VETERAN REPORT

No veteran activity this last month, except perhaps for Joseph McClintock taking his 1914 Model T Speedster on Irishman Rally. Well rugged-up with his passenger aboard, they got through the whole testing event, and no doubt now it’s been cleaned and looks like it was never on any of the muddy roads covered during the event. Well done to you both.

Matthew and I once again did back-up duty for this event and it would be fair to say we were needed a lot more than last year, but everyone seemed to be happy at the end and no doubt will show up again next year, even those who for one reason or another didn’t complete the whole run. Congratulations to everyone who took part and to the many involved in organising the event – it was a very enjoyable weekend.

It was a shame no veteran cars were entered for judging at the Restoration of the Year Run, or any vintage cars either. I always enjoy seeing what some of our members are capable of doing, and even if they cannot complete all aspects of a restoration themselves it’s good finding out who they delegated the work to and to see what the final outcome is like. This year a very high proportion of work (if not all) was carried out by the owners of the vehicles entered and was a credit to all of them.

It was good to see the “Soapbox” article by Paul Heron titled “Plan Ahead” in the latest Beaded Wheels which gives an insight into many veteran restoration projects which will become available in the not too distant future, so clearly we haven’t got to the end of stock just yet. However I do think that many existing and complete veteran cars in the future will be equally attractive either to be re-restored or just recommissioned after a long period off the road. I think there should be a place or category for them to perhaps be recognised in the judging in future Restoration of The Year events. Whatever happens, we should continue to encourage people to learn about and restore and maintain any club-eligible vehicle, even those from the 1980s and 1990’s with which potential young members readily identify with. Something for the committee to work on in the coming year. Also good to see at the AGM that a date has now been set for the proposed Brooklands to Brighton Run, which will be open to any vehicle 100 years or older. Pencil in Saturday 2nd March 2024, and keep an eye out for further information towards the end of this year.

At home I’ve been working on our 1912 Wolseley trying to improve cold-starting. My body can only withstand so much veteran-engine crank-starting before the tiredness and pain sets in, so the easier I can make it the better. Some success to date, but I think the magneto is a bit too weak in the spark department and may need some re-vitalisation. Bit like me really – roll on the summer. Good luck with your winter workshop projects!

Colin Hey