ‘important’ days. We drove just over 2,500 miles in 10 days; both cars consumed about three-quarters of a pint of oil, and returned about 27 miles per gallon.

There were no breakdowns and even on the passes the temperature of the TD with the help of a Kenlow electric fan didn’t get above 85 degrees, oil pressure was steady at 47psi.

Thanks go to ‘Scenic & Continental Car Tours’ for their organisation of this trip.

They are to be thoroughly recommended and we will use them again.

And final thanks to our MGs for a safe, reliable and comfortable trip.

www.mgcc.co.uk

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FEATURE

MG GS:

First Drive T

By Adam Sloman

he MG GS has arguably caused the biggest discussion in the MG community since the marque passed into Chinese ownership almost ten years ago.

While MG have produced all manner of motor cars, this is the first time the marque has entered into the Sports Utility market.

Many enthusiasts have been aghast, quick to say that MG have no place in the market, while others have pointed to the likes of Porsche and the success of the Cayenne as proof that even a dedicated, premium sportscar manufacturer such as Porsche can enjoy success with an SUV. Porsche aren’t alone, either – Jaguar are soon to launch the F-Pace, despite being part of the same firm as market leaders Land Rover.

If it’s good enough for Porsche and Jaguar, then why not MG? If MG are to succeed globally they need volume sales and an SUV, such as the GS, should lead to increased sales and increased profit; and with increased profit comes a greater chance of a muchdemanded follow up to the TF. The GS is on course for a UK launch in 2016, while the car enjoyed a Chinese market launch earlier this year – with anticipation building ahead of the car’s European debut, I had the opportunity to sample a Chinese-spec GS alongside MG Trophy driver Chris Bray in Shanghai.

Chris’ everyday car is a Range Rover Evoque so the GS should make an interesting comparison to the Solihull-built boutique SUV. Initial reactions are impressive – the panel fit is excellent as is the paint finish, with the GS being finished in what has become a trademark colour for the new breed of MGs, metallic orange.

The car is neatly styled with a large MG octagon dominating the front end, the panel lines of the bonnet drawing the eye down to the grille and the famous logo.

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FEATURE

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FEATURE

The GS looks squat and muscular, while maintaining a strong family look with the 3, 5, 6 and GT. It’s well proportioned, similar in size to the Nissan Qashqai and Kia’s Sportage.

Inside, the GS continues to impress – MG have cleared responded to the feedback they’ve received from the 6 and 3, the quality is a genuine improvement on previous cars – the leather used for the seats is particularly noteworthy for its look and feel, as is the leather used to bind the steering wheel. There are plenty of neat storage features, too, with a large storage bin under the centre console, a sunglasses cubby about the rear view mirror and under-floor storage in the boot.

The car’s infotainment system is driven by MG’s Inkanet software, which made its debut in the MG5. Now on its fourth generation, it’s based on the Android operating system, the same software that

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powers millions of smartphones and tablets across the globe. It’s housed inside an 8-inch touchscreen that incorporates satellite navigation, internet access and other neat features, such as text message reading. There’s also Bluetooth telephone connectivity and music streaming as well as live weather updates.

The seats are electronically adjustable, with controls that will be immediately familiar to anyone with experience of the MG6. There’s plenty of space both front and rear, while the boot offers a decent amount of luggage space, with almost 500 litres of space available. The seats themselves are adjustable, allowing a little more space to be squeezed out of the boot. Unlike the MG6, the seats fold flat, meaning the GS offers considerable loadlugging ability and practicality.

One area in need of improvement ahead of the car’s arrival in Britain is the

dashtop – it’s currently made from a hard, scratchy plastic – it’s one serious blight on an otherwise impressive cabin. Hopefully by the time of the car’s arrival over here it will have been replaced by a similar softtouch material to that used in the MG6.

It’s easy to get comfortable and in the sweltering heat of a Shanghai summer, the air conditioning did a superb job of keeping the cabin cool and comfortable.

This particular GS was powered by the 1.5 TGI engine, (Turbo Gasoline Injection) co-developed by MG with General Motors and mated to something currently unavailable in the UK – an automatic gearbox, in this case a seven-speed item.

In China the car is also offered with a 2.0 version of this engine – MG Motor have yet to confirm what engines will be offered to UK customers, but it’s likely that the 1.9 DTi diesel offered in the MG6 will feature.

Starting the GS is a simple process of

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FEATURE

resting one foot on the brake while pushing in the engine start button and once ‘D’ is selected the GS is underway.

The 1.5 develops 167bhp and 184ftlbs of torque. The power delivery is very smooth, with the automatic transmission handling the changes from one gear to another with minimum fuss – an automatic GS is sure to broaden the car’s appeal; while it’s less likely that a petrol GS will make it to Britain, on the evidence of this car the inclusion of optional automatic transmission would be worthwhile.

Being an SUV, it’s to be expected that there is some bodyroll through the corners; however, it’s well contained and it’s important to remember that this is a Chinese-market example and as such has not yet enjoyed the benefit of MG Motor UK ride and chassis set up.

Comparing the GS to his Evoque, Chris was complimentary to the car. “It’s impressive,” he says. “There’s less body roll than in my Range Rover and the level of kit is much, much better. I don’t even get satellite navigation in my car,” he added.

“I know that SAIC work closely with Volkswagen and if they’re putting VW levels of quality and technology into the GS I’ll be really interested in replacing my Evoque with one next year.”

So there you have it – the GS is expected to arrive in the UK in the next 12 months and is already demonstrating considerable potential. Given the track record of the engineers at Longbridge there’s no reason to doubt that the GS won’t exceed this potential and deliver the mass-market success the MG marque deserves.

While UK pricing is yet to be confirmed, this model retails at around £15,000 in China, which represents fantastic value for money. With the MG6’s recent price reduction and the MG3 already aggressively priced, the GS is likely to offer good value when it arrives in 2016.

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www.mgcc.co.uk

21/08/2015 17:22

Charlie Plain-Jones cplainjones@gmail.com www.svwregister.co.uk/

SVW NEWSLETTER

SVW Newsletter

Welcome to the

All our cars plus CBL 192 Richard and Chris Buckingham’s winning SA Charlesworth on the grid with Roger and Rosemary Keen’s VA Tourer

This year’s Register weekend was held in Chichester between August 7 and 9. The weekend was organised by Paul Campbell and Sharman Saunders and based at the Chichester Park Hotel.

The majority of the cars arrived on the Friday afternoon, although some had extended the weekend and arrived on the Thursday. On arrival, we were greeted by Paul and Sharman and handed our rally packs. A new feature this year was an informal bring and buy of spares on the Friday afternoon. This was well supported, with some spares sold. The hotel provided an excellent evening meal and during the evening Sharman outlined the plans for the Saturday.

Saturday dawned warm and sunny, ideal for those in the open top cars. We headed off on the first of the runs to Fishbourne Roman Palace, about five miles from the hotel – the remains of a first century Roman home, constructed in AD75 with the largest collection of early mosaic floors in Britain. After visiting the Roman Palace, we headed off to a local pub for lunch, which was served in the garden. Due to the warm weather, the chocolate cakes provided had to be eaten quickly as they started to melt!

After lunch, we set off in the cars to Tangmere Military Aviation Museum. The route book indicated that ‘a surprise may be waiting for us there’. Tangmere is a

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John Bates, Val Swann, Brian and Chris Young

former RAF airfield which existed between 1918 to 1970. In the summer of 1940, Tangmere was a main sector airfield of Fighter Command in the defence of the UK during the Battle of Britain. The museum has exhibits of military aviation from the Great War to the Cold War. There is also a lightning simulator which a number of people had a go in.

The surprise which was waiting for us was the car which resurfaced, having been believed lost for a number of years, and is CBL 192 which was Cecil Kimber’s car during his last years at MG. The car originally appeared at an SVW weekend in 1996, and at that time, Jean Kimber Cook was present and carrying the famous family photo albums which confirmed its history.

The VA started its life a light grey colour which is still visible today in some places, but was repainted black at some stage.

It was known that Kimber liked dark cars and during World War 2, darker cars were the order of the day. CBL192 is the only known VA with a light alloy rocker cover and octagonal oil filler cap. It is not unlikely that Kimber kept this car as his daily transport even after his dismissal by Miles Thomas in November 1941.

As we were due to leave Tangmere, a problem with Jim Boldry’s SA saloon was detected as when the car was driven, a trail of oil was left behind it. During the morning, Jim had mentioned not having much oil

Richard Buckingham being presented with the Ratcliffe Trophy by John Day

John Bannister with Peter van den Heuval, suitably attired for the weather!

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NEWSLETTER SVW

Charlie Plain-Jones cplainjones@gmail.com www.svwregister.co.uk/

MG chic as modelled by Ineke Pas

Linda Wakefield enjoying the sun

CBL 192 in as found condition

in the engine and it was assumed that it was simply a case of topping up with oil and nothing more. On returning to the hotel car park, a number of people sprang into action to have a look, led by Keith Bush and Mark Reeves. It quickly turned out to be a problem with the oil filter housing and close inspection showed a hairline crack where under pressure with the engine running, oil was coming out. Being able to braze the casing to try and seal the crack, it seemed that Jim might need to call a nice man with a recovery vehicle, which he wasn’t keen to do. As it turned out, someone who had seen the event advertised and was looking at the cars, was, unbeknown to us at the time, restoring a VA Tickford. When he

knew of the problem with Jim’s car, he offered to take the housing cover and try and repair it and get it back to the hotel by morning so that it could be put back on the car. Luckily, he lived locally so this was a possible solution.

During the gala dinner on Saturday which was attended by the Club president John Day and his wife, Janet, the annual presentation of the Frances Adam award for services to the Register was made to Jeff Gibson. The David Washbourne award is given to the best contributor to the SVW review, and this year it was presented by Rosemary Washbourne to Paul Campbell. As it was Jim Boldry’s 80th birthday on Sunday, everyone joined in singing Happy Birthday

and presenting him with a cake. This was followed by the drawing of the raffle. The Peter Ratcliffe cup was presented to Richard and Chris Buckingham as their SA tourer was voted the car which most people would like to go home in.

The following morning, Keith Bush and Mark Reeves appeared in the hotel car park at 8am to refit the oil filter housing on Jim’s car, to be met by Paul Campbell minus the housing. Although the man had returned to the hotel at midnight the previous night, he had left the housing at home! He came back with shortly after 8am, and it was duly put back on the car. Everyone held their breath as the car was restarted and not a drop of oil came out. Jim was most relieved as he didn’t want to have to get the car home on a trailer.

After that, everyone set out for Goodwood Motor Racing circuit where parade laps had been arranged. On arrival, the cars were lined up and the clerk of the course outlined the procedures which had to be followed. The local council has imposed restrictions on the activity at the circuit, and these include the non use of horns. The cars were then lined up on the start finish straight, with ample time for photos. We then set off behind a Rolls Royce from the factory just up the road and had four laps of the circuit.

There was a pause after the first two, which allowed for the change over of drivers.

Following this, most people set off to Arundel to visit the castle and for lunch.

I’m sure that everyone would agree that Paul and Sharman did an excellent job in organising the weekend, and which included fabulous weather. The hotel coped with us brilliantly and weren’t fazed when I asked for a container for the oil when they took the filter housing off Jim’s car.

We all made our way home looking forward to the 2016 SVW weekend which will be held in the Ardennes, Belgium.

Ann Bush

Jim Andrews VA Tickford lines up for a Goodwood start

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www.mgcc.co.uk

21/08/2015 17:22

Charlie Plain-Jones cplainjones@gmail.com www.svwregister.co.uk/

Advertising the VA in the Second World War People who joined us on the SVW Weekend in September 2014 may recall the VA tourer drawing on the front cover of the road book. The MG Car Company advertisement was published in Punch magazine dated May 10 1944.

The war had now reached a tipping point where people and companies c o u l d perhaps look forward to the end of the conflict.

In March 1944 the RAF and USAF had heavily bombed Berlin and perhaps this links to the reference to Berlin in the advertisement. The other reference in the advert is to the Chiltern Trial which we revived on our Rally Plates for last year’s weekend and the drawing is outside the Greyhound Inn Windsor End Beaconsfield.

I cannot recall seeing the Nuffield Product branding before on an MG advertisement. From late 1930s the Nuffield name was used for many of William Morris’s business interests and benefactions he supported. I would assume that the advert was to remind the public of MG and their products.

It is interesting that a VA tourer, the smallest of the SVW range, is used; could it be that MG Car Company senior management in 1944 were assuming that their main product line at the end of the war would be the VA tourer? It would certainly not be the small two-seater sports car that was actually produced from 1945.

Could we have had a VB, SB and even a WB? Original copy of Punch May 10 1944 from Richard Colston, came with his VA Tickford…

Jeff Gibson

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MG Safety Fast September15 03-46.indd 45

SVW NEWSLETTER

MG Era Day, Brooklands

There were six SVW cars at the MG Era event held at Brooklands on April 12, including Keith and Ann Bush with their VA Saloon, Jeff Gibson WA Saloon and the VA Tourers of John Bannister, Paul Campbell, a Mr Phelps who I believe purchased David Washbourne’s SA Saloon, and one unidentified VA.

The David Washbourne Trophy was won by Jeff Gibson’s WA and the trophy presented by Rosemary Washbourne.

John Bannister and Jeff Gibson climbed the Brooklands Test Hill in their respective cars. The Test Hill is divided into three sections: the first third at one in eight, the second at one in six and the final part one in four. The WA had been up the hill before and managed this previously in second gear, however this time it needed a change back down to first, half way up, for the final one in four section.

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NEWSLETTER SVW

Charlie Plain-Jones cplainjones@gmail.com www.svwregister.co.uk/

Chairman’s Review of the Year from the AGM When I took over from Jim Andrews in August last year, it was with some trepidation after his long and successful tenure in the job.

In the event, he and the rest of the SVW Register committee have been great in giving both advice and active support. I cannot thank them enough for what they have done for the Register, and I hope you all recognise the huge contribution they make.

Jeff Gibson is giving up his role as Treasurer after many years in the job, during which he has kept excellent control of our finances.

They are in good shape, as you will hear later when he gives his report. As of today, I have not been able to find anyone willing to take over, even though I have said I am willing to prepare the accounts so long as we have someone to look after receipts and payments (the cash book). I am stepping into the role of Treasurer, therefore, until we can find a more permanent person.

The Register needs new faces on the committee. Some of us are almost as old as our cars, and we need fresh blood. I appeal to you all to consider whether you can help. You’ll enjoy good company and make enduring friendships, as well as keeping the Register in good health.

Keith Bush restored the sectioned VA engine owned by Main Club during the year. He made a superb job of it, and the engine is now back at Abingdon on display. Keith and Anne have since relocated to France. If anyone wants to visit, they have a B&B facility on offer. Keith also spent hours of his time selling off David Washbourne’s stock of spares on behalf of Rosemary.

Charlie took over from me as Editor of the SVW Review last year.

Charlie is a working man and had to compose much of the magazine

whilst away on business. To cope with the monthly column in Safety Fast! at the same time has been a herculean task, so Paul and Anne will take the SF! job over from next month. It will be good to have them back.

David Smyth has once again worked wonders at getting in advertising revenue to finance the Review. Without his efforts, we could not afford to keep the Review going, or would have to consider charging members for it, as we do for non-members of the MGCC. Mike Greasby is doing a sterling job as webmaster, and the site continues to get praise from other members of the club.

In June, John Bannister and I went to the Ardennes to suss out its suitability for the 2016 weekend. We were very encouraged.

We are planning on holding the event on the first weekend of June 2016, so that you can go on to the European Event of the Year in the following week, which is being held at Le Touquet.

Regalia sales are holding up but are not increasing, except for the new badge which is selling well. We are always willing to consider new items for the range – if there is anything you think we should add, please tell us. Chris Cox took over Regalia from Keith Bush earlier in the year and has already made an impression by organising reproduction of early Reviews and bulletins.

My WA seems to be running properly at last! and I have recently bought some new springs which have yet to be fitted. The old ones kept sagging despite being re-tempered twice, so if the new ones prove OK, I will recommend the supplier to you all – they are much cheaper than the cost of re-tempering.

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21/08/2015 18:03

NEWSLETTER T TYPE

John Ward • 01621 773606 • johnw.ward@yahoo.co.uk

T Type Newsletter

Welcome to the

FAK 57 and George Phillips If you were wandering round the paddock, or watched the Iconic 50s with The Fiscar Flyers race on the Sunday afternoon at this year’s MGLive!, you may have noticed an addition to the XPAG Specials that are seen every year. It was enough to make even a seasoned MGCC photographer look twice and wonder. Even the T Register XPAG Specials Registrar, Stewart Penfound, hadn’t seen it before. So here is the story of the genesis of FAK 57, an XPAG Special owned and built by Simon Evans.

First, Simon tells how he came to build the car.

FAK 57 was conceived out of a desire to race an interesting car that had the potential to be invited to some classic races.

The game plan was to enter Goodwood Revival and possibly the Le Mans Classic but the first step was to acquire an ARDS (Association of Racing Driver’s School) licence.

So I began racing in the 2014 season in the 750 Motor Club’s Formula V which was on the advice of Andy Storer who looked after the car and firmly tutored me as a novice racer, and he is one of the founding fathers of Formula V and a former ARDS instructor and a historic racer. The Formula V was chosen because as a single seater it would have some of the characteristics of an historic racing car, and both I and the car survived the 2014

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season with no flags, crashing or coming off, so I could upgrade to a National ‘A’ licence.

As for the interesting car, I had begun to plan further ahead before my first season in racing. Back in 2012 I had bought Phil Cornut’s C Type Montlhéry Midget which was based on a D type chassis and I had become addicted to the challenges of pre-war cars.

Phil Cornut is well known in pre-war MG circles not only because of his own first-rate work but also because of his association with Peter Gregory of K3 fame. Now Historic Formula Three and certainly Formula Two were financially out of my reach so I decided to contact Phil again and ask him his advice, and he immediately replied that he had always wanted to build an accurate replica of the George Phillips TC with its Ted Goodwin Le Mans body. Thinking that a TC was really a pre-war car but with the stronger and more reliable XPAG engine, I realised that this would be even more fun than the C type and so we set about finding a donor car.

Building the replica Enter Steve Baker, whose help throughout the project has been invaluable, both as a racer and a builder of some fine cars. We told him

www.mgcc.co.uk

21/08/2015 18:03

John Ward • 01621 773606 • johnw.ward@yahoo.co.uk

T TYPE NEWSLETTER

to ensure that we had maximum power but consistent with the original specifications of the car.

Phil was concerned that the end result did NOT look like a fresh ‘kit car’ but had built-in patina. We did NOT want perfection and Phil’s panel work gave it the look it would have had in period.

Fortunately his workshop is a veritable treasure trove of parts purchased over many years from auto jumbles and collectors, and he would often say, “I know I have an original gauge somewhere”.

Filing systems are not his strong point… but the parts always appeared at the right time in the process.

The car was delivered at the end of March 2015. Some gentle running in, then back to Phil to ‘develop, tighten up, and revise’.

the plan and he was enthusiastic and said he had FAK 57 available as a suitable donor car. The original condition of FAK 57 was ‘indifferent’, the body was OK, but the chassis not so and the gearbox was shot (probably the original one it had been raced with).

Of course we had no plans or dimensions from which to build the car, collecting archive pictures and articles from old newspapers and magazines to get a sense of design.

The whole process was really difficult as we needed to get the precise dimensions of the car in order to be successful in our application for FIA Historic Technical Passport (HTP) papers.

The starting point for Phil’s initial drawing was a model of the car produced by Corgi (which turned out to be hopelessly out of scale!) and more successfully, the knowledge that the spare 19 inch wheel was carried in the boot. From the dimensions required for this plus other photographs, a detailed scale drawing of the car was eventually produced. Whilst the chassis was being straightened and painted, and aluminium panels were being hand beaten and engineered to fit the chassis and frame, Peter Edney was engaged to deal with the rebuild of the engine; the brief was

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MG Safety Fast September15 47-98.indd 49

Developing the car and its future The car’s first outing on a circuit was in June at MGLive! with the full knowledge that the diff was not only wrong, but also fragile. I was peaking out at around 85mph in third gear and not able to get into top before running out of straight and when I did change up, the rpm loss was not worth it.

It confirmed our worst beliefs about the 4.2 diff and the plan is to change it to a stronger 4.66 ratio which will give us better acceleration and get me into top at around 5000rpm which equates to about 100mph. The power curve will dip at this point but we should have a little more in it with max revs around 5500, so it might be good for 110mph. Steering needs a lower ratio or I need to get to the gym to build up some serious arm power and we need to experiment with tyre pressures in the 19 inch Blockley three-stud tyres to see how readily the back of the car will drift to help us around corners.

Running lighter on fuel and removing the spare wheel may also help with this, TC racers run on 15 inch wheels, but of course keeping the car as per the original means we will run on 19 inch wheels – much more difficult.

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NEWSLETTER T TYPE

John Ward • 01621 773606 • johnw.ward@yahoo.co.uk

Simon racing FAK 57 at MGLive! on the Silverstone GP circuit 2015

So there’s still development work to be done on the car. The plan is to enter for a few more races, and a test day at Goodwood has been planned before Goodwood Revival in September. So keep an eye open for FAK 57’s future outings!

And now Stewart Penfound, the T Register’s XPAG Specials Registrar, tells the story of the original George Phillips’ car.

MG 7185 – MG TC Midget (Chassis number unknown) Modified 1948

session, and if he gave a good account of himself, he would be allowed to start the race itself. This he did, and came fifth overall, which gave him a lot of satisfaction, and of course gave him the standing he needed to enter more prestigious races over the next few years.

His next race was the Leinster Trophy Race, at Tallaght, near Dublin on July 16, where he finished seventh. After winning his George Phillips (with the cigarette) and Eric Winterbottom celebrating their class win in the 1950 Le Mans 24

George Phillips bought a new MG TC in 1947, registration number MG 7185. With the car in completely standard trim, he came second in class at the Brighton Speed Trials in the September of that year, but found it rather heavy and slow. Phillips also owned the supercharged Lester MG JUR 630 and, determined to race the TC again the following season, he completely stripped the car over the winter and contacted Harry Lester as the obvious person to provide him with a new body for the TC. Phillips tried it out at the Prescott Hill Climb on May 9 1948, where, according to the report in Motor Sport, he ‘turned Lester’s MG over in practice, breaking his arm’. Well, in the first place it was his MG, not Harry Lester’s and, secondly, if he had broken his arm, he made a miraculous recovery, as only two weeks later, on May 25, he took part in his first race with the car in the Manx Cup in the Isle of Man. He never mentioned the incident in later articles he wrote about his racing career, so the Motor Sport correspondent may well have mistaken him for another competitor.

Entering the Manx Cup race had been an interesting experience for Phillips. He had no racing pedigree and was therefore unknown to the organisers who were understandably concerned that he would be a hindrance to the established experienced drivers, the majority of whom were racing cars that were powered by engines far more powerful than his almost standard 1250cc MG unit. After much discussion, it was agreed that he could drive the practice

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www.mgcc.co.uk

21/08/2015 18:03

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SEPTEMBER 2015

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NEWSLETTER T TYPE

John Ward • 01621 773606 • johnw.ward@yahoo.co.uk

class at the Brighton Speed Trials on September 4, Phillips and co-driver Oscar Moore successfully completed the Paris 12 hours race at the banked track at Monthléry, where they finished a fine 21st.

This set Phillips to thinking of entering Le Mans the following season. When he received the regulations for the event however, he found that the Lester body dimensions did not comply, so over the winter of 1948-9 this was removed and the car was re-bodied to Le Mans specification by Londoner Ted Goodwin.

In Phillips’ hands the car went on to compete twice at Le Mans, in 1949 and 1950, partnered firstly by Curly Dryden and then by Eric Winterbottom. They were disqualified in the 1949 race, after Dryden received assistance to fix the car out on the circuit. Phillips and Winterbottom were more successful the following year, finishing second in class and completing 1,760 miles at an average speed of 73mph. Not bad for a TC!

Phillips sold the car shortly afterwards to John Dalton, who raced it at Gamston and Silverstone on a few occasions in 1951.

There have been no sightings of MG 7185 since then. The car itself does not seem to have survived, but the Lester body has, having been transferred to Jim Mayers’ MG TA, KJH 114, for the 1950 season. Phillips himself went on to race MG TDs for the factory and subsequently became chief photographer for Autosport magazine.

Acknowledgements Many thanks to Simon for providing his side of the story and photographs, to Stewart Penfound the T Register’s XPAG Special Registrar for the extract from his book, ‘Harry Lester, His Cars and The Monkey Stable’ on the history of George Phillips’ original car, and to Colin Murrell for the photographs of Simon racing at MGLive!.

T Register News July 2015

The 2015 T Register T Party

Sunday August 2 2015 Once again we were blessed with a fine sunny day for our now established T Party at the Shuttleworth Collection Aerodrome near Biggleswade in Bedfordshire. Up to 55 T Types and a handful of Magnettes began to arrive from 10.30 onwards in a specifically reserved paddock giving us a ringside seat for the air display to take place in the afternoon.

Picnic tables and sun shades were the order of the day and by 12.30 most of the cars had assembled and the lunch sessions were in full swing.

And who better to quiz about T Types than Mr. MG who had flown in to Shuttleworth for the day with Valerie piloting the other Moth.

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The July edition of T Register News (TRN) is now available for download from the T Register website; www.tregister. org. TRN is our quarterly news magazine containing news and reports on recent gatherings, details of forthcoming events together with articles and T Type ramblings.

This format has been in existence for five years and it is the opinion of the committee that the time has now come to review this and to find out what you the members think, and to implement this for the future. In this day and age of expanding technology particularly in regard to computers and digital wizardry and the majority having access to computers, tablets and smart phones and the like, and with the Register having an established website and now a hugely popular Facebook page, is it time for change?

The MGCC Safety Fast! magazine is still the main publication to read as a hard copy and we still have this four page slot three times a year, so do we go completely on line as far as the T Register is concerned and is a newsletter really needed?

Regular readers and subscribers to TRN will have seen the plea from the Chairman Geoff Matthews to let the committee know what are your views and comments, and a few, but not many, have aired their opinions. The gist of this article is to advise that at the next committee meeting on October 18 the question of the future of TRN will be debated based primarily on your comments so if you have anything to contribute do get in touch with any of the committee as soon as possible or it may be too late!

www.mgcc.co.uk

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NEWSLETTER MGC

Ginny Cartmell • 01208 821552 • ginnycartmell@btinternet.com

MGC Newsletter

Welcome to the

September already, our driving season is almost at the end again. A very mixed bag, with regards to the weather this year. I don’t think many of us will have escaped a shower or two this summer...! Down in the South West we have been dodging the downpours constantly, although we have not let it get the better of us, rain or shine we have been out and about and this month is no different. In the next week we will be packing the MGC up again and heading to our local ferry port, on our way to the ‘4th MG in the Alps 2015’. This event is organised

by Marcus Brundler, of Switzerland and the tour will be over nine days taking in many beautiful valleys, mountains, museums and may be an odd beverage or two, just for medicinal purposes of course.......

Early May saw our MGC Weekend at Studley Castle Hotel and Avoncroft Building Museum. Once again we had a very well attended Saturday night Dinner with a little after dinner entertainment with the now famous Rocker Cover Auction. Sunday at Avoncroft Building Museum, we had a great number of MGC displayed within the museum. Many of our members sent in photographs of the weekend as you can see within this month’s C Register Spread, so thank you very much for all contributions; your input is much appreciated.

Sticking with tradition we had our normal four trophies to award on Sunday afternoon. Simon Wilkinson was on hand to do the honours and Mike Haughton very kindly stepped in to take the photographs, when the committee realised we all had flat batteries in our cameras.

Mick Richardson receiving yet another Concours award and very well deserved too. His beautifully prepared Tartan Red MGC Roadster was a clear winner.

Our very own Tim Hodgkinson receiving his trophy, again from Simon Wilkinson. This award was given to Tim, for the car people most wanted to drive home in after the show, The People’s Choice.

We did do a double count, but again this was a clear winner, with more than 25% of the votes, well done Tim.

Mike Rowan receiving his Pride of Ownership Trophy from Simon Wilkinson (Colne Classics, one of our main MGC Register supporters) & Barrie Cartmell. Mike has been coming along to MGC Weekend for many years with his wife Sheila, in their White MGC Roadster.

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www.mgcc.co.uk

21/08/2015 18:04

Ginny Cartmell • 01208 821552 • ginnycartmell@btinternet.com

MGC NEWSLETTER

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

Thanks to all those that supported our Regalia stand, manned by Virginia & Gladys most of Sunday at Avoncroft.

Mick & Ruth Richardson. Vic & Gladys Young. A couple of our snazzy dresses attending our Saturday night’s Dinner at Studley Castle Hotel...

A 50th Birthday Treat For my 50th birthday we had a long weekend away in June to Cornwall.

We decided whatever the weather we would take our MGC roadster and make the best of it. As it turned out the weather was glorious and had the softop down most of the time.

We stayed at the Hay Barton, a B&B near Veryan. It’s down a quite private lane and they offered (which I couldn’t refuse) to let me park the MG in a barn in case it rained, I was very impressed!

The owners Jill and Blair Jobson were very friendly, have an award ‘for the best breakfast’ and the accommodation was excellent.We chose this area partly to see some friends from our village who retired to Veryan 10 months ago and it’s an area of Cornwall we haven’t explored before. After arriving Friday afternoon we headed off to Portloe, had a cream tea at The Lugger Hotel overlooking the harbour and then off to St Mawes.

On Saturday we drove to the north coast to have a look at Wheale Coates tin mines near St Agnes, but the sea mist had come in overnight and made visibility very poor. I spotted though an MG sign at the roadside and we had to investigate further. On a small industrial park was Tim Kelly, MG specialist, and he had plenty of MGs to look at. There were two MGC GTs, one of which was a University Motors car undergoing restoration.

Tim gave us a tour of his workshop and what he was currently working on.

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I found his knowledge extensive and very professional, it’s a shame we don’t live closer, I have a few mechanical jobs that need doing over the winter period.

Saturday afternoon we headed back to Veryan Bay. Having driven the Pacific Highway from Los Angeles to San Francisco back in the 1980s (ok in an RV Motorhome), we found ourselves ‘California Dreaming’ by the beach there. There are some great drives with dramatic cliffs straight into the sea here in Cornwall and blessed with great weather it’s a lot cheaper than travelling to the Pacific Highway in the U.S. Sunday we visited The Lost Gardens of Heligan and then saw our friends later before heading for home Monday morning.

We found that the MGC made light work of the motorways, able to potter along single track roads and sprint along ‘A’ roads keeping up with the locals if need

be. It’s amazing to think that a 47 year old MG car can safely transport you anywhere you need to go in comfort.

I’d like to see how many modern cars are still on the road in 47 years from now; hopefully I’ll be around to find out!

David Knight

SEPTEMBER 2015

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NEWSLETTER MGC

Ginny Cartmell • 01208 821552 • ginnycartmell@btinternet.com

News from the MGC Register Chairman The 50th Anniversary of the MGC is fast approaching in 2017 and as a result we are being asked more and more about information regarding the car. We realise that the official launch of the car was not till end of October 1967 but as we live in the Northern Hemisphere we cannot celebrate in both warmth and style then.

Mind you the way this summer is progressing it might not be a bad idea! Hence the main event will be around June 2017 and a full programme will be issued in the coming months.

Concerning the information requests they centre around, do we know the car, where is my last C, does it exist, do we know any for sale, is anybody looking for one etc etc.

We also through our committee offer advice and help on all things MGC, Technical tips and advice, part information especially for those which are hard to source, valuations and recommendations on companies that restore and maintain.

So what of the MGC nearing its half century? It’s in demand (a lot different to post launch) and why is that? Is it the fact that values on its Austin Healey cousin have gone stratospheric, maybe, but we feel the car is being recognised for what it is, a good long legged tourer, fun, more than able to cope with current traffic conditions, and very different to the MGB and much rarer.

Values have indeed firmed and both Roadster and GT values have been in demand and at still affordable prices. There is of course a choice from those that wish to restore, mid market to do as you want and enjoy to the top end. Yes we have seen cars fetching post restoration near to the £50k mark but there is a good steady choice coming on to the market.

We have seen over the past year increasing numbers joining the C Register both from Home and Abroad and this has seen more inquiries being received both by phone and the internet.

We have a number of sources that we draw upon to try and satisfy people as to information regarding the cars.

1/ Our official MGC register which has been running since the formation of MG Car Club C Register.

2/ Our own database.

3/ C Register members.

Firstly the C register, the information contained in this

w

is as always as good as we receive, names and addresses of owners past and current (when was the last time you updated?).

Your car details and history where provided. We currently have over 1,700 MGCs on the register but there are many dormant entries which occasionally are resurrected when there is a change of ownership. The good news is that it is much more robust and this is especially down to modern communication methods and of course events/meetings during the year.

Secondly our own database; this has been assembled over many years and we are now in a position to offer a more comprehensive service to our membership. We have details of all MGCs produced at Abingdon and this complements information held on the ‘official’ register. The main difference to the ‘official’ register is that we are governed by privacy laws and we will not and cannot divulge any personal information unless the named owner has given permission in writing to do so.

This new database contains the following: Chassis Number, Engine Number, transmission, colour, market, start build, off finishing and despatch dates, Where despatched to (detailed for Home market), Export destination (ranges from good to country and sketchy/non-existent to dealership etc), Interesting information and history, and finally, known registrations. For our own use where applicable we have a cross reference regarding C Register number.

We must point out the help and access to information from the British Motor Industry Heritage Trust has been invaluable over the past years and our information is but a snapshot of what their Heritage Certificates offer. We were lucky enough to have them at Silverstone at MG Live on the Saturday and inquiries and response for their certificates etc was brisk. Their site is: www.heritage-motor-centre.co.uk/archive-services For those who are unfamiliar with BMIHT is it well worth having a look as they offer many grades of certificates and other services.

We also, as much as possible, trawl information in both public and memberships domain; forums, magazines, internet, auction sites, books, to name but a few.

Finally, perhaps the most important is what we learn from visiting Register days, other events both home and abroad and talking to you our Register members.

This database is continually growing and with your help will become ever more useful to inform people when they come and ask for information.

So please keep us up to date and if you are reading this and haven’t informed us that you have a C (you may have other MGs etc) then do so, we are free to register members!

Barrie Cartmell, MGC Register Chairman

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BTCC FEATURE

Snetterton

By Paul Goodman Photos Mick Edwards

T

he second half of the Dunlop MSA Touring Car Championship started on August 8 and 9 at Snetterton.

Most of the teams had participated in a test day at the circuit in late July when many hundreds of kilometres were clocked up, much of which was devoted to trying out new Dunlop tyres. The findings will be used in setting the specification for the 2016 season. There was a welcome return to the grid for the two Ford Focus cars run

by Dave Bartrum, the former ‘Airwaves’ cars.

This meant that the two testing sessions on Saturday could be used by the drivers to set representative times and do longer run testing on the harder tyre.

The Championship leader was Gordon Sheddon with 195 points and so he would carry the maximum balance in his Yuasa Honda in race one. Andrew Jordan had driven at the test day for 888 MG in his Pirtek sponsored car and had set some very good times. He and Jack Goff were hoping to achieve the first race win of the season for MG. The 6 has always performed well at Snetterton and so hopes were high. Andrew celebrated a new sponsorship deal with Pirtek by appearing in the pit lane with the MG6 sporting a stunning silver paint finish.

With a dry weekend in prospect, the leading runners used the two sessions on Saturday morning to tune their cars into the Snetterton Circuit, the longest being used this season. Both the MG6s looked competitive and finished in the top ten in both outings.

The qualifying session for race one was going to be very close with drivers

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trying to get as good a grid position as possible. When the chequered flag fell, the VW CCs had proved to be dominant with Colin Turkington, Aaron Smith and Jason Plato being quickest. Good news for MG was that Andrew Jordan was fourth quickest with Jack Goff seventh after a small mistake on his quickest lap. Both MG drivers decided to run the soft tyres in the third race of the day.

The first race of the day (round 16) was a VW benefit. Turkington, Smith and Plato held station to dominate the podium positions. Andrew drove a great race to be ‘best of the rest’ in fourth place, with

Jack securing ninth after battling with a group of other drivers. Significantly for the manufacturer’s trophy, only Matt Neal scored points for Yuasa Honda. Jack managed to achieve a quicker lap than Andrew, giving him fourth spot on the grid for race two with Andrew back in eight.

The second race of the day was full of incident and unfortunate contact between cars. Neither of the Yuasa Hondas finished the race, but both MG6 drivers secured top ten results with Jack sixth and Andrew seventh. This gave them a good chance of pole position for race three when the draw was made. Jack was the lucky man when the ball came out with number 6 on it giving him pole position for race three.

The weather was still perfect when the drivers took to the track again. Jack was now using the softer tyre, but was confident that it would last the race. He made a perfect start to lead into the first corner and ran a faultless race managing the gap between himself and Jason Plato who held second place. So Jack won his first ever Dunlop MSA BTCC race to the delight of his family and the 888 team and finally gave MG their first win of the season. Andrew finished fifth in the silver MG6 to secure more manufacturers points, particularly significant as Honda only scored a single point.

Jason Plato left Snetterton as the new championship leader with 230 points.

Andrew is in fifth place with 189 and Jack in eighth with 162. MG 888 had a great weekend in their attempt to retain the manufacturer’s trophy. Six top ten finishes for the MG6s against only one for the Hondas has resulted in the gap closing to only five points between the teams.

www.mgcc.co.uk

21/08/2015 18:04

26th & 27th September

www.mgcc.co.uk

MG Safety Fast September15 47-98.indd 59

SEPTEMBER 2015

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MGs ON TRACK

Sponsored by

MGs track on

Calling all first timers and novices!

MGs on Track, Donington Park event on Monday October 5, has become over years our dedicated ‘first timers and novices’ day. It is designed to cater for all of you that have considered driving your beloved MG, the way it was intended!

The benefits you get from driving on track are not only the amazing fun factor

but it also gives you the chance to get to know your car’s capabilities, which in turn helps you develop your roadcraft when on the public roads. Some of the enquiries we get about taking a car on track are from owners concerned about damaging their or other cars ‘racing’. Firstly, a trackday is not racing and we have very strict rules

about on track etiquette, you do however have the opportunity to drive as fast or as slow as you like with all of the traffic going in the same direction and no speed cameras! Secondly, providing your car is properly maintained and up to MOT standard, it will probably be less strenuous on track than your daily drive to work.

Of course, as usual, Donington is open to everyone from first timers to experienced drivers. We have separate sessions according to your experience and your car’s performance.

If you’ve ever wondered what it is like to drive on a track, then this is the right place to find out…! **As a special bonus for this year we are offering a free instruction slot to first timers from our ARDS instructors.

Before we can take our cars on any track, there is a very important part of committee work that has to be done. As a not-for-profit trackday club, it is vital that we secure the ‘very best deals at the very best prices’. This involves circuit negotiation; Steve Hill, our Contracts manager, explains…

Trackday Contracts – The small print!

Words by Steve Hill

It’s March 1 2015 and I have just signed the contract for our day at Pembrey in July. This marks the last action in the creation of the MGs on Track (MGoT) 2015 calendar. It’s now over to the individual Event Managers to complete the provisioning of each trackday by updating Risk Assessments and procuring instructors and consumables. As I file away the Pembrey contract I reflect that work on the 2015 programme began way back in September 2014 when the MGoT Committee agreed the outline of where we wanted to go in 2015. I then began to open up conversations with circuits and partners, in particular Lotus on Track, to reserve dates and request costs for 2015.

This is very different from how it was when MGoT began. Our very first trackday, in November 2003, was secured simply by phoning Goodwood, agreeing the date and cost and paying by credit card. Back then the circuits did very few trackdays; their business was racing, testing and the occasional Corporate Event. Some circuits even hosted car boot sales to bring in extra revenue. It’s very different now, with a very active trackday market populated by

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full time, commercial Trackday Operators (TDOs) who run many days, across many circuits. Some circuit owners, like Donington Park and MSV, even have their own TDOs. Each circuit that we visit has its own contract format. Some are a very simple single page, others, e.g. Silverstone, are quite complex and run to many pages.

We have to check that we are able to comply with both the commercial terms and conditions and also with the

operational ones. It’s often here that we have to negotiate changes. Circuits often pass through changes taken directly from the MSA Blue Book. These may well be entirely suitable for racing but not so for non-competitive trackdays. Once all is finally agreed we sign and pay deposits.

These are non-refundable and accumulate to several thousands of pounds. MGoT has to shoulder this financial risk before any places have been sold. The balance payments, again non-refundable, are

www.mgcc.co.uk

21/08/2015 18:04

Steve Brand steveb@mgs-on-track.co.uk www.mgs-on-track.com

MG on track

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

•If an event says ‘Status: Provisional’ it is not open for booking yet.

•If all places are ‘Sold Out’ contact the Event Manager highlighted on the booking page of our website for a reserve place.

•‘Experienced only’ means you will have done at least one Track day with MGoT. ** New circuits for 2015

September 14 – Castle Combe (Half day Open Pit Lane!)

LUFFIELD

Luffield Luffield Championship Championship John Wilman, Beechfield, Fern Bank, Chapel-en-le-Frith, High Peak. SK23 0JJ. Tel: 07778 165186 • www.mgspeed.net John Wilman, Beechfield, Fern Bank, Chapel-en-le-Frith, High Peak.Loton SK23 Martin Price in his MG TA enjoying ParkOJJ. Tel: 07778 165186

October 5 – Donington (Ideal for First timers and Novices!)

October 26 – Goodwood December 7 – Brands Hatch Indy

usually made four weeks before the event.

You can see now why we are so keen to ensure that all places are sold well in advance.

To reduce our risk, and to offer a wider choice, we work closely with Lotus on Track (LoT). Paul Golding, the owner of LoT, has been a great supporter of MGoT since our very early days. Each year they share Silverstone with us. Neither of us could afford to take the financial risk of going there alone. LoT also give us access to other circuits way beyond our reach. For example this year we are going to Hethel, the Lotus Cars test track, as well as to the famous Brands Hatch Grand Prix circuit.

Once we have all the dates and contracts in place it’s time to turn our attention to Public Liability Insurance (PLI).

All circuits require that we have at least £10m of PLI, together with Employers Liability Insurance for all members of the MGoT Committee, our instructors and day manager. For some years now we have arranged an annual policy to cover all of our events through Chaucer Insurance.

Once that is in place, copies of our certificate of insurance have to be sent off to the circuits for their records. That just leaves one more contract to ensure is up to date, our membership of the Association of Track Day Operators (ATDO). MGoT is a long standing member of ATDO and our days are operated to standards which meet and in some aspects exceed the standards set by ATDO. So now we’re nearly ready to go ‘on track’! Why go through all this, you may well ask? The answer of course is easy; take your MG out and drive one of our events. You will soon see why, as you experience the joy of driving your car on some of Britain’s famous circuits, safely and in the company of other MG enthusiasts. If you haven’t done so yet then visit our website, www.mgs-on-track. com, book a place at Donington Park in October and find out for yourself.

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MG Safety Fast September15 47-98.indd 61

It is now two thirds of the way through the season and patterns are beginning to emerge. Tim Kirkham in his ZS 180 has been the consistent leader so far. However, there are a number of contenders snapping at his heels and I predict a very close finish at the end of the year and in my opinion that’s how it should be.

On August 2 we had our second visit of the year to the Midlands Centre event at Curborough. Unfortunately due to a number of reasons this was very under supported, having to run with a mere 27 entries. This meant that the Centre ran the event at a financial loss and puts in doubt its continuation in coming years. This would be a great shame and very significant loss of a traditional part of the MG calendar. Careful analysis of the causes show that there was no particular reason for the low turnout, just a combination of holiday and other commitments combined with a number of competing events.

Having said all that the event was most enjoyable, being run in perfect weather and for obvious reasons lot of runs.

Significant performances came from the Midget specials class with newcomer Steve Collier showing a clean pair of heels to James Thacker and John Hawley. In addition there was close competition in the Group Three MGB class with first place narrowly going to Terry Pigot from Rob Orford and Paul Drake.

There follows a report on the Loton Park event by David Coulthard: The recent meeting at Loton Park was certainly a meeting of two halves. Saturday’s round was gloriously warm and sunny, whilst Sunday was dismally wet, with heavy rain falling all day. However, the conditions failed to faze Terry Drinkwater in the MGA Coupe. Terry set the fastest MG time on both days, recording 62.66 and 72.44. I’ll let the reader work out which time was set on which day!

Behind Terry, the competition was fierce. During Saturday’s meeting, the MGB GTs of Richard Withers and Paul Drake filled the remaining podium positions, one and two seconds adrift respectively. Ian ‘Harry’ Howlett broke the standard MGF record by posting a 68.41, whilst the Midgets of Phil Smith and Neil Walmsley were separated by just over a second. The TA of Martin Price looked glorious in the sunshine.

Sunday’s round brought some changes to the leader board. After the first timed run, Harry Howlett headed the class, but fell back to third at the end of the day, when David Coulthard in the ZR 160 moved into second place on the day’s second ascent. Meanwhile, Nick Arnold in another ZR 160 slipped under the 74 second mark, to take fifth in class, just two tenths behind Richard Withers in fourth. A similar margin separated Tim Kirkham in the ZS 180 from Helen Waddington in the ZR 160.

SEPTEMBER 2015

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CALENDAR

SEPTEMBER Sunday 6 MGCC Midget Register September Road Run Eastnor Castle and the Forest of Dean Contact: Neil Thomas ns.tenby@hotmail.com Monday 7 – Thursday 17 MGCC MGA Register MGA 60th Anniversary Lands End to John O’Groats Road Run www.mgcc.co.uk/mga-register/events-2015/ Friday 11 – Monday 14 MGCC T Register Register Autumn Tour Cotswolds Wotton Under Edge Contact: Gill & Edwin Haywood 01452 740393 Saturday 12 MG Car Club Race Meeting at Oulton Park Full race programme is published on www.mgcc.co.uk Contact: John Hutchinson (Comps Sec) 01235 849738 Saturday 12 MGCC Southwest Centre Wiscombe Park Wiscombe Hillclimb www.mgccsw.com/2015-events/wiscombehillclimb-2015/ Saturday 12 MGCC Midlands Centre Autumn Weekender Cosgrove Park, Milton Keynes Contact: Richard Stone 07528 055011 mail@ southmidssportsters.org Saturday 12 MGCC Anglia Centre AGM The Limes, Needham Market, Suffolk Contact: Dave Tynan 01795 535776 or Michael Murkin 01702 478476 Sunday 13 MGCC Anglia Centre The Crown Natter Day Out Location TBA Contact: Steve & Alison Kemp 01553 840245 Sunday 13 MGCC Lincolnshire Centre Autumn Autotest East Kirkby Contact: David 01790 754774 davidstonehouse1@btinternet.com www.mgcclincolnshire.co.uk

Monday 14 MGs on Track Castle Combe Circuit Contact: Nigel.S@mgs-on-track.co.uk Friday 18 – Monday 21 MGA Register Return to Dundrod Contact: Mervyn Gillespie mgmga@o2.co.uk 0780 800 8700 www.mgcc.co.uk/mga-register/events-2015/ Saturday 19 MGCC Midget Register Kop Hill Speed Hillclimb Kop Hill, Nr Princes Risborough Contact: David Halliday DavidH@egopharm.com Friday 25 – Monday 28 MGCC MGB Register Register Weekend in Wales Based Metropole Hotel, LLandrindod Wells Contact: Geoff Edwards treasurer@mgb-register.org www.mgb-register.org Saturday 26 – Sunday 27 MGCC Midget Register Sywell Piston and Props Event www.sywellclassic.co.uk/ Sunday 27 MGCC Abingdon Works Centre Chairman’s Event Road Run to Chavenage House, Tetbury Contact: Marcus Smith 01235 201174 Sunday 27 MGCC Midlands Centre - Autumn Trial Burton Dassett Contact Tony Lake 01604 589104

OCTOBER

Contact: Marcus Smith 01235 201174

Saturday 3 – Sunday 4 MGCC Magnette Register Autumn Finale Norfolk. Details from www.magnette.org/ Monday 5 MGs on Track Donington Park Contact: NigelS@mgs-on-track.co.uk Saturday 10 – Sunday 11 MG Car Club Race Meeting at Snetterton Full details available from www.mgcc.co.uk/motorsport Contact: John Hutchinson (Comps Sec) 01235 849738 Sunday 11 MGCC Lincolnshire Centre Jubilee Trophy Naviscat Rally Wishing Well, Dyke nr Bourne Contact: Robert Taylor 07831 256808 www.mgcclincolnshire.co.uk Sunday 15 MGB Register Lecture – The SS Great Britain Abingdon School, Abingdon Contact: Geoff Edwards 01452 654416 www.mgb-register.org Sunday 18 MGCC Tyne Tees Centre Autumn Leaves Run Dobbies Garden Centre, Ponteland Contact: Lyn Ebdon 01434 344568 lyn@peterebdon.com

Monday 26 MGs on Track Goodwood Circuit Contact: NigelS@mgs-on-track.co.uk Saturday 31 October – 1 November MGB Register Register Rebuild – Rolling Road Seminar BMH & Pitstop Witney Contact: John Watson 07770 575236 www.mgb-register.org

NOVEMBER Friday 13 – Sunday 15 CLASSIC MOTOR SHOW NEC, Birmingham Wednesday 18 MGCC Lincolnshire Centre Luncheon Club Contact: Richard & Vicki Withington r.withington@ btinternet.com www.mgcclincolnshire.co.uk Saturday 21 MGCC Anglia Centre Committee Meeting The Limes, Needham Market, Suffolk Contact: Michael Murkin 01702 478476

DECEMBER Saturday 5 MGCC Tyne Tees Centre Awards Dinner Contact: Lyn Ebdon 01434 344568 lyn@peterebdon. com Monday 7 MGs on Track Brands Hatch Contact: NigelS@mgs-on-track.co.uk Wednesday 16 MGCC Lincolnshire Centre Luncheon Club Contact: Richard & Vicki Withington r.withington@ btinternet.com www.mgcclincolnshire.co.uk Wednesday 30 MGCC Anglia Centre Norfolk Riviera Run Norfolk Contact: Steve Atkinson rivierarun@hotmail.co.uk

Wednesday 21 MGCC Lincolnshire Centre Luncheon Club Contact: Richard & Vicki Withington r.withington@ btinternet.com www.mgcclincolnshire.co.uk

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*Club ticket (adult 16 years+) offer only applies to Saturday and Sunday, and only when booked in advance. Club single ticket offer is limited to four tickets per member and the club family ticket offer is limited to one family ticket per member. A family ticket admits 2 adults and up to 3 children (5-15 years). Book before Saturday 31st October 2015 at midnight and you will be automatically entered into our free prize draw to win a car. Hand in your ticket stub or print-at-home voucher to your club’s stand and they will benefit from a commission. **Calls cost 10ppm plus standard network charges. All bookings are subject to a single transaction fee of £1.50. Tickets include a showguide to the value of £7.50. Entry to the auction requires purchase of a catalogue. See website for all information. All information correct at time of publishing.

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21/08/2015 14:47 18:04 09/06/2015

OUT & ABOUT FEATURE

Out & About

Jamie and Sally Banks’ 1946 TC, affectionately named FAB (no prizes for guessing why) on a Charity Classic Vehicle Club Drive-It Day 55 mile run from Writtle College to a vehicle display at Colchester

William Ball on chauffeuring duty for Paul and Janet Bloomfield’s wedding, photographed at Raynham Hall in Norfolk. Photo: Brian Nuth

The Caledonian Centre’s retiring Secretary Mike Howlett was presented with the Cooper Bowl in recognition of his six years of fine work by the new Secretary, Nancy Crichton. The presentation was made at the Stirling Classic Car Show in May where the Centre won the Best Car Club Stand award.

This MG was spotted at Silverstone and photographed as it headed off for a photo shoot. Photo: Steve Clarke Chris and Annette Callaghan’s MG YB photographed at Little Moreton Hall, Cheshire, the finishing venue for the year’s MG Y Register Spring Run.

Walter Prechsl’s MGB photographed at ‘Franconian Switzerland’, a region in Northern Bavaria. Photo: Walter Prechsl

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MGs parked outside the Joyland American diner in Great Yarmouth, before they headed off to Caister Castle Motor Museum during MGCC D&C Janners Week. Photo: Peter Skipper

OUTFEATURE & ABOUT

Paul Bridgman and Andy Cumming’s Fs at Parham House for the MGF SE Teddy Bears’ Picnic. Photo: Tim Morris

British Motor Club of the Cape Fear, North Carolina, visit Kimber House, the home of the MG Car Club. Photo: Colin Grant

MGF SE took part in the MGCC South East Centre’s alternative Pride of Ownership at the Fairmile in Cobham in July, boosting the attendance to record numbers. Photo: Tim Morris

A few of the cars that participated in this year’s MGCC Midland Centre Welsh Rally, parked at the Lion Quays Hotel & Spa, near Oswestry. Photo: Andy Robson

www.mgcc.co.uk

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Summit:Layout 1

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NEWS

OVERSEAS

GT 40 in Bavarian America The Bavarian Inn Lodge – the NAMGAR base

T

he North American MGA Register (NAMGAR) event was held in Frankenmuth, Michigan from June 15–19 2015. Having just been to the NAMGBR event in Niagara Falls, we had a weekend to get to this event and it made sense, both time and distance wise, to kill two birds with one stone. This co-ordination of timing last happened in 2007 although the distance factor was greater then. Plans are afoot to try to make it happen in 2017, but I am getting in front of myself.

A group of eight cars left Niagara Falls in wet weather on the first stage of our ‘MG Jaunt Around the Lakes’ in

By Brian Woodhams

a north westerly direction on route six.

Our first stop was at the sign for a small township called Abingdon – some things you just have to do! I was accompanying John Burrows of the Toronto MGCC in his 1973 MGB with my suitcase strapped to the luggage rack on the boot lid – I now know it is watertight! Our route took us to our overnight stop at Tobermory and we caught the ferry across the North Channel of Lake Huron to Manitoulin Island the next morning. The fog and mosquitoes unfortunately spoilt the crossing which must be wonderful on a clear day. Our tour of the island took in an Octagonal marina clubhouse, a chocolate factory,

Abingdon, Ontario and the gang on the MG Jaunt around the Lakes

www.mgcc.co.uk

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and a Canadian Indian craft store in sunny weather. However by the time we reached our overnight stay on the north shore of Lake Huron it was raining again. Alan Magnuson’s 1978 MGB had been causing much concern with no brakelights – especially in the rain, and so a mini Tech session developed in my room whilst the switch was dissected and reassembled by John Burrows. We had it working the next morning in Tim Coynes’ garage where the group had very kindly been invited to a fabulous breakfast – well done John for the switch and well done Tim and Sue for the breakfast. Our third day took us through the Canadian/USA border at Sault St Marie and of course this was not straightforward for a Pommie and a Canadian Dane. Somehow shortly after the Border we all got split up, but on an empty Interstate 75 I was treated to the sight of a coyote ambling across the road.

We crossed from the UP to the thumb of Michigan over the Mackinaw Bridge in glorious sunshine and took the lakeside road to Alpena, our last overnight stop before the event. The group will remember dinner and a waitress called Chelsea – but that is another story!

Frankenmuth was founded in 1845 by a group of German/Lutheran missionaries.

Franken depicts the province from which the settlers came and Muth means courage in German. We arrived in glorious sunshine and commenced Hotel and

SEPTEMBER 2015

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OVERSEAS

NEWS

Two nice MG Magnettes around the back of the hotel

Event registration. Monday evening was the First Timers reception followed by the general reception and welcome. Alan Magnuson and I were introduced to the assembly by Carol Shamonsky, Chair of the MGA Register.

By Tuesday morning the hotel car park was filling up with MGs and I took time to take some photos and explore the town. The road to the hotel went through a covered bridge – memories of Corvallis, Oregon – and on the other side was a Glockenspiel at the sister hotel. In glorious weather in the evening we went on the River Cass for a cruise on the Bavarian Belle – an imitation paddle steamer.

Wednesday was Car Show day, which was well organised in lovely weather by the river. I have only one slight criticism, and that is that other MGs went into the ‘other British’ class, whilst there were something like 16 classes of MGAs. The ‘other British’ class, which was very large, should have been split into MGs and others. It is very hard judging Morris Minors against E Type roadsters or MG VA Tickfords – my opinion! Tony Burgess of NAMGBR was in charge of the keenly contested Rocker Box racing at the Showday. In a German town it seemed only fitting that a visit to a brewery should be included, and so dinner that evening was a BBQ style buffet at the Frankenmuth Brewery – lovely!

On Thursday morning I attended the NAMGAR Board and Staff breakfast and afterwards John Burrows and I were off on what we would call a Treasure Hunt in his MGB roadster. As seems to be the

1937 MG VA Tickford of John Orrell of Waterloo, Ontario

Very nice 1960 1600 MGA of Greg Poffenbarger from Texas

Love those peepers!!

Ex Lancashire Police 1961 MGA Mk2 of Ken Geljack of Indiana

John Burrows and 1973 MGB with watertight suitcase

norm on these events, a road closure due to an accident at a crossroads caused chaos, but the young female Michigan Sheriff was very nice about saying NO you can’t go down there! We did have a bit of a giggle though when we later approached her down the closed road to tell her that the police had just opened the road!

She smiled but was not really amused!

Thursday evening was the Awards Banquet and I had collected the new ‘Call it MGA’ book from co-author Roger Martin on my way to Heathrow and the flight to Toronto. This I presented to the MGA that had driven the furthest to the event, and Roger had suitably annotated and signed the book – it was won by John and Rita Drake from Portland, Oregon, who were kitchen helpers at the Coynes’ breakfast in Canada a few days before!

On Friday morning it was time to say goodbye to all the MG friends, and John and I set off back towards Toronto.

The Border at Port Huron/Sarnia was no problem but things did get a bit exciting when the MGB started to cut out due to fuel vaporisation in the heat. After pushing three times in traffic, I did make it to the airport for the overnight flight and then drove straight to Silverstone for MGLive! the next morning!

The Bavarian Belle paddlesteamer Showday by the River Cass

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OVERSEAS

REVIEW

A monthly look through a few of the overseas magazines we receive at Kimber House. Reviewed by Adrian Clifford

Overseas Review

F

or this review I have had more magazines, both paper and electronic than before. It’s a privilege to read what the groups from other countries are up to, especially as some are in the middle of winter and some do not have any modern MGs at all.

I’ll start with the MGCC Antwerp’s Nieuws. They were very praiseworthy of 60 years of the MGA with many excellent pages devoted to the anniversary and a qualitative report on the car’s history. They enjoyed their May camping weekend greatly and the Ladies Driving Day was very well supported.

In Holland the MG Nieuws reported on a UK event recently held, that of the MGF International Meeting (MGFIM); the reporter Jan Algera loved Essex, so it appears.

In France, the excellent quality of Heritage from the MGCF shows again with reports from all around Europe including the EEOTY from Holland in June. The

magazine lists international records broken

by MGs. Episode 1 covers the years from 1930 to 1936, mostly from Brooklands and Montlhery so look out for more in future episodes. They documented the evolutions of MGAs across the range very well. A four page full colour report on the development of the MGF, even carrying out like for like comparisons with other convertibles available at the time, was very well laid out.

It appears our friends in France also liked the MGFIM as it was reported in there too.

It took me a long time to review the Time Machine from Australia’s Gold Coast because there was just so much in it, well done Dave Godwin and your team! They covered the tail end of a massive journey of six of their MGs from Ushuaia in Argentina through the US and Canada, with three of

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them carrying on to Alaska and then back to Vancouver on Canada’s west coast for the 60th anniversary celebrations of the MGA. Many regular travellers will know of Dave’s own MGA ‘RIP’, it was one of the cars of course. During the time they were there, they travelled over 30,400km (19,000 miles) with 128 days of continued driving over four months and never was one night lost in a hotel, an amazing testament to well prepared cars and drivers/navigators, also where there were problems and language issues they coped extremely well. Some of these cars remain in Canada ready for the Trans Canada drive in 2016 before returning home. They carefully documented the history of the MGA over many beautiful pages, I didn’t know all Australian MGAs were delivered with wire wheels. They also produced pictures and wrote about the fact that Elvis Presley sang from inside an MGA in the film Blue Hawaii; it often appeared in the film. Ian Prior from Melbourne took his works Sebring MGA #44 to Sebring in Florida to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the 12 hour event, now there’s a nice coincidence and what a lovely set of pictures too. In the same issue further pages were devoted to EX181 with its 290hp supercharged 1.5 litre MGA engine driven by Stirling Moss at Bonneville salt flats in 1957. It goes on to report on the same car now with 300hp when in 1959, driven by Formula 1 world champion Phil Hill, it broke the record with 254.91mph. He amusingly stated that the fastest car he ever drove was an MG! They continued to write with a report on an event running from September 7-17 whereby 72 MGAs from ‘around the globe’ will drive from Lands End to John O’ Groats as part of the 60th anniversary. They mention that 17 of these are from Australia and they wonder why none are from the US or Canada. The Australian cars will already have been on the road for 11 days as their road journey takes them through Italy and Switzerland before they get to the UK. Not finished with that there was a report on a lovely weekend event called the Great Goondiwindi Train Race where a good number of cars met up for a drive with a difference. They followed alongside a steam train route well away from other traffic, chasing it from one station to another, my idea of fun! The efforts and camaraderie of the volunteer train staff and the use of the vintage stations made a very interesting report.

Opposite Lock from Sydney, Australia reports on members also on the Pan American adventure and, following appeals from the editor for quality pictures of your car, the few found in the magazine are beautiful. I notice they are the only Club magazine using the new MG logo on their magazine. They mention the 2016 National Meeting which is to be held in Perth out on the far west side of this vast continent. They have superimposed a map of Australia over one of Europe; it touches from Ireland to Russia and halfway up Norway to Greece, so to travel from Sydney to Perth is a very long drive – the editor likens it to a drive from Crimea to Normandy. Rather surprisingly there was an article written by myself recently in an issue of the MGF Register’s own magazine FasTForward called ‘Where did they all go’, detailing deliveries of all MGFs and TFs. I didn’t expect to see that in there, thank you Robert.

www.mgcc.co.uk

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Programme of oPtions to satisfy everyone.

The options that we offer are as following: D Arrive Wednesday the 8th. June or Friday morning the 10th. June D A choice between the 5 rallies D Souvenirs

The MG European Event Of The Year 2016

a choice of accommodation for the ParticiPants in hotels in le touquet and surrounding areas.

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

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

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

Take part in the biggest MG event ever done in France, and experience the emotion of the event.

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

Registrations will be made on the website:

http://mgevent2016.mgclubdefrance.com Confirmation of registration will be given one week later. Once confirmation is received, it will be necessary to confirm your participation by paying for your entry by the following methods: cheque, direct transfer or credit card.

You can visit the website to look at the full programme.

Take part to the biggest MG event ever done in France!

4 days of activities for MG enthusiasts in Le Touquet-Paris-Plage and the region.

The MG Event of the Year 2016 is organised by the MG Club of France, from the 8th. to the 12th. June 2016, in Le Touquet-Paris-Plage. The event offers 4 days of rallies and activities to MG owners and to European MG clubs affiliated to the MG Car Club.

The great European MG festival.

Discover a beautiful little known region, which offers a wide variety of landscapes, picturesque country roads and a coastline with breathtaking cliffs.

All MGs are accepted from MMM, T series, MGA, MGB to modern MGs. We have places for all models of MG in order to present the largest exhibition of MGs in France.

day at the circuit at abbeville.

MG demonstration laps all day, divided into groups of cars from the same period.

Parade of all the MGs on the circuit at the end of the day.

tourism for the eyes Rally 1: To discover the Bay of the Somme. 150km, with a visit to the town of Montreuil sur Mer. Lunch at Noyelles sur Mer. Discover the Bay of the Somme and Saint Valéry on the little Bay of the Somme steam train.

Rally 2: Commemorative sites of Pas de Calais.

150km, from the V2 to the conquest of space with a visit to the Coupole and the Blockhaus at Eperlecques. Discover the Audomaroise region.

Rally 3: The assault of the hills of Flanders.

250Km, with a visit to Cassel, to Mont Noir and to Kemmel. Lunch at Watou in Belgium.

Rally 4: The route of the two capes. 250km along the coast towards the famous «Cap Blanc Nez» and «Gris Nez» along the Boulonnais routes. Visit and lunch at the village of Saint Joseph.

«as if MG was talking to me», at the racecourse at Le Touquet .

exhibition of the mgs in the town of le touquet with various activities: concours d’elegance, games in the town and on the sea wall, MG European club stands, exhibitions under the covered market and tasting of regional products, trials at the racecourse for the MMM and T series.

le touquet-Paris-Plage

gastronomy for the taste buds During the event, you can taste French cuisine with varied meals carefully selected to make you discover the specialties of the region. The dinner and gala evening will be held at the Palais de L’Europe at Le Touquet.

ladies rally, to discover the abbey of valloires.

evening «son et lumière»

Le Touquet-Paris-Plage is a seaside resort created at the end of the 19th. century. The MG European Event 2016 will be hosted there. The town offers many sports facilities for outdoor activities, hotels of all categories, a casino, a Palais des Congrès and many other facilities. Visitors can enjoy themselves in the numerous restaurants and shops. Le Touquet is a sporting town, with golf, swimming pool, and many other sporting amenities. It also has an airfield, a racecourse, tennis courts and sand yachting on the beautiful beaches on the coast. Le Touquet is a town dedicated to leisure and relaxation, with a thalassotherapy centre for relaxation, many shops for shopping and a casino for gambling and having enjoyable evenings.

Touquet Automobiles de Collection is a partner to organize the event.

200km passing by the valleys of the Canche, Créquoise, Planquette, Ternoise and Authie. Lunch at the Abbey of Valloires. Visit the rose garden.

Covering Models 1929 - 1939 Upper Upper Battlefield Battlefield Shrewsbury Shrewsbury SY4 SY4 3DB. 3DB. Tel: Tel: 01939 01939 210458.

210458. Fax Fax 01939 01939 210644 210644

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MOTORS Sports and Vintage.indd 1 www.mgcc.co.uk

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www.SporTSanDvinTage.co.Uk www.SporTSanDvinTage.co.Uk

BRITISH MOTOR HERITAGE APPROVED

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CENTRES

ABINGDON WORKS Richard Martin sfscribe@mgabingdon.org.uk www.mgabingdon.co.uk

The past few weeks have seen us enthusiastically subscribing to my philosophy that cars need to be driven, Gill’s MG6, ‘Daisy’, covering over 2,000 miles whilst being the transport for all the paraphernalia needed for a family holiday to Spain, my TF doing 1,000 miles on a more wet than dry trip to Scotland for a family wedding, and our B enduring a wet journey through London to visit the Olympic Stadium. The only dry trip was the one to Spain in the car most suited to rain! However, the weather around the Centre has generally provided some good summer days so I hope you’ve all benefited from them.

There was a wide range of classic vehicles and machinery on display at Calne’s Atwell-Wilson Motor Museum where we’d gathered for the Summer Day Out in July. Unfortunately, at lunchtime the rain joined us but the museum, with its varied range of interesting exhibits, provided a welcome respite from the ‘monsoon’! The AWC also went racing by, joining the Midget Register at Castle Combe in the sun to support the MG racers taking part in a number of marque themed races. Congratulations to AWC member Paul Eales (Oselli) on his class win in the PBIS Cup. Since the last set of Notes was compiled, there have been a number of AWC Natter events ranging from NONG’s Twilight Picnic in the North through

now under the stewardship of Mike Lamb, 01189 a couple of Pride of Ownerships in Bucks and one 412102 or m.lamb@mgabingdon.org.uk; the in Oxon, whilst the Wanderers visited an aircraft Chesham Natter (Bucks) were using The Bellcote museum in Berks. Some Natters and members in Ashley Green for their August gathering, but best have also visited or supported local events so please to check with Richard or Christa, 01494 728253 remember, if you have something coming up which before heading out; Dave Storer’s Natter (Bucks) is you’d like publicised, do let us know so that we can relocating to The Bell at Beachampton on August add it to the AWC Newsletter.

13. For more information on this you can call Dave On the horizon, we have the Chairman’s Run to 07518 911172 or email david.storer@costain.

Chavenage House on Sunday September 27 with com; and finally, in Hants, David Askew’s (01962 an entry form elsewhere in this magazine, or on our 890108) Natter is moving to The White Horse, website if you don’t wish to deface this issue! This Winchester Road, Ampfield. issue also contains an entry form for the Abingdon to Abingdon Run which takes place on Sunday October 4 in celebration of the Club’s 85th birthday; it would be great to see you at one or MGs assembled for a Pride of Ownership at the both. Also on our patch, is the Prince of Wales Natter. Photo: Richard Martin popular Kop Hill climb over the September 19-20 weekend which always attracts MGs amongst the many other marques. If you’re interested, the Midget Register’s Steve Clark can help on steveinoxford@ntlworld.com or 07980 903 826.

A few Natter changes to make you aware of: the Four Points Natter (Berks) is

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

Anglia Mid Summer Run Sunday August 12 saw the 12th running of this very popular annual event, organised by Margaret Beresford and Barbara Pratley. It has become a traditional must do event, and just as you think that it could not get any better, Margaret and Barbara come up with another theme that takes it to new heights.

This year 27 cars made the start from The Coach And Horses at Melton on a lovely sunny morning, their crews enjoying bacon sandwiches and coffee before the off.

The first part of the run took participants

CENTRE

along Suffolk country lanes through woodland to Woodbridge Airfield which is claimed to have the longest runway in Europe, and at 1.8 miles long it did look a wonderful sight stretching out in front of us.

The airfield is owned by the Ministry of Defence but Margaret and Barbara had gained permission for us to use it for the day.

Each of the participants would have the opportunity to drive their MG at their own pace along the runway; it was a rare opportunity to really stretch the legs of the cars, legally and safely on the vast expanse of track, some

Margaret Beresford in front of the MGs lined up at Woodbridge Airfield.

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members topping 120 mph in their RV8s on each of their three runs.

Then it was a short trip back to The Coach and Horses for our pre booked lunch at 12.30.

After an enjoyable meal with time to swap stories and compare notes of our morning’s activities, it was off for the second part of the run. This entailed a lovely 20 mile drive along the coast to Priors Oak Butterfly Garden. This is not just a garden, but also has vintage railway carriages and a museum with old agricultural interest appertaining to the area.

The garden sits adjacent to The North Warren Bird Reserve, a ten acre site that that attracts many rare butterflies and birds to its marshes, reed beds and woodlands.

We were able to enjoy a tour of the gardens before finishing the day with tea and cakes.

Thanks for such an enjoyable day must go to Margaret and Barbara and to John Cumming who helped produce the wonderfully bound road book that the Ladies gave to us with the route instructions and notes with photographs, such a nice memento of the day.

C P .

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Anglia Centre AGM The AGM will be at The Limes, Needham Market September 12 starting at 2pm, see detail on website or Safety Fast! last month.

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The Chairman’s Run

Millets Farm to Chavenage House Sunday 27th September 2015 Arrive at 9.00-9.30am for a 10.00am start The cost is £12.50 per head which includes admission to the house Tea/Coffee and Biscuits @ £2 per head or Tea/Coffee and Homemade Cakes @ £5 per head on a self pay basis.

Please advise if you require either of these.

The AWC are organising a Tulip Route Run to the Historic Chavenage House, near Tetbury, Gloucestershire.

This historic Elizabethan house, home of the Lowsley-Williams family, contains much of interest for the discerning visitor.

During the Civil War (1641-49) Chavenage was owned by Colonel Nathaniel Stephens, MP for Gloucestershire, who was persuaded by Oliver Cromwell, to whom he was related by marriage, to vote for the King’s impeachment.

Soon after the King was beheaded, Colonel Stephens died and it is said that his ghostly form was seen being driven away from Chavenage by a headless coachman wearing the Royal vestments.

Chavenage House has been used as a location for many television productions, including Agatha Christie’s Hercule Poirot, Casualty, House of Eliott, Berkeley Square, Cider with Rosie and the US series Relic Hunter III. ...................................................................................................................................................................

Send this form, or a photocopy, with a cheque payable to MGCC AWC to: Marcus Smith, 1 The Warren, Abingdon, Oxon OX14 3XB. Tel : 01235-201174 m.smith90@ntlworld.com If you do not have an email address please include a S.A.E. Name: ............................................................................................................................................................................

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

Postcode : ...................................................................

Daytime Tel No : .........................................................

Email : ..........................................................................................................................................................................

Car Model : .....................................................................................................

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Reg No : ............................................

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CENTRES

CALEDONIAN Bob MacGillivray 07870 407111 mgcarsscotland@gmail.com www.mgcaledonian.com

By the time you are reading this the Bo’ness Hillclimb & Classic Car Show on September 5-6 will be on us. We always have a good stand there and several members will be displaying their skills (or lack of!) on the hill itself. The Marque of Friendship atmosphere is unique with proper cars, steam trains and sometimes planes being shown off so if you are free, do come along and join us on the stand.

The weekend after is the new event, The Ingliston Revival. This sounds very promising and we will be there in force so again come and meet us for a chat.

Don’t forget the two day tour based in Pitlochry. There may still be a place or two available so check our website for details of all three events.

Looking back, we had a good weekend at Glamis with 40 cars on display, decent weather and great friendly atmosphere! We were also at Kames show, winning Best Stand Award and with four members’ cars picking up awards. We have tried a few new shows this year and are likely to try a few more next in order to meet members all over the country…. We might even get to Shetland!

The first of possibly three ‘Open Days’ was held at David Reid’s home with new and long standing members and cars enjoying a BBQ and eats on a

relaxed Sunday afternoon. It was a good opportunity to meet the Committee and discuss events and we would like to try and squeeze a similar West of Scotland event in before late autumn. Would anyone in the Glasgow area like to offer their garden for the purpose? We need a good sized grass area for the gazebo and parking for maybe around 20 cars. If you can suggest something let me know.

Also around this time your committee will start planning events for 2016. If there is

something you would like us to try, places to go or things to see then let a committee member know and we will try to accommodate you. We want to plan events that you want!

Finally I am again putting together the Centre newsletter for 2016 and have ideas for articles in mind, but if any of you would like to put pen to paper re your car or an event you took part in then let me know… A volunteer is worth two conscripts!

Taken at the Open Day... I’m sure I dropped my head in here...

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

The South Hams Natter had a tour around the Air Museum at Davidstow with planes and memorabilia from the war. They were made quite welcome and did anybody spot one of our ladies’ photo in a cabinet, nurse Fee Smith!

Powderham Car Show had two lovely days with lots of cars on the MGCC D&C stand, a great day had by all. Thanks go to Brian Dingsdale.

The not so lovely weather in the middle of July resulted in the Torbay Old Wheels show at Paignton being cancelled. One entrance into the show was churned up and the other entrance flooded by the storm drain not taking the water away but spreading onto the Green. Alan was

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up early to claim his space, then back home to collect his show car in the wind and rain. Poor Barbara sat in the car with two tarpaulins over her, so thank you Alan for phoning the contestants to let them know it was cancelled. Apologies to those people could not be contacted, and had left already; this was out of Alan’s control.

CENTRE out with plenty of excitement, so how about helping to marshal a section, we need you now.

Contact Vic Share: vic.share@yahoo.co.uk November 14 – Inter-Natter Skittles probably at the Fox & Hounds, Bridestow (tbc, check next month’s notes), an enjoyable evening of skill, fun and lovely food. Contact: petercookdr@ btinternet.com

Events For The Diary September 13 – Cornish Riviera Run – Plymouth – Heligan for lunch – Healey’s Cyder Farm for cream teas and a look around. Marshals are still required, contact: allegropeter@aol.com October 25 – Tamar Classic Trial – A good day

MGs enjoying the sunny weather during the 2014 Cornish Riviera Run. This years event takes place on Sunday September 13

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LINCOLNSHIRE John Hebb tel 01522 683541jhebb38@virginmedia.com www.mgcclincolnshire.co.uk

September Natters Swallow Wednesday 2; Lincolnshire Poacher Friday 4; Wishing Well Wednesday 9; Abbey Lodge Monday 14; Three Horseshoes Thursday 17; Admiral Nelson Thursday 24.

September Events Autumn Autotest Sunday 13, Social Drive Sunday 20 (Len/Sue 01205 750386).

Luncheon Club Wednesday 16.

Early October Natters Lincolnshire Poacher Friday 2; Swallow Wednesday 7.

After the excitements of MGLive! July was a somewhat quieter month. The Swallow Natter started the month with an evening drive through the countryside on the first. The Wishing Well held their Landlords Choice event on the eighth, the Midget of Robin Pearson gaining the third place spot, Charles Tyler’s MGC Roadster was second and John Rogers’ L2 Magna first. The following Sunday the Centre had its usual display at the annual Rover Day at the Lincolnshire Aviation Heritage Centre at East Kirkby.

Although heralded as the Rover day there were as usual hundreds of Classics, from Model T Ford to Rolls Royce. After an early shower the sun came out and Lancaster ‘Just Jane’ made a couple of

taxi runs. The Museum is continually adding to its exhibits, so if you haven’t been for a while it is well worth a visit. The Luncheon Club this month visited the Red Lion in the small village of Raithby, tucked away on the edge of the Wolds – this was definitely a hood down day. Abbey Lodge members went on a walking tour of Woodhall Spa on their Natter night, arranged by Peter Ellis. The penultimate Landlords Choice was held at the Admiral Nelson Natter on 23rd, the MGA of Nigel Haines being voted into the top spot, second was the MGB of Peter Hermite with Ian Mackenzie’s MG ZT 260

The annual Rover Day at the Lincolnshire Aviation Heritage Centre at East Kirkby

MIDLANDS Roger King 0121 476 6649 rogerking43@gmail.com

The last few weeks have seen much activity within the area, discounting enthusiastic attendance at MGLive! and the MGF 20 celebration at Gaydon.

First up came the joint Midlands/South Western Natter at the Rose and Crown, Severn Stoke.

Whilst the Arden Group sent a reasonable number, attendance from other Midland Region Natters was a little sparse. However with good food and excellent company, an enjoyable time was had.

Probably the attendance at the above was tempered by the Summer Picnic held four days later at Shelsley Walsh. Enjoying a discounted entry, some 16 cars from the Swan Natter joined other MGs, thus making up a great turnout of the marque on what proved to be a sunny and warm Sunday.

The motorsport was excellent and when combined with the fabulous ambiance of the venue, all who attended rated it a great day.

And then came the Centre’s summer sprint at Curborough. Sadly only 29 entries were received for what is generally considered a well run and entertaining event. However 16 of these were MGs which was very satisfying. Conducted on the figure of eight circuit (and yes one competitor got ‘lost’ on two successive runs, no names no pack drill), competitors really got their money’s worth with two practice and five timed runs. As usual the established team of marshals and timekeepers ensured proceedings were conducted in a seamless

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third. The following Saturday evening diners descended on the Heneage Arms at Hainton for a fish and chip supper arranged by the Abbey Lodge Natter. Members met at Horncastle for a scenic tour through the Wolds to Hainton, organised by Peter Hermite. As you see from the events above we have another Social Drive, arranged by Len and Sue Hartley, starting at the Lancaster Hotel in Woodhall Spa and ending at Ayscoughfee Hall in Spalding. A picnic in the extensive gardens and maybe a boat ride – details and entry form available on the web page.

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wonderful scenery. You never know – you might manner making for constant action. be bitten by the bug!

When the results were totted up they revealed Meanwhile the Midlands Centre committee five class wins for MGs, with Terry Pigott (MGB), are already planning for next year’s Welsh Rallye Andy Walker (MGB V8 – and also winning the with an early recce already in the pipeline.

Kimber Trophy for fastest MG), Steve Collier (Midget), Starting in north Shropshire, after an overnight Keith Egar (Midget), with Jack Taylor in the superb, stay the provisional route will take us down the glittering aluminium polished 1953 Lotus/MG Mk 6 centre of Wales to a south coast venue for another narrowly beating Martin Price in his delectable TA. overnighter, and then back to the Midlands The lady with the FTD was Helen Waddington in a via a stop for Sunday lunch. Mouth watering I shared MG ZR. Overall FTD went to Keith Green in would say and I don’t mean just the lunch. This his incredibly quick OMS 28. So a great event, but excitement is scheduled for the weekend of May be advised not really sustainable with such a low 13-15 2016 and limited to just 50 entries. Why entry. The Midlands Centre will work hard to bolster are we publicising it now? Well we wouldn’t want numbers for next spring because it would be so sad you to have booked a holiday and thus miss out, to lose the delights of Curborough from our calendar. so watch our website for when entries open.

Next up will be the production car trial on September 27 at Burton Dassett, three miles from Gaydon.

This is always fun, high up in the hills overlooking Warwickshire.

Entry details on the Centre’s website.

If not competing why not come and spectate, all Andy Walker in his MGB V8 participating in the Midland Centre Sprint at Curborough. that fresh air and Photo: Paul Hipkiss

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NORTH WEST Paul Goodman 01625 876300

will be a good opportunity to come and find out about the sport. We then move on to Oulton Park on Saturday September 12. All the MGCC race championships will be on track during the day including a bumper grid of Cockshoot Cup cars.

Advance tickets are available from the circuit and there will be a lunchtime parade for members.

There is no need to book in advance, just turn up with your membership card and sign in at the ‘Welcome Centre’ in the first pit garage.

Our regular evening meeting will be at the Plough and Flail on Tuesday September 15. We would welcome suggestions for winter activities and volunteers to run them. We will then be indoors for two days at EventCity near the Centre Stand at Manchester Airport Viewing Park Show. Photo: Paul Goodman Trafford Centre at The

As we approach the end of the summer, the Centre is organising outdoor and indoor events this month. You should get this before the Anglesey Sprint Weekend scheduled for September 5 and 6. If you would like to help with running the event then please turn up on either day. We will need volunteers both on, and off, the track. You can also come and watch the action on either or both days. If you are thinking about competing in speed events in the Luffield Trophy next year then this

SOUTH WEST Andrew Owst 01761 221893 andrewowst@hotmail.com www.mgccsw.com

The one event the Centre was due to run in July was MGs on Grass 2 at Claverham in North Somerset, but this unfortunately had to be cancelled on the morning of the meeting due to heavy rain.

This meeting has been rescheduled for Sunday September 20, same time and place. A big thank you must go to Dave Coppock and his team of helpers who spent the Saturday before setting up the course.

Wiscombe Park Hill Climb On Saturday September 12 we will be holding the Centre’s largest event, Wiscombe Park Hill Climb near Honiton, Devon. There may be still time to enter but if you fancy watching an excellent day of motorsport in beautiful surroundings, why not volunteer to marshal? Details of the event are on our website but offers to marshal should be to Jon Pittard on jon.pittard@hotmail.co.uk Future Events Saturday September 12 – Wiscombe Park Hill Climb Sunday September 20 – MGs On Grass 2 resheduled Sunday October 4 – Autumn Social Run to Prescott Hillclimb Autumn Classic, Glos.

Sunday October 18 – Kimber Car Trial, Chew Stoke, eight miles south of Bristol.

As regards monthly Natters, our lunchtime Natters are taking place on the third Tuesday of each month at noon onwards with the next meeting on September 15 at the Burcott Inn, Wookey, between Wells and Wedmore. You will also be welcome to the various evening Natters as detailed on our website.

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Further ramblings With no other events to report on I hope that you will not mind me returning to the ill fated MGs on Grass 2 where I was looking forward to a good romp around the field in the Midget before taking it off the road for a few days to attend to some rust spots. However after the phone call from Dave Coppock advising of the cancellation I decided to get myself into the garage and by lunchtime had the Midget up on the axle stands, the petrol tank drained and off the car, and removed out of the garage. The rust spots were the usual scenario that once you start probing, more holes appear but these were confined to a small section of the rear end of the nearside sill and the lower area of the rear wing immediately behind the wheel. I had already purchased, from Moss in Bristol, an end cap which fits at the rear end of the sill as well as the inner and outer repair section for the wing. So the day was spent with the angle grinder cutting out the affected metal until all that remained was sound bright steel, fettling the replacements parts to fit nicely and finally fabricating a repair section for the outer sill from 1.1mm sheet metal.

Inspecting the rusty metal revealed that the wax had missed these areas so I must take more care when re waxing. All metal was coated with ‘Weld through primer’ and another day was spent with the MIG welder and spot welder completing the repairs. I then enquired of the local garage as to when their excellent body shop could fit in the filling and spraying. Unusually they could fit the job in straight away so the car is currently in their tender care. When the paintwork is complete I will refit

Footman James Classic Car Show on September 19 and 20. If you are coming to the show please drop by our stand and have a chat and view the cars which will be on display. There is a discount code for members that can be used to buy advance tickets at a reduced price. Please email Paul Goodman to obtain it.

The final two rounds of the Cockshoot Cup Championship will take place on the Croft Circuit on Saturday and Sunday September 26 and 27.

The beautiful Malimson Trophy will be awarded to the race winner and the Genesis and Entune Trophies to the class winners.

Our regular lunchtime pub meeting will be on Wednesday September 30 at The Hazel Pear Inn, Acton Bridge, Northwich, CW8 3RA. You will need to arrive around 12.30.

Finally, advance notice of the Annual Dinner Dance and Awards Presentation. This will be held on November 21 at the Deanwater Hotel, Woodford, Stockport. Full details about ticket purchase next month, but you can already reserve your hotel room.

CENTRE the lights and chrome and add copious amounts of wax in the box sections. Hopefully the total time off the road will be less than two weeks. This was a real ‘stitch in time’ job to prevent the corrosion spreading and I am perhaps naively optimistic that there should be no further rust problems on the Midget for the foreseeable future.

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SOUTH EAST John Bennett 01227 637813, johndotbennett@tiscali.co.uk www.mgcars.org.uk/mgccse/

Even though we are still in early August, we scribes have to think in terms of September, such are the realities of the SF! print schedule.

Speaking personally, the highlight of the month will be Jon Glover’s Cruise to Cornwall which is eagerly awaited, though not just yet, thankfully, because the MGA engine is not yet fully rebuilt following a radical refurb of its vital organs. The programme includes visits to the Eden Project, Charlestown Harbour, plus the Lost Gardens of Heligan, always provided that Jon can find them!

I gather that a few places remain so a call to 07802 318950 or an email to jongloveractor@ gmail.com could see you join the party.

Earlier in the month, on September 13, the Autumn Gathering is scheduled. This is to be held at Filtching Manor near Polegate, BN26 5QA. Until I just looked it up, I had no idea that this is not just a nice old house but also the location of

a museum containing a number of early racing cars plus Sir Malcolm Campbell’s World Recordbreaking boat, ‘Bluebird’. So, lots to see and do.

They even have a kart track and a competition has been organised! Andrew Mitchell is the man to talk to on 07821 838538.

Notable amongst a number of other September attractions is the Shere Hillclimb, on September 6. Now in its third year, the organisers are hoping to build on the £23k it has raised for local charities so far. They and John Davies, 01737 241971, would welcome your support.

Finally, some food for thought. I stumbled upon a local classic car display yesterday and stopped at a slightly tired looking TA to chat to the owners. They told me that they took the car on honeymoon to Cornwall in 1960 and that they like it the way it is, ie, nearly 80 years old. The point of the story is that they avoid the MG clubs

TYNE TEES Noel Lindford noel.lindford@btinternet.com

The Centre provided a major display of members’ cars at the hugely popular Croft Nostalgia Weekend on August 8-9, held in excellent weather on both days. Our prime pitch displayed 18 MGs on both days, Maurice Standish’s beautiful MG WA coupe having pride of place on the Sunday, and a late appearance of Tony and Helen Wood in their racing MG TC ‘Bluebottle’.

The photographs capture some of the fun.

Events coming up: Sunday September 13: 8th Old Speckled Hen Run This year’s event is an 86 mile tour of Weardale and Teesdale, starting and finishing at the Chatterbox Café in Saint John’s Chapel Market Place, near Stanhope, in Weardale. The route takes in some of the most stunning scenery you will ever encounter in Northern England, often driving on little used but good roads, devoid of heavy traffic. Event organiser Keith Dunn is contactable on 01388 526214 for further information. The run starts at 10.00am prompt, and for those travelling some distance there are very good B&Bs in Stanhope and Wolsingham.

Entry forms are available from our Centre website at www.mgcc.co.uk/tyne-tees-centre/futureevents/ or if you do not have internet access, please call Noel Lindford on 07432 152095, and one can be sent to you. Entries close on September 5 so be quick if not already entered!

Wednesday 7 / Thursday October 8: 24 Heures Tour d’Ecosse Starting just north of Morpeth the event heads north using quiet A and B roads of North Northumberland and the Lothians for a two day social tour. Each day will have a suggested route of about 100 miles, visiting the Jim Clark Rooms at Duns and the Myerton Motor Museum on Day

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One, and the Scottish Museum of Flight on Day Two. Cars do not have to be classic or an MG. The overnight stay will be at the Macdonald Marine Hotel & Spa at North Berwick, which you would need to book at a special rate. Full details are on our website, or contact David Alexander, on 01670 861178 or david.alexander2012@btinternet.com

CENTRE because they have made no attempt to ‘restore’ their car and they feel like poor relations at club gatherings where so many cars are immaculately restored, sometimes overly so. Have we lost sight of something or are they the ones out of step?

What do you think?

Filching, our Autumn Gathering venue

CENTRE Sunday October 18: Autumn Leaves Run Details of this half-day tour across south Northumberland will be on our website by the time you read this. The run will finish at a very nice pub for Sunday lunch. More info from me on 07432 152095 or email me please.

Hello from Croft Nostalgia!

Part of the Sunday display at Croft

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YORKSHIRE David Copeman 07920 064585 www.mgccyorkshire.co.uk

North – Paul Croft This month’s theme was our Summer Walk. An hour long ramble through some beautiful local countryside was thoughtfully put together by Mike and Val Payne.

Several members including new recruit Chris Hall enjoyed a very pleasant day out on the Ilkley & District Motor Club Dales Run. The same could be said for the following week and a visit to The North Moors Railway Classic Car event at Levisham.

Jeff and Kate Marsden once again generously hosted our annual Club BBQ. Apart from the pleasure of cooking and eating, great excitement was added by the addition of an Archery Contest with equipment and instruction provided by Nick Mann.

lovely MGA. Another theatre trip this month to see the hilarious Cod Father. Thank you Denise.

A mid Natter run organised by Geoff and Pauline set off from Thrybergh country park on a very warm evening, wandering through the back lanes, and ended at The Royal Oak at Ulley. The Annual Chill Weekend at Pickering went ahead without its main organisers John and Debbie.

All attending hand a very enjoyable time – get well soon, John.

East – Brian Rylance The July evening social run was organised by Chris and Adrian Benson. A good turnout of nine cars set off from the Humber Bridge car park and finished at the Fergusson Fawsitt, Walkington.

Some of us arrived somewhat damp but in good spirits and ready for our meal.

South – Kathryn Twiby Omitted from last month’s notes was the Pride of Ownership which was won by Keith and his

West – David Copeman Not a lot to report on the West Yorkshire MG scene as once again this year Carol and I were

CENTRE on holiday, missing the July Natter; that’s two in a row. Thanks to Mick Thorpe for standing in.

A good day was had by all who attended MGF20 at Gaydon. This was a great venue for such an event, sorry if we did not meet up with other members from West Yorkshire.

We are setting off for the Orkneys on Saturday and ever the optimist the RV8 is booked in for a new compressor fitting to the aircon.

There’s faith in the weather taking up?

Tiger – Pete Welbourn We had good weather for our run to the St. Vincent Arms and good food on our arrival.

The route we followed had a good mixture of roads and the now usual ‘Road closed’ sign, no problem, a quick discussion with my navigator along the lines of “which way shall I turn?” and we were off again, just in time to see one of our group travelling in the opposite direction, going the long way round perhaps.

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ULSTER

Carol Willis Tel: (028) 9079 9997 or 07831 345560 Email: carol.mgulster@hotmail.co.uk Website: www.mgcculstercentre.co.uk

In spite of not having an Ulster Centre Team entered at Silverstone this year we had one competitor at the California Cup and wish to congratulate Will Corry upon his achievement of gaining the fastest time and winning The Magnette Cup. Our Sunday Run on August 9 saw almost 40 people overall on the outing. Gordon had devised a Treasure Hunt starting from Comber Square taking us to his home overlooking Strangford Lough. Ruth provided lovely warm scones, cake and delicious raspberry jam from her own crop. From there Mike Dowey had plotted a route around the coast and through the countryside with the inevitable stop for ice-cream in Ardglass (now voted a compulsory halt on the runs). His tour finished at The Poacher’s Pocket when 35 of us sat down to dinner where we celebrated Gordon and Ruth’s 40th wedding anniversary and Sharon Carson’s birthday. A great party was had by all.

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Noel has been working hard putting the Ulster Classic Trial together and this year it covers new territory around and about Killinchy. If you can help with marshalling the event please contact either Gordon or me so we can plan accordingly.

If you haven’t already entered please do it now.

The King’s Hall Complex at Balmoral will see an inter-club charity autotest take place with the TSCC hosting it on one of their dates, September 12. There will be eight tests to be run several times throughout the day and food will be available to purchase. This is a one-off site as it is to be developed shortly afterwards. The RUAS have chosen The Simon Community together with a children’s cancer charity but I have yet to be advised of the name. Get your entry in quickly.

You will have seen in Safety Fast! the MGA Register is running an event ‘MGA Return to Dundrod’ weekend of September 18-21 for which you will also have received entry forms.

Mervyn Gillespie of the Register asked The Ulster Centre to assist with organising this event and Sunday September 20 is the Dundrod day. There will be a couple of runs around the Circuit headed

by MGAs followed by all other types of MGs and special cars of the period. The roads will not be closed so caution is required if you want to watch. There will also be a static display of cars.

We are currently looking for new PCT venues as a couple of ours are out of bounds this year owing to rotation of crops. Please get in touch with me as soon as possible if you either have a stubble field or know somebody who does.

Dates for your Diary: Ulster Classic Trial September 4 Inter Club Charity Event September 12 (TSCC, MG & UAC) The King’s Hall Complex MGA Return to Dundrod September 20 PCTs September 19, October 3, October 24

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REGISTERS

VINTAGE John Venables 01865 862573

Our main get together in August was at the VSCC Prescott hillclimb, practice on Saturday and the racing on Sunday. I was there on the Saturday and witnessed the Vintage record being broken with a time of a fraction over 40 seconds, and on Sunday it went under 40 seconds by James Baxter in an ERA. Our own team of the Radfords were also going very well. A great event well worth attending, and our party at Toddington Village Hall was also well attended on the Saturday night.

I did mention a couple of months ago about Kop Hillclimb, was hoping to hear from people but absolutely quiet, so if you want to go you will be able to join the MGCC stand, I will not be organising anything special. I understand it is a worthwhile event.

The calendar goes a bit quiet this month although some of our members will be joining the EMGS for an event at Ross on Wye between September 15-18.

Reading the August Safety Fast! I was amused to see we have run over in the SVW note with our own version of the Beverley Sisters, Marie, Janet, and Margaret counting the money all dressed for a day at the races.

Our events for next year are in the planning stages. We have an event in late September where we are going abroad, well Guernsey, and

johnandtriciav@gmail.com

there are just one or two places left so if you are thinking about this please let John Day know. As it will be 18 months since our last event we have decided to put on an event in the Cotswolds, at an old favourite hotel, Dumbleton Hall, between April 18-21. I already have interest from at least 10 crews, but if anyone wishes to join in please

Jeremy Hawke +44 (0)1225 863934 mgk3007@btinternet.com www.triple-mregister.org

Shock-Horror, MMM Motorsport Becomes Cost-Effective: If those of you thinking of dipping your toe into the world of motorsport via speed event are put off by the cost – think again. To begin competing in your MMM, it basically needs to be sound (of course), with little more required than extra throttle spring, ignition marked, battery earth in yellow, timing strut and a few other odds and ends. All you the driver needs is crash hat, gloves and maybe boots, and you’re away, whether it be std M type or methanol fuelled 6-cylinder monster. However, if you run a 1960s onwards modded saloon, or single seater, as of next year you’ll probably need such things as a Hans device with compatible helmet (a la F1) and FIA belts (need replacing as often as you breathe). So, entering low level speed events in a MMM seems quite cheap on reflection, if you’ve ever thought of giving it a try; now may be the time to do so before the powers

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let me know. This will be touring the area with various visits as usual. Places visited will be fresh ones. I shall be providing details in October/ November.

I have just heard that Fred Body has had an operation and we wish him well and a speedy recovery.

18/100 Tigress driven by Geoff ‘Vintage Stigg’ Radford at Prescott. Photo: Colin Murrell

TRIPLE M It’s That Time of Year: As I write, I have just returned from the annual family jaunt to France, hence, for the second year running I missed attending the Summer Gathering. However, next month being one of our ‚spreads’ I hope to bring you a full report, with pictures of some of the more interesting cars that attended.

REGISTER

that be think that old cars are just too dangerous to be allowed – just don’t break the car!

Flying The Flag When our cars were in their prime, anyone who didn’t meet the norm in terms of mobility had it tough in sporting pursuits, there being no or little opportunity to compete as there is today.

However, one person who not only competed on equal terms, but excelled, was Phillip Flower in pre-war trials. Phillip had been paralysed from the waist down in a childhood accident, but

REGISTER began competing in trials in J2113 (Ex J.E.S. Jones) after the car had been adapted for him by his brother. With his brother as ‘bouncer’ he trialled extensively up until 1939, progressively modifying the car along the way. As a private entrant, he was very successful at class and overall level! The attached photo shows him and his brother with their collection of spoils. The car, though ‘lost’ for several decades, eventually resurfaced in the same village where it had last been heard of, restored to a more standard condition.

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REGISTERS

Y TYPE Jerry Birkbeck 01926 258691 Mob: 07855 566325 jerrybirkbeck@btinternet.com

I do hope that most of you have taken the chance to use your cars this summer – especially as there have been a variety of shows, events and local Natters. I am amazed at the variety of opportunities that exist, the majority of which are rarely reported. In many ways the most interesting are where an eclectic mix of cars is to be found and not necessarily just MGs. I was reminded of this recently at the MGA Day held at Gaydon and Upton House in Warwickshire.

The weather was superb and around 120 ‘A’s were present, quite stunning, but the variety was provided by an Aston Martin, a racing A and tucked round a corner a Morris 12! So there you go, one person’s view.

By the time you read this, around 25 of us will be getting ready to make our way to Peter Sharp’s ‘Ys to the Loire’ on September 11, which will be fun whatever the weather!

Llanerchindda Farm Cynghordy, Llandovery, Carmarthenshire SA20 0NB July 8-11 2016 This is a follow up to the weekend that Peter Veilvoye organised last year. It is a superb venue and the organisation, food and ambience is outstanding. We have booked the whole place, which will take around 26 of us. The cost will be

£227 each and this includes evening meals on Friday, Saturday and Sunday and breakfast on the three mornings through to Monday. Also included is a drinks reception on the first night, a welcome pack containing a memento of the weekend, rally plate, window stickers. Ordnance Survey Mid Wales and South Wales road map, road books containing the route for each day and entry to a local attraction. The Register organise everything and for those of you who attended in 2014, the routes will be completely different for 2016! A must we would suggest, and an occasion that you will undoubtedly enjoy. If you are interested then please contact Llanerchindda Farm direct and mention that you are in the MG Y Type weekend July 8-11 2016 and they will just take a note of your card.

Your only payment is at the venue as you depart. Simple as that! Please advise

MAGNETTE Stephen Tickell 01737 760330 stephen.tickell@gmail.com www.magnette.org

Hope you’ve been able to enjoy at least some of the Register events so far this year. The traditional Norfolk weekend is still a bit uncertain at going to press, although we have a date (October 3-4), and John Harris is working on a suitable venue. A Sunday gathering at Norwich Air Museum looks likely, and if you’re on John’s mailing list you’ll get to hear as soon as something definite is known – or keep checking magnette.org for news.

Plenty to see at Bucks Railway Centre

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Buckinghamshire Railway Centre July 12 (by John and Cynthia Harris) Our visit started with a guided tour of the museum by the Bucks Rail Centre guide Bill Simpson, who is extremely knowledgeable on the subject and has written books. The main visitor centre is the former Rewley Road Station from Oxford which was moved to Quainton in 1999 when the Oxford site was redeveloped. The original contractors

REGISTER me when you have booked please. You can contact the Guest House on: 01550 750274 and find more about Llanerchindda by visiting their website: www.cambrianway.com and email them: info@ cambrianway.com A YA or YB I spotted this Y at Fawley Hill, the wonderful site owned by Sir William McAlpine at an open day he organises three times a year. I don’t know who owns it, but a nice looking car.

REGISTER were Fox & Henderson who were completing the Crystal Palace at the time and they used similar pre-fabricated cast iron main structural components.

With such a vast site, the tour only scratched the surface and after lunch everyone returned to see more and take a short ride on a Victorian steam train, included in the entry price. The locomotive was in original condition despite being built in 1891, and the coaches were three axle but with no bogie. Consequently the ride was not up to modern standards, but to reduce fatigue on a journey the upholstery in the first class carriage can only be described as sumptuous, with personal space more than adequate. Another attraction was the travelling Post Office, where those of us of a certain age who had helped sort the Christmas Post were able to re-live our youth.

In total there were 15 MGs, including the Farina Magnette of Jeremy Carrington, and as all other visitors had to pass our grass area en-route to the main car park, the cars attracted much interest. The weather started off dull but the sun came out for the afternoon – one or two spots of rain fell at lunchtime but not enough to make picnickers scurry for cover. The journey home showed how lucky we had been as the roads were very wet and full of puddles as the result of short heavy showers.

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Adrian Flux ...........................................................66 Airflow ..................................................................66 Ashley James ...................................................... 51 Barry Walker........................................................95 Beech Hill Garage................................................96 Brian Brown Classics...........................................97 British Motor Heritage ........................................35 Brown and Gammons.........................................11 Bucks Sports & Classic Car Centre ...................84 Carole Nash Insurance......................................... 3 Central Classic Auctions........................................ 6 Church Square Autos..........................................87 Classic & Sports Cars (Essex) .........................6, 15 Colin Groom Vehicle Storage ...........................69 Colne Classics......................................................88 Crown Classic Cars.............................................69 Dennis Welch ......................................................84 Distributor Doctor .............................................. 31

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Don Trimming.....................................................88 EZ Power Steering .............................................42 Fine & Classics.....................................................IFC Fishers Services....................................................69 Footman James....................................................53 Former Glory ......................................................94 Frontline................................................................ 19 Get Patina.............................................................20 Halls Garage.........................................................69 Heathrow Transmission .....................................84 Hindsight...............................................................84 Hoyle Suspension................................................28 John Woods Motorcare ..................................... 51 Junction 59 Classics Ltd ....................................... 91 Just Right Autos Ltd................................................ 8 Kimbers Ark B&B ................................................97 Kimble Engineering Ltd .......................................56 Luffield .......................................................OBC, 31

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Manor Garage .....................................................88 Martin Smith Used MGTF Spares ....................87 MG Garage (EMGC) ..........................................57 MG Mecca ...........................................................87 MG Motorsport ................................................. 51 MG Sales Centre.................................................23 MGF Mania .......................................................... 91 Midland Classic Restoration.................................. 3 Midland Wheel Ltd..............................................56 Mike Authurs Classics..........................................97 MJS Auto and Marine..........................................42 Motor Wheel Services........................................79 Naylor Brothers ..................................................98 Norton Insurance ...............................................79 NTG Services ......................................................47 Oselli Ltd...............................................................77 Paul Depper MGs ...............................................57 Peter Best ..............................................IBC, 84, 88

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www.mgcc.co.uk

21/08/2015 18:05

REGISTERS

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

MGA Day 2015 was a great success. 117 MGAs assembled at Gaydon on a warm and sunny Sunday morning. Mike and Mary Maze ensured registration went ahead smoothly. They were conveniently situated next to the Heritage Motor Centre’s excellent Junction 12 Café as coffee and other more substantial sustenance was clearly a priority, especially, I suspect, for those who had travelled from further afield. Enthusiasm for the event had drawn the MGA community from as far as Somerset, Norfolk, Merseyside and North Yorkshire.

115 cars set off from Gaydon at 11.45 bound for Upton Park, some nine miles away. The 116th car suffered a flat battery but luckily the owner lived locally and came on to Upton later. The only other problem at Gaydon was a loose rear wheel on a wire wheel conversion but that was fixed in time for the procession. This degree of reliability is a tribute both to the simplicity and functionality of the MGA some 60 years on and to the devotion of owners in keeping their cars up to scratch even if relatively little used. It will be interesting to see how the 70+ MGAs on the Lands End to John o’Groats Tour fare by comparison.

Two cars came on to Upton House later and four were already there so the day attracted 122 MGAs, not a record as the MGA 50 day had a few more,

but it is believed that 115 MGAs in convoy is the longest procession of MGAs ever put together on a pubic road.

Upton House in WWII guise was a splendid venue and we all variously enjoyed touring the house, listening to the singers on the lawn, the café and the shopping experiences.

Thanks are due to those who made it all happen. Below right here they all are in front of Upton House. From the left, George Dutton, Piers Hubbard, Peter Morgan, Mike Maze, Stuart Mumby and Jon Pollard.

Jon has made a provisional booking with the National Trust at Charlecote Park near Stratford upon Avon for MGA Day next year. http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/charlecotepark/visitor-information It has been suggested that the date for MGA day be moved to the second Sunday in August to avoid conflict with known events so the proposed

MGB Neil Hyett 01869 241180 neilhyett54@btinternet.com www.mgb-register.org

Work on the Marathon car continues. Our intrepid team of mechanics recently removed the engine in preparation for its rebuild. As always, until you take the head off and strip it down it’s very difficult to say what state the engine is in. As the car has stood for many years unloved I think we should expect the worst. As many of us know, any rebuild if done properly is not a cheap exercise.

In most cases it’s the bodywork which is the big problem which can drain the resources both in parts and labour. This is why as John Watson mentioned last month we have set up a project plan and budget so the costs can be controlled

and be transparent. We are lucky however that we have a great team of enthusiasts which should minimise the labour costs – thanks boys.

If any of you out there would like to get involved in its rebuild then why not contact us, your help will be appreciated.

The picture shows the new Register Grille Badge which is now available in limited quantity.

Due to this they are limited to one per order. They can be ordered by mail at £19.00 which includes postage and packing. Ordering details are on the website. Go on spoil yourself!

Forthcoming Events: MGB Weekend, September 25-28. By the time you read these notes it will only be a couple of weeks to the Register Weekend in Wales. At the time of writing we have a few spaces left so why not try us for a late booking. Of course if you live in the Llandrindod Wells area why not come and join us for the road runs and the meal on the Sunday evening, you will be made very welcome.

This year we are based at the Metropole Hotel in Llandrindod Wells. As usual it will be a social weekend with scenic runs on the Saturday and

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REGISTER

date for MGA Day 2016 is now Sunday August 14 2016. A date for your diary!

The route book for the Land End to John o’Groats Tour will be posted shortly on the news page of the MGA website and local MGA owners are welcome to join in for a day or just to wave as the convoy passes by.

REGISTER Sunday. If you haven’t been on a weekend before I can guarantee you will have a great time. All details and Booking Info is on the website.

MGB Register Lecture, October 15. Why not join us for our sixth presentation which this year will feature the story of the SS Great Britain, the iconic ship designed by the brilliant Isambard Brunel in 1843. This is a unique opportunity to hear the inside story and ask questions of the people who passionately believe it should be renovated as part of our engineering heritage.

All the previous Lectures have had great reviews so I’m sure this one will continue the success.

All details and Booking Info is on the website.

Rebuild and Rolling Road Weekend on October 31 – November 1.

The exact details of the weekend are to be finalised but in general it will be as the past couple of years with the Saturday based at BMH in Witney where we will cover specific subjects related to the MGB. On Sunday it will be based at Pitstop in Brize Norton where your MGB can be run on their Rolling Road. Full details of this event and booking form will soon appear on the website.

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REGISTERS

MIDGET Neil Thomas 07891 684435 ns.tenby@hotmail.com www.midgetregister.com

It was great to hear from new MGCC Midget Register member John Sheppard recently. Our chairman, Mike Parker was notified of John’s joining us and contacted him to welcome him to the Register. In fact I remember meeting John, whilst with some of my Midget friends at MGLive!.

He was also introduced to John Austerfield whilst there and took the opportunity to sit in John A’s Midget to try out his MGF seats and was mightily impressed. These seats are a tad more

comfortable and supportive than standard Midget seats. In fact John S has said that meeting us guys at MGLive! gave him the inspiration to get his Midget back on the road. It’s now passed its MOT and the icing on the cake is that it is exempt from Road Fund Tax. He and his wife have since taken the car to a track day at Blyton before touring the Lincolnshire Wolds for the remainder of the week. We think he is really enjoying his Midget which is what classic car ownership is all about. Meanwhile, in between using my cars as much as possible, I’ve been staying on top of those maintenance jobs. I’ve topped up the rear axle of my Frogeye with diff oil and purchased a new nine stud hood. I’m just building up the confidence now to fit it without messing it up.

I’ve also sorted out a running problem with my

V8 Victor Smith 0208 392 9434 victorsmith@v8register.net www.v8register.net

SV-R wins two cups at MGLive!

John Newey reports his MG X-Power SV-R with its 5.0 V8 engine won its class in the ‘Pride of Ownership’ at MGLive! and then went on to win the Roger Latham trophy for overall best in show too.

Tour of Churches around Watlington A tour of six churches in the Oxfordshire countryside around Watlington on Saturday

October 3 2015. The tour will start with refreshments at the Coach & Horses in Chiselhampton from 9.30am. The first church is just a short walk from the large car park at the pub. The tour has been organised by fellow member and local farmer Charles Peers. The first church we will visit, St Katherine’s, was built by his distant ancestor, another Charles Peers.

There will be a lunch break at the Chequers Inn at Fingest and tea at Ewelme church followed by a V8 Dinner. A detailed 24 page guidebook has been prepared with route maps to Chiselhampton from the A34 and M40, route maps from church to church and descriptions of each church and of many features seen on the tour. For details of the tour and how to book a place see the ‘more’ webpage: www.v8register.net/more.htm V8 Register Grille Badges available again An initiative by Angus Munro attracted over 50 pre-orders for a new supply of small V8 Register Grille Badges. If you missed the online promotion in August then limited stocks remain available.

For details see the ‘more’ webpage.

What’s in a set of MGB Workshop Notes?

The MGB Workshop Notes series for MGB

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1275 Midget by fitting new dizzy cap, coil, plugs, condenser, points and Lucas rotor arm. It now runs like a dream. And lastly I have bitten the bullet and had a tonneau made for my K Midget to cater for the fixed classic Cobra seats, roll bar and smaller steering wheel. I doubt I will ever put the hood up again. I also attended a member’s birthday party recently (age not declared here) where he was the proud recipient of a very nice cake. See if you can work out who it is from the picture. Oh yes, and do you like the way I recycled these old Track Day tyres?

REGISTER owners has over 300 useful technical notes for the MGB and MGBGT with a range of service and spares tips contributed by fellow members.

Sets of the notes are available on a USB memory stick bearing the MGB logo which is a very convenient way of having the information to hand. There is a detailed index to the complete series so tracing information on a topic is very straightforward. Examples of the notes you will find in Volume 4 are a comprehensive note on waxoyling an MGB, a modification to avoid a failed bonnet catch, tips on using Jubilee clips, cleaning out the fresh air vent chamber drain tube known as ‘Ted’s knob’ to avoid wet carpets and a review of luggage rack options for MGB Roadsters. For full details of the series and how to get a set see the ‘more’ webpage at www. v8register.net/more.htm Classic car thefts are increasing Recent classic car press articles report thefts increasing to the point where one car is being stolen virtually every day. One way of protecting your car is to fit a GPS tracker which will alert you by text message of any tampering with the car and provide its location if stolen so the police will be able to recover it. See the ‘more’ page for further details at www.v8register.net/ more.htm

www.mgcc.co.uk

21/08/2015 18:06

www.mgmecca.co.uk

MARTIN SMITH

Tel: +44 (0) 1953 717618 Fax: (0) 1953 717850

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Quality New and Used MGF & MGTF Spares

1976 MGB ROADSTER British Racing Green, Biscuit trim. Totally restored car. Everflex hood. All matching Biscuit trim. 15” Minilites. New tyres, new chrome. Super engine bay. Bare metal respray.

Wood steering wheel, walnut dash. Coloured cappings and dashtop. Alloy r/cover. Carpeted boot.

Matching hoodcover etc. Superb car. £11,995.00

1971 MGB ROADSTER BRG, black/green leather trim, w/w, o/drive. Reshelled 10 years ago and still superb condition. Fast road engine.

Elm dash, magnolia clocks. S/S boot rack. Inertia belts. Polished screen frame. Totally restored car, better than new. Everything replaced or new, done less than 5,000 miles since rebuild.

Fantastic value @ £18,995.00

1980 MGB GT LE Pewter. Rare last of production special spec. LE, alloys, webasto roof. Has had total body renovation 7 years ago. One lady owner for many years. £5,495.00

1979 MG MIDGET Pageant blue, black trim, superb little car, body is in excellent condition, recent respray, all new chrome conversion, new hood, new carpets, new dashboard, recovered seats.

Exceptionally pretty car in excellent order. Ready for lots of summer fun. £5,995.00

1976 MGB ROADSTER Tahiti Blue, black trim.

Minilites, roll over bar, s/s sports exhaust. Rear seat conversion. Lovely inside and out. Drives superbly.

Great looking car. £4,995.00

1939 MGVA. Green, red trim, sunroof. Genuine car, only 3 owners, first was an RAF Officer! MOT’d and taxed. In original condition with lots of lovely patina. Would be a shame to over restore. Will be having new tyres and brake overhaul before sale. £19,950.00

Covering all models from 1995 > 2006 All items Supplied - from body panels, interiors & engines to headlights & wheel nuts

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

MG SALES

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MG TF 135 Style pack. (just 32,000 miles)

MG TF 135 85th Ltd Ed (1 owner just 19,000miles)

MG 6 GT ‘S’ Hatchback (Just 18,000 miles)

MG Midget 1275cc chrome bumper model 5speed

February 2011 ”60” Reg. Finished in Radiant Red/ full black leather. One of the very last MG TF’s made 2011 model with folding mirrors (58th from last). Style pack car so full leather, silver interior trim, Twisted pepper alloys, heated glass rear screen, engine water level sensor. Full service history.

Superb. 12 MONTHS WARRANTY. £6,995

A rare Low mileage 85th ltd edition in Ice white, Burgundy leather sport seats. Special suspension / shockers and anti-roll bar set up for handling/softer ride suspension (only fitted to the 85th) making these the best driving TF’s ever made. Sports pack 2 with 16” unmarked twisted pepper alloys, heated glass rear screen, air conditioning, park sensor, engine water level sensor, etc, Just serviced and moted, plus a/c serviced, full service history. £9,295

A immaculate low mileage MG6 GT hatchback, having covered just 18,000miles with full service history. Fitted with 17”alloy wheels, air conditioning, park sensors, folding mirrors, computer, etc, these are outstanding value and were voted the best handling car 2014. Special offer 12 months warranty. As seen on our stand with us at MGF20. £6,495

A superb Midget 1275cc chrome bumper model fitted with a 5 speed gearbox (frontline gearbox costing £2500). Restored some 5 years ago and having covered just 2,200 miles since, just serviced new tyres and moted. Also fitted with a hardtop, black soft top half and full tonneau’s, Moto-lita wood rim steering wheel, chrome boot rack (spare wheel can be fitted to it) plus spare boot lid with no rack, Rostyle wheels, Outstanding condition. 6 months warranty. £5,495

MG MGF Rare 1995 car (the 1137 made)

MG TF 160vvc MG+1 owner (just 21,000miles)

MG TF 135 Spark Ltd Edtion ( Just 45,000 miles)

MG TF 135 Pre-production Car (just 28,000miles)

November 1995 ”N” Reg. 70,000 Miles Finished in B.R.Green/black Full MG main dealers service history. Extras include power steering and Abs braking. A very original car in excellent condition with original hands books stereo etc recent ball joints brake pads all round and rear brake calipers. Sold with a new headgasket/ water pump/cambelt and a new mot. A future classic MG, or is it already! £2,695

A rare TF160vvc, ex MG car + 1 private owner from new, having covered just 21,000 miles with full service history 8 services recent cambelt service. Full Black leather sport seats, chrome packs etc, front fog lights, sports pack 2 with red caliper brakes and 16”11 spoke alloys, blue hood, Outstanding condition. £4,895

MG TF135 ltd edition Spark. Last ltd edition made by MG/Rover. Finished in Xpower grey.

Sports pack 2 with red brake calipers 16” 11 spoke unmarked alloys. Black leather sport seats with grey alcantara inserts plus MG logo, chrome packs bright pack interior, front fog lights etc. Full service history, recently fitted with a new cambelt, just mot. Special offer 12 months warranty. £4,295

A very rare Pre-production TF135 chassis #D000133 ,full service history with 9 services, MG owned until 2003 £3,995

This is just a small selection from our stock

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Fits existing battery boxes, with minimal extra wiring. Reliable starting power after your MG has been parked up. KIT £150 +vat.

Visit our website: www.manorgaragewantage.co.uk 88

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REGISTERS

FWD Tanya Field 07929 868284 tanyafield123@sky.com

The past month has been another good one for the FWD Register. Sadly, I couldn’t make it to MG Saloon Day Burghley House, Stamford but thoroughly enjoyed seeing the photos that appeared on Facebook. The day was well attended by MG FWD Register cars which is good news as the show was originally started for these cars. A huge well done to Paul and Wendy Kneller who won best MG FWD with their MG Metro.

Ken Armstrong has been working with the Tyne Tess Centre on an end of season run for the FWD Register, and has sent the following message: “Just a reminder that the FWD Register is warmly invited to join the Tyne Tees Centre ‘Old Speckled Hen’ run on Sunday September 13 2015. This is hoped to be an opportunity for more northerly members to get together along with anybody happy to travel to this fantastic part of the world.

“The run will start and finish at St John’s Chapel, Weardale at the Chatterbox Café.

The route takes in some of the most stunning scenery you will ever encounter in Northern England, often driving on little used but good roads, devoid of heavy traffic. The distance will be about 86 miles in total. There are plenty of good B&Bs in the area, notably at Stanhope and

Wolsingham. I’m more than happy to answer any questions, coordinate for those coming and help with accommodation. If there are more members there than just me I can arrange for the Register cars to be parked together to make a better display should the entrants wish.”

Please feel free to message me on Facebook or email on messages4ken@gmail.com.

A link to the entry form can be found on the MG Car Club website at: www.mgcc.co.uk/tynetees-centre/future-events/ Please do get in touch with Ken if you would like to join this end of season run.

I have just finished sitting in Templars Square Shopping Centre, a shopping centre built about a mile away from the Cowley Works and which was built for the Cowley workforce. I was there for a week and clocked up 66 hours, however each and every one of those hours was interesting and filled with stories from former workers. Out of our cars, Montego, Maestro, 1300 and 1100 were built at Cowley so I have heard plenty for stories about these cars, all which are lovely to hear. I took Arthur, my MG Maestro 1600 with me and met many former workers who had worked on the Maestro. I even met the chap who welded Maestro arches throughout the production run, but I didn’t have

MGF Tim Morris 01932 882467 scribe@mgfregister.org www.mgfregister.org

Now all the furore has died down we can sit back and contemplate MGF20. Phew, it was a tough ride but we got there in the end. There is a report on the show elsewhere in Safety Fast! so I’ll keep this to some of the thank yous, hopefully it won’t be too much like the Oscars and I promise not to burst into tears at the end.

There was a small group who put the show together led by Keith Williams with Ron Kemp sorting out the finance and traders who were an essential part of the show and we’d like to thank all of those traders who did turn out and support the show. Big thanks to show partners Church Square Autos and Martin Smith plus sponsor Peter Best Insurance without whom it would have been impossible to think about a show on this scale at all. Thanks too to Rob Bell, Adrian Clifford, Graham Parker, Pete Opie, Nigel and Jo May, Dave Tynan, Dave Jenkins and Adam Sloman who, along with me, helped behind the scenes as well as in front of them! Also to those from the MGF Register Regions who helped on the day, particularly Essex and the South East who did a splendid job marshalling, and to our PoO judges Colin Grant and Darren Allsworth who spent most of the day studying gleaming cars.

Finally of course thank you to everyone who came to the show and I hope you all had a great time, it certainly seems so from the feedback we had afterwards.

www.mgcc.co.uk

MG Safety Fast September15 47-98.indd 89

We slotted in another small ceremony in the arena when our Rep for Germany of ten years Dieter Konnecke stood down and handed over the hallowed MGF Register roundel. Dieter was the first of our International Representatives to be appointed and we thank him for all his help, much of which he will still be giving as he is a fount of Dieter Konnecke handed over the Register roundel to Mykel Bonecke at MGF20

REGISTER

Wendy Kneller with her prizes for best MG FWD with her MG Metro at the recently held Saloon Day

the heart to tell him he’d wasted his time as most of us have had to have his work re-done!

The former workers have a real fondness for the cars they once built and loved, showing me the areas of the car that they worked on. It was also good to hear that the vast majority loved their years at Cowley, which is a good job as many had completed 30 or 40 years service.

REGISTER all knowledge regarding the MGF. The recipient of the roundel and new Rep for Germany is Mykel Bonecke who is probably already familiar to many through his frequent visits to UK events and his own annual Niederrhein tours.

Once we get our breath back we’ll begin to look our programme for next year, the year the MGF ‘comes of age’ and also the 15th anniversary of the TF. I’m sure we’ll mark those occasions somewhere along the line but I do know it won’t be on the same scale as MGF20 – look out for the next one of those in five years’ time, we had better start planning now!

As usual our Regions are running plenty of events as the summer draws to a close and the autumn programmes come in so do keep an eye on our Internet forum and Facebook pages to see what is happening near you.

Finally a recommendation – two of our Regions visited the Llanerchindda farmhouse in Wales recently and they were impressed by the friendliness and attention to detail of their hosts.

They organise runs out in the cars for you so there is no worry on that score and they provide rally plates, maps, route plans for you. Yorkshire have already booked a return visit next year so it must be good. If you are looking for somewhere to take your group and fancy a trip to Wales then look no further.

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REGISTERS

ZRZSZT John Thompson 07854 275541 johnt5@btinternet.com www.mgcc.co.uk/zedregister

With the children almost back at school and the first signs of a certain winter seasonal event appearing in the shops you would think that another year of events was drawing to a close.

Peter Burchill, with lights ablaze on his MG ZS, pushing hard on the Donington circuit earlier in the season. Photo: Dickon Siddall

REGISTER

Well not quite yet anyway. We have another two race meetings to attend and the Classic Motor Show in the pipeline, so still lots to see and do.

There is a separate feature elsewhere is this issue about the enjoyable day we spent at Burghley House for the MG Saloon Day together with the winners of the Show & Shine Competition.

seven of the Cockshoot Cup. After the excitement of Anglesey what will happen at this famous Cheshire circuit? The Cockshoot Cup concludes at Croft in North Yorkshire on September 26-27.

The Register will be organising the parade laps during the lunch break at Oulton Park. This is the opportunity to take to the track in your own car so sign on in plenty of time.

News in Brief The next racing rounds take place at Oulton Park on September 12. With the final round of the Trophy championship only one month later, who will be the 2015 champion? It has been an exciting year to date, and with a huge ZR grid it’s been too good to be missed. Our eyes will also be on Register Treasurer Peter Burchill in race

Programme of Events 2015 September 12 Oulton Park Race Round Oulton Park, Cheshire October 10-11 Snetterton Race Round Snetterton, Norfolk November 13-15 Classic Motor Show NEC, Birmingham

REGISTER

MG6.3.5

Steve Haines Steve-haines@live.co.uk www.facebook.com/groups/MG635Register twitter.com/635register

Owners have spent the summer months attending various local shows throughout the country and it has been nice to see plenty of photos of cars with their more elderly MG models (cars, not the drivers!) appearing on the Register Facebook page. There have also been a lot of International members joining us, particularly from Thailand.

We offer a very warm welcome to them all and would encourage formal registration of your 6, 3 or 5 via Barry Faiers: mgmotor@nicbar.plus.com Some of us owners local to the Devon area went to Blights of Bideford’s MGs on show launch day on Friday August 7. They are a local garage with a very keen interest in the marque, despite also being a Ford dealers! Tim Blight was kind enough to show us his collection of vintage Austin vehicles he maintains on the site. We wish them success with the dealership, which has got off to a great start with sales of the MG3 already.

With future events in mind, The Car Club has published the advert for the discounted weekend tickets to the BTCC at Silverstone on September 26-27, with Register infield parking. This will be our next major get together and we hope that as many owners as possible can come along, even if you haven’t been to the BTCC before, to support

MG 5 Star Cases Jack Goff and MG Pirtek Racing Andrew Jordan. Let’s hope for some more wins and podiums! Link to the shop here: www.mgcc. co.uk/shop/category/tickets/ A reminder that our AGM will take place at 3pm on Saturday December 5 at the MG Sales Centre and our Christmas meal at The Guild in Bromsgrove. The Premier Inn at Bromsgrove has reduced rate rooms at present, so if you are coming along, I would recommend you book asap. I need a £5 deposit from everyone wishing to go to the meal by the end of September at the very latest. Updated details will be on our Facebook events page: www.facebook.com/ groups/MG635Register/events/ On the track, all at the Register would like to congratulate Jack Goff and the MG 888 team on his maiden BTCC victory at Snetterton last month and are sure that this will be the first of many to come, hopefully all in an MG! It’s great to see the MG6 GT at the front of the pack again and also nice to see Andrew Jordan putting in solid results in his chrome MG6, anyone fancy doing a wrap on theirs??

Photos: Jakob Ebrey Photography

Blights of Bideford’s MGs on show launch day.

A selection of modern MGs on display

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MG Safety Fast September15 47-98.indd 90

www.mgcc.co.uk

21/08/2015 18:06

01325 311232

info@junction59classicsltd.co.uk www@junction59classicsltd.co.uk

Junction 59 Classics Ltd Since the sad passing of Simon J. Robinson in April, the company has taken on a new lease of life. Matthew, Simons’ brother has inherited the business and changed it around with a new name and different company policies. Customers will now benefit in different ways with a much more efficient and knowlegeable team now on board ready to assist with any of your classic car needs.

JAGUAR MARK II 2.4 1968 £18,995

The MkII is the epitome of 1960s style. Has been subject to significant restoration work to an excellent standard. Stunning opalescent blue with contrasting navy blue interior. Only one previous owner and covered a genuine 72,600 miles

MG MGA MkI 1960 £17,995

Finished in Chariot Red paintwork with contrasting interior tan trim, PVC hood, matching tonneau cover and polished aluminium sidescreens, original steel wheels. Super genuine classic

MG MGB GT 1978 £4,995

MG MGB Roadster 1973 £12,995

Previously sold by ourselves and always been well Finished in Nightfire Red with contrasting black maintained. Lovely runner and exceptionally easy leather seats. Covered only 51,000 miles. Extras to drive. Nice history and MOT’d. include:- Chrome wire wheels, Stainless steel exhaust, electronic ignition plus much more Truly stunning car, tested and ready to go!

MG Y TYPE 1960 £15,000

MG MGB 1980 £4,995

Finished in Vermillion with original grey interior.

Bodywork has been the subject of much restoration, this is supported by a very good history file. Covered 84,584 miles, believed genuine. Original rostyle wheels, radio and overdrive. Tested and ready to go!!

• New and Second Hand Parts • UK & European mail order service • Full workshop and bodyshop facilities

MG MGB 1971 £12,995

Finished in British Racing Green, interior has contrasting black leather seats with white piping, black hood and wood veneer dash. Fitted with painted wire wheels and optional overdrive gearbox. This vehicle is ‘tax exempt’ and comes with an extensive history file.

• Parts counter service • Vehicle servicing, restoration, repairs • Vehicle preparation and modifications

Here we have a pair of Mg Y Types for Restoration . Both complete vehicles with comprehensive spare parts. Been in dry storage for several years, well preserved. Theses will make either two vehicles or one.

Please get in touch if you require anymore information

TRIUMPH STAG MK2 1976 £12,995

Manual with Overdrive. Carmine Red with Beige interior. 4 speed manual with Overdrive. 74,000 miles, believed genuine. Stainless exhaust. Comes with a good history file, excellent order throughout, a nice example of these usable grand tourers.

Friendly and experienced staff always on hand for help and advise. Parts and Car sales open 6 days a week, Sundays by appointment.

Ketton Garage, Durham Road Darlington, DL1 3LZ

The future is CLEAR.....the future is GLASS! Specialists in heated rear screens & BIG brake kits

www.mgfmania.co.uk Our heated glass panels fold without unzipping

Upgrade Screen panels for ALL MGF & TF models, from £185 Complete Hoods from £385 all with Heated Glass Screens!

New for 2014: BIG 280mm Front and Rear Brake Kits from £175 fit under all 15” or 16” wheels!

With EASY panel fitting, no drilling or sewing involved : Manufactured using the original MG fitting kit kit and and CD CD video Videoshowing showingfitting fittingincluded included MGRover Roverglass style style glass and and zip. zip. Full fitting

For next day delivery and further information Special Offer:

Black Mohair Hoods £400 fitted! www.mgcc.co.uk

MG Safety Fast September15 47-98.indd 91

www.MGFMANIA.co.uk

Watch MGF Mania videos on YouTube.com SEPTEMBER 2015

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FEATUREBACK LOOKING

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.

Our first offering this month (above) is from the lens of Mike Wray and shows Carol Cooper’s J2 Midget at speed at Silverstone in May 1991. We would be pleased to receive any further information regarding either car or driver.

Next up we have a nice picture of John Thomas on the way to winning his class at Shelsley Walsh in his standard road going MGF. This photo by Nick Akers

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MG Safety Fast September15 47-98.indd 92

Regarding the great photo published in the August ‘Looking Back’, I am sure it was taken at the start of the Abingdon to Abingdon Trial Sunday October 29 2000.

This re-traced the route of the 1934 Trial in celebration of the MGCC 70th Anniversary.

It started and finished at Milton Hill House, Milton Hill on A4130. Lunch was taken at The Bear on Rodborough Common. The Trial was estimated to take four hours 30 minutes driving time. I recall as the day went on the rain got heavier which was a pity.

The entry list comprised 189 MGs of all types. Only three K3s are on the list.

MG 3570 Andrew Taylor, JB 3181 Pat Boghossian and JB 3182 Peter Green.

The owner of JB 7531 is not known to me.

My entry was No 28 driving my WA Tickford FLJ 570.

I recall attending the fantastic 70th Anniversary Black Tie Dinner & Dance at the Oxford Spires Four Pillars Hotel, Abingdon Road, Oxford. I was honoured to be sitting at the President’s table.

Best regards, Gary Wall

is dated May 17 but does not tell us the year. Can you help please?

Now we come to our mystery photo.

This shows a somewhat bemused young man receiving not only a rather nice piece of silverware, but an additional glassware trophy too! Presumably this was for his successes on the track. Can you supply any details that we can add to the photo?

www.mgcc.co.uk

21/08/2015 18:06

CARS FOR SALE

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

MGBGT 1974

In Teal Blue with Webasto. One of the last Chrome bumpers. Needs respray and trim update. But mechanically sound. In daily use with original engine. 25000 miles since overhaul in 2009. Leather seats, new tyres and suspension A1.

Phone Bryan Ditchman on 01189 326346 (North Hampshire)

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.

MGBGT

Race/Speed event prepared Prepared to MG speed championship Group 2 Spec. No further mods possible. Championship winner plus many class wins and course records. Contact for full spec sheet.

For sale due to family circumstances. Offers around £7000. johnwilman@cbits.net or phone 07778 165186.

MGTD

Re-import from America now RHD. Always been reliable, driven around France recently. Very presentable clean/tidy lovely to drive. Garaged.

Chassis rust free, woodwork sound.

New clutch, new shells, new pistons, new valves, new tyres, new steering rack. For sale as we have 2 other T Types. Frequently visit Reading, half way meet or full delivery to that area is possible. £18500ono Telephone: 01326 270173 or email evans@portscatho.com (Cornwall)

MGBGT 1969

Snowberry white, wire wheels, chrome bumpers. Not run for 8 years but garaged throughout. Std Steel exhaust, black leather interior needs attention. Car Body work, parts and engine restored in 1988

by Mac Pherson Coach works in Blandford Dorset. Full details of work undertaken available. 50320 miles on clock. Buyer to collect.

Seller Ernie Saunders Telephone: 02380890621 (Southampton Area.)

Wanted

MGB roadster suitable for hill cimb and sprinting and able to be used on the road. Tel 01565 632895. Mob 07766228346

MG TF 1954

RHD Home Market Car. Ivory TF with black interior. Rebuilt 1250cc xpag engine and has an uprated 5 speed Ford gearbox. Full history file with receipts documenting the cars restoration including bills in excess of 25K. Fitted with a Stainless Steel exhaust, and wheel cylinders, chrome boot rack, full weather equipment and chromed bumpers, grill, spots etc. Re-conditioned radiator and dynamo, new water pump, track rod ends and steering gators.

Replaced brakes, renewed suspension rubbers and front wheel bearings. Second edition log book and heritage certificate. Fitted with a tracker/imobiliser security system.

A genuine car, in constant use. £28,500. Tel 01323 892305 or email js_early@hotmail.com (Sussex)

MGRV8 1995

MG TC 1946

Totally restored MG TC. Mechanics, bodywork, upholstery.

Lovely early car in immaculate condition. Everything better than new.

Original almond green colour, silver wheels. Wonderful history. Many black and white photographs.

Original bodywork and engine.

New tyres. Aero screens, new mohair hood, side screens and tonneau. Drives beautifully. £29950.

Please telephone James Miers, 07779423847 (Surrey).

33,000 miles. Woodcote Green.

New hood fitted, wooden dash refurbished in 2004. Optimax ECU, upgraded springs and dampers, power steering, new water pump and other minor improvements.

Always garaged. The body is unmarked and the interior is excellent. Half and full tonneau. Aircon.

Wind stop. MOTd. This is one of the best RV8’s you will find. £15,450. Telephone John on 01959 522548 or email: jwdutton@btinternet.com (SE London/Kent.)

MGBGT

In BRG, with Rostyle wheels, crackle black interior, single 12 volt battery conversion, with Luminition ignition and electronic distribution.

Kenlowe fan fitted so copes well with queuing! Heritage certificate provided. MOT to April, with no problems encountered and no advisories, and tax exempt. Period radio installed, and covered 99,105 miles so far. Dry use only in my tenure (since 2007) £4750 ono Tel Steve on 07787999551 (East Yorkshire)

Hillclimb Midget 1460cc MGBGT 1972 MG MIDGET 1975 Tidy bodywork, 4-speed gearbox, minor welding work required in nearside front and offside front areas. Very neat interior. Luggage rack. Ideal for someone looking for not too challenging a project. £1300. Tel.: 01299 403033 or email: austerlitz45nx@gmail.com

www.mgcc.co.uk

MG Safety Fast September15 47-98.indd 93

New suspension all round. New sleeves to the engine & Standard pistons, New carbs, alternator, distributor & coil. New fuel tank & pump & gauge. New steering wheel, and door/boot locks/keys. Many new parts purchased but not fitted: heater matrix and all hoses, water pump, chrome wheel trims. Black & chrome number plates. £4500.

Contact Sam on 07508004355

Professionally built, prepared and maintained. Peter May hillclimb engine. SC/CR gearbox by Competition Transmission Services.

ATB 4.8:1 differential, huge torque.

Unmarked lightweight body, 'Frontline' front/rear suspension, RTL and anti-tramp bar. Built in 2014, lightly used and only once this year. An outstanding car. £15,000 ono. 01534759046 or youngs877@yahoo.co.uk.

MGF 1999

BRG. MOT until June 2016. 69K miles. Head Gasket replaced.

Drives well. Green Leather Seats.

Just had new rear screen. Interior in good condition. Body work good but the odd scratch. Tyres all good with plenty of wear. Alloys in good condition. £895.00 Tel: Kevin on 01384 375136 (West Midlands).

SEPTEMBER 2015

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CARS FOR SALE

Sprite Restora

1964. Chrome Bum Car. On SORN. BRG Tel: 01737 765891

NEW PREMISES IN OXFORDSHIRE

Postcombe Service Station A40 London Road, Postcombe ,Oxon,OX9 7ED www.former-glory.com. Est. 1986

MGB V8 Roadster, 3.5 litre, Heritage Shell, Midnight blue, 5-speed, Detailed underside and engine bay to show standard, RV8 Bonnet,stunning throughout. £23,500

MG TD 1953, UK supplied, chrome wires and 5 speed hi gear conversion. Stunning example. £25,950.

MG Midget 1968

Chrome Bumper. 1275cc, Tartan red, hard top (immaculate condition) reconditioned engine (lead free) back axle, carbs, wire wheels.

New Soft top, tyres, starter motor, dynamo, water pump, battery, electronic ignition, thermostat, stainless steel rack, and exhaust. Modified oil filter, kenlow fan, rechromed, completely restored with photos.

Detailed history available with bills, plus original log book. 1 years MOT. £6,500. Telephone: 07958 553003. or 01708 456595 (Essex)

MGA 1959 RACE READY

Road legal, with additional easi-fit passenger seat and belts for track days.1950cc, 150bhp B engine, uprated everything, all work to the highest standard. All steel body, with correct wheels, raced for 8 seasons, at MG Live, Iconic 50's and Equipe GTS series for FIA type cars. A well known car, fast, reliable and handles beautifully, it now needs a braver driver. £25750.

Email:nickwilkinskirnan@btinternet.com or 07720 416223, (Northamptonshire)

MGA 1500 CO

Full detailed histor owners since 1963 always garaged and Runs on unleaded mileage and very £16,000. Telephone (Kent)

WANTE

MGB Roadster 19 Red. Condition 1-2 overdrive, original a walnut dash etc. Ca on 07775 661255 email j.wilton@hotm MGC Roadster 1968, mineral blue,chrome wires, nut and bolt restoration just completed, please call for spec. £...

MGB V8 Roadster, Heritage shell, 1973, Professionally built to show standard,Matching works hardtop.

All factory GT V8 Parts.Call for details. £..

MGB 1971,Glacier white, ONE OWNER from new. Supplied by University Motors in West London. Rebuilt by Brown and Gammons. Unique opportunity. £12,950

MGC Roadster,1970, the LAST one built, nut and bolt restoration,engine still running in, magazine featured.

Unique opportunity. £29,500

Factory GT V8, 1973, NO.883, Glacier white with full Webasto. Recent full repaint and retrim by Surrey sports and classics. £17,950

MGB HERITAGE SHELL, 1966, Built

By Taimar Valley MG, BLue Royale.Blue mohair, sports leather seats, upgraded brakes and suspension. £15,950

MG ZTT 190 2006

I have for sale the ex MG Car Club ZTT 190 which was purchased earlier this year for use as an event support car for the Caledonian Centre while their usual ZTT was ‘resting’! It’s one of the final models & is finished in almost unmarked Ignition Blue with completely unmarked cloth interior. Now only 3 owners since new with 79000 miles and full service history. Cam belts done and just had new front brakes & drives like new.

Demountable tow bar with single electrics. MOT to November 2015 but will re MOT for a year if required. With its 2.5 litre V6 engine it offers a superb blend of comfort, performance & economy. It is undoubtedly a future classic.

Price £1500 ono Contact Bob on 07870 407111 or email: mgcarsscotland@gmail.com

MGB HERITAGE SHELL,1972, metallic blue with cream leather and walnut trim. £12450

MGS URGENTLY WANTED TO PURCHASE. MGOC Recommended

MG Car club trade member 94

SEPTEMBER 2015

MG Safety Fast September15 47-98.indd 94

Blue, with blue leather interior.

7978 miles, RHD, black hood and tonneau. Stainless steel exhaust, overdrive, chrome wires. Moto Lita steering wheel. Dry use only, beautiful example, current owner for 11 years. Car built at 1994 Classic Car motor show at Earls Court London. £10,995 ono Martin - 07769 997236 or email martinmcvinnie@gmail.com (Ashford Kent.)

1961 MGA 160

1622cc LHD Old Reluctant sale. Ou Much cared for an the years on many o across the UK. Alwa in brick garage. Pris gearbox Phase 2 He pump. Steering col wheels. Hood and screens and pouche Only driven April Head-turning car th fully. £24750 Tel: after 7pm (London)

MGTF 135 2004

MGBGT1968 MIDGET 1972, round wheel arch, Bare metal respray in 2014 to show standard, new interior, drives superbly. £7,950

1970 MGB Roadster,

A good solid example, kept as original as possible. Garaged, occasional weekend use only, running well.

Reluctant sale due to plans for house move. New springs front and back. A file of receipts etc dating back to 2008. Black with red interior. Tax free, MOT to 21/1/2016.

Offers in excess of £4,500. Email robinmwilliams@btinternet.com (Norfolk)"

Le Mans Green bodywork and hardtop, black interior trim with leather seats, black hood with tonneau cover & heated glass rear screen, Sony radio/CD/mp3, wind deflector, uprated head gasket, B&G coolant sensor, drilled/slotted discs, excellent Nexen tyres, unused spare, all tools, handbook, storage bag & wall brackets for hardtop. Just one owner prior to myself, under 63K miles and very well maintained with MOT to December 2015.

Agreed insurance value £3,500, for sale at £2,950. Contact Chris 01760-722730 or 07963-489567 email: chrisbone.mg@gmail.com

MG J2 Ex Trials

Phoenix crank, Bon Cooper’s shells, un anced engine, new 1990. Has new b seats, hood, tools, b als. Not MOT’d or years, and is at starter. Lots of tria 1932. £29000. Tel:0 email: ginny291@b (South Wales)

www.mgcc.co.uk

21/08/2015 18:06

1996

0 miles. Only two w; the car being in hip since 1998. eage and garaged cellent condition with 12 months g sold with a prie. Also included in inal MG Hardtop, some spares. alue is £3250 but ers will be considchard on

THE

MG -T 2.5lastV6year.

190BHP battery.ZT Re-spray Kenlowe

STAND IS HERE history. Only 1 private owner plus MG dealer. MOT until January 2016. Full black leather, climate control, cd auto changer, 2 remote keys.

Great condition. Only £2995.

Contact Rob at RGN Vehicles on 07910 Roadster 114672 MGB 1972 ( R o t leather h e r h a minterior. , S o u t hNew Yo r k12 s h volt i re ) Black GREEN (D) FIELD (Trade) battery.

Re-spray last year. Kenlowe 16 electronic 17 32 33ignition. electric1 fan, New 65 48 49 64 2 15 18 31 34 47 50 63 66 Tyres, tubes.

14 19Wheels re-enamelled.

46 51 3 13 20 30 35 45 52 62Very67 12 months MOT on purchase.

4 12 21 29 36 44 53 61 68 5 Lovely reliable.

11 22 28 runner.

37 43Workshop 54 60 69 10 23 42 55 Always and 6owner's manual.

9 24 27 38 41 56 59 70 7 8 25 runs. garaged.

Dry £7000 26 39 40 57or58 vno.71 Tel: 01255 428532.

(North east Essex.)

2005/05 plate in rare lagoon electric fan, electronic ignition.superNew tallic/bold turquoise. miles with Tyres, tubes.

Wheels85k re-enamelled. history.

Only 1 private owner Very plus 12 months MOT on purchase.

MG dealer. until January reliable.

LovelyMOT runner.

Workshop 2016. black leather, climate conand Full owner's manual.

Always trol, cd auto changer, 2 remote garaged.

Dry runs. £7000 or keys. vno.

9 Great condition.

Only £2995.

10 Tel: 01255 428532.

Contact RobEssex.) at RGN Vehicles on (North east 11 07910 114672 12 81( R96o t h e r h 13 a m , S o u t h Yo r k s h i re ) 14 82 95 15 83(Trade)

Black leather interior. New 12 volt battery. Re-spray last year. Kenlowe electric fan, electronic ignition. New Tyres, tubes. Wheels re-enamelled.

12 months MOT on purchase. Very reliable. Lovely runner. Workshop and owner's manual. Always garaged. Dry runs. £7000 or vno.

Tel: 01255 428532.

(North east Essex.)

M A R QU E E S ( B L U E )

GR

170 195 171 194 172 193 173 192 174 191 175 190 176 189 177 188 178 187 179 186 180 185 181 184 182 183

M A R QU E E S ( B L U E )

BANKING

GREEN MGBGT 16V8 1977

84 94 85 93 86 92 87 88 91 89 90

130 157 131 156 132 155 133 154 134 153 135 152 136 151 137 150 138 149 139 148 140 147 141 146 142 145 143 144

93 118 94 117 95 96 97 116 98 115 99 114 100 113 101 112 102 111 103 110 104 109 105 108 106 107

59 84 60 83 61 82 62 81 63 80 64 79 65 78 66 77 67 76 68 75 69 74 70 73 71 72

GREEN FIELD

124 163 125 162 126 161 127 160 128 159 129 158 88 123 89 122 90 121 91 120 92 119 87a 56 87 57 86 58 85

BEER

57 63 62 58 61 59 60 33 32

69 68 67 66 65 64

51 52 53 54 55 56

25 38b 26 38a 27 38 28 37 29 36 30 35 31 34

T O I L E T S

PUBLIC MGB RoadsterENTRANCE 1972

163a 202 164 201 165 200 166 199 167 198 168 197 169 196

164 165 166 167 168 169 170 171 172 1 173 1

121 152 122 151 123 150 124 149 125 148 126 147 127 146 128 145 129 144 130 143 131 142

82 108 83 107 84 106 85 105 86 104 87 103 88 102 89 101 90 100 91 99 92 98

RED FIELD

115 157 116 117 156 118 155 119 154 120 153

76 114 77 113 78 112 79 111 80 110 81 109

75 74 73 72 71 70

19 20 21 22 23 24

15 16 17 18

80 79 78 77 76 75 74 73 72

EVERYTHING YOU NEED FOR MG MODELS: M, D, F, J, K, L, P, N, TA, TB, TC, TD. Information, sales, swops, purchases and service.

MGBGT V8 1977

The last Factory-made MGB GT V8 to be registered by the MGCC! First registered for the road on 7 October, 1977. In immaculate, original condition with sunroof.

Waxoyled and garaged from new, original chartreuse paintwork, black MG ZT -T 2.5 2.5 V6 V6Servicing 190BHP MG ZT -T 190BHP interior, overdrive. carMG ZT -T inin 2.5 V6 190BHP 2005/05 plate rare lagoon super2005/05 rare lagoon ried outplate

by Geoff Allen untilsuper1994 2005/05 plate in rare lagoon supertallic/bold turquoise.

85k miles with tallic/bold turquoise. with and, thereafter, by a 85k wellmiles respected tallic/bold turquoise.

85k miles with history.

Only 1firm private owner plus history.

Only private owner plus independent of motor history.

Only 11 private owner engiplus MG dealer.

MOT until January MG dealer.

MOT until January MG dealer.

MOT until January neers. Pictures of this car are avail2016.

Full black leather, climate con2016. leather, climate con2016.

Fullblack blackV8 leather, climate conable Full on the Register website trol, cd auto changer, remote keys. trol, cdauto autochanger, changer,22 2remote remotekeys. keys. trol, cd (www.V8register.net/DD/150622Great condition. condition. Only Only £2995. £2995.

Great MGBGTV8-Chartreuse-2839-forContact Rob Rob at at RGN RGN Vehicles Vehicles on on Contact sale.pdf). £15,500 ono.

07910 114672 07910 114672 114672 07910 Email: david@db2839.plus.com (R o t h e rr h am Yo rre e )) m,,,SSSoo ouu uttthh hYo Yorrrkkkssshh hiiire (((Trade) RRootthhee01844 r hhaam ) Phone 292198 (Trade) (Trade)

e)

MGF 1.8VVC 1996

In red with 24700 miles.1970 Only two MGC ROADSTER MGF 1.8VVC 1996 owners1.8VVC since new; the car being in MGF 1996 BRG o/d owned 39 years.

Bills In red with 24700 miles. Only two

present since In red withownership 24700 rebuild miles.

Only1998. two £21,000+.

Engine Full owners since new; the and car1979. being in Genuinesince low new; mileage garaged owners the car being in body restoration 2005.

Cream present ownership since 1998. year round. Excellent condition present ownership since 1998. bermuda h/t s/twith tonnau.

MOT, Genuine low mileage and inside and out 12 garaged months Genuine lowis mileage and garaged garaged.

Condition 2/3. £19995 MOT. Car being sold with a ono priyear round.

Excellent condition year round.

Excellent condition vate number plate.

Also 12 included in Telephone inside and 01297792538 out with months inside and with 12with months ewood Blue. Has a the sale is an original MG Hardtop, Email: cogstewart@aol.com MOT. Car isout being sold a priLuggage rack and some MOT. Car is being sold spares. with a pri-in had the following (Devon) vate number plate.

Also included Insured agreed value is included £3250 but vate number AlsoMG in h slave cylinder, the sale is anplate. original Hardtop, all reasonable offers will be considthe sale israck an original MGspares.

Hardtop, tor, cylinder head Luggage and some ered. Contact Richard on Luggage rack and some spares. wo new tyres, batInsured427 agreed www.mgcc.co.uk 07790 198 value is £3250 but Insured agreed value will is £3250 but tivating unit. Lots all reasonable offers be consid(East Staffordshire) all reasonable will be s 74197. Sensible ered.

Contactoffers Richard on considered. : 01235 816172, 07790Contact 427 198 Richard on 07790 427 198 47-98.indd 95 334 (East Staffordshire) MG Safety Fast September15 (East Staffordshire) re)

MGB Roadste

Black leather inte battery. Re-spray electric fan, electr Tyres, tubes. Whe 12 months MOT reliable. Lovely r and owner's garaged. Dry run Tel: 01255 428532 (North east Essex

17 The last Factory-made MGB GT V8 FIELD 18 to be registered by the MGCC! 19 MGBGT V8 1 20 First registered for the road on 7 The last Factory-m 21 October, 1977.

In immaculate, orig22 GREEN (B) FIELD to be registered inal condition with sunroof.

23 First registered f 24 Waxoyled 25and garaged from new, TREE October, 1977. In GONE! original chartreuse paintwork, black 26 inal condition 27 MGF 1.8VVC 1996 interior, overdrive. Servicing carMGBGT V8 1977 Waxoyled and g 28 In red with 24700 miles. Only two ried out by Geoff Allen until 1994 29 The last Factory-made MGB GT V8 original chartreus owners since new; the car being in 30 and, thereafter, by a well respected to be registered by the MGCC! MGF 1.8VVC 1996 interior, overdrive 31 present ownership since 1998. independent firm of motor engiPUBLIC First registered for the road on 7 32 24700 In red ZT with miles.

Only two ried out by Geof MG V6car190BHP Genuine low mileage and garaged 33 -T 2.5 neers.

Pictures of this are availENTRANCE October, 1977. In immaculate, origowners new; thelagoon car being in 34since MGB Roadste and, thereafter, by 2005/05 plate in rare superyear round. Excellent condition able on the V8 Register website 35 ownership since 1998. inal condition with sunroof. present Black leather firm inte independent tallic/bold turquoise.

85k miles with inside and out with 12 months (www.V8register.net/DD/150622Waxoyled and garaged from new, Genuine low 1mileage garaged battery.

Re-spray neers. Pictures of history.

Only privateand owner plus MOT. Car is being sold with a priMGBGTV8-Chartreuse-2839-fororiginal chartreuse paintwork, black year round. Excellent electric able onfan, theelectr V8 MG dealer.

MOT untilcondition January vate number plate.

Also included in sale.pdf). £15,500 ono.

MGF 1.8VVC 1996 interior, overdrive. Servicing carinside andblack outleather, with climate 12 months Tyres, tubes. Whe (www.V8register MGOC. 2016. conthe sale is an original MG Hardtop, Email:Full david@db2839.plus.com In red with 24700 miles. Only two OCC. a priried out by Geoff Allen until 1994 MOT. Car is being sold with 12 months MOT MGBGTV8-Char trol, cd 01844 auto changer, 2 remote keys.

Luggage rack and some spares.

Phone 292198 owners since new; the car being in and, thereafter, by a well respected vate number plate.Only Also £2995. included in reliable. sale.pdf). Lovely £15,500r Great condition.

Insured agreed is £3250 but TEL:value 01789 400181/FAX: 400230 present ownership since 1998. independent firm of motor engithe sale isRob an original MG Hardtop, and owner's Email: david@db2 Contact at RGN Vehicles on all reasonable offers will be 07836 considMOB: Genuine low mileage and garaged neers. Pictures of this car are avail- 244103 Luggage rack and some spares. garaged.

Dry 292 run Phone 01844 07910 114672 … for the very best in vintage MGs … Estd. 1968ered.

Contact Richard on email barry@barrywalker.com www.barrywalker.com Recommended year round. Excellent condition able on the (we V8 Register website Insured isYo£3250 but) Tel: 01255 428532 are close to Stratford-on-Avon) ( R o t h e agreed r h a m , Svalue o u t hspares r supplier k s h i re 07790 427 198 inside and out with 12 months (www.V8register.net/DD/150622all reasonable offers will be consid(North east Essex (Trade) (East Staffordshire) MOT. Car is being sold with a priMGBGTV8-Chartreuse-2839-forered. Contact Richard on vate number plate. Also included in sale.pdf). £15,500 ono.

07790 427 198 the sale is an original MG Hardtop, Email: david@db2839.plus.com (East Staffordshire) MGBGT V8 1 Luggage rack and some spares.

Phone 01844 292198 The last Factory-m Insured agreed value is £3250 but to be registered all reasonable offers will be considFirst registered f MGC ROADSTER 1970 ered. Contact Richard on October, 1977. In BRG o/d owned 39 years. Bills 07790 427 198 inal condition £21,000+. Engine rebuild 1979. Full (East Staffordshire) MGC ROADS Waxoyled and g body restoration 2005. Cream BRG o/d owned original chartreus bermuda h/t s/t tonnau. MOT, £21,000+.

Engine MGF interior, overdrive garaged.1.8VVC Condition1996 2/3. £19995 ono MGB Roadster Roadster 1972 1972 body MGB In red with01297792538 24700 miles. Only two MGF SE 2000 ried outrestoratio

by Geof Telephone MGB Roadster 1972 Black leather leather interior.

New 12 12 volt volt bermuda h/t by s/ Black interior.

New owners since new; the car being in In beautiful Wedgewood Blue.

Has a and, thereafter, Email: cogstewart@aol.com Black leather interior. New 12 volt battery.Re-spray Re-spray last year. year. Kenlowe garaged.

Conditio battery. present ownership since 1998. new MOT and has had the following independent firm battery. Re-spray last last year.Kenlowe Kenlowe (Devon) MGF 2000 MGC ROADSTER 1970 electric fan, electronic ignition.

New Telephone 01297 electric GenuineSElow mileage and garaged electricfan, fan,electronic electronicignition. ignition.New New renewed, Clutch slave cylinder, neers. Pictures of In beautiful Wedgewood Has a BRG o/d owned 39 years. Bills Tyres, tubes. tubes.Wheels Wheels re-enamelled. re-enamelled.

Email: cogstewart Tyres, Tyres, tubes.

Wheels re-enamelled. year round.

Excellent Blue. condition water pipes, radiator, cylinder head able on the V8 new haswith had the £21,000+. Engine rebuild 1979. Full 12 months months MOT MOT on on purchase. purchase.Very Very (Devon) 12 months MOT on purchase.

Very 12 insideMOT andand out 12 following months gasket, cambelt, two new tyres, bat(www.V8register renewed, slavewith cylinder, body restoration 2005. Cream reliable. Lovely Lovely runner. runner. Workshop Workshop reliable.

MOT. Car Clutch is being sold a pritery and door activating unit. Lots MGBGTV8-Char and owner's manual.

Always water pipes, radiator, cylinder head bermuda h/t s/t tonnau.

MOT, and owner's manual. Always vate number plate. Also included in of bills. Milage is 74197. Sensible sale.pdf). £15,500 garaged.

Dry runs. £7000 or vno. gasket, two new batgaraged. Dry Dry runs. runs. £7000 £7000 or or vno. vno. garaged. Condition 2/3. £19995 ono garaged. the salecambelt, is an original MGtyres, Hardtop, offers. Telephone: 01235 816172, Email: david@db2 Tel: 01255 MGF SE428532.

2000 Tel: 01255 428532. tery and door activating unit.

Lots Telephone 01297792538 Tel: 01255 428532.

Luggage rack and some spares. mobile 07929966334 Phone 01844 292 (North east Wedgewood Essex.)

In beautiful Blue. Has a (North east Essex.) of bills. agreed Milage value is 74197.

Sensible Email: cogstewart@aol.com (North east Essex.)

Insured is £3250 but (South Oxfordshire) new MOT and has had the following offers.

Telephone: (Devon) all reasonable offers01235 will be816172, considPlease check this proof carefully for errors in style, content and layout. renewed, Clutch slave cylinder, mobile 07929966334 ered.

Contact Richard on MGBGT V8radiator, 1977 Although every care is cylinder exercisedhead in preparing your advert, we cannot hold water pipes, (South Oxfordshire) MGZS MGBGT V8 1977 1977 MGB GT V8 07790 427 198 The last cambelt, Factory-made MGBGT V8 ourselves responsible for any inaccuracies you may overlook. gasket, two new tyres, batGoodStaffordshire) condition for its year, Thebe lastregistered Factory-made MGBMGCC! GT V8 (East to

by MGB the The last Factory-made GT V8 tery and door REQUIRE activating unit.

Lots WANTED SHOULD YOU ANY TO THIS PROOF PLEASE to beregistered registered bythetheroad MGCC! recently serviced, new brakes and First forby onALTERATIONS 7 to registered the MGCC! MGZS ofbebills.

MilageInfor isimmaculate, 74197.

Sensible MGBGTV8 Automatic, might conOctober, 1977. origFirst registered the road on 7 tyres, reverse park sensors and TELEPHONE BEFORE _ _ _ on _ _ 7_ _ AND QUOTE ADVERT NO. _ _ _ _ _ First registered for the road Good condition offers.condition Telephone: 01235sunroof.

816172, sider non-auto if a really nice one inal with October, 1977. In immaculate, origworking aircon.

120,000 miles.

WANTED October, 1977. immaculate, origrecently serviced mobile 07929966334 Waxoyled and In garaged new, is available for conversion. inal condition with from sunroof. £650.

Contact:Stewart Watt on MGBGTV8 Automatic, might coninal condition with sunroof. tyres, reverse p (South Oxfordshire) original chartreuse paintwork, Contact Stan on 01767 650159 or Waxoyled and garaged from black new, 07960 939377 sider non-auto if a really nice one Waxoyled and garaged from new, interior, overdrive.

Servicing carworking aircon. email:- stansprod@btinternet.com original chartreuse paintwork, black (Newbury) is available for conversion.

MGC ROADS ried outchartreuse

by Geoff paintwork, Allen until black 1994 original £650. Contact:interior, overdrive. Servicing carand, thereafter, by a well respected Contact Stan on 01767 650159 or BRG o/d owned MGZS interior, overdrive.

Servicing car07960 939377 ried out by Geoff Allen until 1994 independent firm Allen of motor engiemail:- stansprod@btinternet.com £21,000+.

Good condition for its year, ried out by Geoff until 1994 (Newbury)Engine and, thereafter, by a well respected neers.

Pictures of this car are avail- for any recently WANTED Wethereafter, reserve the to charge alteration to thisnew proof whichand body restoratio serviced, brakes and, by aright respected independent firm ofwell motor engiable on theAutomatic, V8 is Register website MGBGTV8 might conamotor departure from thetyres, original copy park sensors and bermuda h/t s/ reverse independent firm of engineers.

Pictures ofif this car nice are avail(www.V8register.net/DD/150622siderPictures non-autoof a really one garaged. Conditio working aircon. 120,000 miles. neers. this car are availMGBGTV8-Chartreuse-2839-forable on the V8 Register website is available for conversion.

MGF SE 2000 Telephone 01297 £650.

Contact:Stewart Watt on able on the V8 Register website sale.pdf). £15,500 ono. (www.V8register.net/DD/150622Contact Stan on 01767 650159 or In beautiful Wedgewood Blue. Has a Email: cogstewart 07960 939377 (www.V8register.net/DD/150622Email: david@db2839.plus.com MGBGTV8-Chartreuse-2839-foremail:-01844 stansprod@btinternet.com new MOT and has had the following (Devon) Phone 292198 (Newbury) MGBGTV8-Chartreuse-2839-forsale.pdf). £15,500 ono. renewed, Clutch slave cylinder, sale.pdf). £15,500 ono.

Email: david@db2839.plus.com water pipes, radiator, cylinder head Email: Phonedavid@db2839.plus.com 01844 292198 gasket, cambelt, two new tyres, batPhone 01844 292198 SEPTEMBER 2015 95 tery and door activating unit. Lots of bills. Milage is 74197. Sensible offers. Telephone: 01235 816172, mobile 07929966334 21/08/2015 18:06 (South Oxfordshire)

45 46 47 48 49 50

RED FIELD

139

2005/05 plate in rare lagoon super138 137 tallic/bold turquoise. 85k miles with 136 history. Only 1 private owner plus 135 134 MG dealer. MOT until January TO RED & YELLOW FIELD S 133 2016. Full black leather, climate con132 trol, cd auto changer, 2 remote keys.

97 RED (A) FIELD Great condition. Only £2995.

96 Contact Rob at RGN Vehicles on 95 94 07910 114672 93 RED (A) FIELD ( R o t h e r h a m , S o u t h Yo r k s h i re ) (Trade) OAK 44 43 42 41 40 39

4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14

1 15 16 16 16 163

BE SURE NOT TO MISS MG ZT-TIT. 2.5 STANDS V6 190BHP R60-63. RIGHT BY THE ENTRANCE

CM09.15/A23/r

o u t h Yo r k s h i re )

MGB Roadster 1972 SEPTEMBER 2005/05 plate in rare lagoon superBEAULIEU INT. AUTOJUMBLE Black leather interior. New 12 volt tallic/bold turquoise. 85k miles with 5TH & 6TH 2015

6

are lagoon superse. 85k miles with rivate owner plus OT until January ather, climate conger, 2 remote keys.

Only £2995.

RGN Vehicles on

MG ZT-T 2.5 V6 190BHP

55c 55b 55a 55 54 53 2

5 V6 190BHP

CARS FOR SALE

URGENT PROOF

CARS FOR SALE Sprite Restoration Project 1964. Chrome Bumper. Complete Car. On SORN. BRG. £1250 ovno.

Tel: 01737 765891

MG Midget 1968

Chrome Bumper. 1275cc, Tartan red, hard top (immaculate condition) reconditioned engine (lead free) back axle, carbs, wire wheels.

New Soft top, tyres, starter motor, dynamo, water pump, battery, electronic ignition, thermostat, stainless steel rack, and exhaust. Modified oil filter, kenlow fan, rechromed, completely restored with photos.

Detailed history available with bills, plus original log book. 1 years MOT. £6,500. Telephone: 07958 553003. or 01708 456595 (Essex)

MGBGT 1979

MGA 1959 RACE READY

Road legal, with additional easi-fit passenger seat and belts for track days.1950cc, 150bhp B engine, uprated everything, all work to the highest standard. All steel body, with correct wheels, raced for 8 seasons, at MG Live, Iconic 50's and Equipe GTS series for FIA type cars. A well known car, fast, reliable and handles beautifully, it now needs a braver driver. £25750.

Email:nickwilkinskirnan@btinternet.com or 07720 416223, (Northamptonshire)

In Orange £8,000. For more details please phone 01420 488059

MGA 1500 COUPE 1958

Full detailed history and only two owners since 1963. Delightful car, always garaged and much cared for.

Runs on unleaded petrol. Low mileage and very good condition. £16,000. Telephone : 01732 763046 (Kent)

WANTED

MGB Roadster 1968-9 Series II. Red. Condition 1-2. Wire wheels, overdrive, original appearance ie no walnut dash etc. Call Jeremy Wilton on 07775 661255 or preferably email j.wilton@hotmail.co.uk"

MG ZTT 190 2006

I have for sale the ex MG Car Club ZTT 190 which was purchased earlier this year for use as an event support car for the Caledonian Centre while their usual ZTT was ‘resting’! It’s one of the final models & is finished in almost unmarked Ignition Blue with completely unmarked cloth interior. Now only 3 owners since new with 79000 miles and full service history. Cam belts done and just had new front brakes & drives like new.

Demountable tow bar with single electrics. MOT to November 2015 but will re MOT for a year if required. With its 2.5 litre V6 engine it offers a superb blend of comfort, performance & economy. It is undoubtedly a future classic.

Price £1500 ono Contact Bob on 07870 407111 or email: mgcarsscotland@gmail.com

1970 MGB Roadster,

Blue, with blue leather interior.

7978 miles, RHD, black hood and tonneau. Stainless steel exhaust, overdrive, chrome wires. Moto Lita steering wheel. Dry use only, beautiful example, current owner for 11 years. Car built at 1994 Classic Car motor show at Earls Court London. £10,995 ono Martin - 07769 997236 or email martinmcvinnie@gmail.com (Ashford Kent.)

MGBGT1968

A good solid example, kept as original as possible. Garaged, occasional weekend use only, running well.

Reluctant sale due to plans for house move. New springs front and back. A file of receipts etc dating back to 2008. Black with red interior. Tax free, MOT to 21/1/2016.

Offers in excess of £4,500. Email robinmwilliams@btinternet.com (Norfolk)"

96

SEPTEMBER 2015

MG Safety Fast September15 47-98.indd 96

1275cc, 47,662 miles on clock.

London based. Racing green, double wheel arch, spoke wheels, wooden steering wheel, almost new hood. very good mechanical condition, new electronic ignition. MOT until October 2015. Winter garaged.

Owned since 2002, 7yr service history available. Asking price £5,750 ono. Tel: J Ripley on 07802 426 963 or email jripley@atlas.co.uk.

(London)

1961 MGA 1600 Mk II

1622cc LHD Old English White.

Reluctant sale. Ours since 1989.

Much cared for and enjoyed over the years on many outings and runs across the UK. Always kept covered in brick garage. Pristine body. Sierra gearbox Phase 2 Head. Electric fuel pump. Steering column lock. Wire wheels. Hood and tonneau. Side screens and pouches. Luggage rack.

Only driven April to September.

Head-turning car that drives beautifully. £24750 Tel: 020 8866 6326 after 7pm (London)

MGTF 135 2004

Le Mans Green bodywork and hardtop, black interior trim with leather seats, black hood with tonneau cover & heated glass rear screen, Sony radio/CD/mp3, wind deflector, uprated head gasket, B&G coolant sensor, drilled/slotted discs, excellent Nexen tyres, unused spare, all tools, handbook, storage bag & wall brackets for hardtop. Just one owner prior to myself, under 63K miles and very well maintained with MOT to December 2015.

Agreed insurance value £3,500, for sale at £2,950. Contact Chris 01760-722730 or 07963-489567 email: chrisbone.mg@gmail.com

MG Midget 1972

MG J2 Ex Trials 1932

Phoenix crank, Bonneville conrods, Cooper’s shells, unleaded and balanced engine, new tyres. Re-built 1990. Has new battery, leather seats, hood, tools, books and manuals. Not MOT’d or taxed for some years, and is at present a non starter. Lots of trials history since 1932. £29000. Tel:01269591445 or email: ginny291@btinternet.com (South Wales)

Brian James Minno-MaxMax Trailer"

One owner, used less than 2 dozen times for Luffield championship.

18mths of manufacturer's warranty remains. Suitable for Caterham, Midget, MGB, MGA etc. Gross cap 1600kg, load cap 1200kg. Bedsize 12ft x 5ft 7ins. Trailer is designed to go through a standard 7ft garage door opening. It is fitted with an electric caravan mover system which is brilliant for moving the fully loaded trailer in confined spaces. Extras included are; tyre rack, h/duty jockey wheel, manual winch,centre deck & store, spare wheel, slide-out ramps, wheel chocks, Hi-security headlock and data tag security pack. £3500ono.

MGCC member 07979 048733 Can be viewed in the Dunstable area.

SELLING YOUR CAR?

As a member of the MG Car Club you can advertise your car in Safety Fast for free. Just email your car details, max 60 words, together with a JPEG picture to Colin Grant at colingrant@mgcc.co.uk.

Non member fee is £20

www.mgcc.co.uk

21/08/2015 18:07

CLASSIFIEDS

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

One Brand New and Boxed MGB Rubber Bumper Radiator.

Cost £130 - Yours for £70 including UK Postage or collect.

Telephone: Stephen Foster 02089521234. (Middlesex)

1972 MGB Driver’s seat Frame. Back rest ratchet needs attention. Offered FOC to club member, but will need to be collected. Please contact me on 07552 276544.

(South London/Surrey)

MGB Engine Very early 3 bearing engine with starter, dist, etc. Very little ware to bores. Dry stored for many years. Offers, buyer to collect.

Tel: 01494 813903 (South Bucks)

Cherished Number MG6322

Held on V788 £6250, offers considered. Email: bobandlynne1950@gmail.com

Austin Healey Sprite

1275c Engine, with manifolds.13/4” Metro Carb etc. Dry stored for many years. Offers.

Also have 1275 gearbox ribbed casting. Offers, buyer to collect.

Tel: 01494 813903 (South Bucks)

Garage Clearout Midget Sold

Lucas Foglights5FT523 all models Lucas 7” headlamp Units complete all models Assorted bulbs including Halogen Chrome side lamp frames all models Grille alloy good condition fit 1961 to 1969 Windscreen frame top and bottom 1964 on re annodised, unused Door seals all models Wiper motor plinth Battery spill Tray Rear 1/4 bumper nearside Overrider with rubber insert Job lot £100 Tel Roger Johnson on 01652 635296 (North lincs)

MGB Parts Works Hard Top. Good Petrol Tank. Back Axle, O/D Gearbox Tel: 01737 765891

MGTD Brand new (ex Sportscar Metalworks) Right Hand rear 1/4 panel for TD 1953 model £95.00 Collection central Wiltshire, my mobile is 07860 344519

www.mgcc.co.uk

MG Safety Fast September15 47-98.indd 97

MGB/MGA MGB Roadster Hood Cover by Cover Systems. Used only once.£40 Bosch Ignition Coil with bracket Unused. £20 MGA Indicator Switch (the one with time delay dash pot).VGC. £90 Rover V8 Inlet manifold + Plenum Chamber, X 8 Injectors and diode pack.£50 Roger Williams book 'How to give your MGB V8 Power' VG Clean Condition £20 Des Hammill - ' How to Power Tune Rover V8 Engines' VG Clean Condition £15 David Hardcastle-' Tuning Rover V8 Engines', Hardback VG Clean Condition £15 Peter Burgess- 'MGB 4 Cylinder Engines For Road and Track' VG Clean Condition £20 John Baggot- 'MGB the Racing Story' Hardback VG Clean Condition £10 Telephone: 01823 335657

XPAG engine TD/F/YB For sale: 1380cc (i.e. plus 140") bore, new three ring solid skirt pistons, allen caphead pinch bolts, crank no 168557 (TC's Forever page 129) at .020/020" (crack tested) new shells, lightened fly wheel, 8" clutch, all balanced. Lip seals front and rear (using Speedi Sleeve) new billet steel fast road cam shaft, vernier timing sprocket set at 109 degrees, new bearings, oil grooved cam followers, combined horizontal oil pump/filter.

Cylinder head stage 11, unleaded, large valve, metro stem seals, bronze guides ported (by Edney/XPAG ENG). Contact Ron Ward - 01422 823649

MGB 1972

Driver’s seat Frame. Back rest ratchet needs attention. Offered FOC to club member, but will need to be collected.

Please contact me on 07552 276544.

(South London/Surrey area)

MGB Full length tonneau cover with headrests. Little used in mint condition, including support rails. £95 + carriage Call 07445 932323 (Suffolk)

BANBURY, OXFORDSHIRE Situated right in the middle of classic car country with easy access to Silverstone, Gaydon (Heritage Motor Centre) Abingdon, Prescott, Longbridge and only an hour from London KIMBERS ARK B&B is the home away from home for the classic car enthusiast.

For comfortable rooms, off street parking and a traditional English breakfast contact club members Mike and Jan

01295 254498, kimbers.ark@gmail.com. www.kimbers-ark.co.uk.

MIDGETS! WANTED

Contact the Midget Specialist MIKE AUTHERS on Abingdon 07703 465 224 CHROME BUMPERED MIDGETS in excellent condition bought up to £8,000. View current stock at

www.mgmidgets.com

MGF Alloys x 4 From 1998 1.8i model, with brand new Falken 185/55R15 tyres in very good condition. E mail for photos £250.00 ono Contact Paul on 07421 732309 Email: paulmoney@easy.com (Mayfield, East Sussex)

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

MG XPAG Engine Basis for an excellent engine.

Correct numbers etc. Missing ancillaries. £950.

Tel: Tim on 07779423847, (Surrey).

Rear of Langley Garage London Road, Langley, Nr Hitchin, Herts SG4 7PJ

01438 729288 07860 473298

SPARES FOR SALE

www.mg-repairs-hertfordshire.com

MGB 1980 Negative camber bottom arms with V8 bushes, new, £30.

New Lucas sports coil £10.

Front disc brake shields new £10 Set plugs points condensor fan belt all new £15.

Alternator,little use, £20.

Rostyle wheel £10.

Pair of new boxed torpedo chrome door mirrors £30.

Buyer collects Tel: 07875116803 (Weybridge Surrey)

MG Midget Clutch Almost new. Buyer collects. £50.00.

Telephone 01322 431989 S.E London (Bexleyheath)

Cherished number MIG 8013

on retention. £180.00 price includes £80.00 transfer fee.

Contact Paul (Club Member) on 02894452222 or 07785900561.

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 Engine2015 SEPTEMBER

MGB

One Brand New MGB Rubber Bu Cost £130 - You including UK Pos Telephone: Step 02089521234. (M

1972 MGB

Driver’s seat Fra ratchet needs att FOC to club mem need to be collec contact me on 07 (South London/S

97

Very early 3 bearing engine with starter, dist, etc. Very little ware Cherished to bores. Dry stored for many years. Offers, buyer to collect. 21/08/2015 18:07 MG632 Held on V788 £6 Tel: 01494 813903

1966 OVER

1966 OVER

45

45

YEARS

YEARS

2015

2015

45

Tel: +44 (0) 1274 585161 Fax: +44 (0) 1274 532772 Direct workshop line: +44 (0)7804 077 849 alastair@naylorbrothers.co.uk or craig@naylorbrothers.co.uk 1966 OVER

45 YEARS

2015

MG Safety Fast September15 47-98.indd 98

1966 OVER

45 YEARS

2015

21/08/2015 18:07

336 177 .uk

‘The Abingdon Policy’ the Home of classic insurance for your MG

on at

uk

Exclusive to members of the MG Car Club.

he ar its

- Peter Best Insurance Proudly supporting the MGCC and its members since 1985

Approved

TEL: 01621 840400 The Farriers, Bull Lane, Maldon, Essex CM9 4QB

WWW.PETERBESTINSURANCE.CO.UK Authorised and Regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority

uk

Photograph courtesy of MG Car Club

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