Safety Fast! June 18 by MG Car Club

THE MARQUE OF FRIENDSHIP

June 2018 Volume 62 Number 06 £3.95

THE

CAR

CLUB

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ABINGDON-ON-THAMES FO U N D E D 193 0

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Inside this issue 7

Club Matters and Kimber House News 8 News 12 Products 14 Postbag 52 Calendar of Events 58 MGs on Track

59 69 71 83 92 98

MGCC Speed Championship Overseas Review Centre Updates Register Updates Classifieds Looking Back

Features 16

MGLive! 2018 All the latest news concerning MGLive!

Time to B Supercharged John Prewer and his stunning Supercharged 1964 MGB

Event Report The FWD Spring Run report

Manchester XPAG Tests Fuel and Tuning – Part 1 fuel By Paul Ireland

Brilliant Brands All the action from the MGCC Race Meeting held on the Brands Indy Circuit

BTCC Championship A round-up from Donington Park

Overseas News News from MG Car Club Monaco and The 2018 New Zealand National Rally

Newsletters 35

Triple M Newsletter The Kimber Trial, Events and Water-jacket plates

Y Type Newsletter Event reports and Old Tyres

ZR/ZS/ZT Newsletter Events and shows and The Loch Ness Monster Revealed – Concluding part

The MG Car Club, Kimber House, PO Box 251, Abingdon, Oxon, OX14 1FF Tel: 01235 555552 Fax: 01235 533755 E-mail: mgcc@mgcc.co.uk www.mgcc.co.uk. If visiting The MG Car Club using Sat Nav please use OX14 1AS

Membership Type

Direct Debit Rate

Standard Rate Online

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Single

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

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www.mgcc.co.uk

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Welcome

John Prewer’s Supercharged 1964 MGB photographed outside Cusworth Hall, Doncaster. Photo: Shaun Flannery Photography Ltd, UK

@mgcarclub

FO U N D E D 193 0

www.mgcc.co.uk

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The offi cial publication of The MG Car Club Incorporating ‘The M.G. Magazine’, ‘The Sports Car’ and ‘Brooklands Track and Air’, Safety Fast! Copyright MG Car Club 2018

Traders are an important part of the Club and critical for helping keep our MGs on the road. In next months issue you should receive this year’s Trade Membership booklet. Another useful booklet which is available to MGCC members is the European Touring Handbook. This has been published by our European Manager and is free to download from our website www.mgcc.co.uk The Club has been working hard to bring you more discounts from various companies and organisations, all of which can be found in the members area of the website. Some of the companies that offer our members discounts include: RAC who are offering a discount of 35% on new policies, 25% on renewals. APH – Airport Parking & Hotels. APH’s pre-booking rates represent savings of up to 25% and on top of that, as an MG Car Club member, you and your family receive up to 15% discount off standard APH rates. And, members can also enjoy up to 10% discount on a break with Hoseasons. These represent just a few of the various companies offering discounts – just one advantage of being an MG Car Club member. As the nicer weather starts to take hold in the UK, don’t forget the various monthly meetings held by the Centres and Registers, normally in a pub. The MG Car Club currently has about 80 situated in most counties up and down the country. If you have never been to one why not fi nd one local to you and ring the organiser and go along. It’s a great way of meeting likeminded enthusiasts and an extra reason to get your MG out. A full listing can be found at www.mgcc. co.uk/club-meets/ With MGLive! fast approaching, June 2-3, Silverstone promises to be a sea of MGs with everything from the Vintage era right through to the latest SUVs attending. There’s lots of information available from the event’s dedicated website www.mglive.com and tickets can be purchased on the gate. Hopefully see you there? Until next month, drive safely.

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www.mgcc.co.uk

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CHAIRMANS NOTES BY IAN QUARRINGTON

Members. Twice a year the Board meets on a Saturday, all day, so that we have time to discuss not only our routine Club matters but to talk about long-term projects and other items that we don’t always have the opportunity to discuss on a Tuesday evening once a month. This time around we had quite a bit to review and there were some very diverse subjects including, for example, the simple administrational tasks of reviewing our meeting agenda so it doesn’t become stale, or reviewing the security arrangements at Kimber House, or keeping on top of our forward projections for fi nance for this year and 2019. We talked a lot about our purpose as a Board. Firstly, and above all else, we and the staff at Kimber House are there to serve the Members. A very signifi cant and important point that we talked about in all this is just how does the ‘ordinary member’ see the Club?

Out there amongst the 11,000 MGCC UK members and the huge number around the world are a key few who totally understand how this Club ticks, for sake of a better word. But that is a tiny number, mostly because they either serve on a CRB or have done so recently and every Member is entitled to know how this 87-year-old Club operates in today’s world. Just to put this into context, one long-standing member visited us at Abingdon recently for the fi rst time and was surprised to see a member of staff whom he had seen many times before at MGLive! and was very surprised to fi nd that yes, that person does work full time at Kimber House and doesn’t just appear for one weekend in the main marquee at Silverstone! This is where our Centres, Registers and Branches are so important. One of their purposes is to “support you and your MG” in a myriad of ways, one of which is to feed through to the ordinary member any news that has come from our twice-yearly Council meetings, but also from the CRB

bulletins issued from Kimber House. Some of our 37 CRBs are very good at this: I receive at least four newsletters by email every month telling me what KH are planning for major events and what those CRBs are arranging. These newsletters need to feed all the way through to the pub meets or Natters so that every member is truly informed of how they and their MG are being supported. Safety Fast!, our awardwinning monthly magazine, is full of news and technical help. Do you pick it up just to look at the cars for sale or do you read each of the monthly newsletters from the CRBs? Please remember our Club website; there are news alerts and latest offers on regalia and information on our motorsport activities being updated very regularly. There is even a Members Only area of the website for details on the structure of the Club and digital versions of Board meeting minutes and contact details for each Centre Register and Branch. Finally, some CRBs have their own websites where you can contribute or simply read what is new. It is all about the Members.

KIMBER HOUSE NEWS Thanks to the online bargaining skills of Club board member, Dave Saunders, Kimber House has acquired a few more interesting items for its ever-expanding archive. Pride of place this month must go to a copy of University Motors’ catalogue for 1932. Hardbound and in absolutely mint condition, this features the MG models currently available, with superb colour illustrations by Harold Connolly and technical specifi cation printed alongside. University Motors were, of course, the sole MG distributors for the whole of the London area. In addition, Dave also managed to acquire a couple of interesting pieces for our Dick Jacobs collection. These comprise a silver plated shield and cigarette case awarded to W. Jacobs

www.mgcc.co.uk

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and Son of the Mill Garage by Mobil Ltd, for the pleasing appearance of his premises. With these items came a large buttonhole badge of unknown origin. We will do our best to display the latter items at Kimber House but feel that the U.M. book, for that is what it is, must enjoy the sanctuary and security of the archive storeroom for the time being..

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NEWS

Barry (Sideways) Sidery-Smith Memorial Bench at Goodwood

Following Barry’s sad and sudden death on June 24 last year a group of his close friends joined his daughter Heidi and son-in-law Simon in the Memorial Gardens at the circuit for the installation of a bench in his memory on Friday March 16, at the beginning of the 76th Members Meeting weekend. The inscription reads: “Barry (Sideways) SiderySmith raced here from 1959-2015. A great friend and gentleman racer”. Barry’s first race was at Goodwood at the 37th Members Meeting on July 11 1959. Heidi was able to bring along an original programme of that event. We are grateful to Paul Hogan who organised the bench and in whose Triumph TR3A Barry raced at both Goodwood and the Le Mans Classic in recent years, as well as racing at both venues in his own ex-Paddy Hopkirk Le Mans MGB. Mervyn Gillespie

Twin Cam Group AGM Venue: Half Moon Pub, Windlesham, Surrey. GU20 6BN Date: July 14 2018 Time: 4.30pm Agenda: 1. Apologies for Absence. 2. Minutes of the previous AGM. 3. Matters Arising. 4. Chairman’s Report. 5. Secretary’s Report. 6. Treasurer’s Report. 7. Election of Officers. 8. Election of Committee 9. Any Other Business. Nominations for election of officers and/or committee and topics for discussion under ‘Any Other Business’ should be sent to the Secretary, Edward Vandyk Edward@vandyk. co.uk or phone +44 (0)1488 608810

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Australian Production Car Series

James Brock will contest the 2018 Australian Production Car Series in a race-prepared MG6 PLUS across five rounds. The 1.8-litre turbocharged MG6 PLUS has been prepared by Brock’s own operation, Brock Race Engineering (BRE), and will compete in one of the series’ capacity-based classes. The MG Motorsport Australia MG6 PLUS is very much a production car and will front the start remarkably standard, save for racing suspension, brakes and safety equipment. That hasn’t affected the Melbourne-based racer’s enthusiasm. Brock’s alignment with MG was announced on the brand’s revival Down Under in 2016. MG has competed in recent years in the pinnacle of UK production-car based racing, the British Touring Car Championship. Brock’s MG6 PLUS programme has the formal blessing of MG’s Chinese head office, but is essentially a toe in the water in Australian motorsport. At its first outing the MG6 took victory at the first round of the Series! Congratulations to James Brock and the MG Motorsport team.

Twin Cam MGA “60th Anniversary Yearbook” To mark the 60th anniversary of the launch of the Twin Cam MGA, the UK Twin Cam Group of the MG Car Club is compiling a “2018 Yearbook”. It is intended to summarise the Press Day Launch at Chobham in July 1958, then feature photographs and text of the events throughout the timeline of 2018, where Twin Cam owners have been out and about with their Twin Cam or have marked the 60th anniversary in some way. The Yearbook will be published in the latter part of the year. If you are organising an event, or plan on doing something interesting with your Twin Cam and would like material to be considered for inclusion in this oneoff publication, please send electronic copy to the MG Car Club Safety Fast! Twin Cam Group Scribe, Colin Manley, at: colinmanley99@gmail.com Material should comprise: Date, Venue/Location, your name, sufficient text to explain the item, High Res (min 500kb) jpeg files. The Twin Cam Group reserves the right to edit or reject submitted material and all rights to the material will be assigned to the Twin Cam Group.

www.mgcc.co.uk

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MG recently unveiled its latest concept, the stunning X-Motion, at the Beijing Motor Show. The MG X-Motion is a large SUV, a product that has been part of MG’s plans since 2017. SUVs continue to represent a growth sector in the industry and this latest concept is a reflection of global customer demands. Crowned as the ‘MG Range Captain’, the concept has been designed to be the largest model in MG’s growing product portfolio. It’s certainly a very attractive design, with details and features similar to the company’s striking E-Motion electric sports car concept of 2017. The bold, aggressive front end continues with the new MG family face as seen on the recently launched ZS and the China-market MG6, while the flared arches, ‘Hurricane’ aluminium wheels, custom LED lighting, sleek lines and neat styling cues contribute to an upmarket, prestige look. Based upon the same underpinnings and running gear as the China-market Roewe RX8, the X-Motion will include full connectivity. And with MG’s parent company SAIC Motor having shown commitment to hybrid and full electric technology in various overseas markets, there’s also a good chance the X-Motion could be available with alternative powertrains alongside a regular petrol option.

www.mgcc.co.uk

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5. Treasurer’s report and adoption of Accounts 6. Secretary’s Report 7. Election of Officers and Committee 8. Any other Business Any nominations for the committee plus any items for discussion in writing please to:- Jim Andrew, SVW Register Secretary, 31 Latimer Road, Cropston, Leicestershire, LE7 7GP. jimrhoda@btinternet.com

10 Reasons why you can trust us to help you 1. Financial Security - Your Money is Safe with Scenic & Continental Car Tours. In accordance with the EC Package Travel Directive, Scenic & Continental Car Tours operates a system of client trust accounts, the ultimate in payment protection. This means every penny you pay to us is ring-fenced and audited by an independent firm of accountants and may not be used by us to pay suppliers until you have returned from your holiday. 2. A Great Choice of Hotels - We have literally 1000s of hotels and group rates in our system, so once you decide on your destination and dates of travel, it shouldn’t take us long to confirm availability and give you a firm price. We can also take care of your special requests, including extra night stays, excursion requests, dietary requirements.

BRITISH & IRISH TOURS

5. No Financial Commitment - We take away any financial commitments you may incur - i.e. hotel deposits, tickets etc. allowing you to just get on with promoting your tour to your members or friends. 6. Marketing support - We’ll always offer to help with leaflets if you need them to advertise the event, and even offer you the opportunity to promote your tour our website where we can give you your own webpage where your members can even book online. 7. No Surcharge Guarantee - Once you have booked a trip with us, the price will stay the same, no matter how the currency markets change before you travel.

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3. We’ll Support you all the way - We will not take away your role as the group organiser, (unlessyou want us to). If you already know where you want to go or if you have a specific hotel(s) you would like to use, that’s great, if you are just looking for some ideas and suggestions then that’s great too! In either case we will help you to put together the best tour for your group and at the best price possible. 4. Administration - We can take care of all of your administration including, bookings, tour confirmations, payments and ticketing. In addition we’ll make all of your hotel reservations, ferry bookings and take care of any special requests. However if you prefer to take the bookings and payments yourself, then that’s fine.

8. 24 Hour Emergency Back-up - We provide a 24 hour emergency back-up service on all of our tours, giving you the peace of mind that whatever time, day or night, that you can contact one of our team if you or one of your members has a problem. 9. We’ll give you the Time to Sell your Tour From the time we confirm your tour, we can holdoff the hotels and ferries for your tour without commitment for several months while you promote the tour to your members or group of friends. 10. We Really do Care - It’s true, we really do want you and your group to have the best tour experience because we know that if you do you’re more likely to book with us again and tell your friends about us!

For more information on our group tour planning service call our Group Relations Manager Kieran on: 01732 879153 or see: www.sceniccartours.com

GROUP TOUR HALF PAGE MG Safety Fast May 2018.indd 1

MOTORSPORT & WORLDWIDE TOURS

& Contine al nt

2018 SVW Register AGM Venue: De Vere Tortworth Court Hotel. Wotton-underEdge, Gloucestershire. GL12 8HH Date: Tuesday July 10 2018 Time: 18.30 hrs AGENDA 1. Apologies for Absence 2. Approval of minutes of previous AGM held on July 5 2017 3. Matters Arising 4. Chairman’s report

Did you know - in addition to our Scenic Car Tours programme, we have a dedicated groups department to arrange exclusive, bespoke tours for MG groups or groups of friends. Groups can be as low as 3 or 4 cars and there is no limit to the number of cars, subject to availability of course!

MG unwraps its X-Motion concept

DEDICATED MG BESPOKE TOURS

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NEWS

R A

VEHICLES OF HISTORICAL IMPORTANCE (VHI) Chart AND Substantial Change, VHI declaration and MOT exemption 2 THE MOT TEST Was the car built or first registered at least 40 years ago (on a rolling basis) and of a type no longer in production?

Yes

Has the car undergone substantial change in the technical characteristics of its main components in the previous 30 years?

DfT: Substantial Change Guidance Chassis or monocoque bodyshell – replacements of the same pattern as the original are not considered a substantial change. Axles or running gear – alteration of the type or method of suspension or steering constitute a substantial change. Engine – alternative engine size of the same basic engine are not considered a substantial change. If the number of cylinders in an engine is different from the original, it is likely but not necessarily the case the current engine is not alternative original equipment. But the following are considered acceptable (not substantial) changes if they fall into these specific categories: Changes made to preserve a vehicle, which in all cases must be when original type parts are no longer reasonably available. Changes made of a type that can be demonstrated to have been made when the vehicles of the type were in production or in general use (within 10 years of the end of production). Changes made to axles and running gear made to improve efficiency, safety and environmental performance. See DfT: Substantial Change Guidance

Yes

Owner or keeper can self declare the car a Vehicle of Historic Interest (VHI)

Owner or keeper self declares the car a VHI

Owner or keeper decides not to declare the car a VHI

Vehicle is MOT exempt Owner or keeper can have a voluntary MOT test or inspection TABS – test and be safer

Legal requirement to maintain the car in a roadworthy condition when on public roads

V8 Register – MG Car Club

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Insurance condition usually requires the insured to maintain the car in a roadworthy condition

180403-MOT-exemption-VHI-flowchart-R3

Most vehicles manufactured or first registered over 40 years ago will, from the May 20 2018, be exempt from periodic testing unless they have been substantially changed within the previous 30 years. The Department for Transport (DfT) has published a set of guidelines to assist owners in deciding which, if any, more recent changes to their vehicle would be considered as “substantial”. The DfT understands that owners may feel they need to consult a specialist prior to making this declaration and have asked the Federation of British Historic Vehicle Clubs to compile and publish on its website a list of marque specialists who have indicated their willingness to advise owners unsure of their vehicle’s status.

Vehicle must have an annual MOT test

The MG Car Club Ltd is the MG marque specialist. All the relevant MGCC Registers have nominated members to give an opinion on VHI and substantial change. However the FBHVC asked for one contact with MGCC on this topic, so it was agreed that all enquiries will be directed to John Hutchison who will pass them to the appropriate Register. Keepers of VHIs claiming an exemption from the MoT test should make a self-declaration when renewing their vehicle tax. The responsibility to ensure the declared vehicle is a VHI and meets the criteria rests with the vehicle keeper as part of their due diligence.

Keepers of VHIs exempt from periodic testing continue to be responsible for their vehicle’s roadworthiness so can continue to voluntarily submit vehicles for MOT testing.

Process Flow Chart An excellent flow chart of the VHI Declaration process has been prepared by Victor Smith printed to the left, or can be downloaded from http://www. v8register.net/articles/180403-MOTexemption-VHI-flowchartt-R3.pdf

M R B

O cy pe al to

A Summary of the DfT Guidelines Chassis or monocoque bodyshell – replacements of the same pattern as the original are not considered a substantial change. Axles or running gear – alteration of the type or method of suspension or steering constitute a substantial change. Engine – alternative engine size of the same basic engine are not considered a substantial change. If the number of cylinders in an engine is different from the original, it is likely but not necessarily the case the current engine is not alternative original equipment. But the following are considered acceptable (not substantial) changes if they fall into these specific categories: Changes made to preserve a vehicle, which in all cases must be when original type parts are no longer reasonably available. Changes made of a type that can be demonstrated to have been made when the vehicles of the type were in production or in general use (within 10 years of the end of production). Changes made to axles and running gear made to improve efficiency, safety and environmental performance. Further information can be found in the FBHVC Newsletters for 2018 here http://fbhvc.co.uk/members-pages/ newsletter-archive/

M B A

Co di

AU v v v v v v v v v v

STOC OF:

www.mgcc.co.uk

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Convert worn wire wheel axles to disc wheel axles with this kit

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OPENING HOURS: Mon-Fri 8.15am-5.30pm Sat 9.00am - 1.00pm All prices are correct at time of going to press but may be subject to change. PLEASE MENTION THIS ADVERT WHEN PLACING YOUR ORDER TO OBTAIN THESE PRICES. All orders subject to availability. All prices include VAT @20%. CARRIAGE EXTRA

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Black interior, Black vinyl hood, 15” Minilite alloys, tonneau. Currently undergoing full repaint and some fettling in our workshops. Currently LHD but can be converted if required

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MG TD 1952

US car, total frame off restoration 200 miles ago, engine, g/box and diff rebuilt, lovely car, stored in dry desert climate. Can convert to RHD £28,995 for extra £1000.

For up-to-date listings on our cars for sale visit www.ukmgparts.com

STOCKISTS OF:

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

THE MG CAR CLUB TRIPLE-M 2017 YEARBOOK The enlarged 2017 Yearbook now has 88 pages, and includes a number of articles featuring signifi cant historic and technical aspects of the cars that made MG. Triple-M cars are increasingly active in competition of all types and this lavishly illustrated, full-colour, glossy A4 publication includes an account of their exploits during 2017 throughout Britain and abroad, together with an abundance of high-quality photographs.

The Triple-M Register 2017 Yearbook offers much of interest for enthusiasts of cars of the pre-war era – MGs and other marques alike – in a professionally presented publication, with a limited print edition. Now is the ideal time to add it to your bookshelf. Priced modestly at £12 plus p&p from the Club shop at https://shop. mgcc.co.uk or phone Ineke on 01235 849737.

LATEST ARRIVALS IN KIMBER STORES BLACK LEATHER BELT

Sizes 32-36 M, 36-40 L, 44-48 XL, embossed with the MG logo – £16.50. This high-quality black leather belt is made of 100% genuine leather, with a stainless steel pin buckle, premium quality for sure. Available only through the MG Car Club, either online at https://shop. mgcc.co.uk or by phoning Ineke on 01235 849737.

BROWN SOFT LEATHER DRIVING GLOVES. Sizes L and XL – £21. Beautifully warm and soft, these gloves will be a fi rm favourite during the cold drives in the year. Made of soft leather, these gloves will look perfect with both formal and casual outerwear. Available only through the MG Car Club, either online at https:// shop.mgcc.co.uk or by phoning Ineke on 01235 849737.

BROWN OR BLACK LEATHER WALLETS, embossed with the MG logo – £12.50. Upgrade your gentlemanly essentials with a billfold wallet. Crafted from sumptuous leather, it features a bifold profi le which opens to reveal various card slots with a coin pocket and a note compartment to stow your fi nancial valuables. Defi ned by MG embossment, this wallet will lend a luxurious statement to your accessories portfolio. Available only through the MG Car Club, either online at https://shop.mgcc.co.uk or by phoning Ineke on 01235 849737.

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www.mgcc.co.uk

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POSTBAG

VEHICLES OF HISTORICAL IMPORTANCE The letter published in the May edition of Safety Fast! concerning Vehicles of Historical Importance contained several factual errors. Having been tasked with preparing the MGCC List of Experts to support the FBHVC with Vehicle of Historical Importance matters I have, after seeking further advice, the following comments on the errors. The Guidelines were published by the Department for Transport who are responsible for this legislation only after detailed and lengthy discussions with the FBHVC and other government agencies, particularly the DVLA and DVSA. The statement “... the fact that the engine bears a Riley identification plate almost certainly would (disqualify the car from VHI status): The DfT criteria states Engine – alternative engine size of the same basic engine are not considered a substantial change. It can easily be established that the Riley engine is the “same basic engine” and an “alternative size”.

The statement “It’s possible the power increase wouldn’t disqualify the car from VHI status ...” is not relevant. There was a proposal from DfT last year that a test for substantial change status was to limit any power increase to 15%. This proposal was withdrawn as soon as the FBHVC demonstrated it was totally unviable. In a similar vein and even earlier in the negotiation process, the DfT proposed use of the DVLA eight-point rule as a similar test; this too was withdrawn following representations by both DVLA and the FBHVC. There is also a suggestion that “replacement SU type HIF carburettors ... would almost without doubt throw the car out of VHI status.” Carburation is not defined within the Guidelines. Whilst understanding the description of the MGA 1500 for sale it should be pointed out that the EU Roadworthiness Directive applies to Roadworthiness NOT Authenticity. George Wilder

RESPONSE TO CHAIRMAN’S NOTES I read with interest the refreshing April Chairman’s Notes that, I believe, were a response to members’ comments on the Chairman’s musings on Motorsport. The Notes, entitled “Balance”, can only lead me to conclude that the MGLive! event is suffering from vertigo. What I understand to be the UK Club’s annual National Event has, for as long as I have been a member of the Club, been heavily biased to racing with everything else being a sideshow. Two years ago, it was decided that with rapidly declining ticket sales it was time to reformat the event. Meetings of some interested individuals were convened, new formats and events considered and a three-year change programme started. June 2018 will be the second of the ‘new format’ MGLive! It will be at the same venue as it has been for countless years and will centre around … racing. Some, but not all, of the old sideshows will be there, making me wonder if year three of this process will perhaps concentrate just on racing! Not exactly what I would call ‘balanced’. I do not believe, and the many other events organised by the Centres would appear to support, that the majority of the members of this Club want the main focus of the Club to constantly be ‘racing’, or that the National Event should always be at Silverstone. The European MG clubs, as well as those of Australia, South Africa and the USA, rotate their annual events around their geographical area, including those that have their own ‘iconic’ race tracks. If the racing enthusiasts want an annual meeting at Silverstone then they should organise that separately from the National Event, perhaps as one of their six meetings a year.

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P The National Event should move around the country to different venues. The format and organisation could be undertaken jointly by two or three neighbouring Centres each year, working within a centrally controlled budget and with support from Kimber House. This way, over a period of four or five years, all members can have an involvement and easy access to MGLive! I realise this is a somewhat unorthodox approach for the UK, but if the theme of the event is decided by the organising Centres then over a period of time everyone would have an event that is of interest to them and within a reasonable distance. This should truly deliver “Balance”. Roy Locock

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08/05/2018 11:32:18 23/05/2018 15:50

MGLIVE!

MGLIVE! 2018

MGLive! 2018 With the world’s biggest MG party, MGLive!, fast approaching we’re happy to announce more attractions and displays that will be taking place at the Silverstone Circuit on June 2-3.

As well as a big weekend of entertainment, Duckhams Oils will be on hand to offer advice and answer technical questions from MG owners. They’ll also be offering a discount on products to MG Car Club members.

Duckhams Oils gets into gear for MGLive! The MG Car Club has teamed up with Duckhams Oils for MGLive! 2018, working together to create the new Duckhams Village Green at this year’s showpiece for all things MG. The iconic oil brand, Duckhams returned to the market with a relaunch at the 2017 Classic Motor Show, which included a new website at www.duckhams.com and has quickly established a relationship with the MG Car Club. Located at the heart of the event, the Duckhams Village Green will feature a weekend of live music, fun and games, all hosted by Practical Classics editor, Danny Hopkins. “Danny has a great rapport with the MG community,” said Duckhams Classic, Motorsport and Industrial Director, Martin Gough. “He’s owned Midgets, MGBs and MG ZTs to name just three. He really understands what makes MGs and MG owners tick and we’re thrilled that he’s going to be our host for the weekend.”

MG Motor put the ‘Live!’ into MGLive! Iconic British brand MG is teaming up with the MG Car Club to create the inaugural MG Motor Live Arena at MGLive! 2018. With the event fast approaching, the Club is pleased to announce this exciting extra feature to what is already a packed schedule at the world’s biggest MG gathering. The Arena will feature a whole host of attractions, including Russ Swift’s precision stunt show, which for the fi rst time will feature the all-new MG ZS compact SUV and a one-off, turbocharged MGB GT. They’ll be joined by the MG3 Trophy, which will also be making its debut in the Arena. Daniel Gregorious, Head of Sales and Marketing at MG Motor UK, said: “We’re delighted to be attending this year’s MGLive! event and supporting our friends at the MG Car Club. MGLive! is one of the highlights of the year and it’s fantastic to meet so many people with real enthusiasm for our brand.”

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For those looking to get behind the wheel, the team from MG Motor will also be offering test drives in the GS and ZS SUVs, plus the popular MG3 supermini, giving MG enthusiasts the chance to discover why MG is the fastest-growing car brand in the UK this year. Alongside stunt shows and test drives, MG Motor UK will be unveiling a fi rst for the marque in the form of an Art Car. Using an MG3 as a blank canvas, the Art Car will be designed by students from Coventry University. And, our friends from MG China are bringing a quartet of 2018 China-spec MG6s to the show. It’s the fi rst time the car has been displayed anywhere in Europe and it’ll be joining our 635 Register display on Sunday at the show. Why not say ‘hello’, see the car and meet the owners?

www.mgcc.co.uk

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THE MG CAR CLUB PRESENTS

2 - 3 JUNE 2018 sILVERsTONE CIRCUIT

SPANNING OVER 90 YEARS OF HERITAGE RIGHT UP TO THE PRESENT DAY

3000 MGs ON SHOW MOTORSPORT ON THE GP CIRCUIT MG MOTOR LIVE ARENA RUSS SWIFT’S STUNT DISPLAY NEW MG TEST DRIVES CHILDREN’S ACTIVITIES CAMPING CARS FOR SALE SPECIALIST TRADERS LIVE MUSIC CONCOURS PRIDE OF OWNERSHIP AND MORE!

TICKETS STILL AVAILABLE ON THE GATE! W W W. M G L I V E . C O. U K Safety Fast_June18_Front.indd 17

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y MG story began in 1981 with the purchase of a 1978 MGB GT, DVV 350T, the second I saw and the fi rst I drove. It wasn’t long before I found the MG Car Club at the Milton Natter, near Cambridge, and later the new Natters near Bury St Edmunds and Watton which bought me valued friendships that have lasted to this day and are rekindled at MGLive! Silverstone every year. A Cambridge Natter trip to the Luxembourg Weekend in 1982 was my fi rst European outing with my MGB GT. Amongst all the fun and a speedy session on the Goodyear tyre test track, the whole adventure showed me that crazy people rebuild hopelessly rusted and clapped-out old cars into splendid examples of British engineering – so I just had to have one! After looking at two incredibly rusty MGAs, one of which was more a garden feature than a car, I found AER 155B in a back alley beside Parker’s Piece in the middle of Cambridge for £200 – a one-owner 1964 MGB in a much paler blue colour than the original Iris Blue, and most importantly it was ripe for

a rebuild. Once it had been trailered 40 miles home, my Father and I set about the work, learning as we went. The exception to this learning was the engine, where his experience as a Flight Engineer on Avro Lancasters during the Second World War meant that my B series was built by a man more at home with Rolls Royce Merlin engines than the four pot B series. He also joined the Car Club with an early MGA 1500 (PLU 340L) that I found him and later inherited, and which he re-registered as NFO 531 – highly appropriate as ”NF” was the aircraft number prefi x for 138 Squadron for whom he fl ew SOE special operations from RAF Tempsford into occupied Europe during World War II. The rebuild was aided and abetted by having Beer of Houghton and the MGB Hive within easy travelling distance, and despite drooling over the race cars at Beers I was soon steering away from my grand notion of building a works racer lookalike and towards keeping AER 155B just as it was when it was new. This was helped by uncovering the original Iris Blue under the carpets and seeing another early Iris Blue car (175 DAH) in the paddock at the Car Club’s Brands Hatch race meeting in 1982

John and his MGB 18 SAFETY FAST! JUNE 2018

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www.mgcc.co.uk

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TIME TO B

SUPERCHARGED By John Prewer Photos: Shaun Flannery Photography Ltd, UK

www.mgcc.co.uk

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when, unlike today, seeing an Iris Blue MGB was a very rare occurrence. I also quite liked the idea of fi tting some of the aftermarket modifi cations available in the mid-sixties that are quite rare now, but more of that later. Of course, being an MG Car Club member motorsport entered my DNA, and together with Patrick Nicholls I began organising an annual track day at Snetterton. This was long before MGs on Track, and so quite an unusual event in the calendar. When the event became no longer viable a group of participants got together and started the Anglia Phoenix MG Championship that is now the Peter Best Championship, so I can make a tenuous claim to fame of having lit the blue touch paper on some great racing for the Car Club. I took to the race tracks myself, albeit briefl y, starting with an encouraging class win at a hillclimb held as part of the 1985 Dutch Weekend – yes there are hills in Holland! I was more than slightly proud when AER 155B took me to winning the Hanks Trophy at the Car Club’s Silverstone Race Meeting. Back then it was the trophy given to the best newcomer and AER 155B hadn’t raced before! It is a truly magnifi cent trophy, the best MG TD model I have ever seen, and was a great talking point on my coffee table for the following year. This all ended literally with a bump at Oulton Park where I lost it at Lodge Corner, but I did have the opportunity of sympathising in the paddock with Malcolm Beer who also dented his very well-known fullhouse MGB GT V8. It made me feel a lot better to know that the experts also have these mishaps.

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As purchased, AER 155B had a couple of unusual accessories. First, a ‘fl ash to pass’ switch that I couldn’t fi nd out anything about at the time, took off and now much to my annoyance have completely lost (if anyone out there has one I am very defi nitely in the market for it). Second, it was fi tted with a Kenlowe Fan, thermostat and override switch from the 1960s that even after all these years I have never seen the like of on another car. Though the BL Heritage certifi cate states that the original tonneau was black, I added a blue one that was probably older than the car. Sandra

at the MGB Hive told me that this was found in a chicken shed and she thought my car would be the ideal home for it! Also, when trading parts for my MGA with a man just down the road from Beer of Houghton, I bought some Nokof dummy spinners for disc wheels. These make MGB steel wheels look vaguely like MGA Twin Cam wheels and are a pukka 1960s aftermarket accessory. I was already on the lookout for them, having seen a Motor magazine road test from 1966 that featured an MGB GT fi tted with a set. Smallwood Metal Finishers in Peterborough did an excellent job of

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THE BIG PROBLEM WAS LOWERING THE COMPRESSION OF THE 1964 VINTAGE 18GA ENGINE TO ALLOW THE SUPERCHARGER TO WORK WELL, ESPECIALLY DIFFICULT AS NOBODY WAS SUPERCHARGING MGBS BACK THEN

restoring them and after a lot of work they replaced my hub caps. In 1986 Doug Barham, an MGC owner from Bury St Edmunds, offered to sell me a Shorrock Supercharger kit, as marketed in the 1960s specifi cally for an MGB, for £200 and… well the outcome was obvious. This was a fully functional and near pristine C142B Shorrock Supercharger, complete with a 1 3/4’’ Stromberg carburettor on a manifold made for an MGB, a manifold to fi t a B series cylinder head, and fi ttings for the front plate of the B series engine itself. And so then the fun started and I set about fi tting it to my car.

www.mgcc.co.uk

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The big problem was lowering the compression of the 1964 vintage 18GA engine to allow the supercharger to work well, especially diffi cult as nobody was supercharging MGBs back then. Low compression pistons for a threemain bearing engine were no longer available, and to fi t later pistons to the earlier engine I found out that I needed MGA Twin Cam con-rods which were £275 each at the time, nearly 30 years ago! Back then I had many more urgent places for this sort of money. The project was put on hold until, a few years later, I went for an MOT to Beer of Houghton, got talking to the late Syd Beer, and

mentioned to him what I had. A deal was done to swap my supercharger for an overdrive gearbox fi tted to my non-overdrive car (a very worthwhile upgrade). Another unsuccessful venture was fi tting the Heron Fastback hardtop that I bought from Patrick Nichols in East Dereham. This hardtop incorporates its own boot lid – you remove the original MGB boot lid and fi t the sleek fastback hardtop with its integral smaller boot lid. This, too, is a rarity and I have only seen three others – one fi tted at the Danbury Natter in the 80s, one on sale at Beaulieu about the same time, and one

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in a picture on the web from Germany. I bought new headlining and seals for it and painted it Iris Blue to match my MGB, but that is as far as the project got because my Arkley Sprite racer and another MGA (9950 MH, a Chariot Red 1600) got in the way. Of course, being me I still have this hardtop and everything to make it as good as new, so maybe one day… AER 155B is always taking me around in circles. It went round the clock at an MOT when I delivered it for its annual physical to Syd Beer with “00000” miles on the clock which he duly wrote on the certifi cate with every zero – my ex-wife had wondered why I went around the roundabout up the road three times, until I told her what I was up to. A bigger circle was 25 years after buying the car in Cambridge, when I found that my daughter’s headmaster in York was the son of the man I bought it from! Martyn Andrews put me in touch

with his stepmother, Gwen, who was the main driver in the ‘60s and ‘70s and she provided me with a photo of the car when it was brand new and more details of its history. It turns out that a Shell European Touring Map which I found under the driver’s seat when I rebuilt the car was left over from her husband’s trip to communist Czechoslovakia in the 1960s, a complete story and adventure in itself, I am sure. Czechoslovakia is a lot further from home than Heidelberg, which is my most distant trip, so beating that distance record is a challenge for the (near) future! My MGB has taken me camping in the Mosel Valley and the West Coast of Scotland, to work in most parts of the UK, and whilst working away to a couple of dozen MG Car Club Natters around the country. It may be 54 years old, but a trip to my daughter’s school had her best friend drooling; apparently it is a “very cool” car and she wants one!

So what about that Shorrock Supercharger? Well, I had the car rebuilt again for the MGB’s 50th anniversary, but more importantly for its 50th birthday on February 28 2014, as I wanted it to be in tip-top condition. Rather than do it myself and take years, I gave it to Malcolm Beer who did a splendid job, and when I picked the car up from where he had parked it next to this famous ex-works MGB, GRX 307D, I just had to ask if he still had the supercharger. “It’s on a shelf back there,” he replied. “Look good in my car, wouldn’t it?” said I; and so the deal was struck for the supercharging to go ahead. First, I retrieved AER 155B’s original engine from under my garage bench. For most of its life with me the car had been fi tted with a 1963 18G engine that I built specifi cally for racing, with the help of Vegantune in Spalding, a terrifi c engineering fi rm better known in Lotus circles. Later this engine gained a

IT TURNS OUT THAT A SHELL EUROPEAN TOURING MAP WHICH I FOUND UNDER THE DRIVER’S SEAT WHEN I REBUILT THE CAR WAS LEFT OVER FROM HER HUSBAND’S TRIP TO COMMUNIST CZECHOSLOVAKIA IN THE 1960s

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great unleaded head that Malcom Beer built for me with nice, big valves, so the plan was for him to rebuild the 18GA short engine with this cylinder head and a camshaft suitable for the vane-type Shorrock Supercharger. All went well. The engine was done, and then came Malcolm’s bombshell of “You have to run it in for a thousand miles or so before we can supercharge it”. Dammit! All ready to go and now I had to wait, but after 30-odd years I still had patience, and when let loose following a steady 500 miles the new engine proved to be an absolute cracker – I’ve never driven a four-cylinder MGB with so much low-down grunt just where it counts for 90% of my driving. One problem is that the excellent camshaft doesn’t come with a rev

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counter drive for the early MGB manual rev counter, so I tried fi xing up an electronic Smiths one with the face from a Manual Jaeger original. Enthusiasm got the better of me and it reads hopelessly wrong, so I have learned my lesson and the next job is to actually get a Smiths one working properly before I try that trick again! After a year more of delay, which was evenly 50% from Malcolm having other cars to attend to and 50% from me the supercharging went ahead, along with fi xing the petrol tank and a few other small but vital jobs. Malcolm invited me over to see the engine on the bench fi rst of all. He has the Shorrock inlet manifold from Jean Denton’s supercharged racing MGB and thought of using that, but it would work only

with a hump in the bonnet which he didn’t want to do. He also showed me another of his possessions – the enormous Shorrock Supercharger that was the MG Car Company’s spare for the MG EX181 record-breaking car that is now in the British Motor Museum in Gaydon. I returned again to see the engine in the car, and to say that the workmanship is top notch is an absolute understatement! It’s made me realise that doing the job myself would have been a completely futile exercise. Though there are parts in the Shorrock MGB kit that help, it is a really tight fi t. There is a rose joined stay for adjusting the belt and modifi cations and tweaks to get it sitting just right, but I would have to attend to the under-bonnet soundproofi ng as it didn’t’ fi t with the supercharger underneath it. Also, the engine is moved back in the car to allow for the supercharger drive belts. Years earlier I had spotted a Jaeger supercharger boost gauge in Malcolm’s display cabinet that exactly matches the early MGB Jaeger instruments. To

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AER 155B in 1964

MGB and Hanks Trophy, Silverstone 1986

AER 155B with the roll bar at Stanford Hall 1985

AFTER 30-ODD YEARS I STILL HAD PATIENCE, AND WHEN LET LOOSE FOLLOWING A STEADY 500 MILES THE NEW ENGINE PROVED TO BE AN ABSOLUTE CRACKER – I’VE NEVER DRIVEN A FOUR-CYLINDER MGB WITH SO MUCH LOW-DOWN GRUNT be honest, I don’t think Malcolm even remembered that he had this rarity, but it gained a new home in my car. The alternative would have been to fi nd a Shorrock one, which are not quite as rare as hens’ teeth but usually come up in white with black numbering that I think would have looked out of place in an MGB. The fi nal tuning got a bit technical and involved getting the pulleys the right size and a lot of referring to Shorrock manuals that aren’t exactly easy to come by now. Malcolm also managed to get a look at an original and apparently unused Shorrock C142B for some pointers, and it transpired that mine is an early one, as the later version had some very useful timing marks in the casing. Upon collection I found that the brakes have also been upgraded. All in all, Malcolm Beer has given the car a very thorough going-over in many ways that I didn’t ask for, but which it certainly needed. The niggles I mentioned have been ironed out whilst retaining the originality of the car, which Malcolm rates so highly he has said he would like fi rst refusal if I ever have to sell it. My fi rst drive was spent sorting out the timing and jetting of the carb to get it running properly; this after all is a one-off and possibly unique induction set-up nowadays. Straight away I noticed not only that it fl ies, but that it

www.mgcc.co.uk

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takes off with no hesitation in second gear – plenty of torque there, then. It is a hoot to drive around at ordinary single-carriageway road speeds, which is exactly what I wanted. As a vane type supercharger, the Shorrock is rated for 3,500 revs constant running (more than the speed limit!) and 5,500 maximum, and so is not a highrev screamer. I took the MGB to the gloriously named Bogg Brothers, near Malton, for a rolling road session to get it running just right. A shed in the middle of nowhere had some amazing machinery being attended to, and Dave Bogg with his rolling road got the car running spot on. It is exactly what I wanted in a road-going MGB with the power usable for ordinary driving, since AER 155B isn’t going to take to the race tracks and hillclimbs again (been there, done that!). What I now have is close to an MGC in terms of power, but when not used in anger it has the economy of an MGB and has relegated my MG TF 135 to third in my small MG fl eet’s performance tables. Fuel consumption did worry me on fi rst fi ll up, but there had been so much static running and playing around with the single 2” SU carburettor that it was nowhere close to what I achieved on the second tankful. Perhaps I should mention that under the bonnet looks marvellous, and the car itself is looking good too – no bump in the bonnet and

I took the opportunity to remove the FIA roll bar from the car’s racing days, so there is now nothing external to show the performance. Premium fuel plus an occasional drop of additive is needed because of the boost. The Shorrock Supercharger also needs an occasional squirt of grease in the front bearing and, as the back bearing is lubricated from the engine, the oil level needs a bit more monitoring than before. What I have is an early MGB supercharged the way an early MGB would have been just after it was built, and that to me is the point of the whole exercise. Apart from Costello conversions and a few other rarities, there aren’t many examples showing how our cars would have been upgraded when brand new. All’s well that ends well after 35 years… except I still have one left-over project from the 1980s – my Heron GTB fastback hardtop which shows how a hardtop MGB would have looked before the MGB GT was made. If all goes well, my next project will be another MGB to permanently fi t it on; this time I hope to have an HRG cross fl ow head with a couple of Webers powering it – I’m already collecting the rocking horse wotsit rare parts, such as the proper HRG rocker cover which I found on eBay in the USA. By then my MG tally should still be four, provided my daughter comes good on her promise and robs me of my TF 135!

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“There is nothing like Florida for some February sunshine! So why not join me for a fabulous long weekend at Daytona 500!” Tiff Needell

THE DAYTONA 500 RACE WEEKEND 4 night inclusive programme including VIP transfers throughout. Thursday 14 to Monday 18 February 2019 The build up starts on Friday with a stroll down the famous beach and boardwalk, I’ll guide you round the sights with lunch in the famous North Turn Restaurant “where it all began” and later we’ll watch the thrilling Truck race under spotlights. How about deep sea fishing on Saturday or maybe a visit to the Kennedy Space Centre? You can even take a boat out for the day with a relaxed quayside lunch, watching the dolphins. We all get together that night with cold beers and hotdogs to witness the frantic racing spectacle at a local half mile track. Come the big race day, we’ll take a walk on the famous banked track and be

centre stage to watch the driver introductions and all the razzmatazz that goes with it! As the atmosphere builds, the national anthem blasts out and the jets fly over… the hairs on the back of your neck stand up and the Daytona 500 gets underway. There really is nothing quite like it… boogity, boogity boys, let’s go racing!

For more details call 01635 31658 or email Steve@motor-passion.co.uk or check our website www.motor-passion.co.uk

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FWD REGISTER SPRING RUN By Tanya Field

Christopher Lalor who had come from Belgium to join us in his Maestro

The cars lined up at St John the Baptist Church.

t’s hard to believe that this year is the fourth year which the MG FWD Register had organised the Spring Run. For the uninitiated, the MGCC FWD Register’s Spring Run is a heritage run taking in the former UK MG factory sites of Abingdon, Cowley and Longbridge. We stopped for lunch at the British Motor Museum at Gaydon and fi nished the run in the most British of ways with tea and cake at St John the Baptist Church in Longbridge. One of the good things about it now being in its fourth year is that we’ve perfected the organisation of the run and all fi ve venues – well, as perfect as we will ever get it, we’re not perfect! However, it’s no mean feat to work with fi ve venues to allow us to visit them, and then also get 13-14 cars between them all within a certain time frame. We were lucky with the weather because although a shower or two

Group photo at Longbridge

was forecast, we got away with just a few drops on our windscreens. We gathered at Abingdon around 9.00am for a 9.30am prompt start to convoy to Cowley. Amazingly we managed to keep the convoy together through Abingdon, and if you know Abingdon, you’ll know that’s no easy task! We then headed to Cowley on the scenic back roads before joining more cars who had gathered at Cowley. After a cuppa and a quick look around the small museum at Cowley, we then headed off to the British Motor Museum at Gaydon for our lunch break. When we arrived at the British Motor Museum, it was all going

on, with a Jaguar meet, the Classic Car Loan Project handing over cars to new owners to borrow for a year to see if classic cars are for them, and an episode of Bargain Hunt being fi lmed! Consequently, we didn’t have the most beautiful spot to park up in (the background being a building site!), but we could all park together and it was safe, which is the priority for most car owners. After lunch we then headed off to Longbridge to be met by Simon Bennett from the MG Sales Centre who was able to give us a bit of an update as to what is happening with MG at Longbridge and I know that was appreciated by many in the group. Finally, we then convoyed to St John the Baptist Church in Longbridge to fi nish with the obligatory tea and cake, served by the lovely Beryl and her team. Due to the generosity of all fi ve venues, none of which charge us for their use, the MGCC FWD Register is able to put the Spring Run on free of charge, which is a real bonus. A big thank you to the Kimber House staff, MINI Plant Oxford, the British Motor Museum, the MG Sales Centre and St John the Baptist for making the Spring Run possible and to all of those who came along and made the day thoroughly enjoyable. Gathering at Cowley, ready to head to Gaydon

Group photo at Gaydon www.mgcc.co.uk

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MANCHESTER XPAG TESTS FUEL AND TUNING â&#x20AC;&#x201C; PART I FUEL By Paul Ireland

Introduction Thank you to everybody for your positive comments on the articles so far. Their aim has been to help owners understand the fundamental issues behind the problems caused by modern petrol, better equipping them to put in place measures to mitigate the symptoms. The next three articles summarise my suggestions on possible solutions. The main thing to remember that our cars are not the same, differences have accumulated with the passage of time as various owners have made tweaks and mods to make them run better. The severity of the problems experienced by owners varies immensely, even between the same models of car. A solution that may work well for one car may not resolve the same problems in another. The suggestions in these articles should be taken just as that: suggestions for people to try. They are not intended as solutions to be blindly adopted. Owners mainly experience two problems when using modern petrol: 1) the engine spluttering to a stop in slow-moving or stop-start traffic, particularly on hot days, 2) The hot restart problem where a hot engine cannot be restarted after it has been

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switched off for about five minutes. Some owners also experience burnt exhaust valves and cracked heads, problems also related to the use of modern petrol. The Cause? A larger fraction of modern petrol is volatile at temperatures below 50oC compared with classic petrol. Ultimately, this leads to the Weak Running problem described previously. The Manchester XPAG tests also identified a second problem, Slow Combustion. This appears to be at its worst at normal road driving speeds. It increases the temperature of the cylinder head, the exhaust manifold and the under-bonnet temperature (hence the burnt valves and cracked cylinder heads) and it makes the Weak Running problem worse. These problems do not affect modern cars. Firstly, their computercontrolled fuel injection systems provide a more accurate, finely atomised and better mixed charge of fuel. Secondly, petrol is circulated from the petrol tank to the injectors under pressure which increases the petrolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s boiling point. Unused petrol is circulated back to the tank to cool down. In the first of these articles I discuss basic steps that can be taken

to help avoid fuel vaporisation. The later articles will cover retuning the engine to help reduce the severity of the potentially more damaging Slow Combustion problem. Petrol Volatility Petrol is not a single substance, it consists of many different hydrocarbons, each with a different boiling point. If you heat modern petrol, some components will start to evaporate or boil at relatively low temperatures, whilst others will still be liquid at temperatures well above the boiling point of water. Unfortunately, at typical under-bonnet engine temperatures of around 50oC, a significant volume of modern petrol can evaporate. This leads to vapour forming in the fuel system, particularly problematic when it is in the carburettor jet, which makes the mixture very weak causing the engine to falter and stop. The most effective way to address this problem is to use a fuel that is less volatile at low temperatures. Easier said than done! The graph at the top of the next page shows the list of fuels that were tested at Manchester and the percentage by volume that evaporated

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fuel, adding kerosene or using a bespoke fuel such as Anglo American Oil Sunoco Optima 98, there is little that can be done to ensure you are using a low volatility petrol. However, if you do suffer from volatility problems, it is worth trying a different brand, grade or filling station.

when the temperature reached 50oC (hot running) and 75oC (a temperature possibly reached in stop-start traffic). Those at the top with a lower volume evaporating are the best fuels to use. Unfortunately, with the exception of Sunoco Optima 98, the top four performing fuels are either not available or not legal for road use. For the first of these three fuels, less than 5% evaporated at 50oC and, if used on the road, they would not suffer from the Weak Running problem. In contrast, at this temperature, nearly 20% of a common brand of 95 Octane evaporated, increasing to 46% at 75oC. Certainly sufficient to cause the Weak Running problem. Indeed, it was this fuel that showed this problem during our tests. In defence of this petrol, the tests at Manchester were run in March and it is highly probable that it was a more volatile winter grade. It is also worth noting that adding 10% kerosene to this petrol reduced the volatility by 5% at 50oC and 10% at 75oC, not a cure, but a significant improvement. Unfortunately, you do not know what petrol you are filling your car with. This was demonstrated at Manchester where two batches of the same brand of 95 octane petrol, bought from a filling station close to the University within days of each other, proved to be very different. One contained ethanol, the other did not and the XPAG ran very differently on each of these batches. Other than avoiding winter grade

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Keep the Petrol Cool One means of avoiding the Weak Running problem is to keep the petrol under the bonnet as cool as possible. Needless to say, the engine cooling system should be working efficiently. Once every two years or so, flush the engine and radiator with clean water. If fitted, ensure the thermostat is working properly. Wetting agents in the cooling water are also claimed to help reduce temperatures. At Manchester we saw the hot restart problem in five tests; however, as the engine was retuned for every test, it did not cause any running issues. For the majority of tests, the carburettor temperatures were not high enough to indicate vaporisation would cause a problem; however, they were sufficiently high that even a small increase would have been problematic. The tests also suggested the hot restart problem was mainly caused by hot gases from the inlet manifold raising the temperature of the carburettors. When you stop a four cylinder engine such as the XPAG, one cylinder will have its inlet valve open allowing residual hot gases to leave the cylinder and flow back into the inlet

manifold. With no air flowing through the engine bay coupled with heat soak from the engine, it is sufficient to raise the temperature of the fuel, such that a significant percentage will boil in the carburettor jet. This has a double negative effect. Firstly, it blows liquid fuel out of the jet which runs down the inlet manifold; secondly, it prevents the carburettor from delivering the correct mixture. Try to start the engine, it briefly coughs into life, running rich as the liquid fuel in the inlet manifold enters the cylinder, then it stops because of the weak mixture. Sometimes, it is possible to restart the engine using the choke and after a few coughs and splutters, normal running returns as cold petrol fills the float chambers. One possible solution when stopping the engine for a short period is to blip the throttle, turn off the ignition while the engine is still revving and then press the accelerator. This will let cold air enter the cylinders before the engine stops, but at the risk of having it run on. The cause of the stop-start traffic problem is different. Even though the engine is lightly loaded and not generating a lot of heat, there is little airflow under the bonnet, allowing temperatures to increase. At the same time the flow of fuel through the petrol pump, petrol hoses and float chambers is low, giving more time for it to heat up and start to vaporise. This is typical of the problems seen by owners, their cars run without

The petrol pump, cross pipe from the petrol pump to the carburettors and air intake are in the hot air at the top of the engine

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problems in moving traffic and only start to misfire and stop when the traffic flow drops to a near standstill. The best way to address this is to ensure the minimum volume of petrol is held under the bonnet. Keep hoses short and avoid â&#x20AC;&#x153;reservoirsâ&#x20AC;? such as large fuel filters, etc. Ensure the fuel hoses, the air inlet and components holding petrol, are placed away from hot parts of the engine and, if possible, in the cooler air flow. Use ducts or baffles to direct cold air onto the fuel system components, heat shields to prevent radiant heat reaching them. Only insulate parts of the fuel system as a last measure. Insulation does not stop the heat flow, it only slows it down; so when the engine stops, the heat will soak in and it will then take longer to cool down, possibly making the hot restart problem worse. Insulate hot parts of the engine, eg exhaust manifold and exhaust down pipe, as it will help reduce under-bonnet temperatures as well as preventing heat reaching critical parts of the fuel system. Unfortunately, on the standard MG TC, the petrol pump, cross pipe from the petrol pump to the carburettors and air intake are in the hot air at the top of the engine, not the best place. For example, although not original, pancake filters fitted directly to the carburettor inlet that draw colder air from the slits in the bonnet would be better. Although I do not suffer from the hot restart problem, when switching on the ignition after a short stop, the petrol pump will sometimes continue to click as it tries to pump against the petrol vapour in the fuel pipes or cannot suck vapour from the feed pipe. This shows the potential dangers of running petrol hoses through the hotter parts of the engine bay. Early in its production, the fuel pump in the original MG TF was changed from a low-pressure pump fitted under the bonnet to a high-

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pressure pump fitted at the rear of the car. The reason for doing this is not clear. However, when pumping a liquid it is always better to push it rather than suck it as this avoids cavitation and bubbles. In older cars, where the petrol pump is fitted under the bonnet, it may be worth considering following the example of the TF. Not only will this reduce the problem of cavitation and bubbles in the petrol, the pressure in the fuel lines between the pump and carburettors will be around 50% higher, reducing the volume of fuel evaporating at underbonnet temperatures. A warning: if you do reroute the fuel lines between the tank and carburettors, ensure that at least one part of the circuit is above the top of the petrol tank otherwise you may find petrol syphoning out of a parked car. Ironically, in slow moving traffic, electric fans may make matters worse. They will switch on as the water in the cooling system gets hot, probably around 90oC and blow hot air under the bonnet, further heating the fuel system. If an electric fan is fitted, it should be placed so as not to blow hot air onto the fuel system components. It is also recommended that it is fitted with a run-on so it continues to operate, blowing colder air, after the engine has stopped. One clear message from the Manchester tests was that it was not obvious which parts of the fuel system

get hot. For example, the thermal camera images showed the float bowls to be relatively cool, even though they were close to the inlet manifold whilst the choke levers were surprisingly hot. If you are planning to investigate ways to keep your fuel system cool, it is worth buying an infrared thermometer and a multimeter with a thermocouple. These will allow you to look to identify hot spots in the fuel system after the car has stopped. By extending the thermocouple wire into the cockpit, the multimeter can be used to monitor spot temperatures on-the-move. When you park your car on a hot, sunny day, if it has an exposed petrol tank like the early MGs, try to position the car so it is not exposed to full sunlight. Otherwise you may find you have a tank full of petrol that is sufficiently hot to cause problems when it gets to the engine. Driving Style When I learned to drive, the instructor impressed on me the need to use the gears. Modern cars with their variable cam timing, turbo chargers and computer-managed fuel-injected engines are very flexible and will run and accelerate in virtually any gear. While the long stroke XPAG is a very flexible engine, it does not run as efficiently over the rev range as it may appear. A petrol engine, such as the XPAG, typically only converts about 1/3 of

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the heat energy in the petrol into power, the remaining 2/3 of the heat goes into heating the engine, exhaust and cooling system. By driving the car such that the engine runs most efficiently, it not only saves petrol, but also helps reduce underbonnet temperatures, avoiding petrol vaporisation problems. At Manchester, the height of the suction piston in the carburettor provided a measure of the volume of petrol entering the engine, the dynamometer measured the power output. Dividing the power output by the height of the suction piston, for each of the throttle settings and engine revs, gives a relative measure of the percentage of energy in the petrol that is being converted into power. The higher the percentage, the better. This is shown in the graph above for the 95 octane petrol. This shows how much less efficient the XPAG is below 3000rpm running on full throttle compared to half throttle. An indication of the Slow Combustion problem. It also shows how the efficiency at half throttle starts to drop above 2500rpm, dipping below that of full throttle above 3100rpm. This is caused by the throttle butterfly restricting the airflow into the engine. As my driving instructor advised, when driving your car, use your gears. Avoid the use of full throttle below 3000rpm, change down, and do not let the engine rev on part throttle, change up!

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Conclusion The volatility of modern petrol at relatively low temperatures is the ultimate cause of classic cars stopping in slow moving traffic, especially on hot days, and the hot restart problem. This article has suggested a number of steps that can be taken to help mitigate these problems. Because of the variations in forecourt petrol, choosing a specific brand or grade does not provide a reliable solution. For low mileage cars, Sunoco Optima 98 is a good choice. This is an ethanol-free fuel with a long storage life and which is less volatile than pump fuel at typical underbonnet temperatures. Sunoco Optima 98 is available from Anglo American Oil Company Ltd. a specialist supplier of a wide range of both leaded and unleaded petrol. All fuels are available in 25l drums with a selection available in larger sizes. Delivery can be made throughout the UK, using a hazardous freight carrier. In addition, they stock a range of oils with high ZDDP content blended with classic cars in mind. Orders can be made direct with Anglo American Oil Company via their web shop (www.aaoil.co.uk) or by telephone on 01929 551557, where you can also talk to their technical team about your individual requirements. NOTE: The law limits the amount of petrol that can be stored in a garage, or anywhere within six metres of a

dwelling. Households are allowed to store up to 30 litres of petrol for private use without informing your local Petroleum Enforcement Authority (PEA). That comprises up to 20 litres in two ten-litre metal containers plus up to ten litres in two five-litre plastic containers. An alternative is to add between 5%-10% kerosene (paraffin or heating oil) to the petrol as this reduces the low temperature volatility. If you live in the UK remember, you can do this legally for cars produced before 1956, but you will need to apply to HM Customs and Excise for a Concession. Write to: Mr John Loughney, Excise, Stamps and Money Businesses HM Revenue & Customs, 3rd Floor West, Ralli Quays, 3 Stanley Street, Salford, M60 9LA Requesting a “General Licence to mix hydrocarbon oils under Regulation 43 of the Hydrocarbon Oil Regulations 1973 (SI 1973/1311)” giving your name, address, model and dates of production of the model of your vehicle. However, adding kerosene reduces the octane rating of the fuel. At the 5% to 10% level, especially if a super grade petrol is used, this appears not to cause pinking problems with a standard XPAG. The possible effect on higher compression engines is discussed in the last article. The second problem, Slow Burning is potentially more damaging to an engine because it overheats the valves and cylinder head. Hot valves may also contribute to pinking in higher compression engines. Furthermore, this problem appears at its worst during normal road driving when the extra heat generated by the engine can contribute to the Weak Running problem. The next articles discuss the effect of different fuels and how the carburettors and ignition system can be tuned to reduce the Slow Burning problem.



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MGZS fuel consumption: URBAN 41.0 mpg | 6.9 l/100km, EXTRA URBAN 58.9 mpg | 4.8 l/100km, COMBINED 49.6 mpg | 5.7 l/100km, CO2 Emissions: 129g/km. Model shown: MG ZS Exclusive manual with Tri Coat paint (optional extra £695) in Dynamic Red at £16,190 OTR or £215.87 a month for a 60 month conditional sale agreement. Offer shown available on MG Exclusive manual with solid paint at £15,495 OTR or £199 a month for a 60 month conditional sale agreement. OTR prices include VAT where applicable, vehicle first registration fee, delivery, number plates and 12 months ‘Vehicle Excise Duty’. Fuel consumption values shown are based on official EU test figures and are to be used as a guide for comparative purposes and may not be representative of actual driving results. Offer terms and conditions apply: *0% APR: Conditional sale. 0% APR available on all MG ZS models until 30.6.2018. A minimum deposit of 20% applies. 0% is not in conjunction with any other offer. Finance by MG Financial Services, a trading style of GMAC UK plc, PO Box 6666, Cardiff CF15 7YT, subject to status, availability and terms and conditions. Applicants must be aged 18 or over at participating dealers. See your local dealer or visit mg.co.uk/offers for details. *Available on Excite and Exclusive models

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el nal ff

TRIPLE M NEWSLET TER Jeremy Hawke Tel: +44 (0)1225 863934 mgk3007@btinternet.com • www.triple-mregister.org

WELCOME TO THE TRIPLE M NEWSLETTER THE KIMBER TRIAL The weeks preceding this year’s Kimber were exceedingly wet, giving the organisers several headaches with hill cancellations and route changes to sort out at short notice. Though it’s easy for us competitors to overlook, there is so much work that goes into organising events such as this, held on public rights of way with bucket loads of “stakeholders” and endless “approvals” needed from various authorities. Hats off to Bruce Weston and his South West Centre team who do this every year, largely for the benefi t of MMM owners (for it is us who make up the bulk of the entry list). Our drive down to The Lanes on Friday afternoon was uneventful, with dry weather and the evening spent in enjoyable company chewing over good food and good stories. However, true to forecast, the rain began on Saturday morning as starting times approached. At the fi rst hill,

A still-smiling Kim Jenkins, crew and M Type arriving late for lunch. Photo: Alex Reid

Mike Linward and J2 departing for home, with a bit of cleaning to do. Photo: Alex Reid

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most competitors struggled even to enter the fi eld at Malc’s Orchard. Star performer here was undoubtedly John Haine in his M type who sailed past ‘Section Ends’ effortlessly, though most of us were fi rmly in the higher penalties. Spare a thought for James Mathers and crew, who bust their diff before reaching the fi rst hill (I just let the clutch in gently Guv, honest!) and limped the mile or so back to The Lanes, bar and spa respectively. Meanwhile, the rest of the fi eld ticked off their hills and special tests in ever-improving weather on the way to lunch. Special mention must go to Kim Jenkins in the troublesome M Type – she arrived for lunch as

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the rest of us were fi nishing, having had to fi x several “minor issues” en route, but still managed to set the fastest time of any MMM on the Isles/ Stoney Lane special test (basically fl at out in fi rst and reverse around a corner), proving that you don’t need six cylinders and a supercharger to whizz along. There were a number of instances of “brain fade” on the Oborne restart (note to self: fi rst gear before trying to pull away…) though an anonymous marshal there noted: “Most spectacular failure of the day was Richard Jenkins in his powerful NA, whereas daughter Kim treated it with disdain in her diminutive M Type”. Surely, she has one hand on the Kimber Trophy already? If only things will stop dropping off the car. Alas, the photographers’ favourite Alham Splash had to be cancelled this year, as a

couple of days before the event it was still three feet deep – likely to be a tad challenging even for the experts! At least Batcombe was a little kinder this year, having received a bit of TLC since last, but some things never change and the now-traditional cake stall under the viaduct at Pitcombe, set up by the pupils of Bruton School, raised £263 for Marie Curie Cancer Care – well done to all competitors for supporting this sale so well. Final MMM standings were: 1st – Mark Smith, J2, 2nd Roger Tushingham, PB. Team award: “The Grumpies” – Mike Linward, J2, Richard Jenkins, N, Derek Pearce, TC (proper Cream Cracker, so that’s OK then). With thanks to Alan Grassam for extra detail - JH A well-attended evening dinner saw John Reid entertain us all with tales of the long-term rebuild of “Aramis”, his famous works trials

car, which he has owned for many, many years. Now, this car was due to attend the event basking in glory, having returned to the road a week before, but a supercharger gremlin crept in, confi ning it to the garage. So, apart from a brief appearance at John’s Natter, the rest of us will have to wait just that little bit longer before we clap eyes on it again (I’m now 54 years old and can just about remember last seeing the car at Silverstone when I was still at primary school…). Talk about fi ne wine? Sunday morning saw those with long drives heading off home, whilst others headed off to Barry Foster’s to chew the fat, ogle at a Q Type and have a collective ‘master class’ in diff changing. What better way to round off a thoroughly enjoyable weekend’s motoring? See you all next year.

How many people does it take to change a J2 Diff? James Mather’s car undergoing surgery. Photo: Cat Spoelstra

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MGCC BRANDS HATCH

The MMM grid awaiting the off – Mary Harris Trophy winner John Gillet and K3030 in the foreground. Photo: Jeremy Hawke

Just when you thought it couldn’t get much better – it did! April’s MGCC race meeting at Brands Hatch saw the best MMM show to date and we were even the largest MG grid of the meeting (pat yourselves on the back, chaps) though the second grid was slightly depleted, a bit of attrition is to be expected with the cars now into their 80s. The weather this year was, shall we say, “not as warm as we hoped”; in fact for much of the weekend it was bitterly cold with a greasy track for both races, making things challenging for drivers and interesting/heart stopping for spectators in equal measure. Saturday night’s BBQ provided much-needed warmth and most disappeared off to their beds/sleeping bags that little bit

earlier than previous years. Sunday practice was not without incident, either. Blagging a lift with Mark Dolton over to the holding paddock to take a few pictures, I was handed his tool roll and asked to loiter around the pit-lane “in case of problems” – talk about tempting fate? They were not long in coming; motoring down the pit lane, Roger Tushingham’s N Type gave a couple of coughs and coasted to a halt. On the spot diagnosis proved elusive, so that was the end of his practice (later investigations revealed a camshaft drive fork sheared just where it entered the head – so all appeared to be connected, but the camshaft was doing nothing). He was joined in the pit lane by Adrian Moore, guesting in a decidedly

As rare as they come, Barry Foster presses on in QA0255. Photo: Colin Murrell

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UPCOMING EVENTS AGM – The Register AGM on Sunday June 17 at Kimber House, including buffet lunch for those attending and optional tour round some of the pre-war factory test routes. Details from: George Eagle at geaglemgl2@pipex.com or Dick Morbey: richard.morbey@gmail.com. Silverstone, June 2-3 – The Register will be at MGLive! with small marquee, display car/s, library and refreshments, so those of you who are planning to pop along, please drop in. As I write, the California Cup and Sprint are distinctly light on MMM entries, but hopefully a few will be in come the day itself. MMM Summer Gathering, Sunday July 8 – Our premier social gathering of the year, held at Peter Green’s in Farnham Royal. The event, now in its 14th year, is open to all Triple-M owners and their friends, whether their cars are on the road or not. There will be a self-judging pride of ownership and light-hearted gymkhana for those who wish to take part, as well as some other fun competitions to keep everyone amused. Also, after its success in previous years, there will again be a Bring and Buy stall for those that have parts or memorabilia to sell. The cost of entry is £15 per person, which includes the BBQ lunch and drinks throughout the day. Advance entry is required to determine catering, etc, and the number of participants is restricted to 125, so please do enter in plenty of time to avoid disappointment. An entry form can be downloaded from the ‘Order and Entry Form’ section on the Document Downloads page of this website – www.triple-mregister.org/ forms2.asp?Forms Wiscombe – Once a staple of the MMM calendar, in recent years entries have dwindled a bit. Wiscombe is a fantastic hill for both drivers and spectators, so let’s follow the example set by the racers and make it a bumper entry this year. Details can be found at: www.mg-cars.org.uk/ mgccsc/

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oily and incontinent “Rat” whilst Barry Foster played with the Q Type. Fortunately, Adrian had pulled up long before all oil was lost and after fixing the leaky feed to the head, he made the grid for both afternoon races. For the first race (also for the Mary Harris Trophy) the front row of the grid was annexed by Harry (PA), on pole by over two seconds, and Mike Painter (J2 “Kayne” Special), while row two was shared by Chaz Jones (L Type) and the interloping Seber Wolseley Hornet Special, making up the sharp end of the grid. From the off conditions were slippery to say the least, with several drivers managing to find the green stuff at various times in the race (fortunately without mishap) providing plenty of photo opportunities for photographer Colin Murrell. The Wolseley found its way to the front within a couple of laps and stayed there, though Chaz sneaked ahead of Mike Painter for third. There was good, clean racing throughout the field and smiles aplenty by race end, although Dave Cooksey (C Type) pulled out mid-race with ominous

You can do it in an MG! Standard 4-seat body, no supercharger and he’s pretty quick, too. Andrew Morland and his L1 “Tourer”. Photo: Colin Murrell

engine noises and Barry Foster retired the Q Type just as he got into his stride after popping off one of the car’s inlet manifold connecting pipes (oh the boost!). This was easily sorted by reconnecting good and tight in time to make Race two. The coveted Mary Harris Trophy went to John Gillett in the Ex-Bira/ Brady K3 all the way from Oz. The second race grid was decided by drivers’ second-best practice times, which left Harry Painter again on pole, but allowed Chaz to sneak onto the front row beside him, displacing

Mike P onto row two alongside the consistent Wolseley. Again, the blue car snuck into the lead and held it to the flag, followed by Mike Painter and Andrew Taylor (K3) after a sound drive, keeping it on the black stuff whilst others didn’t. Many, if not more, drivers went “gardening” than in race one, with the Metcalf N Type, Dolton P Type and pole-sitter Harry Painter all failing to make the race end. Another fantastic display of MMM machinery, with spirited, but fair, racing. However, boy was it cold – sort out the sun for next year please, Mark.

WATER-JACKET PLATES The water-jacket plates and the bolts that secure them to the block are a perennial thorn in the side of MMM owners. The thin, pressed mild steel plates eventually rust through and when you go to replace them at least some of the bolts (which are open to the water-jacket inside the block) usually shear off, giving the headache of removing what’s left of the rusty shank. Now, those plates on my J2 have been there since at least the mid80s (pretty good going, I thought) but over the last few years tell-tale rust bubbles have appeared with weeping of coolant. As “our” systems are generally unpressurised, a smear or two of sealant, whilst not particularly attractive, did the job and put off the dreaded day of tackling the bigger task

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for a little bit longer. Last month, after the Kimber Trial, the can had been kicked far enough down the road and with leg-pulling remarks like “have your stud extractors ready”, “don’t envy you with that one” and “s*d of a job” ringing in my ears, I resigned myself to a month or so off the road whilst I sorted it all out properly. Liberal doses of penetrating oil were applied and I waited. To my utmost surprise the first bolt came out easily, and the second…and the third! Too good to last, I thought, but it did; all 28 of them came out without any bother whatsoever. Maybe I should have bought a lottery ticket, was I really that lucky? Perhaps not; on closer examination I discovered that the plates had been fitted with a

gasket which had completely blanked the back of the plate and the stamped recess itself had been smeared with epoxy (or similar). Also, each bolt had been carefully trimmed so that when tightened it was flush with the inside face of the block, not projecting into the water-jacket at all. Lastly, those bolts, the threaded holes in the block and the immediate area behind them, had all been carefully smeared with a non-setting sealant, effectively preventing block/ bolt corrosion for all those years. For those that are interested, the sealant was of the well-known “blue” variety. In short, I was like a dog with two tails. Those that came before us really knew a trick or two about “our cars” – thanks Dad….

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23/05/2018 15:52

Classic and Sports Cars are extremely proud to have for sale this newly completed MG TA Special. This Q- T Type recreation has just been ﬁnished to the highest standard and the rebuild and restoration quality is “probably” the best you will ever see. No expense has been spared and the eye for detail is second to none.

PLEASE NOTE: ALL RIGHTS RESERVED SPEC All aluminium ‘Boat-Tail’ design bodywork based on the MG Q-Type. Small boot space for overnight bag. Side foot plates to aid entry to the interior. Fully overhauled XPAG Engine bored to 1300cc. Ported cylinder head and fully unleaded. New Sports Camshaft and matched distributor. Engine Fully Balanced. Stainless Steel ﬁsh-tail side exhaust.

Brakes Aluminium Alﬁn style brake drums.

THIS ARTWORK IS THE PROPERTY OF CLASSIC CARS FOR SALE MAGAZINE. Differential Differential rebuilt and all bearings replaced.

NO PART OF THIS ARTWORK MAY BE REPRODUCED, STORED OR OTHERWISE Gearbox USED BY ANY OTHER PUBLICATION UNLESS PRIOR PERMISSION Gearbox rebuilt. All bearings and seals replaced.IS GIVEN BY shaft replaced and casting re-bushed. THE PUBLISHERS - © MSRemote Publications (2001) Ltd. Bell Housing shaft replaced and casting re-bushed.

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Dashboard & Instruments Supercharger Period style dashboard anodised matt black. Front mounted direct drive period style supercharger. Period instrumentation and controls matt black anodised bezels. 2” SU carburettor mounted on aluminium supercharger manifolds Largeinrev counter, Radiator Aluminium induction tubes leading to aluminium coated cast iron Please check this proof carefully for errors style, content andTemperature, layout. Supercharge Boost, Oil Pressure, Clock and Lap Counter. inlet manifold with pressure relief.

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Wooden seat frames covered in maroon leather. Side panels with Front – New Andre-Hartford shock absorbers. SHOULD YOU REQUIRE ANY ALTERATIONS TO THIS PROOF PLEASE map pockets also covered in maroon leather. Rear – Overhauled Armstrong hydraulic dampers. SplitQUOTE Tonneau in black mohair. Rebuilt Steering Box TELEPHONE BEFORE _ _ _ _ _ _ _ AND ADVERT NO. _ _ _ _ _ New 15 ½” Blumel style Steering Wheel

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23/05/2018 15:52

Y T YPE NEWSLET TER Jerry Birkbeck Tel: 01926 258691 Mob: 07855 566325 jerrybirkbeck@btinternet.com • www.mgccyregister.co.uk

WELCOME TO THE SUMMER Y TYPE NEWSLETTER This issue is rare as we have been able to include details and photos of the MGCC Y Register Spring Weekend and the outcome of the 2018 AGM held on Saturday May 12.

Spring Gathering and Run 2018 – Bedford Many thanks to Peter and Gillie Sharp, Chris and Annette Callaghan who, with an input from Neil Cairns, combined local knowledge and worked together to pull everything together for a successful weekend. Chris and Annette arranged the venue, Woodland Manor Hotel, Clapham, near Bedford. We held our AGM and evening dinner and awards evening.

The Dinner and Awards Evening Thanks to Annette for organising the table settings and the reminder of what everyone had ordered! The meal was followed by two awards. Car of the year was awarded to all the participants of the Round Britain Relay and the Jack Murray Helping Hand Award was awarded to Maggie Grafham.

Maggie with the Jack Murray Helping Hand Award

www.mgcc.co.uk

Safety Fast_June18_Front.indd 41

(Thanks to Andy for extending the deadline to include this article and photos).

AGM 2018 This followed the format of `good’ Annual Meeting. That is, noncontentious, all posts fi lled on the Committee, and fi nished in around 45 minutes. The key personnel Chris Callaghan (Chairman), Peter Sharp (Secretary), Mike Longman (Treasurer) and the remainder of the Committee were re-elected. Old Tyres This is a matter that I have raised before and it never ceases to amaze me just how many classic car owners still are running their cars on old tyres. That is to say, more than 10 years in age. Indeed in Classic Car Buyer (April 18 2018) an article entitled Old tyres under investigation mentioned a Department for Transport study that is under way into the safety of older tyres. Too often folk seem to take the view that their tyres are perfectly okay because they have excellent tread. That may be the case, but as Ben Field from Vintage Tyres states in the article: “we are, as a country, obsessed with tread depth as the key factor that decides if a tyre is safe or scrap”. This is only part of the story, as rubber suffers from the effects of sunlight, loads carried and time spent in indoor and outdoor storage. Considering that the majority of us do a very low mileage there is a tendency to often gloss over the state of the tyre and inner tube. This is foolhardy and the date codes on your tyres need to be

checked. The view in the trade, which is commonsense in my view, is that any tyre over 10 years old should be changed. It is possible that as a result of their survey DfT may include tyre date checks within the MOT and perhaps your insurers, whilst mindful that cars over 40 years old no longer require a MOT, may insist that they are aware of the date of your tyres. Considering the large amounts of cash that we spend on our Ys, then confi rming the state of your tyres is in modern parlance a “no brainer”.

JUNE 2018 SAFETY FAST! 41

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Y T YPE NEWSLET TER

Paul and Maggie Grafham with Little Gem at Shuttleworth

Y TYPE SPRING RUN MAY 12- 13 After the wet, wet Saturday afternoon and evening we awoke to what became a lovely day. Peter and Gillie had arranged the Spring Run from Clapham to Old Warden and the Shuttleworth Collection. Other than a few minor misreadings of the instructions in the Route Book, all the 19 participants arrived safely at Shuttleworth.

Alan Chickâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s award-winning YB (left)

Mike and Sue Silk with their award-winning YT which they have owned since 1971 and Mike restored over many years. Now fitted with a five-speed box and rebuilt engine. A quite superb car

42 SAFETY FAST! JUNE 2018

www.mgcc.co.uk

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05/04/2018 09:49 23/05/2018 15:52

Y T YPE NEWSLET TER

Bill Taylor (left) with Brian Mellem (back to camera) and Fran Smith, with Bill and Jan’s two-tone award-winning YA

Traditionally a trophy is awarded to an example of each of the three types of Ys (YA, YB, YT) that are chosen through a self-judging process. This is generally arranged at the final gathering, which tends to allow very little time to look at each of the cars. Peter and Gillie sensibly arranged for this to be done prior to the start so all the participants had the time to look over the cars. The YA Trophy was awarded to Bill and Jan Taylor, the YB Trophy to Alan Chick, and the YT Trophy to Mike and Sue Silk. The Alan Chick Piston Broke Award (this was from the late Alan and not his nephew Alan who took over the car) was not awarded for the run. However, unfortunately Chris and Annette’s YB suffered a mechanical mishap. This resulted in their car being relayed home on the back of a large AA flatbed lorry. So they awarded themselves the Piston Broke Award – quite right too! Hope all is well soon, Chris!

44 SAFETY FAST! JUNE 2018

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Maggie Grafham with some of the Round Britain Relay participants

Chris and Annette Callaghan’s YB (left) and Fran and Jan Smith’s YB

www.mgcc.co.uk

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ZRZSZT NEWSLET TER John Thompson Tel: 07854 275541 • johnt5@btinternet.com www.mgcc.co.uk/zedregister • www.facebook.com/zrzsztregister

WELCOME TO THE ZRZSZT NEWSLETTER Welcome to our first newsletter of the year. As I write these notes ‘Zeds in the City’ at the Coventry Motor Museum is only a week away. We have had a very busy year so far

and some very successful events already behind us. Looking ahead we have MGLive!, of course; over the weekend of June 2-3 and then later in the month something new for us.

We will be holding an open day at Kimber House on Sunday June 24. The details for which are as follows: • • • • • •

Kimber House will be open 10.00am – 4.00pm. There will be tours of the premises including the new archive. The Club shop will be open and our own regalia will be on sale too. Light refreshments will be provided, including a buffet lunch. A display of Zeds in the Club grounds. We have arranged a guest speaker, Peter Andrews, who was involved in the design and development of the MG ZR.

Kimber House open day, why not come along on Sunday June 24

After many queries over the winter you will all have seen that MG Saloon Day is back this year. The 2018 event will hopefully be bigger and better than it’s been for many years. It is taking place on Sunday July 15 at Donington Park racing circuit. This also coincides with the second day of the Club racing championships held at the same location. Together with displays from other Registers, it’s set to be one big event. We are currently promoting this event and the final arrangements for the day. Pick up a flyer for this and our open day from our stand at MGLive! or see the adverts on our Facebook group for further information.

www.mgcc.co.uk

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ZRZSZT NEWSLET TER

THE LOCH NESS MONSTER REVEALED CONCLUDING PART For many years now people have been subjected to the incongruous sight of the Secretary of the ZR/ZS/ZT Register turning up to events in a white MG TF. There were rumours floating around that he did own a ZS, but no one had ever actually seen it and its existence was put in the same category as the Loch Ness Monster and flying saucers. Now measures have been taken to reveal this mythical creature in all its glory. In the last part I related how, after 10 years of languishing in the garage and looking like a barn find, I finally put in motion the wheels to restore my five-door ZS 180. In the last part the car had been taken to Beech Hill Garage, near Reading, and was undergoing refurbishment. The original plan was to be finished by the end of September, but October had come and gone and we were well into November. I normally go up to Darlington at Christmas and with it being a long drive from Hampshire, I was hoping to have the ZS. I was just about despairing of that when mid-November I got a phone call from Beech Hill. One of the things that had been holding up progress was the throttle body. The original one had been cleaned up but was still sticking. Fortunately one of the fitters was able to supply a used

The completed ZS outside Beech Hill 48 SAFETY FAST! JUNE 2018

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The Zed returns home

one from his resources and the car was now finished mechanically. It even had an MOT. I went over to look at progress and to discuss looking at the bodywork. They agreed to get their bodywork guy to take a look and give me a quote. A week later they rang back. The quote was about what I expected but the bad news was that there was no way they could fit it in before Christmas. I had some journeys to do throughout December and so it was agreed that I should pick up the ZS and book it in for the bodywork after the New Year. I wanted the car

for a weekend trip to Bournemouth on Friday December 1 and so agree to collect the car on the Thursday. This meant paying a whole monthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s tax for one day but there was no option, and on the plus side it meant the renewal would fall in October this year, which suits the cash flow better in the runup to Christmas. So insurance was arranged and the DVLA were paid their extortion money. One less ZS now shows up as being on SORN. After being used to the tax on the TF, the tax for the ZS did cause a sharp intake of breath. I then took the train over to Beech Hill on the Thursday to pick the car up, leaving me with December to become reacquainted with the ZS. It was a tentative drive home but by the time I got there I had remembered why I had so liked the car and had decided the cost and hassle had all been worth it. With a long trip the next day, I thought Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d better try a short run on the motorway to make sure all was as it should be. I drove down the A30 and then popped onto the M3 for a run back at speed. On the slip road onto the motorway I tried some gentle acceleration. It was pure

www.mgcc.co.uk

23/05/2018 16:16

ZRZSZT NEWSLET TER

Back to its former glory with spoiler and bumper repaired

Making a return to the show circuit at Stoneleigh this Year, February 11

joy to hear the purr of the V6 and feel the push in the back as the car reached the speed limit in what seemed all too short a distance. I used the car regularly throughout December and for my Christmas run up to Darlington. It performed perfectly and I began to fall back in love with the ZS. The only down side was that I was ever conscious of the damage to the tailgate and spoiler. Two weeks after New Year the car went back to Beech Hill to have the rear damage fixed and some of the scratches and dents sorted out. The plan was to drop it off on the Saturday

The ZS between a ZR and ZT at the Practical Classics Classic Car and Restoration Show

www.mgcc.co.uk

Safety Fast_June18_Back.indd 49

and pick it up the following weekend. This suited, as there was a Zed Register committee meeting at Kimber House on the Sunday and I was looking forward to finally dispelling the myths amongst the other members about its existence. However during the week I got a phone call to say they had hit a couple of problems. First the damage to the rear was thought to be to the tailgate alone, but after swapping the tailgate with the one obtained from a breakers yard, the panel below was seen to also be out of alignment. Also, they were having trouble trying to thread the loom for the electrics from out of the old tailgate. It looked like they might have to remove the window which would take more time and consequently money. The upshot was that the car was disappointingly not ready for the committee meeting. As it turned out, the weather that day was so atrocious, I probably would not have used my newly refurbish ZS anyway. In the end, they managed without removing the glass from the original

tailgate and were able to bend the panel back into position, with the rear bumper in position hiding any damage. I picked the car up the next Saturday. It was another wet, drizzly day but the ZS looked superb. It was everything I hoped it would be. It was just a couple of days past the 10th anniversary of the car being put into the garage and it was ironic that it went straight back in the garage so as not to be messed up before Stoneleigh. Two weeks later the car took pride of place on the Zed Register stand at the MG and Triumph Spares Day at Stoneleigh. The myth of the Loch Ness Monster had been finally dispelled. I have to confess to having a moment when setting up; I stood back for a moment and realised what had been achieved. The ZS has now also featured at the Practical Classics Classic Car and Restoration Show at the NEC where a number of people were kind enough to say how good it looks. It will now be seen at many of the Register events throughout this year and I will no longer have to hide the TF round the back. There is a down side that I have discovered. Once you embark on a restoration like this, it then it becomes a job for life. There are many things on the car that I now look at and think: “I would like to get that done”. It is never ending. To quote Winston Churchill: “This is not the end. Nor is it the beginning of the end. It is, perhaps, the end of the beginning”. Another issue is what to do with the car. The initial plan was to get it back on the road and use it as an everyday car. But Beech Hill did such a good job, and after having used it as a show car I’m eager to keep its fresh look. We shall see. As a postscript, I would just like to thank William da la Riviere and his team for the job they have done. It was particularly nice to see one of the guys at the NEC who had had the job of pushing the car round the garage and for him to see the results of his work.

JUNE 2018 SAFETY FAST! 49

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ZRZSZT NEWSLET TER

EVENTS AND SHOWS The weekend of April 28-29 saw us return to Brands Hatch for the next rounds of the 2018 racing championship. We had decided to make the Sunday a bit of a Zed day and we were present with our gazebo and regalia. Sadly, although it didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t rain, the day was cold and grey which may have deterred some from attending. But we had a good day and there were a number of Zeds on the parade laps at lunchtime. We took the opportunity to hold a committee meeting during the afternoon to further discuss arrangements for MGLive! and MG Saloon Day. A full racing report for the weekend can be found on the Club website. The Sussex Road Run took place on May 27. It began on Lancing seafront and headed inland to the Lavender Line heritage railway at Isfield, nr Uckfield. Organised by our friends the Austin Rover & MGOC Sussex, the turnout was very good, with Zeds being well represented.

Ready to greet the Zed cars at Brands Hatch

The thrilling Trophy championship at Brands. Photo: Dickon Siddall 50 SAFETY FAST! JUNE 2018

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www.mgcc.co.uk

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CALENDAR

JUNE

Friday 1 MGCC: V8 Register An informal V8 lunch at the Hook Norton Brewery from noon, OX15 5NU. Contact: Debbie Brading V8 Secretary 07795 227715 Friday 1 MGCC: V8 Register Sulgrave V8 Dinner at the Star Inn. Contact: Victor Smith 0208 392 9434 Saturday 2 – Sunday 3 MGCC MGLive! The MG Car Club’s flagship event, held at the Silverstone Circuit. This is the largest gathering of MGs anywhere in the world! Attractions include Register displays, Register parking, live music and entertainment, Pride of Ownership, Concours, live action, California Cup, Autosolo, Trader Village, Autojumble and much, much more! As for motorsport, racing on the historic GP circuit includes action from the BCV8 Championship, Equipe GTS, Iconic ’50s, Midget and Sprite Challenge, MG Trophy and Peter Best Insurance MG Cup, plus guest appearances from Sports 2000 and the Porsche Cup. Visit www.mglive.com for more details Sunday 3 MGCC: Finland Haikko Picnic. MGCC Finland’s traditional season opener, with concours competition, a public vote for the best car and rocker cover racing. For more information, visit the MGCC Finland website www.mgcc.fi Thursday 7 – Sunday 10 MGCC: Norway Norsk MG Rally. Norsk MG Club’s first national event of the year. This year it’s based around Røros, which stands on a UNESCO World Heritage Site. For more information, visit the Norsk MG Club website www.nmgk.no Saturday 9 – Sunday 10 MGCC: 6.3.5 Register BTCC Oulton Park. The 6.3.5 Register will be attending the British Touring Car Championship meet at Oulton Park (Island), Cheshire.

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Keep up-to-date with the 6.3.5 Register on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/groups/ MG635Register/ Sunday 10 MG Car Club Danish Centre Gavnö Classic AutoJumble. Members of the MG Car Club Danish Centre will be present at Denmark’s largest veteran show, featuring 1,000 classic cars, live music and shows. For more information, visit the MG Car Club Danish Centre website http://mgklub.dk Thursday 14 MGCC: South East Centre First Alternative Pride of Ownership. Taking place at Cobham. For more details contact: John Morgan 020 8657 2714 Friday 15 – Sunday 17 MGCC: Sweden SMGM MG Car Club Sweden’s weekend rally event. For more information, visit the MG Car Club Sweden website www.mgcc.se Saturday 16 – Sunday 17 MGCC: South West Centre Bristol Classic Car Show. The SW Centre will be exhibiting at this event, held at the Bath & West Showground, near Shepton Mallet. For more information contact: Jim Lott 07773 491953 chairman@mgccsw.com Sunday 17 MGCC: Magnette Register/MGF Register MGs in the Park. An annual event at the Cotswold Wildlife Park organised by Oxfordshire MGOC, with reserved parking for Magnettes. Free entry for MG + driver (pay on gate for passengers) Contact (MGF): Keith Williams keith.williams@ mgfregister.org Friday 22 – Monday 25 MGCC: Y Type Register Y Type Weekender. The Y Type weekender at Llanerchindda Farm near the Brecon Beacons in Wales. The cost for a three-night stay is £245 per person. This is for bed, breakfast and evening meal. If you would like to join the party, please book directly with Llanerchindda Farm on 01550 750274. www. cambrianway.com Please let the Register know when you have booked in via chairman@mgccyregister.com

Saturday 23 – Sunday 24 MGCC: T Register Classic and Sports Car Show in association with Flywheel. The T Register will once again be attending the Flywheel Festival at Bicester Heritage. now known as the Classic and Sports Car Show. The event organisers have given the Register privileged club admission, with a 25 per cent discount for a booking of 20-plus people (not cars). The code will be published in the T Register email Newsletter or you can get it by application to David Wardell www. mgcc.co.uk/t-register/contacts/email-david-wardell/ Saturday 23 – Sunday 24 June MGCC: 6.3.5 Register BTCC Croft. The 6.3.5 Register will be attending the British Touring Car Championship meet at Croft, North Yorkshire. Keep up-to-date with the 635 Register on Facebook, https://www.facebook.com/groups/ MG635Register/ Sunday 24 MGCC: Triple-M Register VSCC Donington. Triple-M Racing with the VSCC – the Baynton Jones Historic Motorsport MG Challenge. Contact: Mark Dolton via mdjdolton@gmail.com Sunday 24 MGCC: Zed Register Zed Open Day, Kimber House. Zed Register Open Day, taking place at Kimber House, Abingdon. See the Zed Register page www.mgcc.co.uk/ zedregister/ Sunday 24 MGCC: Lincolnshire Centre W.H. Brand MG CarFest. Open to MG cars and all related marques, from vintage to modern. Contact: Robert Taylor rh.taylor260@tiscali.co.uk Tuesday 26 MGCC: Abingdon Works Centre Chesham Natter Pride of Ownership and BBQ. The Chesham Natter’s Pride of Ownership evening is at Ley Hill Golf Club, near Chesham. Commences at 6.30pm with a bar and BBQ. Contact: Richard and Christa Colston 01494 728253

www.mgcc.co.uk

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MGCC CHAMPIONSHIP

BRILLIANT BRANDS Report Ian Sowman Photography Dickon Siddall

packed schedule of MG Car Club motorsport action was on the Brands Hatch bill, with fantastic big grids and a wide variety of MGs up to almost 90 years old taking to the Kent venue’s iconic Indy Circuit on April 28-29. Rob Spencer made it three wins in a row with a Brands Hatch double as the TN Racing BCV8 Championship boasted what long-time co-ordinator Pam McCarthy reckoned to be its best grid since the 1990s. Spencer’s race one victory – in conditions much friendlier than they had been for the damp qualifying session – was credit to a sizzling start from sixth on the grid that saw him take the lead at Paddock Hill Bend. There was an early safety car period after Russ McCarthy beached at Paddock Hill Bend from eighth on the road, but Spencer kept his head after the resumption, even in the face of some difficult lappery towards the end, that resulted in him briefly taking to the grass on Cooper Straight. He was a sufficient distance ahead of Neil Fowler, who had charged through from tenth, to keep hold of victory, however.

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James Wheeler ran second in the Class C-leading car until Fowler burst through, but ultimately only held on to the class win by less than a tenth of a second from Ollie Neaves. A sprinkling of rain before the start of the second race had unfortunate consequences, with a chain reaction incident at Graham Hill Bend ruling out three cars. Spencer started as far back as row four for this one, but still swept into the lead at the beginning of the second lap. The challenge, when it came, was too late – Ian Prior had started on the ninth rank but stormed through, gathering fastest lap on his way to finishing within three-tenths of the winner and picking up a deserved driver of the race pot. Chris Bray took victory on his seasonal debut in the Classic Fuel Solutions MG Trophy, but it was a race that was sadly red-flagged twice. The first stoppage came after Andy Firth crashed heavily at the foot of Paddock Hill Bend. The grid for the restart was set by the order wound back a lap, which was to the advantage of Silverstone double-winner, Jason Burgess, who had just scurried through the Paddock

gravel trap. Burgess started alongside Bray, therefore, but was behind the Cambridgeshire man for the five laps that were possible before another halt was called. Graham Ross jumped two places at the restart to claim third, while initial polesitter, Ross Makar, fell behind Andy Spencer to be the last ZR190 finisher. The second stoppage was due to Tylor Ballard rolling multiple times and ending up atop the barriers at Paddock – a case of his race going from good (leading the ZR160 division at the first red flag) to bad (spinning on the opening lap of the restart) to worse. John Gil took the win in that class, having passed Dave Heasman at Paddock on lap three. Meanwhile, in the ZR170 class, Paul Luti jumped Andy’s son Ryan Firth at the second start, having trailed behind him before the red flag, while Ollie Hood made strong progress to take third and earn the driver of the race award. The second race was remarkable in that it looked like a ZR170, that of Paul Luti, would take outright victory for the first time in the history of the Trophy. The Scot made a tremendous start, driving around the outside at Paddock to take the lead from fourth on the grid. And

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then came the safety car to recover the stricken Samuel Johnston and Ross Makar mounts… “There were a lot of expletives,” admitted Luti. There was time for a six-lap sprint, but initial challenger Bray was having intermittent issues, leaving fellow Scot, Graham Ross – a green-flag lap spinner! – to take up the cudgels, battling with a bad vibration (a legacy of the gravel he picked up from the spin) as he did so. “I didn’t want to be the first person to be beaten by a 170,” he said, after powering ahead of Luti on the Brabham Straight at the start of the penultimate lap. Behind Luti (unsurprisingly awarded driver of the race), Ben Mills and Patrick Booth were classified in the minor podium positions. A superb field of 27 cars qualified for the Baynton Jones Historic Motorsport Triple-M Challenge but it was the Wolseley Hornet Special of the Sebers that beat all of the MGs. Harry Painter’s PA led at first, but Tony Seber pulled ahead along the Brabham Straight at the end of lap four. Very cold and drizzly conditions greeted competitors for the second bout, which caught out an unwary few. Mike Painter made the best

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launch off the line and led until a brief exploration of the Clearways gravel. That promoted Harry Painter, but problems with his car set in and the Hornet, now with Rod Seber aboard, took advantage. The surviving Painter and Jones ran together in second position and were closing on Seber when both spun within a few moments of one another on lap nine. Fred Boothby (J2) and Charles Goddard (PA Special) shared the spoils in the well-supported Class B, while Andrew Morland (L1 Tourer) and Hamish McNinch (PA 2-seat Sports) took a Class A winner’s trophy apiece. The first Lackford Engineering Midget and Sprite Challenge encounter was truncated by a safety car period and, when two cars became stranded at Paddock, an early chequered flag. In spite of a tentative getaway, Stephen Collier soon emerged in control, with 2017 champion, Paul Campfield, in second in his Sprite. Richard Bridge bounced back after a “really bad qualifying” to get within half a second of Campfield by the premature end. Kim Dear and Edward Easton were the other class winners, the latter earning driver of the race.

The second race went the distance, but again it was Collier that dominated. Once Bridge had worked his way through from row four he slashed Collier’s advantage, but the leader responded and maintained a comfortable two-second margin. Campfield briefly lost third to Stephen Pegram, up from the back after ignition issues on Saturday, before the latter made an error at Paddock Hill Bend. Easton added to his class success, while Andrew Wolf picked up Class C. Andrew Ashton won the first Drayton Manor Park MG Metro Cup encounter quite comfortably after polesitting brother, Jack, struggled with a misfire in the early stages, dropping as far back as seventh. Jack had climbed back to second position by the mid-way point, by which time his sibling was ten seconds clear and he could do no more than narrow the gap to less than two seconds by the end. Jack came out on top on Sunday, accruing an advantage of more than 12 seconds over his brother, who spent much of the race with access to just third gear. With the grid for the opening Equipe GTS Pre-’63 contest shuffled by a wet track, it took a handful of laps for the race to settle into a pattern and, in particular, for Richard Woolmer’s perky opening efforts in his Turner MkII to be subdued. Jack Rawles (Healey 3000) had established a big advantage going into the closing laps, but there was still a three-way fight for second position. Paul

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Kennelly’s Healey 100/M eventually took the place. The three that had disputed second fought it out at the front of race two, with scarcely more than a second between them for much of the distance. The key moment came when leader Arculus got boxed in by a tail-ender on lap eight, allowing Kennelly to pounce. When Kennelly passed the chequer his lead, at almost a second, was the biggest it had been race-long. In the Equipe GTS Group B opener, a late safety car period meant there was a four-minute sprint to the flag. Babak Farsian profited when David KeersTrafford was delayed by slower cars ahead of him, allowing Garry Townsend through to second position. With MGB Roadsters filling the first five places, respite came from the Ashley-bodied Midget of Tom Grindall, who made an eye-catching drive from row 14 to grab a top-six place on the last tour. Grindall starred again in the Sunday rematch, grabbing third place at the start while ex-MX-5 racer Townsend led. Townsend made a mistake at Clearways on lap six, however, allowing KeersTrafford and Grindall to pounce. It was no great surprise that Tom Smith charged into the lead from row two of the first Equipe GTS Group A race, but what was unexpected was one safety car period immediately followed by another – Paul Kennelly

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had dumped his Healey 100/M into the Druids gravel, and as soon as that was recovered Mark Ashworth spun his TVR Grantura into the Paddock beach. Simon Cripps had a fine crack at keeping Smith honest, while Rob Spencer grabbed the final podium spot. Smith was a rather more comfortable winner of the second race, which proceeded without interruption. Cripps was again second, but this time 16 seconds adrift of the leader. Even a lengthy mid-race safety car interruption could not throw Mark Ellis off his stride in the opening Iconic 50s contest. He blasted his MGA Twin Cam through from the second row to build a healthy advantage before it was eroded while Bruce Riches’ Elva was recovered. Following their Equipe scraps, Kennelly and Matthews renewed their rivalry, the pair promoted to second when Stuart Dickinson spun his A into the spot vacated by Riches. Ellis completed his double in the second race, although he was threatened late on. Dickinson’s tardy getaway dropped him to fourth position, but he dealt with Matthews at Surtees on lap four before emerging from traffic ahead of Coles four laps later.

Mike Williams, in his uprated Metro, dominated proceedings in the initial Peter Best Insurance MG Cup race. Second-placed Matthew Simpson was threatened by the MGB GT of James Darby at first, but the latter faded, dropped onto three cylinders and retired with a lap to go. Driver of the race, Nick Arden, was therefore Class B winner, while event co-sponsor Steve Tyler, of British Legends Essex, topped Class A. Williams was equally unstoppable in race two – run in surprisingly dark conditions for an early evening in late April – notching up a 16-second winning margin in spite of a safety car period, called after Kayleigh Twigger’s off at Druids. After struggling to find motivation when the lights went out, Simpson progressed through the field and passed Dan Ludlow (who had taken over from Stuart Emmett aboard the Class A ZR160) when the green flags waved for the restart. Darren Harris gave Ludlow some stick near the end, while pre-event points leader, Ian Boulton, salvaged a class win from the weekend.

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

MG on track

WEBSITE NIRVANA?

egular participants at MG on Track’s events are probably unaware that your committee’s thoughts over these past several years have been mainly dominated by the need for a new website to replace the existing ageing set-up. Whilst the public-facing areas mercifully seemed to stagger on, save for the loss of the Photo Gallery, behind the scenes constant work was needed just to keep the basic functions alive! Clearly our website delivers much more than just photos or information about events, and a total collapse of the all-important booking element could have led to the untimely end of an otherwise healthy and vibrant section of the Car Club. However, to nearly everyone’s surprise the new website replaced the old at the end of March and, apart from a minor glitch or two, all seems to be going very well; obviously, we would still like to hear from users who encounter any problems so that the site can be further fine-tuned. There is quite a lot of additional functionality for members to play with, receipts will be sent automatically, and it should now also be possible for entrants to amend their bookings, including adding or removing helmet hire or instruction. It will also be possible to request the complete cancellation of a booking but, as previously, a refund will only be possible if there is a waiting list for the event and the place can be resold. This may seem a little harsh if you are cancelling due to a last minute mechanical failure (it has happened to me twice), but as our aim is only to break even financially, this does require that most spaces are sold; a spate of late cancellations due to a poor weather forecast or a clash with yet another

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snap General Election could easily jeopardise future events. Whilst not a complete Luddite I am very aware of my limitations when it come to anything digital, so I offer admiration and thanks to all those on the committee and those from outside who have finally made the dream (for which read erstwhile nightmare!) a reality. Perhaps you would like to try the website for yourself by booking a track day? Forthcoming events include an invitation to join Lotus on Track’s day at Croft, and our MGoT days at Castle Combe and at Blyton Park. Croft would not be ideal for complete novices but, as events dedicated solely to MGs, both Castle Combe and Blyton would make an ideal introduction to track days. Castle Combe circuit is situated barely a mile from the eponymous village which has featured in many films including ‘War Horse’ so, in the interests of noise control, numbers are limited to just 12 on track at any time which allows plenty of space per car. A wartime training airfield (fewer restrictions on noise back then, I imagine) it is a long, fast circuit with challenging corners so plenty to entertain drivers whatever their cars. As at all MGs on Track events instruction is available from ARDSregistered instructors, as is helmet hire. Finally, in the paddock there is a retail supplier of all things performance or race

car oriented, so a good opportunity to buy those Nomex socks you’ve always hankered after or, perhaps more likely, purchase something mechanical for those unplanned running repairs! Blyton Park is close to Gainsborough in Lincolnshire and is relatively easy to reach from many parts of the country. This track also saw service as a wartime bomber airfield and is not actually a race circuit, but a test facility used by many magazines and manufacturers. Surrounded by farmland, it benefits from generous run-off areas for those rare moments when enthusiasm exceeds talent. It has become a favourite on our calendar and, with numbers limited to just 18 in total, is always a relaxed and hugely enjoyable day. In August we have our annual North Weald experience day which is aimed at novices considering coming on one of our full track days, or just at those who want to test the handling of their cars in the safe environment of a spacious airfield. I will expand upon this event next month but suffice to say it’s a great deal of fun and incredible value for money. Depending upon when you are reading this, MGLive! at Silverstone is yet to happen, is happening today, or is now a very fond memory! Hopefully you will (or did) take the opportunity to speak to us on the MGs on Track stand for the answers to all your track day questions.

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MG CAR CLUB SPEED CHAMPIONSHIP MGS ON TRACK – 2018 CALENDAR Please visit www.mgs-on-track.com to register, check

JOHN WILMAN, BEECHFIELD, FERN BANK, CHAPEL-EN-LE-FRITH, HIGH PEAK. SK23 0JJ T E L : 07778 165186 W W W . M G S P E E D . N E T

availability, or to book a track day. Registered members will receive regular newsletters and notification of event opening dates.

Croft – June 15 A shared day with Lotus on Track on a great circuit, set between the Yorkshire Dales and Yorkshire moors! Castle Combe – June 25 The first of two annual visits to this very friendly circuit in Wiltshire. Blyton Park – July 23 Not a traditional racing circuit, but very popular with all who’ve tried it. North Weald – August 10 An introductory activity day for those who have not yet tried a full track day. A chance to explore the capabilities of driver and car in complete safety. Castle Combe – September 10 A second opportunity to enjoy the thrills of this everpopular track which includes a couple of chicanes and technical corners! Donington – October 1 A flowing, historic circuit in the Midlands, featuring the fantastic Craner Curves and Old Hairpin sequence. Anglesey – October 5 Experience this challenging circuit on a day shared with the Lotus 7 Club. Overlooking the Irish Sea and with

I suggested in my last article that I suspected that Andy Walker in his V8 MGB would be the fastest MG at Curborough sprint. I was, of course, correct and you can see from the accompanying picture exactly why. It helps to have a lot of power on tap, but even then you have to be able to control it and put that power in contact with the tarmac. I concluded my last article with a mention of Harewood hillclimb and how much I was looking forward to it. Unfortunately, the event had to be cancelled due to the waterlogged state of the car and trailer park. A great shame, but we are back there again for a double header in September. The weekend of May 5-6 was a busy one which will leave Helen Waddington, our scorer and computer genius, reeling. In no particular order, there was the North West Centre weekend at Ty Croes on Anglesey. This event consists of a double lap of the coastal circuit on Saturday and a single lap of the whole GP circuit on Sunday. The GP circuit particularly is very exiting with long straights allowing even quite modest cars to well exceed 100mph. I can tell you that coming off at 100-plus is quite an experience, but the least said about that the better. On Saturday 5 the circus moved to Shelsley Walsh, near Worcester. This is a very historic venue and is the oldest permanent motorsport venue in the world. The Midland Automobile Club originally took out a 100-year lease which expired some years ago. As a result they had to buy the property for a considerable sum. The motorsport community rallied round and the money was found and it is now the property of the MAC. Since then the MAC have developed the site in keeping with its historic significance, improving the spectator facilities and catering to a high standard. Then on the 6th came our annual visit to Rushmoor sprint. This takes place in an MOD arena which can be viewed almost in plan form from the raised portion on which the paddock and start are situated. Well supported by our Southern competitors, it is a very popular event. The next event after publication will be the magnificent MGLive! weekend on June 2-3. Our sprint on the Sunday takes place on the Stowe circuit and is not to be missed.

views to Snowdonia this track offers something for all. Goodwood – October 29 A second visit in case you missed the first due to popularity! Brands Hatch ‘Indy’ – December 3 Our last event of 2018. Don’t miss the chance to enjoy this undulating circuit including Paddock Hill Bend!

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Andy Walker in his V8 MGB. Photo: Joe Wolf

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BTCC CHAMPIONSHIP ROUND 2 – DONINGTON PARK

he 32 drivers contesting the 2018 Dunlop MSA British Touring Car championship set up camp at Donington Park on April 28. The two MG6s now prepared by AmDTuning.com had performed superbly in the races at Brands Hatch after some qualifying problems, scoring significant points in the hands of Rory Butcher and Tom Boardman. The cars looked great in their new orange and blue livery sponsored by RCIB Insurance and Auto Aid. They performed reliably and didn’t get damaged during the weekend. All the teams had tested at Donington Park on the afternoon of the media day and so already had a good idea of the tyre performance and car set up details. Even so, two sessions were still provided by the organisers for fine tuning to be done prior to qualifying. Saturday dawned miserable and stayed that way all day. The track was either wet or damp for both the free sessions. Rory’s car was going well with eighth and sixth places in the two outings. Tom had problems with the fire extinguisher and handling and was down in 22nd and 25th places. Qualifying started at 3.30pm and the rain started to fall again. The times changed quickly with Rory being quickest at one point. Then Aiden Moffat beached his car causing the red flag to be shown. There would then be a five-minute dash to determine the grid positions. When the chequered flag fell, two of the top

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By Paul Goodman. Photos: Aaron Lupton three positions were occupied by former MG drivers. Josh Cook secured his first ever pole in the Vauxhall Astra with Chris Smiley in second and Sam Tordoff third in the RS Focus. Rory managed to improve his time but ended up 19th with Tom down in 29th place. The conditions for race one on Sunday were dry but very cold. The drivers would have to rely on the settings from the test day at the circuit in March. The race victor was former MG6 driver, Josh Cook, taking his first ever win in the BTCC in the Vauxhall Astra. Second was Dan Cammish from Aiden Moffat in third place. The two MG6s were prominent in the midpack battle. Rory was best placed, but a moment near the end of the race saw him drop back to finish 22nd with Tom finishing ahead in 16th place. Race two was brilliant for the MG6s, with Rory having a great battle with the three Mercedes to finish ninth. This was lucky because the draw for race three of the day resulted him getting pole position. Meanwhile, Tom finished 17th. The race was won by a resurgent Tom Ingram in his Toyota with the other two podium

positions going to Chris Smiley’s Honda and Jack Goff’s similar car. It was wonderful to see the MG6 at the head of the field. Louise interviewed Rory on the grid and when the lights went out he made a great start to lead the race. Each driver must select one of the three races to use the “option” harder tyre and Rory had selected this for race three. Inevitably, he slipped back through the field, but still finished a creditable 13th, scoring more points. Tom was fighting his way through a gaggle of cars, but then got caught in a pincer movement and was fired off into the gravel trap, registering a non-finish. Adam Morgan won this race in his Mercedes with Josh Cook rounding out a fine weekend in second place and Aidan Moffat bringing his Mercedes into third spot. Both drivers had again performed with great credit over the weekend and had avoided car damage. When the points tables were updated it showed Rory in 11th place in the driver’s championship, seventh in the independents and a superb second in the Jack Sears Trophy for drivers who have never been on the podium in a BTCC race, just one point behind Dan Cammish.

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Triple M MGs on the harbour front

MG CAR CLUB MONACO

t the back end of last year the MG Car Club Monaco held its fifth International Meeting in Monte Carlo. Held every three years, the meeting, rather like the rest of Monaco, is both different to other ‘national’ MGCC events as well as reflecting the exclusivity of Monaco itself. The MGCC Monaco is the smallest Club affiliated to The MG Car Club. This is not surprising really, as the sovereign city-state is a mere 202 hectares – not much larger than Regent’s Park, although considerably hillier and no duck pond. About 35% of Monaco’s residents are millionaires and this is evident on the roads and

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by Peter Cook

outside the apartment blocks. It is for a visitor an eye-opener to see a bright yellow Lamborghini or a scarlet Ferrari out to collect a loaf and a carton of milk. The flip side of this was considerable interest locally in the MGs which had made their way to the

event, either through France or just over the border from Italy. The main organisers, Nicola Parolin and Marc Treves, are residents and therefore have the appropriate connections. This enabled them to put on an event which was excellent in delivery, and memorable in location. Friday welcome was at the hotel for the event – the Hermitage Grand Hotel, followed by evening buffet at the Yacht Club de Monaco overlooking the harbour. Dress, appropriately, was semi-formal (those MGCC ties are not just for Council). Most European Clubs were represented, even though the limit had been fixed at 50 cars due to the

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Enjoying the scenic runs

limitations of parking availability. Given where we were staying and Monte Carlo’s compactness, walking was the best option for both the Friday buffet and the Saturday evening dinner. After breakfast and briefing on Saturday morning the drivers and their navigators were off on a 125km varied journey which covered hilly and very bendy ‘B-type’ roads into the French countryside to the north of Nice. The very welcome lunch was at Cap d’Antibes in the Hôtel Belles Rives on the terrace overlooking the beach. The organisers, sensibly realising that although strenuous driving in non-power steering cars was a useful prelude to lunch, offered a more direct route via Nice, its harbour and its promenade for returning to Monte Carlo. The evening dinner was held at the Café de Paris opposite the Casino, where Nicola and Marc were thanked for their efforts in delivering a splendid event. The casino – rightly or wrongly – seems to be the building to be

photographed in Monte Carlo. There is always a display of the most expensive and the most attractive cars outside. If someone turns up in a Bugatti or a McLaren, then a Ferrari is moved to make room. As for Range Rovers and Jaguars – don’t even bother. It was pleasing, therefore, that some of our MGs were given their moment of glory outside the Casino. After a leisurely breakfast, Sunday brought another, far shorter, run of 20km. Again, Monaco was left behind as we travelled the semi-rural back roads to the north and on our way to lunch at La Pinede on Cap d’Ail. Not only was the restaurant built into the hillside overlooking the Mediterranean, but it was next to a railway station, so that after more exercise involving the steering wheel, the reverse gear and the clutch pedal, we all managed to fit in. Lunch was accompanied by farewells, souvenir shirts, hats, and thanks to the MGCC Monaco for a most enjoyable event. We look forward to 2020.

TDs arrive at the hotel

The Magnette of Nicola Parolin

MG Magna on the harbour front

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Andy Webster in the Motorkhana

Queuing for the Motorkhana

Concours judging. Are you sure that was factory fitted?

THE 2018 NEW ZEALAND NATIONAL RALLY

he MG Car Clubs of New Zealand held their two-yearly national rally in the resort of Timaru on the South Island at the end of March. Christchurch suffered major earthquakes in 2011 and 2016, with major loss of life and infrastructure damage. As Timaru is 162km from Christchurch, organisers’ fear this time last year was whether the structural damage to roads and the release of massive amounts of silt liquefaction would significantly impede the 2018 event. As things turned out, the authorities had managed to clear and repair the main roads from the ferry terminals serving the North-South Island link. As for Timaru, as the organisers of the National rally stated in the event brochure: “We chose Timaru because of the ‘how can we help’ attitude of the locals in the area”.

By Peter Cook

The event, running from Sunday to the Thursday before Easter, entailed registration at the Caroline Bay tea rooms and an evening Noggin ‘n’ Natter consisting of a BBQ dinner. Event briefing as well as reconnecting with friends from previous rallies took place alongside the dinner. The real business of the Rally started the next morning with the Concours d’Etat and Display at the Caroline Bay grassed area close by the Timaru docks. This was the opportunity not just to admire the cars, but to swap notes and experiences. The opportunity also, with unfamiliar models (and echoing the title of a talk given at the North American event in Kentucky in 2016) to ask “Why did they do that?” While some Concours entrants take the event very seriously, the organisers provided voting slips for all those attending to

show their preference using any criteria they wished to apply. For many it was likely to be “The car I would like to take home with me today”. Close by to the Concours area is a small beach where at dusk penguins can frequently be seen. The Korora or little blue penguins are the smallest in the world, and the local visitor pamphlet advised their whereabouts for those wishing a temporary alternative to cars and car talk. Concours – largely a morning event – was followed in the afternoon by scrutineering and advice for those participating in the Autocross. Both cars and drivers’ protective kit were examined for conformity to both Club and national regulations. The following day (Tuesday) was mostly taken up with the Scenic Trial. Leaving at one-minute intervals, competitors were given their route maps

Timaru Concours. In a class of it own; VA owned by Rick Jones & Katherine Hilton

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Margaret Provan in the Autocross

Scenic trial stop at Richard Pearse Monument

and Competitors’ Running Instructions. Performance was to be assessed on the basis of both timings and answers to questions relevant to the route. Much of the route was on unsealed roads, that is, well-laid gravel roads. The major disadvantage of the unsealed roads was that it was unwise to follow another car except at about a two-minute interval. To do otherwise was to drive with fog-like visibility and to risk the consequences of under-bonnet dust. While we know that the route instructions were perfectly adequate, as evidenced by the many who did not get lost, some of us were less observant than we needed to be. (My thanks to ZB owner Trevor Ingham for allowing me to see parts of New Zealand I had not planned on seeing). A lunch stop was provided and the route took in other opportunities for comfort breaks. Even so, the comparison with driving on European, let alone UK, roads was stark. One could stop on a fairly important road and still have to wait for some time before a vehicle came into sight, and that vehicle was often an MG participant. It was also a great opportunity to see some of the South Island’s breathtaking scenery. One of New Zealand’s national heroes is Richard Pearse, a farmer from near Timaru. He built his own aircraft and his own engine to power it from 1904. Many witnesses claimed that Pearse was the first person to achieve powered flight, but the evidence has never been sufficient to displace the recognition given to the

Wright brothers. He remains, though, a local hero. For those wishing to have a long drive without competitive pressure, an alternative route solely on sealed roads and without time pressures was provided. This route was also offered to non-MG drivers who, in any case, were barred from being able to receive any trophies. It is worth pointing out that two of the lead organisers of the event were Lea Francis owners, Tony Reid and Sandra Frame, demonstrating the welcoming ethos of the MG Car Club community wherever it is located. Day four brought the Autocross and the Motorkhana. Both events were held at Levels Raceway, a track with spectator facilities a few miles outside of Timaru. The sealed track provided a bent, sprint-style test with chicanes providing 100-metre limits on straights. After a familiarisation lap competitors were marshalled onto the track individually for their three laps. Timing was used for the second lap only, i.e. out lap, timed lap, and slow-down lap. Just off the circuit the Motorkhana consisted of five timed runs to be attempted twice by each competitor. Some cars had two competitors. The weather was close to perfect for both events: warm but not hot, and bright without intense sunlight. Three of the Motorkhana runs were on grass which was green but not wet, so the cars had grip but there was enough slippage for tight corners, but enough also to catch out the overconfident. Where

A cake to mark Cecil Kimber’s birthday

there were multiple drivers, and to give competitors a similar surface, drivers attempted the test in succession. Penalties applied: failing to stop or start as directed incurred three seconds, going the wrong way (the most common) added three seconds to the slowest time. The day’s two events were completed without casualties and in good, but not overly competitive spirit. The two events were followed in the evening by the prize-giving dinner, held at the Landing Conference Centre. More formal dress was worn, and prizes were awarded to Concours, Autocross and Motorkhana winners. The theme was aviation, given that Timaru is in Richard Pearse country. There was also the self-explanatory Furthest Travelled award, and the Hard Luck Trophy. The following morning, back at the Caroline Bay Tea Rooms, saw the Farewell Breakfast where plentiful, traditional breakfast fare was accompanied by farewells, and intentions were pledged to meet up at the next national event in two years’ time. While there were many hands on deck to organise the Timaru event, a special mention should be made for the great effort put in by Di and Dren Errington, David and Margaret Provan, Colin Poynton, Scott Errington, Laurie Steere, Murray and Marie Mayer, and John Campbell who came down from Auckland after agreeing to act as Clerk of the Course for the speed events. My personal thanks are due to Andrew Webster and Jane Ryder for hosting me so comfortably in Christchurch.

The MGBs and V8s line up in the Timaru Concours

www.mgcc.co.uk

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A MONTHLY LOOK THROUGH A FEW OF THE OVERSEAS MAGAZINES WE RECEIVE AT KIMBER HOUSE REVIEWED BY PAUL PLUMMER

We start this month’s journey around the world with a quick hop across to channel to France. The MG Car Club de France publishes a very professionally produced magazine entitled HERITAGE which always carries a wide range of interesting articles. Two MG personalities are featured, Harry Lester and his specials and Nancy Mitchell with her rally exploits.

supercharged TC engine with a number of other mods, now producing 105bhp at the rear wheels. The photo above shows this very stylish car competing at the Geelong Revival in 2017. The story of ‘Kimber’s Last MG’ is told by the Bulletinen, the magazine of the Swedish MG Car Club. This 1939 VA Saloon, complete with 47 Octagons, registered CBL 192 was owned by Kimber from 1939 until his death in 1945. In 1987 it was found in a barn and is now back on the road in very much an ‘oily rag’ condition.

Continuing the continental theme we visit ‘Classic Days’ at Schloss Dyck, the German equivalent of Goodwood. MG Kurier, the journal of the MGCC Deutschland, reports on the entry of a 1939 TA special, fitted with a six-cylinder supercharged Magnette engine.

Another T type special caught my eye, this time from ‘down under’ and reported upon by the MG Car Club of Geelong’s magazine G-Torque. This is the Forde Bros TC Special, originally built in 1957 with a 1332cc

www.mgcc.co.uk

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MG advertising – a review carried out by the MG Car Club of Toronto, in their magazine The Octagon. This looks at the various ads through the decades. Whilst in the 30s there was an emphasis on performance, innovation, racing victories and speed records, by 1954 the allure of a pretty woman was starting to appear. Pretty girls and sex appeal sell cars, with

the pictures shown here comparing a ‘30s girl with a ‘70s girl! Cream Crackers, the journal on the Kobe MG Car Club of Japan presents its readers with a humorous picture book story featuring a boy and his cat and their adventures in a stylised M type Midget. And finally, every MG enthusiast knows the benefit of having a Swiss Army knife, and now courtesy of Signpost, the magazine of the MGCC Switzerland, you can get an MG monogrammed one.

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CENTRES

ABINGDON WORKS

RICHARD MARTIN sfscribe@mgabingdon.org.uk www.mgabingdon.co.uk Gill and I certainly have, enjoying drives in both the B and TF recently. In the weeks preceding this, both cars had time spent on them with the B needing an MOT and general health check whilst the TF had a shiny bit fitted! The B spent a couple of days with Mike and Gary at Summit Motors in Maidenhead and was discharged with a clean bill of health and its last compulsory MOT certificate. The TF spent the Drive it Day weekend on a 250mile round trip to Kent during which the opportunity was taken to make use of my son’s expertise and garage pit to fit the final purchase from our trip

to see Mike Satur earlier in the year. The stainless steel exhaust heat shield greatly improves the appearance of the rear and complements the roll hoops and aluminium foot pedals which were fitted during the winter months. We missed the Bicester Heritage Scramble on Drive it Day, but I’m delighted to report that of all the cars there, it was two AWC cars which the Oxford Mail chose to use as their lead photo in their two-page spread. The two TDs of Paul Critchley and Mike Lamb looked splendid in the sunshine. http://www. oxfordmail.co.uk/news/yourtown/ bicester/16178389.Classic_

ANGLIA

ROB MUIR 01206 862619 Email: scribe@mgccanglia.com Website: www.mgcc.co.uk/anglia-centre

MGLive! As this issue of Safety Fast! drops on your doormat you will only be days away from Silverstone and MGLive! If you are attending, you will find the Anglia Centre stand in the main show area.

The Concours and Pride of Ownership, organised by Anglia Centre, is on Sunday. If you need some inspiration for your own restoration then these are the cars to look at. Racing will be fast and furious on both days with many

Some of the Anglia Members assembling for the start of the tour at the P & A Wood workshops

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car_lovers_get_revved_up_at_ Bicester_Sunday_Scramble/ If, like us, you didn’t get there, or even if you did, there’s another opportunity to visit as we’re joining forces with the T-Register to take part in the Classic & Sports Car Show on Sunday June 24. There’s a club discount of 30% if you bring a pre-1976 MG. Details can be found on www.mgcc.co.uk/t-register/ 2018-events/ A week earlier, Sunday June 17 (Father’s Day), Nuffield Place, Lord Nuffield’s former home now in the hands of the National Trust, would like to see vehicles from makes associated with the underrated benefactor. If you’re interested in taking along your MG (no age restriction on this one) Lizzie Champion Lizzie. champion1@nationaltrust.org.

uk (07752 419693) would be delighted to hear from you. Just after Drive it Day, member Andrew Napier contacted us as “My son-in-law found the attached MG spare wheel bolt/fastener on the road in Bucks. I think it may be from a T Type? Being an MGCC member, I would like it to be returned to its owner. Therefore, may I suggest that any claimant tells us the route on which it was lost?” If you can help reunite this with its owner, let us know and we’ll put you in touch with Andrew.

of our Centre drivers in line for overall and class wins. Wander into the paddock area and give them your support.

company’s humble beginnings to their position as one of the world leaders in motor car restoration. Everything from engine machining to aluminium body fabrication and painting is done in-house.

Centre Website and Facebook Both the Anglia Centre website and the Facebook pages are getting very popular. They both provide more space for reports of events than we could ever have in the magazine. Visit www. mgccanglia.com and the ‘MG Car Club Anglia Centre’ on Facebook. P & A Wood Organised by our own Andrew Woods, host of the Mid Essex Club Meet. 20 of us arrived at Gt Easton, for a tour of the P & A Wood Rolls Royce and Bentley restoration workshops. We had the privilege of being shown round by the founder and owner, Andrew Wood, who explained everything from the

Events Planning The Anglia Summer Picnic is on Sunday July 1 at Felbrigg Hall, Norfolk. A National Trust property built in the 17th century, it houses a collection of Grand Tour paintings and also has a wonderful walled garden. Booking forms can be found in the May issue of Safety Fast! and on the website. East Anglian Tour At the time of writing there are still a few places left on the inaugural three-day tour of East Anglia, starting Friday September 21. Details and a booking form can be found in this month’s issue of Safety Fast!

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CENTRES

CALEDONIAN

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

We have a new event this month, a visit to the Tain Show on Sunday June 17. We will be supporting Highland MG on this event, with just a few cars mainly from the central belt heading up the A9. But if you are in the area that day please look us up. We plan to meet on the Saturday evening for a meal, so if you would like to join us get in touch. Next month is the Glamis Show and although entries have now closed we will have one or two spare entry tickets, so if you missed the deadline let me know. We will also have a small stand at the Dumfries Show on August 12.

Don’t forget to enter the Bo’ness weekend in September. This event grows in stature every year with lots to do and see. We are hoping to make it our biggest show of the year with the widest selection of MGs. Check our website for details. And if anyone can help set up at these shows then get in touch please. We have one run this month but please note it’s on a Friday evening, on June 22. This is the Summer Solstice, so after then the days decline and autumn beckons so enjoy the summer while you can! We will end up at Harry Ramsden’s in South Queensferry. Book through our website.

DEVON & CORNWALL YOUNG JANNER II bobslatter@hotmail.com www.mgcc.co.uk/devon-cornwall-centre/ By the time you read this, the Atlantic Coast Express Run will have taken place in hopefully far better weather than when it was laid out. Thank you to all the entrants and we hope you enjoyed the route this year. Also thanks to Okehampton Railway Station and Petroc College, Tiverton, for the start and finish venues respectively. There will be pictures on the Centre website. MGLive! is on this weekend and it is the first time for a couple of years that I have been able to attend, due to family commitments. I’m particularly looking forward to seeing the MGF Cup 20th Anniversary Race and meeting up with all our Centre members and old friends that are also attending.

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Now on to future events. Although June will be quiet, there is plenty of advanced notice as July will be a busy month. Sunday July 1 sees the Donkey Sanctuary Car Show back for 2018! With 600 cars exhibiting last year, this year will see it continue to attract cars from different eras, bringing them together for a relaxed day of car conversation, live music, great food, as well as the chance to explore the sanctuary and meet the donkeys. Last year we had a Centre display for the first time with great success and would like to do the same this year. If you would like to join in please let me know, as we will enter as a

You will all be pleased to know that at a recent committee meeting we decided to cancel entry fees this year for One Day Runs and also for the Glamis and Bo’ness shows. Any entry fees to museums etc. or charges for food will still be required but no Centre entry fee will apply. Smile, please! As you know we are celebrating various V8 anniversaries this year and we have produced a new V8 logo which can be attached to almost any regalia item. The attached pic shows all three of the anniversaries, but if you only want one or two on your item that can be arranged. Contact Tony or Lorraine for more details. There are still places available on our August Five-Day Tour (Fort William, Aviemore and

Club, so no need to individually register for an entry. There is a fee of £5.00 per car payable on the day at the gate, this includes all passengers. Once again, we as a Centre will be attending the Crash Box and Classic Car Club Vehicle Gathering at Powderham Castle, near Exeter, on Saturday 7 and Sunday July 8. This is probably the biggest gathering of Classic and Commercial vehicles and steam Traction Engines in the West Country. We have organised a stand for 20 vehicles once again after last year’s success, so would like as complete a range of cars from the earliest to the most modern to show that the Club is for all models of MG. Anyone who would like to display their car on one or both days, contact me and I will arrange to get the passes to you. Remember, it is a lot cheaper to show your car on the stand

Spey Valley) and our Arran trip in September. These are always excellent events; check our website for details. There are new Data Protection laws in force which affect communicating with members by email. Members now need to give their explicit approval for this. I have emailed everyone I know of in May, but if you have not received an email from me please get in touch as soon as possible.

than to attend as a member of the general public. There is another round of the MGCC Race Meetings at Donington Park in Leicestershire on July 14-15, which does look especially interesting as there will be a chance to see the Triple M cars racing here, besides all the other more modern Championship races. Is there enough interest from Centre members to attend this event and put on a display of Devon and Cornwall Centre members’ cars?

The Triple M Cars take to the track at Donington Park in July. Why not come along?

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LINCOLNSHIRE POACHER CONCOURS AND PRIDE OF OWNERSHIP SHOW 2018 SUNDAY AUGUST 19 10.00AM – 4.00PM DODDINGTON HALL AND GARDENS DODDINGTON LINCOLNSHIRE LN6 4RU

Set within spectacular gardens, Doddington Hall, Doddington, near Lincoln is an example of a fine late Elizabethan mansion house and is, for the sixth year, the venue for the MG Car Club Lincolnshire Centre’s flagship event sponsored by Peter Best Insurance, the Lincolnshire Poacher Concours and Pride of Ownership Show. Classic Cars of any marque and particularly MGs of all models welcome! Rosettes will be awarded to winning cars on the day with fabulous trophies presented at the Centre’s annual Dinner Dance in January 2019.

Enjoy a great day at a special location

Refreshments are available throughout the day.

Winners of each Show Class, the Premier Concours and the Premier Condition award winners will be announced at the club marquee at 3.00pm. . Don’t forget – for those that don’t want to enter their car to be judged, the day is still open for you to come along for a relaxing day out at no charge.

Full details available on www.mgcclincolnshire.co.uk or contact Geoff and Vicki Edge on 01205 871973 geoffjedge@aol.com www.doddingtonhall.com

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CENTRES

LINCOLNSHIRE

IAN MACKENZIE 01529 497849 MaccaV8@aol.com www.mgcclincolnshire.co.uk

June Natters: Wolds Wednesday 6: Abbey Lodge Monday 11; Wishing Well Wednesday 13; Three Horseshoes Thursday 21; Lincoln Tuesday 26; Red Cow Inn Thursday 28. Luncheon Club: Wednesday 20. June Events MGLive! Silverstone Saturday 2-Sunday 3, Three Horseshoes Landlords Choice 21. July Event Abbey Lodge Natter Games Night 9. It’s always about the weather, isn’t it! Well, it doesn’t put off hardy Lincolnshire folk – a particularly damp April Sunday saw a heartening increase in the number of entrants for our first

autotest of the season at East Kirkby. An amazing six novice new entrants had a taste of competition, with controlled youthful exuberance overcoming parental experience in two joyful families. The heroes of the hour were of course the marshals and timekeepers, with no hiding place from the elements – volunteers all, a heartful thanks to you from all the competitors. To further pique your interest, our Webmaster, Bob, has ‘relaunched’ an instructional video which he created almost a decade ago, and toured the Centre’s Natters via laptop, along with our

MIDLANDS

BRIAN OSBORN brianosbornmg@gmail.com

Here we go, into another hectic MG season and hopefully a bit of sun so that we can go topless. The Midland Centre has already had the Spring Sprint which had a reasonable entry thanks to the Austin Healey Championship who joined us. FTD went to Mark Dalton and FMG to Andy Walker MGB V8. The Pride of Longbridge on April 14 was a bit of a washout, so was officially cancelled due to the soggy grass in Cofton Park. However, many still turned up and filled the roads and parks around Longbridge. The Taster Trial on April 29 was not so well supported, but was enjoyed by all that entered. We only had two MGs – where were you?

www.mgcc.co.uk

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As I write we are just getting ready for our annual Welsh Touring Rallye and hoping for some good weather. This year it’s based on Aberystwyth, with the Saturday Run heading south to the Preseli Hills via Llyn Brianne, Pumsaint and Newcastle Emlyn and back via Cardigan. Promises to be good. A report next month To the future – a couple of changes to our calendar. The coffee morning at Gaydon on May 23 is cancelled due to the venue not being available, and the AutoSolo at Bruntingthorpe on June 17 is cancelled due to indisposition of organisers and shortage of volunteers. Our Camping Marshals will be in action at MGLive!, Silverstone,

‘scatter rally circus’, encouraging curious members to have a go in autotests and scatter rallies. Thanks to the wonders of modern technology, the video can now be viewed from a link on our Centre’s website home page at: www.mgcclincolnshire.co.uk/ The hairstyles may have mostly changed (you know who you are!), but the content is still very relevant. Give it a ‘hit’. A further hit was our National Drive Your Classic Car Day event, with 39 cars converging on Nene Valley Railway for a wonderful afternoon of steam, nostalgia and searching for treasure. The organisers David and Veronica and their team even arranged glorious sunshine for us all, right up to the point of the prize-giving. By now, you should all have received your summer edition of the Centre’s newsletter.

Unfortunately, a couple of gremlins have crept in: namely on page six, The Ferryboat Inn, Washingborough, Natter meets on the 4th Tuesday of the month, not as stated. The MG Rover Day at East Kirkby Aviation Heritage Centre is listed in the calendar for July 7. This is incorrect, and the date for your diary is actually Saturday July 14. Sadly, the WH Brand MG Car Fest listed for June 24 will not be taking place, as the dealership will be undergoing major development work at that time. Good luck with the alterations and weather, and thank you for your continuing support of the Centre. We all hope that the event will take place in 2019. And don’t forget to start sprucing up your cars for the Poacher Concours on August 19.

over June 2-3. Scott Munton could do with more volunteers; phone him on 07852 276234 if you can help. Our Touring Run on Sunday June 10 is on schedule. This is a tour around Worcestershire, following or ‘Trailing’ the route of the late 1920s route of the Victory Trail. Hence, called the ‘Victory Trail’. Regulations and Entry Forms are now on our website www.mgcars.org.uk or email me as above or phone 0121 445 4889. Starting and finishing at Wythall, south of Birmingham, it is an interesting and fun suggested route looking for the

changes over the past 90 years. Then we have the Joint Natter on Wednesday evening July 11; Donington Race Meeting on July 14-15; Summer Day Out at Shelsley Walsh on July 29; Summer Sprint at Curborough on August 5 and the Autumn Trial on September 23, now to be held at East Lodge Farm, Bromsgrove. All before we change the clocks yet again. Question is, how do we fit in a holiday and other MGCC events? We hope to see you at some, all, or one of these; please make yourself known.

Busy campsite at last years MGLive!

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CENTRES

NORTH WEST PAUL GOODMAN 01625 876300

The Centre’s main event this month is the gathering and concours at the Plough and Flail on Tuesday June 19. We would like all members in their MGs to arrive by 7.00pm if possible, although latecomers can be squeezed in. Drivers of modern, non-MG cars will not be able to access the pub car park. The Plough and Flail staff will be setting up outside food and drink-selling stands to ensure that everybody gets served. The MGs will be parked in age groups and informal judging will take place followed by the awarding of the trophies. In past years we have had around 100 cars on display and would like to exceed that total if possible.

One week before, The Old Hall Farm Pub will be having their summer gathering on Tuesday June 12. Our final social event of the month is the lunchtime pub meeting being held on Wednesday June 27 at The Dysart Arms, Bowes Gate Road, Near Tarporley, CW6 9PH. Looking further ahead, we have the MG Car Club Race Meeting at Donington Park on July 14 and 15. This will include two amazing days of racing with all the Club championships, including a double-header for the Cockshoot Cup. There will also be a three-hour relay race on Saturday for pre-1965 sportscars and three races for

Morgan sports cars. In addition, several of the Registers are holding special events on the grassy infield areas. Since MSV took over Donington Park in late 2017 there has been a huge amount of investment, including new toilet blocks, a new grandstand and a superb café bar. Members will be able to sign up for circuit parades in their own cars at lunchtime on both days. Donington is an easy drive from our region and discounted tickets will be available for advance purchasers. Looking back to April, the first round of the Cockshoot

Cup took place on the Silverstone National Circuit with victory going to the MG ZR 190 of Ray Collier with Phil Standish’s MG TF LE500 second from Pete Bramble driving a great race in his much older MGB roadster. Class winners were Mike Peters aboard his Midget and Brian Butler’s MGF. We also had an excellent turnout for Drive-It-Day despite the rain in the morning. The tour of Barton Control Tower and the hangers was excellent, and we enjoyed the hospitality of the Veterans Garage. There will be more to come about this project in the future.

Cockshoot Cup start at Silverstone in April. Photo: Dickon Siddall

SOUTH EAST JO RUFFELS joruffels@gmail.com www.mgccse.co.uk

After a successful if not wet MG Era Day, excellent Spring Run, Isle of Wight Rally and Tour of the South East Windmills, the South East Centre can now focus on the summer events. Brands Hatch proved to be an awesome day of racing with as much drama as ever, with races

Warming up ready to take to the Brands Indy Circuit. Photo: William Opie

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covering all Registers from prewar. Also on show were a stand and selection of cars from the MG ZR/ZS/ZT Register. By the time you read this MGLive!, the largest MG event of the year, will be imminent and if you have not pre-booked, no worries, just turn up on the day at Silverstone on June 2-3. The weekend of June 16-17 sees the annual 12/12 at the Brooklands Museum. KT13 0QN. The event incorporates a historic car and SE Centre display. For further details contact John Davies on 01737 241971 or santana@sweethaven.biz Organised in association with the Vintage Sports-Car Club,

The Triple M MGs at rest in the paddock at Brands Hatch. Photo: William Opie

the event celebrates Brooklands’ rich motoring history, and is always held on the weekend closest to the anniversary of the original opening of the Brooklands race track in 1907. The Summer Gathering takes place on Sunday July 15 at Hollycombe Steam in the Country at Liphook, GU30 7LP. This promises to be an excellent day

with PoO competitions, etc. Please contact Philip Bayne-Powell on 01483 811428 1942mgman@ gmail.com for more details. The Autumn Gathering takes place at Michelham Priory, BN27 3QS, on Sunday September 23; full details are still to be posted on the webpage www.mgccse. co.uk/event/ or contact Andrew Mitchell (07703 138419).

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A Spectacular Cavalcade of MG Cars to Majestic Alnwick Castle

Linden Hall

MGCC Tyne Tees Centre AUTUMN LEAVES RUN Sunday 14th October 2018 The 55 mile route starts at the elegant Macdonald Linden Hall Golf and Country Club where breakfast is provided & rooms are available at concessionary rates for those joining us from far afield. We initially head North West crossing the River Coquet and travel into the rolling Cheviot Hills before turning North East towards Chillingham Castle, home of the famous white cattle strictly inbred for over 300 years. We veer South East across high escarpments with sweeping vistas and tranquil landscapes that capture the inherent qualities and beauty of Northumberland. Turning South with spectacular views, we head to the county town of Alnwick passing the walled Hulne Park, crossing the River Aln onto Cannongate and Bailiffgate finishing opposite the Barbican entrance to majestic Alnwick Castle. We have exclusive permission to display our MGs inside the Battlement Walls in the grounds of this majestic castle, owned by the Percy family since the 13 th century, today home to the 12th Duke of Northumberland. Our 55 miles, 88 kilometres Run today has great significance, as it is the 88th Anniversary of the Founding of the MG Car Club on 12th October 1930, which was also a Sunday! The event is open to MGCC members, and restricted to 80 MG cars. A Traditional 3 Course Lunch will be served in the Castle Guest Hall for 160 diners, during which prizes and some special gifts will be awarded. The inclusive entry fee of £72.50 per car of two people also provides, in addition to the excellent Breakfast and Lunch for two, a Rally Plate and Tulip style souvenir Route Book. It will also enable you to enjoy Alnwick Castle’s many Exhibitions, Museums, Collections and Archives and provide access to tour the Magnificent State Rooms.

ENTRY FORM Your Details Mr/Mrs/Ms.......................

First Name......................

Surname...............................

Address: .......................................................................................................................................... Post Code: ...................

Mobile Tel: ........................

Email Address: ........................................................................

Home Tel: ........................

MG Car Club Membership Number..................

Your Car’s Details Model of MG........................................................................ Registration Number.....................

Year of Manufacture...............

Years Owned........................

Please send your Entry Form, which can also be accessed from www.mgcc.co.uk/tyne-tees-centre/future-events ideally by email, or by post to: Andrew D Kelly, Foxfield House, Hebron, Morpeth, Northumberland NE61 3LA. Email: adk@andrewdkelly.com If you have an Internet banking facility we would prefer you to pay by this method the details are as follows: Sort Code: 40-43-13 Account No: 41051067 quoting ALR and your surname as a reference. If paying by cheque then please make it payable to MGCC Tyne-Tees Centre and not to the organiser. To select from the Castle lunch menu options visit: https://www.mgcc.co.uk/tyne-tees-centre/future-events/ Closing date for entries: Friday 28th September 2018 Limited to 80 MG cars. Run will have MSA approval.

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CENTRES

SOUTH WEST

IAN BENINGFIELD ianbeningﬁeld@gmail.com 07747 080417 Writing these notes in May, the sunshine seems to have finally arrived and already we’ve had several SW Centre events – photos and results are on our website and Facebook page. Sadly, I’ve had to watch from afar as my own Midget is a long way from being on the road. A few hard-fought seasons in the Speed Championship have taken their toll, especially a small altercation with an Armco barrier at Prescott last year. Hopefully I’ll get things together and be out again for the Wiscombe Hillclimb in September. So instead of reporting on events this month I’ve got two requests for help. My contact details are above if you think you can

help. First, we’re looking for a new venue. Autotesting is true grassroots motorsport – all you need to take part is your Club membership and a car, no modifications or extra safety gear are needed. New rules mean that passengers can be carried and even the next generation of MG drivers are welcome, as under-17s can get behind the wheel. We already run two autotests, both on grass, which means we’re very much at the mercy of the British summer weather. We’d like to add a third but this time on tarmac or hardstanding. We’ve tried a few venues but so far with no luck. Do you know of a large carpark, free at weekends, that we could approach? In the meantime, the second

TYNE TEES

TONY WOOD anthony@scrutonvillage.co.uk

Lots to talk about this month, starting with the Cobweb Run, ably organised again by Ian Graham who sent an entry of 61 cars on a circular tour through the Northern Dales and across the spine of England. The theme of this year’s event was Peace and Remembrance. All entrants were given poppies knitted by Justine Graham and Ruth Berkley and the route passed a number of WW1 memorials highlighting one name on each and finishing at Brocksbushes Farm shop. John Brown (MGA) and Sean Morton (RV8) took the respective Cobweb class awards and the Spirit of the Event award went to Barrie and Sheila Hope (ZB Varitone) who were revisiting old haunts from Lincolnshire. Full

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report and lots of photos on the Centre website. Lots coming up. The Southern Natter at Coulby Manor will feature another excellent value BBQ on June 7 – let Noel know if you want feeding on 0191 587 0753 or email noel.lindford@ btinternet.com June 16 sees the popular car display at Scruton Fete – contact Tony Wood 07885 654795 for further details or just turn up by 1.30pm. If you fancy our summer picnic with fun and silliness guaranteed then pencil Sunday 24 into your diary and contact David Alexander on 01670 861178 or davidalexander2012@ btinternet.com And now for something completely different. Classics at Corbridge is no more but a new

of our grass autotests, MGs on Grass 2, will be coming up on August 5. If you’ve never taken part before it’s well worth coming along and testing your driving skills in a safe and friendly environment. Details are on our website now and you can check out photos and videos from previous years as well Secondly, a plea for help with the website. I try to post updates from all our events but that’s only a fraction of what goes on in the region. So whether it’s how your rebuild went, the history of your car or what the weekend’s run was like, if you have pictures, videos or stories it would be great if you could share. Upcoming Events Saturday 16 and Sunday June

event organised by our friends from MG Northumbria takes place at Bywell Hall, Stocksfield, on July 1. Our contribution is to hold a taster Autotest, definitely non-damaging as it’s on grass. Come along and give it a try, there’s no better way of finding out the limits of your car control, plus one of the finest Classic Gatherings in the North – what’s not to like? Sunday 8 sees our annual Prince Bishops and St Cuthbert’s Runs starting at Lord Stones Café and the Maritime Centre at Newbiggin, respectively, and both finishing on Palace Green in front of Durham Cathedral, a privilege only extended to the Centre (don’t ask Noel about the paperwork!). New routes, new lunch halts, but all the old staples of great roads and scenery. Don’t miss it, contact Noel for details.

17 – Bristol Classic Car Show, Shepton Mallet Sunday July 8 – SW Centre Summer Picnic, Ilford Manor, Bradford upon Avon Sunday August 5 – MGs on Grass 2, Claverham, near Bristol Saturday September 8 – Wiscombe Hillclimb, Honiton More details and the full list of future events are available on the website www.mgccsw. com and remember to check our Facebook page www.facebook. com/MGCCSW for all the latest news and photos.

Peter Jones hurtling round the MGs on the Grass course.

Dennis’s Fish and Chip supper run, a great favourite as it combines a short scenic route of around 30 miles with a superb supper – put Friday July 20 into your diary and contact Dennis on 07970 115202 / denhope@hotmail. co.uk Remember that details of all events can be found on the Centre website and our email newsletter Tyne Tees Tidings, which Noel sends out monthly, keeps you up to speed with everything going on, especially our Breakfast meeting venues, entry forms for events and the like. If you haven’t signed up do it now! Finally, last but not least, on the page opposite is an advert that promises a Spectacular Cavalcade of MG Cars to the Majestic Alnwick Castle. Spaces are limited, so don’t delay, enter today.

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CENTRES

YORKSHIRE

DAVID COPEMAN 07920 064585 www.mgccyorkshire.co.uk North – Nick Mann The April Natter was our annual slot car racing championship, which not only generates close racing but is always a very convivial affair. Following some very expert car control on the part of all the participants, the eventual winners were Mike and Val Payne, with Jeff and Kate Marsden giving them an exceedingly hard-fought victory. Next month will take the form of our annual Pride of Ownership, so without further ado I must sign off to start polishing my GT! South – Geoff Norcliffe SY Drive it Day this year took us on a 25-mile journey from a breakfast start to the Sheveling Wine Estate, near Holmfirth. The vineyard is

situated very high with spectacular views over the valley. We had a private tour of the vineyard and winemaking facilities, made all the more interesting by our guide Dean who was both entertaining and knowledgeable. Tasting and the talk enlightened us about Yorkshireproduced wine. East – Brian Rylance The April Natter was entertained by car enthusiast Lawrence Nicholson giving a talk on his day job in graphic design and sign writing. The calendar is starting to look busy. Pride of ownership is moved to July 12, first social run May 31 and Compass run July 29. West – David Copeman The Drive it Day Run venue at

ULSTER

CAROL WILLIS Tel: 07831 345560 www.mgcculstercentre.co.uk carol.mgulster@hotmail.co.uk

You know the old adage, you don’t see a bus for ages and then three come along at the same time? Well, when the Jubilee Committee organised an evening at Wright Bus Ltd in Ballymena, you could multiply the three by a factor of 30 or more! Over 20 members met for a tour of Wright Bus on Friday 20 April. We were given a presentation and then shown around the bus assembly lines by two of the production staff, one of whom had personally delivered the final, and 1,000th, new hybrid red London Bus to its destination. We saw the process from chassis to completion of various types of bus. Considering Wright Bus has been family run for over 70 years, it is amazing to see a local company compete

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so well against the big corporate manufacturers. Since the evening I have found myself subconsciously gazing at logos on every passing bus and even checked the screen glass on one I was riding in and yes, it was a Wright Bus! The Centre held its Annual Dinner and award evening on Saturday April 28, the event having been postponed from March 3 due to the snowy weather. We were delighted to be joined for the evening by Richard Colston who had flown over from Kimber House and he together with local man, Conn Williamson, presented the awards to the winners. Thanks to Richard for taking time to come over for the evening. The meal at the Ivanhoe Hotel in Belfast was

Brymor Dairy, organised by the 24/39 Group, was well attended with a variety of MG marques which either followed their own route or joined in with the run organised by North Yorkshire. May Bank Holiday and cars from across Yorkshire attended the Galloway Gallop organised by the Caledonian Centre. Congratulations to Wendy Tomlinson and Steve (MG) Pountney who were married on Saturday April 28. Tiger – Pete Welbourn The improving spring weather and upcoming MG events spurred me into sorting out my MGs. With the MGA Register Spring weekend coming up, this month’s Luncheon run to Harpham provided a good few test miles. Several other owners must have had the same idea as

MGAs outnumbered all other MGs. The run itself was well received; credit for that must go to the weather gods for lifting the cloud and opening up the views, and a venue with such a good reputation. Vale of York – Ken Cothliff A good sunny day meant the Natter had a good selection of MGs. Quite a few Natter members had been on the Daffodil Run, even though the weather had not been its best – it was definitely a hood down day, and there was even snow on the Moors! Volunteers came forward to help with the forthcoming Canada Run. The run combines WW2 history with a spectacular run north of York, and up to Teesside for those with a taste for adventure. Our Charity will be the Yorkshire Air Ambulance.

excellent and subsequently our prize ballot raised nearly £200 towards this year’s charity, Air Ambulance NI. Congrats to all prize winners and a big thank you for ballot contributions. At the dinner, our Chairman emphasised that the Centre’s competitive events are in much demand and we badly need additional members of Committee to run them so we would welcome anyone who is willing to come on board. As you read this this our wonderful Golden Jubilee Tour will be over and MGLive! will just be starting with our Ulster Centre Teams – Gordon Buckley, Bryan Mutch, Will Corry with Stephen Dawson and son Roger together with Jay Colville – no doubt packing up for the journey over the Irish Sea. We wish them all the best in their competition. We have decided to use

It is more secure as we do not collect large sums of money leading up to an event or while awaiting lodgement and cash cannot go astray. It is up to our members and competitors to regularly keep their eye on the Rallyscore website for entries going ‘live’. You will note no personal details about your committee members are shown on our website; the new General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR) became law on May 25, although effective before that. The law is now much more complicated and no information about any member can be released without their specific written authorisation. It is certainly worth reading up on!

Rallyscore for entry to our events.

Dates for your Diary: June 12 Nosh ‘n Natter, Poacher’s Pocket June 14 TTS, Crumlin – entries and payment via www.rallyscore.net

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REGISTERS

VINTAGE

JOHN VENABLES 01865 862573 johnandtriciav@gmail.com

It’s MGLive! time this weekend, and we hope to see as many of you as possible in your Vintage MGs and to welcome you at the VR tent where we shall also have a number of goodies for sale, spares, books, lamps, models, toys – if you can dig them out at this late stage, bring them with you. You will receive 80% of the selling price at the end of the day. As I write, the Register has just returned from our spring event in Pickering. I unfortunately was unable to go this time but I understand that it did border on the damp on occasions, particularly on the way home. However, a group of 15 cars and 30 people had a very good time. The hotel, the White Swan in

Pickering, excelled, and a visit to the National Railway museum in York was thoroughly enjoyed, as was a trip on the steam train to Whitby, true nostalgia through the moorland of Yorkshire. A visit to York city was also arranged, and a day was spent at Castle Howard, a fabulous stately home still occupied by the Howard family. All thanks to Debbie for arranging such a memorable event, together with her helpers. This was her swansong event as she has now been replaced as our chair by Peter Mace, but what a way to finish. We held our delayed AGM on May 20, and is now the Register secretary. I am sure Peter will be a very good

Chairman and keep us on our toes. He will be pleased to see you at Silverstone. A date on the horizon is the VSCC Prescott hillclimb which usually attracts a number of our cars. It would be nice to gather

for our traditional picnic in the Orchard on August 4 and 5, so bear this in mind. We have not enjoyed the best of weather so far in 2018, so let us hope the summer will now be upon us.

SVW

PAUL CAMPBELL svw.safety.fast@gmail.com www.svwregister.co.uk

Bookings for the SVW Jane Austen, Bristol and Bath Tour have taken off nicely and we expect a few more in the coming weeks. All details can be found on the website and in the past issues of Safety Fast!. The Brooklands MG Era Day was a rather wet affair, but we did assemble two VA Tourers and a WA Saloon. The latter belongs to Jeff Gibson, a well-known car and owner in the Register. Our Chairman, John Dutton, was there and he chose Jeff’s car for the David Washbourne Trophy, which was presented by Rosemary Washbourne. The two VA Tourers belong to Peter and Maggie Freeman and myself.

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This was a long-awaited coming together of these two cars as Peter has been working on his for some years and has recently completed an engine rebuild, including boring it out to 1708cc as I have done with mine; a good choice bearing in mind that these two VAs were police cars when new. Even more amazing is that they were both used by the East Sussex Constabulary and Peter’s VA replaced mine on traffic duty in 1939 (see last year’s SVW Review). I took my VA Tourer for an MOT last month! Well, it needs to be kept roadworthy and I have the SVW event coming up in July when I expect to travel some 400

Maggie and Peter Freeman with their ex-police VA Tourer

miles. I was surprised to be told that it requires new king pins and track rod ends, plus the rear axle has leaked on to the o/s/r brake shoes. I got all the parts from John Davis at Vintage & Collectors Car Spares (see page 24 of the 2017 SVW Review) and John Walker (johnwalk@aol. com), both of whom were very helpful and, dare I say, rather

cheaper than our usual source of parts!

Jeff Gibson with his WA Saloon

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REGISTERS

T TYPE

JOHN WARD 01621 773606 johnw.ward@yahoo.co.uk www.mgcc.co.uk/t-register MGLIVE! Saturday 2 and Sunday June 3 We will once again have a dedicated parking area on both days from 9.00am. Look out for our new T Register sail banners and yours truly will be on hand to usher you in and park you up safely. A change of style from the usual format in that the Registers’ stands will not be housed in the main marquee but in a separate pit stop configuration adjacent to the parking areas and the trade stands, so do come and look us up. We will again be hosting a Natter with drinks and nibbles, returning to our usual location somewhere in the paddock, but

alas no T Specials display this year. Come and have a drink and a natter about 4.30 onwards on Saturday. Always a good topic for discussion is T Type chassis identiﬁcation, so here is a reminder for those who do not know or have forgotten! The chassis number is the key data for identifying your car. On all T Types it is stamped on the near side dumb iron or chassis extension. This number should agree with the chassis number (or car number) stamped on the plate(s) riveted to the battery/tool box or bulkhead under the bonnet of the car. For models TA/TB/TC there is no problem because there

are no prefixes used; the chassis numbers run from TA 0253-3255, TB 0252-0630 and TC 025210251. Some historians might dispute this, but it seems that the prototype TA were numbered 0251 and 0252, TB and TC were numbered 0251 and were not counted as production cars. For the TD there were two types: plain TD and TD/C, the ‘competition’ version with bigger valves and carbs and stiffer front suspension. This latter is also called the Mark II and hence often confused with the code TD2, which formed part of the engine codes produced after about chassis number 10000 and signifying the larger clutch. The TD chassis numbers are from 0251 to 29915. TDs also had extra codes for export cars, EXR and EXL for RHD and LHD respectively. To this was added either “U” or, for later

TDs, “LNA” for cars destined for North America. In the case of the TF, after two prototypes Abingdon had to use a BMC-imposed numbering system starting at 0501. After 6200 TF 1250s and 3400 TF 1500s, the last TF was numbered 10100. The TF prefixes that make up the car number on the identification plate are easily decoded thus: Letters: HD stands for MG 2-seater in the BMC scheme of things. A = Black, B = Light grey, C = Dark red, E = Mid-green, P = Ivory. First Digit: 1 = UK RHD, 2 = Export RHD. 3 = Export LHD, 4 = North America LHD. Second Digit: 3 = Cellulose, 5 = Primer, 6 = Cellulose body, synthetic wings. Our thanks to Roger Wilson for his research and this notification.

MAGNETTE

STEPHEN TICKELL 01737 760330 stephen.tickell@gmail.com www.magnette.org

Look forward to seeing as many of you as possible at MGLive! where we’ll be particularly marking 60 years since the end of Z Magnette production. We hope to field a Register team in the California Cup (Saturday), providing Paul Batho and David Halliday have managed to find a third Magnette competitor, so if you can please do support them in the new central venue for the autotest. In April Mark Bacchus invited Magnette owners to the Arundel Castle picnic, organised by Chichester MGOC with which he’s involved. Due to wet weather beforehand, the event had to be moved at short notice to nearby Amberley Museum,

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but they still managed a good turnout, and had the bonus of photogenic period surroundings for the cars – including Jon Langford’s recently acquired Farina Magnette. Worcester weekend Clive Webb has been busy organising our Register weekend (July 13-15) and has put together a varied programme based around the Worcester and Malvern area. As usual you’re welcome to join in everything, or just pick and choose; however you’ll need to book via Clive for dinner on Friday and Saturday (cdwebb63@gmail. com or 01905 821115). We’re requesting that people make their own arrangements for hotel or

Farina at Amberley

B&B accommodation, but Clive can provide a list of possibilities in the area. Friday starts with a visit to the Morgan sports car factory (11.30am, lasting about two hours), but places are very limited, so again please contact Clive as soon as possible. This is followed by a walk to the Worcestershire Beacon and

dinner at the Fleet Inn, Twyning. On Saturday we start with morning coffee before a scenic run to Witley Court house and gardens, and dinner at The Retreat Inn in Norton. Rounding off the weekend, Sunday morning features a relaxed visit to Croome Court (National Trust), which includes restored WWII RAF buildings.

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REGISTERS

MGA

EDWARD VANDYK 01488 608810 mgascribe@vandyk.co.uk MoT and the MGA The MGA spans the era 1955 to 1962 and hitherto all cars registered in 1960 or later required an MoT. This all changed on May 20 2018 when the requirement for an MoT was amended so as to apply only to those cars registered less than 40 years ago on a rolling basis. This means in practice that no MGA now requires an annual MoT inspection, although they can still be submitted to an MoT test on a voluntary basis. There is of course a sting in the tail, in that the new regime will not apply to cars that have been “substantially changed”, a term the DVLA have codified in the following document https://

assets.publishing.service.gov. uk/government/uploads/system/ uploads/attachment_data/ file/670431/vehicles-of-historicalinterest-substantial-changeguidance.pdf MGA Register Spring Tour 2019 May 17 to 19 – Mynyddoedd â Mor – Mountains and Sea Participating in the 2019 MGA Register Spring Tour will enable you enjoy a truly magnificent part of the UK, Anglesey and Snowdonia, and will give two contrasting and enjoyable driving days. Our base will be the Royal Victoria Hotel, Llanberis, Gwynedd, LL55 4TY (www.theroyalvictoria.co.uk)

at the foot of Snowdon. The hotel has 100 rooms and is in 30 acres of its own gardens and woodland, which includes the historic castle of Dolbadarn cradled between two lakes, Llyn Padarn and Llyn Peris, as well as the Welsh mountains. The Snowdon Mountain Railway is opposite the front door and the hotel is just 15 minutes from the A55 expressway. We have reserved a block of 50 double or twin rooms for the nights of Friday 17, Saturday 18 and Sunday 19 2019, at the special rate of £127.50 per night for dinner bed and breakfast for Friday and Sunday and £137.50 on Saturday, based on two people sharing. Single occupancy is £88.50 for Friday and Sunday, £93.50 for Saturday. Premium rooms are available by separate negotiation

at the time of booking. These prices include a gala dinner (£25 for non-residents) on Saturday. To reserve your room contact the hotel (01286 870253), and quote “MG Car Club”. A non-refundable deposit of 20% is required with the balance payable seven days before arrival. Having reserved your room, download the entry form at www.mgcc.co.uk/ mga-register/events-in-2019 Complete it and send it with your cheque for the entry fee, £30, payable to, “The MG Car Club – MGA Register” to Alan Sheridan, 6 Hillside Drive, Liverpool L25 5NS. Any questions contact Diana and Alan Sheridan Tel: 0151 428 1655 Mobile: 07768 816907 email: jalansheridan@gmail.com Bookings commence on July 1 2018, not before!

with good additional descriptions for each turn. Clearly the mileages had come from an MGB odometer as they were actually spot-on to the readings in both of our cars. The run covered a geographical area we haven’t really explored so it was good to be given a guided tour! Spring was well and truly under way with many flowers in the hedges and daffodils in the gardens and verges. We could have appreciated the views and the villages better on a sunny day, but that did not detract from a pleasant drive. When we returned to Haynes Motor Museum it was dry again

and we could park outside the front while we enjoyed our cream tea. The price of the run also included entry to the museum which has so many different vehicles it appeals to everyone. The challenge is to spot how many of them you, or your family, have owned in your driving career! Many thanks to the organisers who did an excellent job to ensure the day ran smoothly. The cafe was a vibrant place to catch up on stories since the last time you met up with MGCC friends, and to discuss and to look forward to the future events. Simon Pedrazzini and Martin Overton

MGB

DAVID BROADHURST 01209 614704 newsletter-editor@mgb-register.org www.mgb-register.org mgbforum.mgb-register.org So, the MOT passed with no advisories and still no guidance from the insurers on what they will want to guarantee that the vehicle is roadworthy. My Tester thinks that an MOT certificate makes sense no matter what, as it at least records the vehicle mileage…. MGB Register Spring Run Given the predictions, the day started much better than forecast with grey skies but no rain. We had a good run, albeit with hood up, and met our friends along the way to arrive at Haynes Motor Museum for signing on and coffee. The venue this year was good for those based in the south, southeast and more especially

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the southwest peninsula, but cars attended from further afield, too. Haynes Museum is unique, given the catalyst that started it many years ago, and the facility has developed to provide a good experience for meetings such as ours where the large reception area and catering facilities are welcome, especially in inclement weather conditions. Unfortunately it always looked like the day was going to become wet (it didn’t disappoint us) and it was only the brave who started the almost 50-mile run departing from Haynes with their hoods down. The route book itself was a joy with the accurate Tulip diagrams, directions supported

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REGISTERS

MIDGET

Dennis Wharf dennis@loisweedon.net You should be reading this just a couple of days before MGLive! where most of your committee will be attending, so if there is anything you’d like to discuss, or simply just to say hello, we will be on hand. It’s been a tricky few months for the Register, with much concern over its continuation, but I’m hoping by next month to confirm a few new members who have stepped forward to help run and organise things into the future. Local events and gatherings are now in full swing, including evening concours, etc, so keep an eye on your local Centre calendar to see what is happening and don’t forget if you do attend to let Peter Chaundy know via

the website, and claim your Car of the Year points. I’ve already been to a couple of local meetings organised by the Silverstone Social Classic Car Club. They are great meetings, too, encompassing all types and shapes of vehicle, where it’s always a pleasure to chat with like-minded, interesting people. With our weekend away in Somerset approaching fast, and a few spaces still available, get in touch with Graham via the website to book your room if you fancy it. Despite the unusually bitter cold temperatures and drizzle, Brands Hatch on April 28-29 proved another success for the racing Championship. Feature

MGC

MIKE HAUGHTON mgc_mike@btinternet.com

Brooklands Era day came and went. The weather was not kind to us but nevertheless we managed to muster 17 Cs on the day. From a personal view I found the whole day an absolute joy, mooching around the cars and aircraft. MGLive! should be imminent by the time our UK members read this. If you are planning to come along to Silverstone do call into the C Register marquee and say hello. The Registers will be situated in the marquee village as part of a new look and layout at MGLive! There is still time to book for MGC Day on July 1 – booking details are on the C Register micro website. If you are

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planning to go it is essential to book in advance as we are unable to accommodate entries on the day due to the conditions of the booking we have with Fawley. There is a race meeting at Donington July 14-15. If there is sufficient interest in a small gathering on the Sunday, probably no more than 10 cars, please let Mike know before June 4 so he can book a Register parking area. Ian Grant in New Zealand has been extremely busy and the latest newsletter can be downloaded from the C Register microsite. There is extensive news as to what is going on down under and Ian has kindly listed

event at this meeting is always the Steve Everett Trophy race, which Steve Collier romped through to take, but behind there was some excellent racing taking place, especially between Tom Walker and Pippa Cow, Tom just getting the final verdict. Finally just a mention of the

annual Road Run, something of a staple now, being in its 16th year. Peter Chaundy is this year’s organiser, and has found a fabulous route finishing at Stowe, near Buckingham. The entry form should be in this issue, but of course is also on the website. That’s it, see you next month.

several YouTube links, many of which relate to the famous MGC50 event. UK MGC50, June 2017: MGC Register at MGLive, Silverstone; UK MGC50, June 2017: A Walk Around the Grounds of Chateau Impney on Show Day; UK MGC50, June 2017: At Gloucestershire Warwickshire Railway; UK MGC50, June 2017: Anniversary Tour of Silverstone; UK MGC50, June 2017: Concours d’Elegance and Pride of Ownership at Chateau Impney; NZ MGC50, October 2017: Glenbrook Vintage Railway, South Auckland; MGLive! June 2017: MGF Register Line-Up; MGLive! June 2017: Main Marquee and Bus Tour of Silverstone;

MGLive! June 2017: Russ Swift Car Control; MGLive! June 2017: The Mike Brewer and Ant Anstead Show. Throughout the year many of our cars are celebrating their 50th birthday. Please let us have your photos. Here’s Mike’s, but words will be had about a serious lack of birthday cake!

Sta th en Th re Sto 18 idy ga fam m th of re gir re Th to yo Te As an wh be

Happy C Motoring. Colin Howes

En (In ins www.mgcc.co.uk

23/05/2018 16:18

SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 2 2018

MIDGET REGISTER ROAD RUN TO STOWE HOUSE AND LANDSCAPE GARDENS

Starting at the Motor Hub near Bibury this year’s route will take you through some typical Cotswold Villages and lanes where you can enjoy the scenery at a leisurely pace. There are several Pubs along the route where you can stop off for refreshment if desired! Stowe House and Landscape Gardens was commissioned in the 18th century by the powerful Temple-Grenville family to create an idyllic landscape filled with temples. Amidst these enchanting gardens, they built the most lavish temple of all, Stowe House, famous during its 18th-century heyday as an important artistic masterpiece. In 1922, in the face of demolition, Stowe School saved the building from certain destruction. Unlike the loss and decline of many English country houses, Stowe House found a new and revived use for the 20th and 21st centuries as a school for boys and girls. Stowe House Preservation Trust was established in 1997 to restore the House and share this special place with the world. There is much to enjoy in the Landscape Gardens at Stowe and too little space here for us to describe its magnificence so we hope you’ll take a walk around the grounds and see for yourselves the Temples, Lakes and vistas at hand. As always informality is key, but with lovely grounds, superb views, an excellent restaurant and shop, plus a special MG parking area, where we can all meet upon arrival, an enjoyable day can be expected.

Name .................................................................. Address ............................................................... ............................................................................. ............................................................................. Telephone No...................................................... MG Model ............ Reg No ............................... MGCC membership No....................................... Entries to: Pete Chaundy, 156 Roman Way, Bicester, Oxon, OX26 6FL. I enclose a cheque for £ .......made payable to: MGCC Midget Register, ENCLOSING A STAMPED ADDRESSED ENVELOPE PLEASE. Or online www.midgetregister.com

Entry fee £26.00 (Includes free entry into Stowe Landscape Gardens for two, all route instructions, and rally plaque, once again sponsored by BMH Ltd).

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REGISTERS

VICTOR SMITH 0208 392 9434 victorsmith@v8register.net www.v8register.net V8 40th Anniversary 2018 There is a programme of anniversary events for the 40th anniversary of the formation of the V8 Register in the week running up to MGLive! The events include a visit to the Birmingham Symphony Hall on Wednesday May 30 when two organists in the V8 Register will contribute to this event. On Thursday May 31 there will be a visit to the house and gardens at Packwood House south of Birmingham. On Friday June 1 there will be a guided tour of the seven-storey brewery at Hook Norton, followed by lunch at the brewery cafe. In the evening we have a V8 Dinner at the Star Inn in Sulgrave, near Silverstone. Full details and

booking arrangements for all these events are available on our ‘More’ webpage. MOT exemption In May 2018 MOT exemption became available for cars manufactured or registered for the first time at least 40 years previously, of a type no longer in production, which have been historically preserved or maintained in their original state and have not undergone substantial changes in the technical characteristics of their main components in the last 30 years. To discuss the DfT Substantial Change Guidance or MOT exemption see our ‘More’ webpage. www.v8register.net/ more.htm

FWD

BEN HATTON ben2692@hotmail.co.uk www.mgcc.co.uk/fwd-register/

I thought that I would use this month’s notes to give you an update about upcoming events. First, I’m delighted to say that the MGCC FWD Register has been successful in obtaining a stand at the Manchester Classic Car Show. This will be the third year in which we have had a stand and we feel it’s important that the FWD Register has a presence in the North. However, we could really do with some fresh cars on the stand this year so if you would like to show your car, please do get in touch. The Manchester Classic Car Show is on September 15-16 and you will get two free weekend passes to the show, if you show your car. Cars need to

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be in place by 8.00pm on the evening of Friday 14th (but can be brought anytime during the day) and must remain in place until the show closes on the Sunday. We also have the BMC & Leyland Show at the British Motor Museum on July 1. If you haven’t been to this show before and enjoy BMC, British Leyland, Austin Rover Group cars, etc, then this is the show for you. The variety is excellent and you often get cars that you never or rarely see at other shows. If you happen to live near Longbridge or Cowley, there are convoys to the show which are free of charge to join. For more details of the convoys, please visit cowleyconvoy.info

Why doesn’t the boot open via the dashboard switch? A brief but useful reminder from Peter Garton was posted on the V8 Bulletin Board in May saying “for the life of me I could not get the boot to open remotely via the dashboard switch. I tried via the ignition, plus the switch, but nothing worked, so I got out the last resort action – the handbook! There I saw to my indignation that I did not have the handbrake on! See page 82, Owner’s Handbook AKM7144ENG. “I park up in my garage with the car in first gear only and simply forgot that one has to engage the handbrake plus have the ignition on plus pressing the boot release switch. Must be getting old! “The handbook says Luggage compartment release

or contact me. The FWD Register has a stand at the show and we have free tickets for eight cars to join us. Each car on the stand gets two free tickets to the show, so not only will you get to be on the stand and enjoy the show, it won’t cost you a bean. If you would like to have your car on the stand, please get in touch with us by Sunday June 10. Finally, the Maestro & Montego Owners Club have been in touch and are looking to work with both us and the MGOC to put on an MG Maestro Turbo display at the BL Autumn Rally at Milton Keynes on Sunday September 30. Their aim is to get as many MG Maestro Turbos together as possible as part of the 30th anniversary celebrations. If you have an MG Maestro Turbo which isn’t on the road but you would like to bring it on

BL publicity photo for the launch of the V8-powered MGB GT model in August 1973

switch – press to open luggage compartment. Only operates with the starter switch in position “II” and handbrake on.” Nextbase dash cam continues to be recommended In our review of dash cams in late 2016 the best buys, the Nextbase dash cams, were a good choice. In the latest Which? magazine they highlight the Nextbase In-Car Cam 312GW Deluxe at £92 continues to be a good choice.

MG Maestro Turbos, one of each colour at the Total Retro Show on May 13. Photo: Johnny Parker

a trailer, there is room to store trailers at the show. If you would like to bring your MG Maestro Turbo, please get in touch with Andrew Stokell from the Maestro & Montego Owners Club as soon as possible. Andrew can be contacted on ne_events@ maestro.org.uk or on 07890 106532. Even if you don’t have an MG Maestro Turbo, please do come along to this show anyway as it’s for ‘our’ cars. This show is put on by Tom Morley, an enthusiast, is free of charge to attend and always proves a great day out.

www.mgcc.co.uk

23/05/2018 16:18

REGISTERS

MGF

TIM MORRIS 01932 882467 scribe@mgfregister.org www.mgfregister.org

The RPS Ltd RPX Show Car in front of the Register gazebo at Brooklands

An overhead shot of the Register presence on the finishing straight at Brooklands MG Era

MGLive! takes place about now and we are really looking forward to the MGF Cup 20th Anniversary Race on the Saturday, which is bringing together as many former Cup cars as David Coulthard could muster. The race is sponsored by Church Square Autos and David Koskela is taking “Racing Red” out on track in the race itself. You may remember we followed his exploits with the car in FasTForward and Safety Fast! in the past – yes, the car is still going! The Register has also chipped in to help the race along by sponsoring the trophies and we may or may not know the victor by the time you get this issue of Safety Fast!. What I am sure of, though, is that MGLive! will be/was a great weekend and we’ll hear more about it in the next issue. “Whan that Aprill with his shoures Soote” was a most appropriate Chaucer quote as it was certainly a very damp month and several of our listed events suffered as a result. Brooklands MG Era started the trend, but around 100 F/TFs turned out

www.mgcc.co.uk

Safety Fast_June18_Back.indd 89

on a very grey and wet day. We had invited Julie and Garry Hutton from RPS Ltd to display their new RPX show car at the event and it really did attract a lot of attention from the F/TF enthusiasts, despite the pooling raindrops on the gleaming bodywork. I am sure we’ll see some of these mods appearing on many cars soon. Mike Stafford (MJS Auto and Marine) and Jon and Claire Norris (Rough Luck Racing) were also with us, making a trio of mobile mechanics. I’m not sure if there is a term for a collection of mobile mechanics but it was nice to see them engaged in friendly banter! The Pride of Longbridge Rally was unfortunately a casualty of the weather with Cofton Park being out of bounds, but the Rover Community Action Trust decided to press on to mark the occasion of the MG Rover closure by taking to the pavements outside the factory. It’s our Central group’s home patch and several members went down all the same but magnanimously moved off again for a mini PoL after-party at Stokes Prior to let

other MGR enthusiasts park up. However one bonus was that it wasn’t a bad day itself in the end and the tops could be dropped. Amberley became the destination after Arundel was rained off. Hard standing at the open air museum was much better than sinking in a muddy quagmire further along the coast and everyone seemed to have a great time amongst the numerous buildings and exhibitions. Some of the Register members stayed over and met up the night before at the Swan in Arundel with MGOC members for a meal and convivial chatter. The final April event saw the Register head east for the North Norfolk Classic Car Club St George’s Day run from Sheringham to Holkham Hall. Cars from the Anglia, Thames Valley and Essex regions all took part amongst the many mixed classics, providing for a great sight on the lawn of the Hall for

Drive it Day, and the weather held out for this one, too. Other regions held their own Drive it Day events around the country, too, joining the throngs of other classics out on the UK’s roads. More to come, now warmer weather is with us – look out on the MGF Register Internet Forum, Facebook page and website for details. Of note are a couple of southern events where we hope to have a good turnout from different regions – MGs in the Park at Cotswold Wildlife Park on June 7, Hanworth Classic Car Show in Bushey Park, Hampton, on June 24, Uxbridge Classic Car Show on July 15 and the Brooklands Classic Car Show and Jumble on July 23. If you would like to join at us at any of those events then please get in touch with Ian Wright at mgf. events@mgfregister.org for all bar the Brooklands one, where the contact is me tim.morris@ mgfregister.org

The Register at Amberley Chalk Pits Museum

JUNE 2018 SAFETY FAST! 89

23/05/2018 16:18

REGISTERS

MG6.3.5

STEVE HAINES Steve-haines@live.co.uk www.facebook.com/groups/MG635Register https://twitter.com/635register The events season has started with a bang, lots going on with owners enjoying their cars now that the weather has finally improved a bit! There have been lots of local events around the country which owners have been very warmly

welcomed into alongside the more usual classic cars… it must be something about the badge! There was good support at the recent Drive it Day event at Petroc College in Tiverton where, as well as the usual suspects, the event was supported by Tim Blight from

The Finest Covers for Your Mercedes

Drive it Day event at Petroc College in Tiverton

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Online database for the perfect cover at www.carcovershop.co.uk Tel: 01780 749449

Blights of Bideford with the new MG ZS demonstrator. It was very well received, with lots of interest from current MG owners and those owning other classic marques. The event was supported live by Tiverton Community radio (podcast here: www. tivertoncommunityradio.co.uk/ petroc-college) with live interviews with some owners and enthusiasts. It’s worth a listen! The event raised £120 for the Register’s charity this year, CLIC Sargent. Our next major get-together will be MGLive! on June 2 and 3 at Silverstone. We will have our usual Register stand, so please come along and say hello. We will be able to formally register your vehicle on the day and have some Club regalia for you to purchase.

If you haven’t booked in yet, please take part in the Pride of Ownership on the Sunday this year; its free, good fun and nice to see the most modern of MGs represented here. There will be separate classes for MG3 and MG6 this year. The arena will be sponsored by MG Motor this year, with Russ Swift doing his thing in MG3 and ZS, Should be interesting! The Register is working closely with the Zed Register to organise Saloon day, which will be on Sunday July 15 at Donington Park, along with the MGCC race meeting. We’ll be celebrating the MG3s 5th Birthday and having Pride of Ownership and Register parking. Keep an eye on the Facebook page for more details...

Colne Classics

MG Power Steering and restoration specialists

View the website on www.colneclassics.com B1 Seaden Court, Gorse Lane Ind Est, Clacton, Essex. 01255 432693, 07714 675319

STEVE McKIE SPORTSCARS CHESTERFIELD

•

DERBYSHIRE

Specialists in the repair and restoration of MG cars Suppliers of parts for • MGA • MGB • MGC • Midget • T Type • MGF/TF

www.stevemckiesportscars.co.uk Tel 01246 454527 • Fax 01246 453681 Albert Street North, Chesterfield, S41 8NP

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Steve McKie Sports Cars Hi-Res.indd 1

23/06/2010 www.mgcc.co.uk

13:46

23/05/2018 16:18

MARTIN SMITH www.usedmg spares.co.uk

Quality New and Used MGF & MGTF Spares 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: smudgemg@yahoo.co.uk

62B HIGH STREET SHEPPERTON, MIDDLESEX TEL: 01932 241843 / 07836 281493 WWW.CHURCHSQUAREAUTOS.COM EMAIL: MGSALES@CHURCHSQUAREAUTOS.COM

MG TF LE 500 ( 1 owner just 9,200 miles)

MG TF 135 Facelift mdl (just 35,000 miles)

LE500 #124/500. A very very low mileage LE500, having covered just 9,200 miles with full service history (8 services), one owner. Full spec with removable colour coded hardtop, air conditioning, full Black leather sport seats, heated glass rear screen to soft top, soft ride suspension, etc. Just going though the workshop, is being fully serviced new cambelt, brake disc’s and pads etc. If still forsale will be taking to MGLive! on June 2nd, will be on Martin Smith stand. £8,795

2005 (05 Reg) ManualPetrol Finished in: Xpower Grey/Full Black leather sport seats Very low mileage Previously supplied by us @16,000miles. Facelift models are fitted with Soft ride suspension, glass heated rear screen, upgraded heater controls. Alloys are 6 spoke 16”, engine water level censor, passengers airbag, Supplied with a new Headgasket / cambelt / water pump and new mot. Colour coded hardtop is available for this TF. A very high spec TF in Immaculate original condition thoughtout. £4,495

We are Sponsoring the MGF/TF 20th Anniversary race at MG Live on Saturday 2nd June. The race is now known as ‘The Church Square Autos MGF/TF Anniversary Challenge’. The only MGF/TF race in the world..

MG TF 135 Spark ‘SE’ Facelift (just 22,600 miles)

MG TF LE 500, upgrades (just 44,000 miles) LE500 #29/500, in the best colour Orange with Black leather sport seats. Glass heated rear screen, soft ride suspension, ‘N’ series engine. Full service history. Fully serviced, new cambelt, 4 new Falken tyres, upgraded new super sport exhaust and upgraded Kmaps ECU. Air conditioning overhauled and serviced with new condenser, new front & rear disc’s /pads, over £2000 spent by us to keep it in Superb condition, used by me this year for show’s and driving events (see mag’s). £6,295

We are the original MGF/TF specialists. Offering very very low mileage very high specification MGF’s / TF’s including special limited edition models. Continuing to take our MG’s to events / shows and Race meeting with the MGCC ‘MGF’ register. Viewing is by appointment only please 01932 241843 or 07836 281493 sales@churchsquareautos.com.

VIEWING BY APPOINTMENT PLEASE

www.mgcc.co.uk

Safety Fast_June18_Back.indd 91

2005 (54 Reg) Finished in: Sonic Blue/Black leather grey inserts Rare Facelift model Spark ‘SE’ in Immaculate condition, the last ltd edition model made by MG / Rover. Has covered just 22,600 miles repeat 22,600 miles and just 940 miles since 2011, with FSH plus mot’s. Supplied with a new headgasket/water pump/cambelt (fitted 16/4/2018) and fresh mot (no advisory’s). High Spec. True collector/showcar Immaculate original condition thoughout. £5,995

This is just a small selection from our stock

www.churchsquareautos.com JUNE 2018 SAFETY FAST! 91

23/05/2018 16:18

CL ASSIFIEDS How to Advertise Members can advertise their cars free of charge in Safety Fast. The advert will also be posted on the Club website in due course. This is for one insertion only. To place an advert or for additional insertions email colingrant@mgcc.co.uk with details of your car, around 60 words, together with an attached picture, your contact information, price of your car, the area where you live, and membership number. Cost for non-members to advertise is £20. All adverts should be submitted by the 10th of the month for the following months issue.

Postcombe Service Station A40 London Road, Postcombe ,Oxon,OX9 7ED

1972 MGB GT

12 months MOT. Owned for 12 years. New front and rear wing panels 5 years ago. Oselli unleaded head. Electronic ignition. Professionally serviced. Car garaged. £3995.00ono. Tel:07785 734310 or rgtysoe@hotmail.co.uk. (Oxon)

1958 Magnett

Once owned by Club President. E with much histor Many spare part and resprayed Bir Original engine with an Oselli bu Mileage reads 54, is probably corre Mike on 07946 8

Est. 1986

MGS URGENTLY WANTED TO PURCHASE.

1959 MGA roadster 1600

MGOC Recommended MG Car club trade member Kimble-SF_Nov-09.qxd:Kimble MGE 1_8 col 3.3

26/10/09

Steering Wheel

The Great British

English registered car, heritage cert, good condition, chariot red, grey trim, good fitting hood, recent new batteries and fuel tank, stainless exhaust, chrome wire wheels, cut out switch, the car was 'body off' renovated (photo's) along with engine and gearbox 10,000 miles ago. I'm told not been out on a wet day since rebuild, wintered in heated garage, needs to be seen. 13:0 bad health forces sale. £24,000. Tel01746 787277 or 07714754690 (Shropshire)

1970 MG Midget Mk.III

1275cc BRG, wire wheels, nearly new hood. 85k miles. Tax exempt, MOT to April 2019 with no advisories. Restored car with good paintwork and excellent mechanics. Numerous upgrades including s/s exhaust and electronic ignition. Garaged. History files. 3 previous owners, in our care for 29 years. Very reluctant sale by septuagenarian owner/drivers! Interested? Tel: 01225 709408 (West Wilts)

1974 MGB Ro

Primrose yellow,. Unleaded petro miles. Dry stored certificate. Tax exempt, electron battery, receipts/ done over the ye chrome bumper 1983. Reluctant s Phone Terry fo 717906 (Norfolk

The Brooklands We manufacture the BROOKLANDS

Steering Wheel from the original BLUEMEL tooling. It is not a Far Eastern copy and is made using the original methods and traditional materials. The CENTRE BOSS fixing kit, again from the original tooling, not only fits the MG TC and pre-war MGs, but the TD, TF and MGA. There are boss kits for other makes and kit cars too.

Ww14” ENo Nalso in W

NO ABLE Ivo AILry AV

Now also 15½ inch wheel

BROOKLANDS AEROSCREENS are made using laminated glass to original specification to suit all vintage and sports cars.

john@johnkimble.co.uk

K KIMBLE

2001 MGF 1.6i 1973 MGB GT V8

EST 1969

Tel: 01803 835757 Fax: 01803 834567

Unit 5, Old Mill Creek, Dartmouth, Devon TQ6 0HN.

URGENTLY WANTED

Damask Red. 68000 miles. Overdrive. Webasto Sunroof. Detailed History. Heritage Certificate. Comprehensive restoration 2014/15 to original spec. Exceptional condition throughout. Condition 1. Drives beautifully. £28,950 ono. Telephone 01794 517892 or email Keith at k.stone189@btinternet.com (South Hampshire)

Any Condition from non runners to rebuilt cars

(Northwood, Middlesex)

92 SAFETY FAST! JUNE 2018

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2005 MGTF 1

Starlight Silver, gasket, water pum at 3k miles. New (april), new exha rear window. Go full sized spare. G Mid Devon. Pri 01884250575.

CLASSIC OPPORTUNITY

MGA/MGB/MGC/V8/ MIDGET/SPRITE ETC

Please call Edward 01923 840236 or any time on 07774 484497 Email: ejwhitescars@aol.com Website: www.mgandporsche.com

Tahiti Blue Pearlescent. 2001. 44000 miles. Low coolant warning kit. Stainless water pipes. Alloy radiator. New tyres and spare set of wheels. HPI clear. Some service records and old mot's. On Sorn. Needs MOT and due cambelt. Waxolyed sills and wheel arches. Unmolested and nice car for younger member. Started regularly. £800 o.n.o. Henry 01268 761017 (Wickford Essex)

MGB GT

1800cc. MOT until February 2019. Less than 63,000 miles. Four previous owners. Car was laid up in 2000 until 2013. New engine fitted in 2000. Original seats. £5750 For further details contact Bill on 01754 890602 or 07946155505

MG TF 160 ( 52 ) slatted grille blue with marching hardtop and “Lexus style” rear lights (standard available) Only38k milesMG ZS 180 (02) mesh grille red 58k miles only 14k in last 8 years. Both cars have cambelts and gaskets changed and have half leather seats, Kenwood radio and disc player otherwise standard. Offered as a pair for £6850. Genuine reason for sale – age. Not the cars but mine! Tel:01865 331432 or Email: roger@guyviix.com

1994 MGRV8

Woodcote Gree miles. Clive Wh shock absorbers Dunlop Bluresp Hood. £18 lionelthorne@m 07786874309. (D

www.mgcc.co.uk

23/05/2018 16:18

Barry Walker 1/4 November 17:Layout 1 05/10/2017 11:41 Page 1 Barry Walker 1/4 November 17:Layout 1 05/10/2017 11:41 Page 1

Barry Walker 1/4 November 17:Layout 1 05/10/2017 11:41 Page 1

Barry Walker 1/4 November 17:Layout 1 05/10/2017 11:41 Page 1CL ASSIFIEDS

British motor heritage approved

T. Owned for 12 and rear wing o. Oselli unleaded onic ignition. serviced. Car 0ono. or .co.uk. (Oxon)

1958 Magnette ZB

Once owned by John Day, MG Car Club President. Excellent condition with much historical documentation. Many spare parts. Fully rewired and resprayed Birch Grey. Original engine replaced in 1996 with an Oselli built 1622cc engine. Mileage reads 54,000 from new and is probably correct. £11,000 - Call Mike on 07946 870996

British motor heritage approved

Reg. No. 0051MGF. A really nice genuine 23k mileage F in truly immaculate condition. In Copper Leaf Metallic unmarked inside and out with Wood Veneer Centre Consul. Usual Head Gasket modification, water pump and cam belt undertaken at same time. As new hood and unique number plate. Garaged all its life and with just one previous owner. It really must be seen and heard. £2995.00 or £2495.00 without number. Contact: Roger Briscoe 07454 006080

estd.1968

.....for the very best in vintage MGs.....

estd.1968

1933 MG J TYPE to J4 specification

A very interesting MG with huge patina numerous &mG varied opportunities. Restored on orig. unmodified J chassis 1933offering poST pRodUcTIoN k3 oN chASSIS k 0302. Thisheavy former K1 has beenENV rebuilt to the exacting specification by its meticulous over the lastexhaust 10 years with crank engine, gate change box, K3 nose mounted s/charger & full J4 owner dash, Brooklands andwith 12” input from mechanical engineers put thisorinjust a class almost of Good its own. Totally restored the brakes. Thisleading is the ideal MG for &hillbody climbs, sprints,torallying fast road use. provenance and infrom excellent chassis-up, with a complete rebuild by registration. SPB Historics coupled to a at newly geared Wilson pre-select gearbox order. Huge history file, VSCCengine buff form & orig. Fantastic value the reduced price of.................£69,500

and supercharged via a Roots 1933 with float bowls. The 4.3:1 back axle pulls 21mph type s/c fedpRodUcTIoN with a 21/4” SUmG poST k3twin oN T4 chASSIS k 0302. per 1000rpm top (don’t telltothis to1933 the wife!). magnificent body is meticulous by Dave Cooksey and is presented withyears a This former K1 hasinbeen rebuilt the exacting specification by its owner over the last 10 with MG K3 JThe TYPE to J4 specification Brooklands thebody correct K3 dashboard, aeroscreens and a (rare) full of screen for hood fittingrestored if required.from the input from mechanical & to put this achASSIS class almost its BEING FINISHED AND READY FOR MONTH: Aproper veryleading interesting MGexhaust, with huge patina offering numerous &mG varied opportunities. Restored onown. orig. Totally unmodified J chassis 1933engineers poST pRodUcTIoN k3in oN kNEXT 0302. This exhilerating and exciting MG is finished in BR Green with K3 piped seating, tonneau cover, full invoice file, This former K1 has been rebuilt to the exacting K3 specification by its meticulous owner over the last 10 years with chassis-up, with a complete engine rebuild by SPB Historics coupled to a newly geared Wilson pre-select gearbox with heavy crank engine, ENV gate change no. box,and nose mounted s/charger & full J4 This dash,isBrooklands exhaust and 12” VSCCA buff form, MGCCsupercharged MMM registrationK3 a substantial spares package. the closest you’ll get to an magnificent rep. built on ‘N’ Magnette chassis to K3 input from leading mechanical body engineers thisorinjust a class almost of Good its own. Totally restored the 21mph brakes. Thisbuilt isvia the MGtype forit &may hill climbs, sprints, fast road use. provenance andexperience, infrom excellent and supercharged /rallying 4”put SU twin float The 4.3:1 back axle pulls aideal Roots s/c fed with a 21to Abingdon K3, and whilst not have racewith history, it T4 offers thebowls. same (or better) driving chassis-up, with a complete engine rebuild by pre-war SPB magnificent Historics coupled to is a at newly geared Wilson pre-select gearbox with a order. Huge history file, VSCC buff form & aorig. registration. Fantastic value theDave reduced price of.................£69,500 per 1000rpm in top (don’t tell this to the wife!). The body by Cooksey and is presented an ever-increasing investment, and for third price oftwin its specification B.R. Green. and supercharged /4” SU with T4 float bowls. The 4.3:1 back axle pulls 21mph via ainRoots type s/c fed with aof21the 1933 poST pRodUcTIoN mG k3 oNfactory-built chASSIS k cousin................................£220,000 0302. proper Brooklands exhaust, thetell correct K3 dashboard, aeroscreens and a Dave (rare)Cooksey full screen for hood fitting if a required. per 1000rpm in top (don’t this to the wife!). The magnificent body is by and is presented with This former K1 has been rebuilt to the exacting K3 specification by itswith meticulous owner the last 10 years with An everyday usable, sound , honest MG PB 2-seater some room forover personal This exhilerating and exciting MG is finished in BR Green with K3 seating, tonneau cover, full invoice file, proper Brooklands exhaust, thebody correct K3 dashboard, aeroscreens andpiped a (rare) full of screen for hood fitting if required. input from leading mechanical & engineers to put this in a FOR class almost its own. Totally restored from the BEING FINISHED AND READY NEXT MONTH: VSCC buff MGCCand MMM registration no. and a substantial spares This is the closest you’ll get to an This form, exhilerating exciting MG price. is finished in BR Green with K3 pipedpackage. seating, tonneau full invoice file, improvement at a good chassis-up, with a complete engine rebuild by SPB Historics coupled to a newly geared cover, Wilson pre-select gearbox VSCC buff form, MMM registration no. and1 a substantial spares package. isto the closest get to an Abingdon built K3, andMGCC whilst it may not have pre-war race history, it offers theThis same (or better)you’ll driving experience, A magnificent supercharged K3 rep. built on ‘N’ Magnette chassis K3 and supercharged with twinit T4 float The 4.3:1 backexperience, axle pulls 21mph via a and Roots type s/c fed with pre-war a 2 /4” SU Abingdon built K3, whilst it may not offers thebowls. same (or better) driving an ever-increasing investment, and for a have third engineered of the race pricehistory, of factory-built cousin................................£220,000 Aintotally restored, professionally MGitsPA 2-seater with heavy crank, per 1000rpm top (don’tinvestment, tell this to thefor wife!). The magnificent is by Dave Cooksey and is presented with a an ever-increasing and a third of the price of itsbody factory-built cousin................................£220,000 specification in B.R. Green. proper Brooklands themuch correct K3 dashboard, aeroscreens and a (rare) full screen for hood fitting if required. deluxeexhaust, dash and more. An everyday usable, , honest MG PB 2-seater room for personal This exhilerating and exciting MGsound is finished in BR Green with K3 with pipedsome seating, tonneau cover, full invoice file, A very rare MMM ‘C’ type Montlhery Midget replica built superbly by David Cooksey and VSCC buff form, MGCC improvement at aregistration good price.no. and a substantial spares package. This is the closest you’ll get to an Abingdon built and whilst it may not have pre-war race history, it offers the same (or better) driving experience, in K3, really mint condition. an ever-increasing and for a third engineered of the price of factory-built cousin................................£220,000 A totallyinvestment, restored, professionally MGitsPA 2-seater with heavy crank,

in really mint condition.

Weofcarry superchargers both nose mounted and side FOR SALE mG Tc mIdGeT. 1954‘N’ mG TF mIdGeT. FAcToRY oRIGINAl pA ToUReR. (The specification this car and the above is so very good that1945 both are fully

1974 MGB Roadster

Primrose yellow,. Good condtion. Unleaded petrol engine 70,000 miles. Dry stored (garage). Heritage certificate. Tax exempt. MOT exempt, electronic ingnition, New battery, receipts/records for work done over the years. Wire wheels, chrome bumpers, Owned since 1983. Reluctant sale. Must be seen. Phone Terry for details 01953 717906 (Norfolk)

1980 MGB Roadster

19200m. This car has had minimal use over its time and has history and amazing condition to support the mileage of 19200miles. Now with chrome bumpers and grille, the car gets little use so would anybody else care to enjoy her? Your inspection welcome in mid £12,000. Mark 07443 645126. (Essex)

2005 MGTF 135 SPARK

Starlight Silver, 40k miles. Head gasket, water pump & belts replaced at 3k miles. New MOT & service (april), new exhaust. Heated glass rear window. Good hood & tyres, full sized spare. Garaged at home in Mid Devon. Price £2850. Phone 01884250575.

PORTUNITY

) slatted grille blue ardtop and “Lexus standard available)

2) mesh grille red k in last 8 years. mbelts and gaskets half leather seats, nd disc player othOffered as a pair ne reason for sale cars but mine! 432 or Email: om

estd.1968

.....for the very best in vintage MGs..... Estd.1968 See TheSe oN oUR NeW WeBSITe (for more details) See TheSe oN oUR NeW WeBSITe (for more details)

car with excellent No room here to do justice to this Totally restored 1250cc TF with 60 An interesting1945 mG Tc mIdGeT. 1954 mG TF mIdGeT. FAcToRY oRIGINAl pA ToUReR. mounted together with all fioriginal ttings original for allbodywork, the types originalof wings, all spoke chrome wire wheels; incredible time-warp Please eligible for all MG. VSCC & European events.) An interesting car tyres withand excellent 1250ccmodel. TF with No room to do justice to this nos., brand new RHD restored home market In60matching seehere new website for the story of this Totally original bodywork, original wings, all chrome wirethroughout wheels; original incredible time-warp MG. cars Please weather gear (no s/screens). wespoke sell pristine condition and all new see new website for the story of this RHD home market model. In matching nos., brand new tyres and all new weather gear (no s/screens). car. Suffice it here to say it is virtually pristine condition throughout and ALSO – finished prewarin&deep t-type ORIGINAL manuals, parts but all original. Unrestored gauges Cherry Red is with untouched; COMMISSION two owners; 53,000 orig. Our SALES: highly1954 regarded service always available 1945 mGto Tc you. mIdGeT. mG TF mIdGeT. FAcToRY oRIGINAl pA ToUReR. red leather period Fascinating, original TC, one of the miles; still with its original guarantee An interesting for car the with excellent tooland kitscorrct and other Totally restored 1250cc TF with 60 accessories No room here to Tel: 01789 400 do justicelists, to thisdrawings, recorded...............£29,500 accessories.......................£32,500 earliest (alas elapsed) signed by Cecil 181. Fax: 01789 400230. Mob: 07836 244103 incredible time-warp MG. Please spoke chrome wire wheels; original original bodywork, original wings, all Kimber himself. Superb condition JUSThome ARRIVING. Very, model. very rareIn MG matching ‘M’ type ‘Sportsman Coupé in and nos., brand new tyres cars weRHD sell market see new websiteEmail: barry@barrywalker.com Web: www.barrywalker.com for the story of this both bodily & mechanically. Simply beautifully restored condition. For full details see the article ons/screens). this car in all new weather gear (no car. Suffice it here to say it is virtually pristine condition throughout and amazing find.........................£45,000 the April 2017 edition of ‘The Unrestoredrare....................£36,000 gauges but all original. finished deep Cherry RedAutomobile’.....so with untouched; COMMISSION two owners; 53,000 orig. Our SALES: highlyin regarded service is always available to you. miles; still with its original guarantee red leather and corrct period Fascinating, original TC, one of the earliest recorded...............£29,500 Tel: 01789 400 Tool kITS 181. Fax: 01789 400230. Mob: 07836 244103 IN accessories.......................£32,500 STock NoSe & SIdemoUNTed SUpeRchARGeRS IN STock (alas elapsed) oRIGINAl signed by Cecil Kimber himself.Email: barry@barrywalker.com Web: www.barrywalker.com Superb condition JUST ARRIVING. Very, very rare MG ‘M’ type ‘Sportsman Coupé in SALES: Ourbeautifully highly regarded service available both COMMISSION bodily & mechanically. Simply restored condition. Foris fullalways details see the articleto on you. this car in amazing find.........................£45,000 the April 2017 edition of ‘The Automobile’.....so rare....................£36,000

Tel: 01789 400 181. Fax: 01789 400230. Mob: 07836 244103 Email: barry@barrywalker.com Web: www.barrywalker.com oRIGINAl Tool kITS IN STock NoSe & SIdemoUNTed SUpeRchARGeRS IN STock

COMMISSION SALES: Our highly regarded service is always available to you.

Tel: 01789 400 181. Fax: 01789 400230. Mob: 07836 244103 Email: barry@barrywalker.com Web: www.barrywalker.com enquiries@mgsforsale.com www.mgsforsale.com

01707 876089

scent. 2001. 44000 lant warning kit. pes. Alloy radiator. pare set of wheels. ervice records and orn. Needs MOT t. Waxolyed sills s. Unmolested and ounger member. £800 o.n.o. Henry Wickford Essex)

estd.1968

mG Tc mIdGeT. 1954‘N’ mG TF mIdGeT. FAcToRY oRIGINAl pA ToUReR. (The specification of this car and the above is so very good that1945 both are fully deluxe much more. Totally restored 1250cc TF with 60 An interesting car with excellent No room here dash to do and justice to this spoke chrome wire wheels; original original bodywork, original wings, all incredible time-warp MG. Please eligible for all VSCC & European events.) A very rare ‘C’ type Montlhery Midget replica built superbly by David Cooksey and tyres and see new website for the story of this RHD home market model. In matching nos., brand new pristine condition throughout and all new weather gear (no s/screens).

get Mk.III

re wheels, nearly miles. Tax exempt, 2019 with no red car with good cellent mechanics. ades including s/s ectronic ignition. files. 3 previous care for 29 years. e by septuagenarian erested? (West Wilts)

.....for the very best in vintage MGs.....

.....for the very best in vintage MGs..... Estd.1968 See TheSe oN oUR NeW WeBSITe (for more details) See TheSe oN oUR NeW WeBSITe (for more details)

British motor heritage approved

2001 MGF

arry W Walker alker bbarry arry W Walker alker bbarry

1982 MGB LE

Limited edition, one of the last 420 MGB Roadsters made. Only 2 owners from new, first registered March 1982, current owner since December 1982, therefore known history. Original, always garaged. Pioneer radio / cassette player and alarm fitted along with original tonneau cover. Sorn since April 2014 and needs restoration. £1500. Tel: John. 07887776528. (Cheshire)

1939 MG TA Tickford

1994 MGRV8

Woodcote Green. Ex Japan. 28000 miles. Clive Wheatley adjustable shock absorbers. Optimax Chip. Dunlop Bluresponse tyres. New Hood. £18,500. Email: lionelthorne@mac.com. Mobile: 07786874309. (Dorset)

07831 556666

MGC Roadster 1968 Older Restoration (PKH529F), Chrome Bumpers, overdrive, older restored vehicle still in good condition, nice Old English White coachwork, not perfect but still displaying a pleasant appearance, GRP bonnet with distinctive MGC bulge, very clean Black leather interior trim, comfortable seats and dashboard walnut pack, Mota-Lita steering wheel, carpeted boot, good original black vinyl hood, GB Alloy wheels, clean engine compartment housing a sound 3.0 litre 6 cylinder standard engine and good drive train, drives absolutely delightfully, history file with current V5C, old Mot’s invoices etc etc. just arrived, £19,750.00 MGB Roadster 1974 Heritage Shell Rebuild (YVT489M), Chrome Bumpers, overdrive, rebuilt in late 90’s utilising a Moss supplied new Heritage Shell, stunning Teal Blue coachwork with Moss black leather seats, Blue duck hood, now fitted with chrome wire wheels & chrome grill, new power train including MGOC supplied unleaded engine, rear axle etc etc, very heavy history file with a plethora of invoices totaling thousands, photographic record of rebuild, old mot’s, tax discs & framed Heritage certificate, vehicle has completed little miles since and in fact covered less than 650 miles in last few years, previously sold by us, vehicle has since acquired the benefit of period front spot lamp & headlamps and new rear fog. The interior has been enhanced with a professionally covered leather centre console and similar but new Mota-Lita steering wheel, updated images to follow, meticulously maintained and a true credit to its previous custodians, drives absolutely delightfully, just arrived £19,750.00

Never restored, highly original, only 2 previous owners, now needs total restoration. Now on V5 with original restoration MG 6228. Largely complete, it comes with commissioning papers from coachbuilders Salmon and Sons of Newport Pagnell. Gearbox recently rebuilt shows low wear endorsing SEE OUR WEBSITE FOR A COMPLETE LISTING OF OUR STOCK mileometer reading of only 14,000 miles. Must sell, space required Do not confuse the above vehicles with cheaper inferior quality models offered elsewhere. Part exchange urgently. OIRO £10,000 any make of Motor Car with generous allowances. Discounted cash purchases. Viewing by appointment only Tel: 07767 830913. please (available evenings Barry Walker 1/4 June 18.indd 1 & weekends) no obligation to purchase. All our vehicles carry a warranty, have an

URGENTLY WANTED ANY MG ANY YEAR, ANY CONDITION

www.mgsforsale.com

MOT and are fully serviced prior to collection/delivery.

Barry Walker 1/4 June 18.indd 1

www.mgcc.co.uk

Safety Fast_June18_Back.indd 93

JUNE 2018 SAFETY FAST! 93

23/05/2018 16:18

CL ASSIFIEDS

1971 MG 1300 Mk2

Two Door with very rare sliding steel sun roof. Finished in Blue Royale over Wedgewood Blue. Fully restored from bare shell using many new parts, sub-frames, chrome, panels. All bolts stainless steel Winner of 1984 MGCC Silverstone concours and dry stored over the last 18 years. A little work required to bring back to concours. £5000.00. Massive spares package also available. Paul on 07772 259102 or pyb.7@tiscali.co.uk

1966 MGB Ro

1964 MGB

I am looking to sell my 1964 'Pull Handle' MK1 Tartan Red with black interior. On a heritage shell, with full photographic documented evidence of all the work carried out in the mid 1990's. Car is immaculate and drives like a dream. Contact details are 01732 887265 or Email: walkermr20@gmail.com

Car is in very go nearly £4000 bei Interior is per upgraded stearin leather and dash Body is original has been respra owner and stil condition. Other New hood, radiat spinners, front w rack gaitors, Rev boot carpets, bon ing. Engine is an unit and has We fitted. Car runs an Tel: 01732 887265 email: walkermr2

1954 MG TF 1250

2004 MG TF 135

Manual, Mar 2004, 52K miles, Extensive service history. MOT to April 2019. Silver with matching factory hard top (with heated rear window), black soft top. Black leather seats. Upgraded head gasket (Victor Reinz MLS with integrated shim) and strengthened bottom rail. S/S coolant pipes. Coolant level alarm. Never overheated. Two sets of keys/fobs. Good condition. £1,700. Contact details: Jeff Noyes Mob; 07773001645, 01278 769254. (Somerset - Burnham on Sea)

Green with tan interior, RHD, wire wheels, 5 speed, electronic ignition. Restored, buff log book, history file, stored in heated garage. Little use over last 3 years; reason for sale – age! Price - £29,500. Email tjrmillward@me.com for more details. (Shropshire)

1979 MGBGT

Black.Very good condition. Recently fitted new, battery, fuel pump, water pump. Unleaded head fitted. Brakes, steering good. Tyres, exhaust nearly new. Photographic record of rebuild. Recently tuned. 11 months M.O.T. Heritage Certificate. Only needs taxing and insuring to enjoy motoring this Summer. £5450 ono. Please contact Mike on 07802 916244. (Notts)

1946 MGTC

She was built in 1946, I have owned her for about 15 years and have had many enjoyable years of motoring including to and from work during the summer months over the years. The only reason I am selling her is that my husband is no longer here to enjoy our outings and its not the same without him. I still drive her to work in the fine weather but think it's time for someone else to enjoy her. Anyone needing more information please email me on gillhayward50@hotmail.com or ring on 07970 105 208

94 SAFETY FAST! JUNE 2018

Safety Fast_June18_Back.indd 94

1974 MGB GT V8

PRIVATE SALE. Original factory Chrome BumperV8 in Citron. Condition 1. MOT exempt from June 2018. Overdrive on fourth. Black interior. Britax folding sunroof. Serviced regularly and maintained to a very high standard. Many new parts last year. Heritage Certificate. MG registration number MG 2242 negotiable. £22,420. Contact Pete on 07790 388242 or 01249 783434

1952 MGTD2

In British Racin owned the car fo and within that t it. Originally expo to the UK by th Black hood and t supply 12 month car. P.O.A. For contact Gill on 0 email: gillhaywar (Gloucester)

1972 MGBGT

White with bla Rostyles, 65K. T ownership for 20 tank, batteries, t upholstery and springs and brake o MOT. Complete hi together with bill car. £5000. Teleph (Lancs)

SELLING As a member of

you can advertise

Fast for free. Ju

details, max 60 wo a JPEG picture

colingrant@

Non memb

www.mgcc.co.uk

23/05/2018 16:18

CL ASSIFIEDS

www.mgmecca.co.uk Tel: +44 (0) 1953 717618 Fax: (0) 1953 717850

1966 MGB Roadster

sell my 1964 'Pull an Red with black ritage shell, with hic documented e work carried out Car is immaculate a dream. Contact 887265 or Email: ail.com

Car is in very good condition with nearly £4000 being spent recently. Interior is period except the upgraded stearing wheel with the leather and dash in excellent order. Body is original - not heritage and has been resprayed by previous owner and still in very good condition. Other work carried out, New hood, radiator, loom, tyres and spinners, front wheel bearings, grill, rack gaitors, Revotec electric fan, boot carpets, bonnet sound proofing. Engine is an uprated fast road unit and has Webber carburetors fitted. Car runs and sounds amazing Tel: 01732 887265 or 07930491027 email: walkermr20@gmail.com

1250

nterior, RHD, wire electronic ignition. book, history file, garage. Little use ears; reason for £29,500. rd@me.com for ropshire)

ondition. Recently y, fuel pump, water head fitted. Brakes, res, exhaust nearly ic record of reuned. 11 months Certificate. Only insuring to enjoy mmer. £5450 ono. Mike on 07802

1952 MGTD2

In British Racing Green. I have owned the car for the last 20 years and within that time have restored it. Originally exported and returned to the UK by the previous owner. Black hood and toneau cover. I will supply 12 months M.O.T. with the car. P.O.A. For more information contact Gill on 07970 105 208 or email: gillhayward50@hotmail.com (Gloucester)

B32 - MIKE ROLLS SERVICES_MIKE ROLLS SERVICES 13/12/2012 09:50 Page 1

Re-advertised due to time wasters, this 1969 GT was rebuilt into a Heritage shell by myself and was completed in 2015. It has an exceedingly low mileage since.All items are either new or rebuilt the engine is 1860cc with o/d gearbox, coil over front suspension, telescopic rear, uprated anti roll bar, updated interior, 15” chrome wires. £17,000. For a comprehensive list and more information please contact Mark on 07976641284, (Nth Wilts)

1971 MGB Roadster

Professional Heritage Shell restoration in 2000 with photos and invoices, 30k mile, overdrive, replacement balanced engine and clutch at 22k, ss exhaust, power steering, Motolita, all MoTs, full and half tonneaus, windstop, service history, recent brake overhaul and new servo, waxoyled, garaged. £14,000 ono. Condition 2. More info and photos at patrick.sellers@btinternet.com 07943 187057 (Kent)

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

Safety Fast_June18_Back.indd 95

1972 MGB ROADSTER, Old English White, red trim. Totally restored on dry state shell, everything is new/recon. 2L fast road engine. Sports leather seats. Everﬂex red hood. W/Wheels. Drives like a new car, superb, S/S boot rack, sports wheel, painted dash. Hydraulic bonnet struts, K&N ﬁlters. Would cost in excess of £35k to build. £27,995

MIKE ROLLS

TRADE MEMBER

Specialising in all MG’s

Reluctant sale of a wonderful reliable car. Purchased approx. 14 years ago from the restorer of this machine who rebuilt from chassis up. Paintwork is a superb BRG with lovely patina. Original parts where possible. Great investment as well as everyday transport if desired £30000. Contact Mike on 07712871063

1973 MGB ROADSTER, Damask, Navy trim, W/W. Full MOT. Solid shell. Moto Lita wheel. Excellent useable car. £6,995

SERVICES FOR MGs

TEL/FAX: 01258 820337

1960 MGA 1600 Iris Blue, blue trim. W/W, S/S boot rack. Totally restored UK car. Immaculate inside and out. Last nut and bolt renovation £42,495

1974 MIDGET 1275 RWA Blaze, Autumn Leaf trim. Restored car, totally solid, home restoration. Drives superbly. Weber carb. Great little car. £5,995

Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri: 8am-6pm, Wed: 8am-5pm, Sat: 8am-1pm

TRADE MEMBER

1946 MGTC

MGC ROADSTER Rebuild by MG Motorsport completed about 6-7 years ago. It has a new 12 month MOT. 5,000 miles since body rebuild and about 1,000 miles since engine rebuild. Snowberry White, wire wheels; a chrome luggage rack; moto-Lita steering wheel; soft black leather seats with white piping and black hood; Lots of other work by MG Mecca £29,995

2016

1973 MGB GT V8 RACER BRG, full race spec car, but road legal, ideal for race/track day/sprint or just fantastic fun on the road. 3.9l race spec engine. Extinguisher system. Race tyres. Full cage. Superbly prepped car and fantastic value £18,995

2016 201 6

MIKE ROLLS SERVICES FOR MGs Specialising in all MG’s

TEL/FAX: 01258 820337

Mon, Tues, Thurs, Fri: 8am-6pm, Wed: 8am-5pm, Sat: 8am-1pm MG TF 1954, 1250CC Red with original red interior and black carpets. This car was originally exported to Switzerland and was always been right hand drive, in 2001 it was re-imported to this country after having a mechanical restoration over there. It is a very genuine car with a great MG number plate, lovely history with black and white pictures of the family that owned it when new, it has recently had new wire wheels and tyres ﬁtted and comes with good weather gear and heritage certiﬁcate. This TF drives beautifully. £28,995. MG RV8 ROADSTER 1995 Manufactured in 1995 but not registered until 1997, re-imported from Japan in 2008. Just over 26,000km from new which is approx 15,000mls, it comes with a good services history, a very nice MGR registration number, windstop and matching hood cover. This is a superb example one of the best we have ever seen, it has just had a service and MOT so ready to be enjoyed. £24,000.

1972 MGBGT

White with black roof. Chrome Rostyles, 65K. Two owners. My ownership for 20 years. New(ish) fuel tank, batteries, tyres, SS exhaust, upholstery and carpets, Plus rear springs and brake overhaul. 12 months MOT. Complete history from day one, together with bills. Very pretty O.D. car. £5000. Telephone 01253 304184 (Lancs)

ginal factory Chrome n. Condition 1. MOT 2018. Overdrive on or. Britax folding sunlarly and maintained ard. Many new parts Certificate. MG regisG 2242 negotiable. ete on 07790 388242

1969 MGB GT

1998 MG MGF 1.8 i VVC

Abingdon 2dr. Limited Edition (1 of 350), British Racing Green with tan hood and tonneau, full tan interior with leather seats, walnut dash, heated screen washer jets, chrome fittings and stainless grills, wind deflector, ABS, mud flaps, fully lined British Racing Green hard-top with heated rear screen (incl. dust cover and wall brackets for storage), excellent condition, always stored in garage. Full service history, new cam belt fitted & MOT May 2018, 68,000 miles. Asking price £3500 ono. Contact: Paul, NE Hampshire. Tel: 01420 542 312. E-mail: paul.whitehouse123@btinternet.com

MORRIS 8 CALSHOT - 1932 Stunning Morris 8 Calshot, 1932, Sporting body by Cunard Coachworks of Acton. Restored by GB Engineering back in the 90’s and recently re-commissioned by ourselves. The car is believed to be only one of three remaining intact and has been in the same family for many years, it is in beautiful condition and drives well, there is some history with the car including details of this particular model and invoices for the restoration and other parts etc.This is a very special car and deserves to go to a good home. £17,995. MG TF, 1955,1500CC finished in Old English White with red leather interior. The car was originally exported to Australia when first built and while over there it was fully re-built 5 years ago with a photographic record. It was then re-imported back to the UK in 2015, since being back here we have fitted for the owner a Type 9 five speed gearbox and chrome wire wheels. £35,000

COME SEE US AT MGLIVE!ON STAND G7 Units 9/10 Fifehead Business Park, Manor Farm, Fifehead Magdalen, near Gillingham, Dorset SP8 5RR

E-mail: mikerolls4mgs@compuserve.com • www.mikerolls.co.uk Mail Order “Friendly Quality Service”

JUNE 2018 SAFETY FAST! 95

23/05/2018 16:18

Insurance for all MG’s classic and modern

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. All adverts should be submitted by the 10th of the month for the following months issue.

Midget or MGB

Sport, high performance ignition coil. Negative earth; as new condition; £15. jshross@btinternet.com (Oxford)

MG Midget

2 New Peter May Mk1 fibrglass doors £200. For more information telephone Chris on 01865 739147. Either collection or will ship at cost. (Oxon)

Mota-Lita

15" diameter wood-rimmed steering wheel with MG centre boss suitable MGA/B. Vgc hardly used. £150.00+p&p Wire wheel48 spoke painted l with 165SR15 Michelin. Wheel would require re-painting, Plenty of tread on tyre. £25.00. Buyer collects. MG Workshop Manual by W.E. Blower. S/b well used but complete. £25.00 +p&p Tuning and Maintenance of MG Cars by Philip H. Smith. H/b good condition with dust jacket. £20.00+p&p.Tel: 01430 828382 (East Yorkshire)

Yokohama

AO48 175/60x13 medium compound. Kept as spare, minor road use only to scrub-in. £40.00. Phone John 01492 532 087 (N. Wales). May be able to deliver to near Thame, Oxon, or post at additional cost.

MGA 1500 1956

After a full nut and bolt restoration I have for sale Original wire wheels (4) good condition £250 or best

offer buyer collects. Call Charlie on 07792416321 (Thetford)

XPAG Engine

Newly built 1350cc TD/TF engine, 8in clutch, lightened flywheel. All balanced. 20”/20” crack tested. Late crank, lip sealed front and back on speed sleeve. 280 degree fast road camshaft. Vervier sprocket set. Cylinder head stage 2 unleaded. Big valve, ported, bronze guides, metro stem seals. Ready to fit and go. Contact Ron Ward after 5th June on 0422823649.

Steering wheel New black 17 inch BROOKLANDS wheel with MG boss £220. (current new price £330) MGF Hardtop starlight silver excellent condition working heated rear screen and comes with special brackets to hang on garage wall when not in use £200. Blower manual hard back copy in good clean condition 1953 print and covers all TRIPLE M MODELS AND T TYPES up to the TD pull out chassis plans and lubrication charts £35 (price includes postage to uk address) contact Alan on 01892783142 (East Sussex) MGA

New pair of chrome overriders £40 the pair. MGTD inner steering column. No longer available £80 MGF set of 4 x 16 inch 6 spoke alloy wheels from a MK 2 MGF with 3 good tyres £160. Small size get you home wheel and tyre as new £25. MGB 4 x new tyres. Firestone 165x80 14. £50 the set. Early 3 synchro starter motor as new, only used over 3 months. £60 All free collection or postage at cost Telephone Jack on 01280 848529 (Buckingham)

WANTED MGA

WANTED

Set of 4 steel wheels. Call Mike 01297 33693 / 07947 533788 (East Devon).

WANTED

1 K type valve cover. 1 K type head (any condition) to complete a K3 display motor to sit beside my 2 K3 specials 1 slab tank 1 boat tail Contact; Gene Ponder by email: gponder@mwccabinetry.com

WANTED

MGB 1966

5 wheels in black. Fitted with Vredestein sprint classic 165/HR/14/84/H. Tyres as new. Phone 07850797230

96 SAFETY FAST! JUNE 2018

Safety Fast_June18_Back.indd 96

A set of four or preferably five pre84 MG Metro imperial size pressed steel wheels 5J X 12. Tel: 01522 753100 (Lincoln) or email ian_fairhead@hotmail.com

WANTED

TDC Andrex splined arms. Contact John on 01590 675977

01376 574000

www.classiccarinsurance.co.uk

Y Type bonnet

MIDGETS! WANTED

Offers or prefer exchange for midget wheels W.H.Y Hedley Foster on 01557 814470 (SW Scotland)

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

Midget 1500

Bodyshell 1976. Very bent, unrepairable for metal parts only. £150.00 offers. Buyer to collect only. Call 07518 911172 or email themstorers@gmail.com (Milton Keynes area)

www.mgmidgets.com

Workshop Manuals

Original ring binder type MG Farina Magnette Marks 3 and 4 part no. AKD1027A BL Mini part no. AKD4935 (5th edition) For more details telephone Peter 01609 748629 (North Yorkshire)

MGB

1, Four speed non overdrive gearbox. 4, MGB painted Rostyles, 2 Slatted grilles. £100 the lot. Will not split. Tel: 01253304184 (Lancs)

SPARES FOR SALE HOW TO ADVERTISE

WANTED WANTED ALL MG MODELS! XPAG Engine

All conditions wanted,TD/TF from barn ﬁnds Newly built 1350cc to concours. Complete collections engine, 8in clutch, lightened flypurchased. Cash buyer. wheel. All balanced. 20”/20” Discretion assured. crack tested. Late crank, lip Please do not hesitate to contact me sealed and back on speed if you front are interested in selling your sleeve. 280 MG and aredegree lookingfast for aroad prompt camshaft. Vervier sprocket set. hassle free cash buyer! Please feel Cylinder head me stage unleaded. free to contact for a2no obligation friendly bronze chat. guides, Big valve, ported, I am especially interested in theto following metro stem seals. Ready fit MG TC, MGA, MGB, MGC, andmodels: go. Contact Ron Ward after and Midget. 5th MGB JuneV8, onMagnette 0422823649.

CALL DIRECT ON:

07787 Steering wheel528131 New black 17

inch BROOKLANDS wheel with MG boss £220. (current new price £330) Midget or MGB Right Autosstarlight Ltd .......................... 4Sight Lighting Company................... 76MGFJust Hardtop silver 68 Sport, high performance ignition working heatAdrian Flux ...................................... 76excellent Kimble condition Engineering Ltd...................... 92 coil. Negative earth; as new conLongstone Tyres ............................... 45 dition; £15.Barrie Carter .................................... 97ed rear and comes with special Barry Walker .................................... 93screen jshross@btinternet.com Manor Garage .................................. 80 to hang on garage wall (Oxford) Beech Hill Garage ............................. 94brackets Martin Used £200. MGTF Spares ...... 91 when not Smith in use Bespoke Rallies – Brexit Tour ............. 46 MG Mecca ........................................ 95 Blower manual hard back copy British Motor Heritage .......................IFCin good clean condition 1953 MG Midget MG Sales Centre ............................... 34 2 New Peter May fibrglass Brown andMk1 Gammons ........................ 11print and covers all TRIPLE M Midland Classic Restoration ................. 3 doors £200.Bucks ForSports more andinformation Classic .................. 97MODELS AND T TYPES up to Mike Authurs Classics ....................... 96 telephone Chris on 01865 C.C.H.L ........................................... 82the TD pull out chassis plans and 739147. Either collection or will Mike Rolls ........................................ 95 Car Cover Shop ................................ 90lubrication charts £35 (price ship at cost. (Oxon) includes postage to uk address) Mike Satur ........................................ 51 Carole Nash Insurance ....................... 6 contact 0189278314226 MotorAlan Passionon ................................... Chertsey Minors ............................... 90 (East Sussex)

ADVERTISERS’ INDEX

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Call for a quote today

Mota-LitaChisbon Restorations ........................ 74

Y Type bonnet

Offers or prefer ex midget wheels W.H Foster on 01557 8 Scotland)

Midget 1500

Bodyshell 1976. V pairable for metal £150.00 offers. Bu only. Call 07518 9 themstorers@gma Keynes area)

Workshop Man

Original ring binde MG Farina Magne and 4 part no. AKD BL Mini part no. AK edition) For more d phone Peter 0160 (North Yorkshire)

MGB

1, Four speed non gearbox. 4, MGB p Rostyles, 2 Slatted the lot. Will not sp 01253304184 (Lan

Motor Wheel Services........................ 65

NTG Services ..................................OBC Church Square Autos ........................ 91 15" diameter wood-rimmed steering wheel MG centre Oselli Ltd .......................................... 70 Classicwith & Sports Cars (Essex)............. 39MGA New Paul pairDepper of chrome overriders boss suitable MGA/B. MGs .............................. 74 Classic Motor HubVgc ............................. 72 £40 the pair. hardly used. £150.00+p&p Clive Wheatley .................................. 65 Peter Best ............................IBC, 96, 97 MGTD inner steering column. Wire wheel48 spoke painted l College Motors Burford...................... 61 Peter James Insurance£80 ...................... 51 No longer available with 165SR15 Michelin. Wheel Colne Classics .................................. 90 MGFRees setBros of ......................................... 4 x 16 inch 6 spoke61 would require re-painting, Plenty Car StorageBuyer ........................ 72alloy Retro wheels a MK 2 MGF62 of tread onCotswold tyre. £25.00. Sportsfrom Cars.............................. good tyres £160. collects. Crown Classic Cars ........................... 61with 3 Rimmer Bros Ltd ............................... 62 MG Workshop Manual by W.E. David Manners ................................... 6Small size get you home wheel Robin Lackford Motor Engineering ..... 51 and tyre as new £25. Blower. S/bDennis wellWelch used but com.................................... 97 MGBRPS4 Ltd x ........................................... new tyres. Firestone53 plete. £25.00 +p&p Distributor Doctor .............................. 61 165x80 14. £50......................9, the set. Scenic Car Tours 15, 33 Tuning and Maintenance of Don Trimming ................................... 97 EarlySMR 3 synchro starter motor as MG Cars by Philip H. Smith. H/b ................................................ 93 Duckhams ....................................... 22new, only used over 3 months. good condition with dust jacket. Steve McKie Sports Cars ................... 90 EJW Classic and Sports ..................... 92£60 £20.00+p&p.Tel: 01430 828382 Summit MG ...................................... 80 Fishers Services................................ 53All free collection or postage at (East Yorkshire) Footman James ................................ 43cost Sussex Classic Car Parts ................... 80 Telephone Jack 01280 The Hutson Motoron Co Ltd ..................... 3 Former Glory..................................... 92 848529 (Buckingham) Yokohama The Market ...................................... 40 Frontline .......................................... 30 AO48 175/60x13 medium comTorro Sports Cars Ltd ........................ 96 Halls Garage ..................................... 91 pound. Kept as spare, minor road Suspension.............................. 53 Vitesse Global .................................. 76 use only to Hoyle scrub-in. £40.00. Phone John 01492 532 087 (N. Wales). May be able to deliver to WANTED near Thame, Oxon, or post at www.mgcc.co.uk MGA additional cost. Set of 4 steel wheels. Call Mike 01297 33693 / 07947 533788 (East Devon). MGA 1500 1956

After a full nut and bolt restoration I have for sale Original wire wheels (4) good condition £250 or best

WANTED

23/05/2018 16:18

Call for a quote today

B12 - BARRIE CARTER_CLASSIC MOTORING 19/04/2018 09:35 Page 1

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B9 - BARRIE CARTER_CLASSIC MOTORING 23/05/2018 11:23 Page 1

‘T-type’ – ‘T-type’ – ‘T-type’ ‘X-pag’ – ‘X-pag’ – ‘X-pag’

We restore and refresh both T-types and X-pag engines, gearboxes, trim, paint; every aspect and we buy and sell T-types and other classics. Running out of T’s for sale but we have some interesting objects to occupy yourself after retirement and banishment to the garage. AUSTIN RUBY 1936. FIAT 124 COUPE Remarkably this lovely, original, and 1975 RHD. Superb unspoiled Ruby has had only TWO owners from new! Its second owner interior with dash bought it as a student in 1964 and used protector, mini-lite rep it as an every day car until he put it in wheels. Unmarked paintwork, lovely chrome. In his fathers garage. It was brought out in 2003 and had a complete engine rebuild lovely un-welded condition, you will never find by Austineers. It was cared for and left We restore and refresh both T-types and X-pag engines, gearboxes, trim, paint; every aspect and we buy and sell T-types and other classics. one like this. Beautiful inside and out. £15,995 in its original and lovable form and has covered little mileage since. Running out of T’s for sale but we have some interesting objects occupy yourself after Its speedometer reads a highly to believable 86,000.It is in such a retirement and banishment to the garage. lovely unrestored condition that I doubt there is not another THIS MY OWN Mk1 MX5. A car like Its an instant runner and woe betide anyone TRIUMPH TR3A RACE CAR. unrestored CANNON GTit.1964. very early car restored by a lovely original appearance. Its lovely. £7,995 I raced this at Angouleme and who destroys I boughtitsthis wonderful Westland Helicopter engineer. Silverstone last year. It is at It must be the only MX with sports race car to race present have a complete engine unscuffed leather seats. It at Angouleme. Built by andwell box rebuild ready for this has a twin stainless exhaust, TRIUMPH TR3A RACE CAR. A very known Mike Cannon in 1964 to uprated brakes, adjustable season. It is elligible for HSCC shocks, new hood et al. It handles and drives superbly. Alloy multi class winning car built from a rust beat divas. It is fitted and free many S.A othershell. events,ItThe wheels propel it. These cars embody the ultimate 60s sports an all steel 2.2 unit has just had a very expensive refreshengine with isreplacement with a 1098 Screamer. experience without the problems. It also has £1000 worth of with new very expensive liners, stereo/cd player. Yesterday's classic panache with today's Superbly presented and prepared. Eligible for many block, very special steel crank and rods, lightweight reliability. I love it…a quickly appreciating exhilarating pistons, and rods. All steel and new. It runs a twin plate clutch, fully series maybe even Goodwood. Be unique and call for pistons, rebuilt full race head, cam, 45s,other special bolide…and only £3,995. Put a Lotus badge on…then its 40k. dog box, LSD,new Mini lite reps.twin and many race mods. A more details. £27,950 exhaust,previous completely rebuilt C>R> dogIt box, class winner in many events, runs ontwin 45dcoes and gives around 200 BHP at tghe wheels. A thouroughly well prepared and plate clutch, quaife LSD, competition brakes, and FRENCH POIRIET 125cc. competative car that will be shortly ready for the season. Very quick Very unusual and rare suspension. Composite wings, wings availabe too quick for me. £35,000 I also(steel have the origional steel wings and cycle car. A French Poiriet as a package) safety devices cage, filled tank, most parts to make this an FIA car forfoam negotiation. 125cc and 200 miles

‘T-type’ – ‘T-type’ – ‘T-type’ ‘X-pag’ – ‘X-pag’ – ‘X-pag’

MG TC 1948.This has been subject to a body off rebuild a few years ago and little used since. The interior is all new red leather and it has had an engine refurbishment. All the wheels are new and it has excellent chrome. The car was from a dedicated owner who cared and pampered it. It is in lovely condition with new weather condition and tonneau, Very nice to drive. £25,950 of an ancient 76 year old and is now for sale to replaced by a more placid lump! It is complete MG TC 1948. This has been subject to a body off rebuild as removed from the car and has its inlet a few years ago and little used since. The interior is all manifold, new 45DCOE and special distributer. new red leather and it has had an engine refurbishment. The gearbox is the very1rare 323/9/09 synchro c/r DONHOODS-SFAug07.QXD:Layout 16:22 Page 1 and it has excellent chrome. All the wheels are new straight cut type as used in the works cars. It The car was from a dedicated owner who cared and would cost at least £15k to build this ready race pampered it. It is in lovely condition with new weather unit, my price is £8,000. It would make a fabulous road car unit... but... its up to you. Reciepts of the engine rebuild are available. condition and tonneau, Very nice to drive. £26,950

indicated delightfully different and original, 2 seats and 3 gears and you won’t fall off and we have another one! This has done a colossal 600 miles! Both unrestored and nice £4,500 each.

T-Type restorations and XPAG engine rebuilds

FIAT 124 COUPE RHD. are the mainstay of our and general MG1975 servicing A beautiful unrestored business. We welcome your custom. Australian car, 1 owner for 25 years, soon here, please ring.

CM06.18/B12/dfff

plumbed in fire extinguisher system. Repro Minilte wheels and twin 45s. This TR1650. is a Full serious contender MGA race F.I.A. engine and straight cut 3 synchro is an FIA in many series and has many class gearbox. wins toThe itsengine name. spec unit built by aand specialist race engine It is ready to race in a variety of series, is giving builder to the highest standards. Lightweight top end HP. There are probably enough parts as rods, a big valve pistons, steel crank and special package with it to make head this and an FIA hasclutch not with been cam, car. triple Itplate spider flywheel. It has only had one race in the hands raced since its preparation and is ready to go. £36,500

T-Type restorations and XPAG engine rebuilds and general MG servicing are the mainstay of our business. We welcome your custom.

DON HOODS www.barriecartermg.com UNBEATABLE QUALITY – UNBEATABLE VALUE!

URGENT PROOF

DIRECT FROM THE MAKERS – WITH OVER 40 YEARS EXPERIENCE

06 £3.95 June 2018 Volume 62 Number

RIENDSHIP THE MARQUE OF F

URGENT PROOF

ourselves responsible forALany L inaccuracies you may overlook. MAKES &

CAR

incl: MG, MODELSMG16 - BUCKS SPORTS CLASSICS_BUCKS SPORTS CLASSICS 26/09/2012 14:24 Page 1 SHOULD YOU REQUIRE TO THIS PROOF PLEASE TrANY iumphALTERATIONS , Es THE

CLUB

LT D

-THAMES ABINGDON-ON FO U N D E D 193 0

Please check this proof for errors in style, content and layout. cort, Gcarefully olf c._exercised . _ _ _hold __ TELEPHONE _ _ _ _ _ inAND QUOTE ADVERT NOcannot Although BEFORE every careet_is preparing your advert, we ourselves responsible for any inaccuracies you may overlook. – PART 1 ● BRILLIANT BRANDS D ● XPAG FUEL AND TUNING TIME TO B SUPERCHARGE

ingham B23 Hampton Road, Birm

13 Tel: 0121 373 13ICE 00 Tel: 01202 7422

TO ADVERTISE IN THE NEXT ISSUE OF

Choice of heavy duty , ICI for errors in style, content and layout. Please check this proofPVC carefully Vyn ide, Eve rflex, Duck and Mohair Although every care is exercised in preparing your advert, we cannot hold

•BETTER THAN ORIGINAL EQUIPMENT QUALITY •STITCHED AND WELDED FOR MAXIMUM LIFE •WIDEST CHOICE OF COLOURS AVAILABLE •ALL FASTENERS & FITTINGS INCLUDED D PRICE FOR LEAFLET AN LIST CONTACT Ltd Don Trimming Co. 7JJ OFF SOUTHERN SALES

CM04.18/B9/ffr

www.barriecartermg.com

PLEASE CALL NICK ON 01452 730770 TELEPHONE BEFORE _ _ _ _ _ _ _ AND QUOTE ADVERT NO. _ _ _ _ _ SHOULD YOU REQUIRE ANY ALTERATIONS TO THIS PROOF PLEASE

CARPET SETS FOR MOST MODELS

www.donhoods.com

NEW MGB Baulk Rings

Bucks Sports & Classic Car Centre

We reserve the right to charge for any alteration to this proof which is a departure from the original copy www.bighealey.co.uk

We reserve the right to charge for any alteration to this proof which CNC Machined in the UK to our specification

Specialist in MGA, B, C, V8, RV8, Midgets, and MGF. Also specialists in early Minis

Brass 2nd & 3rd/4th £59.95+VAT Steel 4 synchro £49.95+VAT

For the ‘best’ in MG high-performance Parts Hotline: +44(0)1543 472244 E-mail: sales@bighealey.co.uk DENIS WELCH MOTORSPORT, YOXALL, BURTON ON TRENT, STAFFS DE13 8NA, UK

www.mgcc.co.uk

Safety Fast_June18_Back.indd 97

For friendly advice contact Pete Giles on Tel: 01296 433550 or Mob: 07831 404968 www.mgsonthenet.co.uk www.mgsonthenet.co.uk email: peter.giles@mgsonthenet.co.uk 10STREET Rabans Aylesbury. HP19 BUCKS 8RS HP20 1EB UNIT 18, PARK IND Close, ESTATE, OSIER WAY, AYLESBURY,

CC10.12/MG16/p

is a departure from the original copy

JUNE 2018 SAFETY FAST! 97

23/05/2018 16:18

LOOKING BACK IF YOU CAN TELL US MORE ABOUT ANY OF THESE CARS OR THE EVENTS, WE ARE ALWAYS KEEN TO HEAR FROM YOU AT KIMBER HOUSE; CONTACT THE MGCC ARCHIVIST PETE NEAL ON PETERNEAL@MGCC.CO.UK.

The official publication of The MG Car Club Incorporating ‘The M.G. Magazine’, ‘The Sports Car’ and ‘Brooklands Track and Air’, Safety Fast! Copyright MG Car Club 2018 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, Andy Knott, Colin Grant, Adam Sloman, Jeff Ruggles PR and Communications: Lauran Gallacher 01235 849735, Jeff Ruggles 01235 849731 Advertising: Hine Marketing 01452 730770 Published by: Hine Marketing, Hill Farm Studios, Wainlodes Lane, Bishops Norton Glos, GL2 9LN. Tel: 01452 730770 Distributed by: Air Business. Merlin Centre, 4 The, Acrewood Way, St Albans AL4 0JY Tel: 01727 890600 President: John Day Vice Presidents: Ron Gammons, Don Hayter, Peter Best, Bill Silcock. Chairman: Ian Quarrington Vice Chairman: Dave Tynan Treasurer: Richard Colston Directors: Dave Saunders, Paul Plummer, Peter Opie, George Wilder, Dave Tynan and Peter Cook Company Secretary: Colin Grant Staff Members: Adam Sloman (General Manager 01235 849732), John Hutchison (Competitions Secretary 01235 849738), Andy Knott (01235 849730), Liz Allsworth (Membership Secretary 01235 849734), Colin Grant (01235 849733), Lauran Gallacher (01235 849735), Jeff Ruggles (01235 849731), Cherina Scarrott (Finance Officer 01235 849736) and Ineke Sherman (Merchandise 01235 849737) Honorary Members: Michael Allison, Ron Gammons, Peter Best, Don Hayter, John Quenby, Sir Stirling Moss, Paddy Hopkirk, Norman Ewing, Piers Hubbard, Rob Oldaker, Steve Hanegan, Gerry McGovern, June Wallis, Ann Hawke, John Dutton, John Day, Julian White, Bill Silcock. Company limited by guarantee The Club, as a corporate body established as the MG Car Club Limited, is a company limited by guarantee. Every member of the Club undertakes to contribute to the assets of the Club in the event of its being wound up while he is a member, or within one year after he ceases to be a member, for payment of the debts and liabilities of the Club contracted before he ceases to be a member, and the costs, charges and expenses of winding up, and for the adjustment of the rights of the contributors among themselves, such amount as may be required, not exceeding one pound. Whilst every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of information at the time of going to press, neither The Publisher (herein referred to as Hine Marketing), the Editor, nor the MG Car Club can accept any responsibility or loss occasioned to any person acting or refraining from action as a result of any material in the publication. The opinions of authors are their own and Hine Marketing, the Editor and the MG Car Club are not bound to agree with opinions expressed herein. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission is prohibited. Safety Fast! and The MG Car Club badge are protected through trademark registration in the UK and in the foreign countries where Safety Fast! circulates. Readers are warned that if they attempt any mechanical or other modifications or methods referred to herein, they do so at their own risk and no liability will attach to the MG Car Club, the Editor nor Hine Marketing. Neither shall the MG Car Club, the Editor nor Hine Marketing have any responsibility for the accuracy of the content of the editorial, neither the content of any advertisement published in Safety Fast!

ur first photograph from the files is of a couple of competitors about to get their feet wet driving a muchmodified Midget (or is it a Sprite?) in an unknown event. All we know for sure is that they were in car 25 and their registration number was DFV 617C. The name C. Burge appears on the back of the photo. Perhaps you can tell us more? The next picture, provided by Phil Richer, shows a Miss Lisa Davi from the USA and Miss Mary Wong from Singapore driving an MG TC belonging to his Highness the Raja Muda of Selangor, in the Vintage Equator Run held in 1987. The pair not only took first place

98 SAFETY FAST! JUNE 2018

Safety Fast_June18_Back.indd 98

in the ‘Classic’ Class but secured the ladies award, too. The third photo shows Ralph Clarke in 1997 kicking up the dust as he is flagged off the start line in his beautiful ‘R’-Type, which had originally competed in the 1937 Grosvenor Grand Prix.

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

www.mgcc.co.uk

23/05/2018 16:19

classic car insurance PBIS specialises in classic car insurance, as well as insurance for other collectable classic vehicles. We have been supporting the MG Car Club, its Centres & Registers, for over 30 years so we know what is important to you. Our ‘Abingdon’ policy covers classic use for MG’s 3 years and older. The policy includes free agreed value, roadside assistance and recovery within UK/EU, limited mileage options and discounts for multiple car ownership. ASK US TODAY ABOUT OUR CLASSIC MG COVER call now for an instant quote

01376 574000 visit: www.classiccarinsurance.co.uk email: info@classiccarinsurance.co.uk

Approved Insurance Provider

Peter Best Insurance Services Ltd Authorised and Regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. Registration No. 307045 Registered in England No. 2210270 | Peter Best Insurance Services Limited, 180 High Street, Kelvedon, Essex CO5 9JD

0328 PBIS MG Car Club Advert 297x210mm_ART3.indd 1 Safety Fast_June18_Covers.indd 3

20/10/2017 11:11 23/05/2018 15:47

Parts for TA to TF 1936-55, YA YB YT, MGA & Magnette. Secure online shopping at: www.mgbits.com or by phone. Worldwide shipping.

T&Y Type or MGA & Z series catalogues- email or phone for your copy

K029E

Rachet for handbrake TD/TF

£116.50

K189TS TA/B or K189RS TC Superior master cylinder with brass body & stainless cap

£296.40

B023XT TA water pump rebuilt with new revised internals £189.00 Exchange (old unit reqd in advance)

MG RV8 1994 blue Japanese import. Excellent condition, recently overhauled. Phone or email for details.

NTG Motor Services Ltd 282-284 Bramford Road Ipswich IP1 4AY Tel: +44(0)1473 406031/2 Fax: +44(0)1473 742087 sales@mgbits.com British Motor Heritage Approved - founded 1966

Safety Fast_June18_Covers.indd 4

23/05/2018 15:47