Volume 57 ORRIS Number 6 June MONTHLONTHLYY 2017

MAGAZINE OF THE MORRIS REGISTER The Club for Morris vehicles designed before 1940 www.morrisregister.co.uk Volume 57 ORRIS Number 6 June ONTHLY 2017 MAGAZINEM OF THE MORRIS REGISTER

CHAIRMAN John Ford writes: t is June already and I can’t believe how quickly the time CONTENTS Ipasses. I managed to obtain a seat squab for my 14/6, so thank you to those members who responded so quickly to 2 Chairman my request last month. I knew I could rely on members for help. 3 Editor As I mentioned last month, the rallies and runs being organised this year seem to be getting more and more popular, with the many regions 4 Warm Welcome supporting runs outside their area. Jim and Anne Riglar's event in What's it Worth? Herefordshire attracted the support of members from several regions. I think it is now the time to resurrect the Event Secretary's role in helping 5 Registration Revivals___ to co-ordinate these events for the club. It would mean a bit more work for the regional organiser but would benefit and help other members to 6/7 Forum Files enjoy a more social aspect of the club. So if you could spare a few hours of your time each week to help with this please let Jim or me know asap 8-13 Exactly Eighty and we can fill you in with the details of the role. We have now agreed a contract with our new web design company, 14/15 Minor Musings T3D. We can all look forward to a new and much improved website. We aim to make it as user friendly as possible and also to help deal 16/17 Pictures from the Past with some of the workload of our very busy Membership Secretary and 18-40 Regional Round Up Treasurer. Look out for updates on the progress of the build which could take several months. We are still looking for a new webmaster to help 41 Morris Mail run it. I was saddened to hear that Hilda Johnson, wife of our late chairman 42/43 Morris Mart Ken Johnson, passed away peacefully at the end of April. Both Ken and Hilda were very active and much loved members of the Register for 44 Foto Finish many years. Our condolences go out to the family and the many friends of Ken and Hilda. I attended the funeral along with several members of the club on Wednesday 3rd May.

Cover picture: 1904 Stanley Steamer viewed from the luxury of a on the Felixstowe Run (see EA Yellow Pages) [Photo: Ivan Rooke] The Morris Register Spares Service he Register’s Spares Service aims to provide a basic service that will help members keep their Morris Tin good fettle and suitable for safe and enjoyable motoring. We stock a range of spares needed for the maintenance and overhaul of the most popular models.These stock items mainly comprise , transmission, electrical and brake parts for the Morris 8, 10 and Minor models with a limited stock of similar parts for other Morris models. ON-LINE SHOP (www.morrisregisterspares.co.uk) The new on-line mail order shop enables members to shop for Morris Spares in a secure on-line environment. The Shop includes a full description, a photo, and details of which Morris models each part will fit. Each product in the shop has a unique “part number” with 2 letters and 3 numbers, and is a unique reference system for our Spares Service. The shop is linked to a secure PayPal payment system; you don’t have to have a PayPal account to use this, you can use your credit or debit card. Please go to the Club’s web site and click on Services/Benefits – Spares Service. The information given in the descriptions in the on-line shop should be sufficient to identify the parts you need. We cannot answer questions from members as to which is the correct part for their car, or about parts suitability or application. 2 MORRIS REGISTER INFORMATION CENTRE: The views and opinions expressed by the Pat and Barbara Farmer  0333 006 5255 Editor and contributors to this magazine are (10 am to 7 pm UK time) [email protected] theirs alone and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Pre 1940 Morris Register Limited. CHAIRMAN: SECRETARY: Any advice provided is not intended to be John Ford  01386 832 447 Jim Riglar  01225 754 981 advice on which you should rely. You must [email protected] [email protected] obtain professional or specialist advice before MEMBERSHIP SECRETARY: taking or refraining from any action based Office hours: 9 am - 5 pm, Monday to Friday on the content of this magazine. No liability Jane Nathan, 1 Fallowfield, Shoeburyness, Essex SS3 8DF is accepted for the consequences of following  0333 006 5256 [email protected] any advice provided in the magazine.

EDITOR: Rob Symonds, 49 Gorsy Road, EDITOR Rob Symonds writes: Quinton, Birmingham B32 2SJ must begin by thanking the dwindling number of individual [email protected] Imembers who have contributed to this month's magazine,  0121 682 0640 as well as those attending noggins and organised Drive-it- Day events who are mentioned in regional despatches. Sadly DEADLINE it is proving increasingly more difficult to persuade inactive/ 14th of the month prior to publication less active members that they have a tale worth sharing with others. At one point my pre-prepared back page for Drive-it-Day pictures was half MAGAZINE NON-ARRIVAL: empty and I was contemplating leaving it half blank to make a point! I Please contact the Membership Secretary Contact details above am sorry to whinge in this way, but do give a moments thought to the situation as you browse this month's: none of it would be there if no-one BACK ISSUES: may be purchased took the time and trouble to gather material and send it to me. Check from the Club Shop back over a few months and you will see that the same gallant band of regional editors and other contributors feature over and over again. It WEBSITE: www.morrisregister.co.uk would only take half a dozen or so of them to drop out and we would Contact: Mike Rose, Webmaster be looking at a bimonthly mag rather than a monthly! Think about it! [email protected] Often, the only time I hear from a member is when they wish to place SMALL ADS: Post/email to: a small ad, and there are plenty of those this month. Email submissions The Editor (see above) are much preferred and I tend to only acknowledge these at a late Free for members (max 1 car per month) stage when I have actually placed them in the copy. Sorry, but I cannot Non-members: please contact for charges. acknowledge ads that arrive in the post at all, due to the time and expense this would entail. My contact details are on page 3 of every COMPLAINTS: Any complaints magazine, so it really should not be necessary to phone up just to against any officer of the club, or about how to go about inserting an advert. the way the club is being administered Thanks goodness the warmer weather is here especially as, reading back should be referred to the Secretary the above, it seems I urgently need to get out more! THE PRE 1940 MORRIS REGISTER LTD DVLA Authentication Service: Members needing access to Registered Office: the Club’s scheme for registration number retention should get 70 Alderton Way, Trowbridge, in touch on 07507 264 980 or [email protected] Wiltshire BA14 0UH

©Morris Register and various authors and photographers. PRINTED BY Material published in Morris Monthly may not be published LAVENHAM PRESS elsewhere without the permission of the Editor.  01787 247 436 The Morris Register Spares Service POSTAL SALES If you know the part number of the parts you need, but don’t want to use the on-line shop, please get in touch with David and Lindsay Smith, email: [email protected] or by post at Morris Spares, Units 5 & 6 Priory Farm Industrial Estate, Station Road, Portbury, BRISTOL, BS20 7TN. We cannot take orders by phone. • Please state clearly the part number (the unique 2-letter, 3-number code as shown in the on- line shop), the description of the item you need, and the quantity • Please quote the model and chassis number of your car – take the chassis number from the brass plate under the bonnet, and include the letters as well as the numbers • Please quote your name, address and membership number in all communications • We can accept payments by cheque, but prefer payments by card using PayPal. Instructions for payment will be given when you order • Please remember the Service is run by members for the benefit of other members in their own time amidst many other family and personal priorities • If you are not sure what the correct part is, please put a request for help onto the Forum. There will always be members “on line” who will be able to share their knowledge with you. 33 New and returning Warm Welcome members

NO. MEMBER LOCATION eMAIL CAR DETAILS

14047 Derek Wrathmell W. Yorks HD8 1938 Eight Series 2 2 Door sliding head Yvon & Jacqueline 14048 Hubert 26170 France [email protected] 1935 Ten Six Special 4 Seater tourer 14049 Peter Jones Gwynedd LL48 [email protected]

14050 Feroz R Shapurji 643231 India [email protected] 1936 Eight Series 1 Tourer Donald & Eileen 14051 Dalton N. Yorks DL8 [email protected] 1931 Minor 2 Seater tourer 14052 Michael Marr 93466 Germany [email protected] 1931 Isis Six Tourer Anthony & Sandra 14053 Stratta Suffolk IP29 [email protected] 1938 Eight Series 2 2 Seater John & Tracy 14054 Gribble Surrey K11 [email protected] 1935 Eight Series 1 Tourer Arthur Rayner & 14055 Sarah Saward E. Sussex BN6 [email protected] Michael & Margaret [email protected]. 14056 Shores N. Yorks YO7 com 1934 Eight Pre Series Tourer Ben Bentley & 14057 Rene Mason Essex CO15 [email protected] 1937 Eight Series 2 Saloon 14058 Melvyn Baskerville Oxon OX25 [email protected] 1937 Eight Series 2 2 Seater Antony & 14059 Gideon Milton Cornwall TR13 [email protected] 1936 10/4 Series 2 4 Door sliding head David & Elizabeth 14060 Munn Wilts SN16 [email protected] 1937 Eight Series 1 Tourer Brian & Yvonne 14061 Jenkin Cornwall TR15 [email protected] 1937 Eight Series 1 2 Door sliding head 14062 Mick Boggis Bucks MK18 [email protected] 1936 Eight Series 1 Tourer 1936 Eight Series 1 4 Door sliding head 14063 Ben Freeman Herefords HR8 [email protected] 1937 Eight Series 2 2 Door sliding head 14064 Pete Armstrong Oxon RG9 [email protected] 1932 Eight Derek & Roxanne 14065 Longbone E. Yorks HU16 [email protected] 1935 Eight Pre Series Saloon

What’s it Worth? 1934 Minor Special

ffered by a dealer on eBay; two seater Special fitted with BMC ‘A’ Series engine and gearbox. OThe vendor states: "This interesting special started life as a Minor Saloon, registered in London in April 1934 making it one of the first of the breed to be fitted with hydraulic brakes. From the old buff log book supplied with the car, it would seem that the car was taken off the road in 1964 and laid up. In 2004 the car was rebuilt as a two seater and fitted with the 1098cc ‘A’ Series engine that it wears now. The conversion is very neatly done and the very favourable power to weight ratio gives the car a very spritely performance. Fitted are halogen headlight bulbs, direction indicatotrs, a Prestolite heavy duty dynamo, electric fan and a luggage rack. New Dunlop K70 tyres have been fitted to the front and the car has been rewired.While strictly not for the purist, this little Morris will provide enormous fun for a modest outlay." Answer on Page 43

4 MR DVLA OFFICER Registration Revivals Tom Bourne

ast month we looked at the need to make sure that the information in the V5C registration documents is accurate, Land the possible problems that can follow if the V5C is lost. Members are also encouraged to make sure that they get the V5C from the seller when buying a car, and that it is correct in all detail. The following account illustrates what can go wrong! EYG 662, a 1946 Morris 10 Series M saloon, owner Laurie McGahan Laurie McGahan bought this 1946 Morris 10 on 23rd September 2010, but the V5C registration document had been lost by the seller. Laurie immediately set about trying to get a replacement V5C from the DVLA, using form V62, but this was rejected by DVLA because the chassis number he provided did not match their records. The DVLA agreed that they would wait until Laurie had restored the car before completing this process. Laurie takes up the story: “The Morris was advertised for sale in a car magazine, and it was arranged that the owner would bring it to a motorway service station, where I could view it with a view to purchasing. The day turned out to be wet and miserable, so armed with my torch and waterproofs, I viewed the car as best as I could on the trailer. The sills were rotten, as were the edges of the wings, areas of bulkhead, and bottoms of doors, etc. The engine did start on the handle, with a loud clattering from the top end of the engine. The advertisement stated new tyres, but did not say when! The wiring loom was rotten, perhaps the car was not really worth saving, I thought. But I took pity on it and the 1947 Morris 10 Registration Number EYG 662, was mine. “I joined the Morris Register on the 8th October 2010, and immediately set to work restoring the Morris, welding in repairs to all the damaged or rusted bodywork, repainting, and repairing seats and interior trim. I also fitted flashing indicators, electric cooling fan and screen washers. With that work complete, I got in touch with the DVLA and they sent out their independent inspector on the 28th July 2016.” Following this inspection the DVLA wrote to Laurie; they noted that there was a discrepancy in the numbers, and informed him that the vehicle could “no longer be considered as the original vehicle for registration purposes. The record for EYG 662 has been voided and no further registration documents will be issued.” Laurie was given the choice - either be issued with a DVLA VIN, put the car through the “Individual Vehicle Approval” test and be issued with a “Q” plate, or to get confirmation from the club that the car could be considered as a “reconstructed classic” and be given an “age related” number. At this point, Laurie applied for assistance under the Club’s V765 scheme, and I went to inspect the car. As often happens, the original identity (VIN) plate was missing – these are often taken off either by souvenir hunters, or whilst restoration takes place, and then get lost. Without the VIN plate or the registration document, and not knowing where to find the number stamped Top: Front view of Laurie’s Morris 10 on the car, there was no way to satisfy the DVLA! However, on the Series M Middle: Rear views there are also metal strips screwed or riveted to the bulkhead with a series of Bottom: View of the bulkhead showing letters and numbers, and it was these that Laurie had assumed were the chassis where the car number is stamped number – an easy mistake to make. In actual fact these are believed to be code numbers applied by the Pressed Steel Company in Cowley, where the bodies for Morris cars were made. Until this point I had believed that the actual chassis number (or car number in Morris speak) was not actually stamped on the Series M 10 (or the Series E 8 for that matter). However, with help from an owner of a similar car I had found out where to look for the number. After about 15 minutes of carefully scraping off Laurie’s nice new paint, the Car Number was found on the offside end of the bulkhead. With this as evidence, a letter was sent to the DVLA appealing against their previous decision. They sent their own inspector again to verify the facts, and fortunately the Car Number that we had found was the same as that on record with the DVLA. A few weeks later the new V5C registration document arrived. Laurie said: “After 7 years of uncertainty, I am really grateful to the DVLA for eventually letting my Morris keep the EYG 662 number plate”. Footnote – finding the Chassis Number: Laurie suggested that it would be a good idea for a database to be set up of where to find the VIN Numbers of different Morris cars. In fact, this work is well in hand, but I need help from members to complete it. I have already collected information about where to find both the chassis and the engine numbers for most models. A major gap though, and where I need assistance from members, is for the Series E 8 and the Series Z . Some members have said that there is no chassis number stamped on the chassis on these models, but I find this surprising, particularly in view of the logical way numbers are stamped on all other models. I would be grateful if any members can shed any light on this. Just to be clear, we are looking for manually stamped numbers on the actual chassis, not the engraved identity (VIN) plate that is screwed onto the bulkhead of all Morrises. Can you please help? One member has suggested that the number may be on the chassis member, forward of the front RH seat. You may have to scrape of years of paint and/or rust. 5 April on the Forum Forum Files Bob Williams

Klaus, new to the Forum, found these pictures which show introduced himself with my car in Belgium in about 1975. his post: New member in The original UK registration Austria, Six plates are still there. It would be 2-seater & dickey. “I’ve nice if I was able to obtain high- just joined the Register, resolution scans, perhaps also of having recently acquired a notes on the backs if present?” gem of a pre-war Morris, a Clayton: “Welcome to the 1934 10/6 two-seater with Register your cars look lovely. dickey seat. The car started I am a newbie myself. I have in the UK with registration always had old cars as big boys JW 4707, moved to toys, mainly Series One Land Belgium in about 1975 and Rovers but found them a bit to the Netherlands in about heavy to work on. I did have a 1999. I bought it in a state time when I owned Austin 7 box of an ageing restoration saloon and type 65. I now have from a dealer in Germany a Morris 8 1936, a lovely car, a couple of weeks ago. but I have to admit I would like There are quite a number something a bit sporty, so I am of issues to be sorted on the lookout.” before I can register it as a Douglas seems to have similar historic vehicle in Austria. taste in cars to Klaus, posted: Meantime I’m enjoying the “Welcome to the club. If I hunt for spares which so far could work out how to paste a turns out to be reasonably photograph here, I would let successful. Attached is you see my 1928 Morris Flatnose a recent pic of the car. Cowley and my 1963 Rover 110. By the way, I’m not new Perhaps some kind soul will to classic cars, I’ve been enlighten me as to the procedure owning a very enjoyable, for importing images!” and reliable, 1954 Rover Klaus then gave Douglas 90 for a number of years instructions on how to upload now on which I did many pictures, including a German repairs myself, (pic also translation and Douglas then included, including myself). attached to his next post. I’ve started to browse this Klaus responded: “A pair of forum and already found lots handsome cars you have there! of staggeringly valuable info, Actually I believe your Cowley thanks all for sharing. I hope did inspire me to go looking for to be able to contribute in a Morris 8 tourer at the outset, the future, too. a car I knew from the TV series GrumpyJohn was the first "All Creatures Great and Small" to welcome Klaus “Hi Klaus in which a very pretty blue/ and welcome to the Morris black four-seater tourer (BAF Register. What a beautiful 892, I believe) features quite car you have. Hope you have extensively. It was by pure many years of enjoyment chance that I found the 10/6 on while it is in your care.” enquiring after another car the Paul next: “Looks great German dealer had on offer. Klaus. Beautiful lines. Try and He told me about the 10/6 he keep that lovely unrestored recently acquired and sent me look.” a couple of photos upon which Back to Klaus: “Thanks for I decided to go looking at the the welcome. Browsing the car.” MR online photo archives I Finally Andrew: “Welcome

Top: Bottom but one: Klaus's 1934 10/6 2 seater Douglas's 1928 Flatnose Cowley Top but one: Bottom: His 1954 Rover 90 His 1963 Rover 110

6 Klaus, and I car/tractor, do we know if he is a should second Morris Register member?” your comments regarding the wealth Some posts only require a single of information on replying post to give a possible the MR, and the solution which was the case when kind and generous Eric posted: Clock Repair. “The people who answer clock in my 10/4 M has stopped my sometimes silly working. The mechanism looks questions. Owning to be in good condition generally the Morris is only but the coil appears to be burnt part of the fun; being out. Written on the clock face a club member is is Smiths SK65215/9. If anyone a whole additional can recommend a repair service benefit! Both cars I would appreciate details. are beautiful.” Alternatively I would be happy As a post script to this to buy a used or unused item. post, Klaus started Fingers crossed someone can another post: 1934 point me in the right direction.” 10/6 advice please: Pete: “Hello. Smiths clocks: recommissioning send email to Raymond Pulley, – rebuild engine [email protected]. You now or later? in must tell him Pete from the Oil which he sought Engine club told you. Hope he advice on major can help.” engine problems Back to Eric: “Wow, that’s a quick with his new car reply Pete. I’ll contact Raymond which was in Pulley and see what he can do. addition to the work Thanks.” he was aware of. There were a lot more replies to John enquired Charles' post: Morris 8 Series whether there were E rear bumper brackets any MR members in removal. Charles is doing a major North Devon in his restoration on a Series E and was post: Bullnose having problems removing Morris Tractor. the bumper brackets. After a “I took my Morris number of posts that went to 10 coupé to a very and fro he posted a reply with wet car show at photo. “Removed the plates Merton in North from each side. They were Devon today. aluminium and chassis filled I’ve attached with fibreglass and putty. Bolts a pictures of a holding bumper will not move rather unusual so I might cut them off so I can Bullnose Morris remove body. Will be able to that turned up make new ones later. Taken which I thought photos for reference, horror other members stories have started.” may like to see. Looks like it has If you are a North Devon two gearboxes. member and want to contact Luckily I found Top: other local members just log myself parked 1975 photo of Klaus's car in Belgium on and tell everyone that you next to another (from MR Archives) are there! register member, Middle: Bob Williams Jim Callachan, in Bullnost tractor seen in Devon by John ([email protected]) his very nice 1937 Bottom: Morris 8. I know EDITOR’S NOTE: Horror stories have started for Charles of only one other Any member intending to member in the act upon advice given in the North Devon area and we were wondering if there were Forum or to use any products or services mentioned, any more.” is strongly recommended to read the Morris Register Charlie posted “Nice to see the photos of a very nice unusual disclaimer at the top of page 3 of Morris Monthly. 7 Items of interest Exactly Eighty from The Morris Owner magazine, June 1937 Rehearsing an Ignition Fault Experience of Misfiring by Marcus W. BOURDON LTHOUGH experienced motorists may consider it to be Aunbelievable, it is a fact of which proof is and often has been available that no small proportion of owner-drivers do not realise what is happening when one cylinder "cuts out" on account of an ignition defect such as a faulty sparking plug or a detached high-tension wire. Such unenlightened motorists may suspect — they may not be sure — that the car is not running as well as usual. the rehearsal should be continued by driving the car for a Upon occasion they have been known to report to a garage short distance with the one high-tension cable detached man that the car appears to be "bumping" ("Perhaps the from its plug terminal as mentioned. springs need oil" one of them remarked), that the clutch is There will be no mistaking the irregular firing at low pulling slipping and even that the engine may need more oil. Such speeds in the case of a four-cylinder engine; in fact, the diagnoses may seem incredible to the "old hand", but they impression may be that two cylinders, not one, are cutting- have been put forward to the writer's personal knowledge out. But as the engine speed increases the irregularity in the circumstances mentioned. becomes progressively less evident, and it may well be that Hence the experienced motorist must not be scornful when while the car is running on one or other of the low gears it is suggested that the inexpert owner-driver should gain on a level road or on top gear downhill, the inexpert driver experience of what it feels like to have one cylinder of four will fail to detect anything amiss, except loss of power and or six out of operation, by staging or rehearsing such a speed maybe. contretemps. Effect Under Various Conditions Cutting-out One Cylinder With a six-cylinder engine the irregularity is not so Let it be done thus. With the car stationary on a quiet noticeable at either low or high speeds, particularly when stretch of level road, stop the engine, remove a cable from the engine is not pulling really hard (accelerator fully one of the sparking plugs and with a thin piece of wire depressed). So the test, the rehearsal, should be continued or string secure its terminal temporarily but firmly to the for a while, with either a four-cylinder or a six-cylinder body of its plug well below the insulator. This will prevent engine, under various running conditions, viz. on the low the current from that cable passing down the electrode to speeds and the top gear, with the engine pulling slowly and the spark gap, but will cause it to short to earth and thus hard, while it is running easily on the level with top gear in cut out the cylinder affected. use, and at both moderate and high pulling speeds. All this Close the bonnet and restart the engine. Now go behind will show that a cylinder cutting-out can be most easily the car and listen to the sound of the exhaust; it may detected at a moderate speed on top gear. or may not be possible to detect by ear that only three Under the same conditions irregular misfiring on one or (or five) cylinders are firing, but if a second person sits more cylinders becomes most evident; this is an ignition in the driving seat and alternately depresses and releases defect far more often met with than the complete and the accelerator, the irregularity of the exhaust sound will continued cutting-out of one cylinder, but it is a defect that, be so distinct as almost to suggest that two, not one, of unfortunately for the object in view, cannot be "staged". the cylinders are cutting out. If there is no second person Nevertheless, the effect is practically the same, apart from available for the purpose mentioned, it should be possible, the fact that what may be termed intermittent misfiring, however, to feel the irregular pulsations of the exhaust as distinct from continuous cutting-out, is not usually so gases by holding a hand six or eight inches from the end evident as the latter; there are just the same symptoms, of the tail pipe, especially if the engine be run at an idling though less pronounced, i.e. loss of power and speed, jerky speed somewhat higher than normal. pulling and vibration at low speeds with the accelerator The Feel of the Engine down. The above procedure does not, however, represent a really A Precautionary Measure conclusive test under normal conditions as to whether all The contrast between the behaviour of the engine with cylinders are firing; it has a shortcoming in that erratic all cylinders firing and with one cut-out completely will idling is not always due to a cylinder, or more than one, probably be even more evident to the inexpert driver when, actually cutting-out. It often happens in the case of a at the end of the rehearsal, the detached cable is replaced well-used car that haphazard misfiring occurs in idling on its sparking plug terminal and the car is driven off again; with all the plugs coupled up, but ceases as soon as the and the experience thus gained may assist in preventing a engine is accelerated to pulling speeds; the reason is that great deal of annoyance, anxiety and delay on some future normal wear of the pistons and piston rings, valves and occasion; there will be no mistaking a misfire for a slipping valve guides allows air to pass into the cylinders without clutch or the need for more oil in the engine! going through the carburetter, thereby weakening the But one point must be emphasised. On no account should slow-running mixture — which is far more easily upset by the cable be merely detached for the rehearsal and allowed additional air than the greater volume of mixture entering to dangle clear of its plug. This will give rise to a risk of the engine under pulling conditions. harm to the induction coil, owing to the uncertainty of the But what the inexpert driver is chiefly concerned with, we current escaping to earth. Moreover, the cable end may may surmise, is the feel of the engine, the way it behaves hang loose too near the carburetter to be safe. when it is moving the car with one cylinder not firing. So 8 TURNING ON NARROW ROADS Overcoming the reversing bogey, which seems to beset so many drivers

T does seem odd how few people seem able to reverse possible one such entry on the off-side of the road. It is Iproperly. Any number can drive reasonably well, but easier to reverse to the right — you can see where you are make a terrible mess of the easiest reverse. Part of the going. trouble of course lies in the Drive well past it, keeping fact that they have never to the left-hand side of the bothered to become familiar road. Engage reverse and with the "feel" of a car when back into the entry as far as going backwards. They have you can — remembering to not acquired a delicate foot lock your wheels over to the on the clutch and accelerator left just before stopping. This and they feel uncomfortable locking over of the wheels going backwards — their in the opposite direction to position is strained, and which they were pointing, they seem unable to decide just before stopping, is the over which shoulder to look. most important point in all If they could only cultivate such turning manceuvres. the practice of looking over It often saves at least two the right shoulder with the reverses and a great deal of head well out of the driver's unnecessary labour. The car window and watching the off will now be in the position rear wing, they would find the shown in Fig. 2. Go forward, car can be steered to within again as far as possible, an inch perfectly easily. and before stopping lock the People have complained to wheels hard right (Fig. 3). me that the front of their Back again, when the car will car seemed to "wave" about be more than half turned, unexpectedly when in reverse, locking over to left when but that was merely because coming to rest (Fig. 4). Unless they did not know which it is a very narrow lane and way it would swing when a very big car, forward for they turned the wheel. Many the last time — note wheel people have steered a small position in Fig. 5. Back motor boat at some time or again, bearing in mind that other without any difficulty. the left-hand back corner of The principle is exactly the your car will now be much same — both are steered from nearer the wall or gate than the rear. If you are steering the right-hand corner you are a small motor boat and you watching, and then off you wish to turn left, the stern go. Three reverses and three of the boat swings out to the forwards. right when turning. So with a Only if the side of the road is car in reverse. very soft boggy mud should One sees many ridiculous you ever put the front of the attempts in city parking, car in the entry instead of but the thing that appears the back. This, obviously, to to be most baffling to many avoid wheelspin, but such people is turning a car in conditions are rarely met a really narrow road. It is a with in Summer. manoeuvre almost constantly Practise this on a quiet, needed at holiday times when straight road, locking the country roads and lanes are wheels over as indicated, explored, and it presents no and then do it again without difficulty at all if properly attempting the "wheel locking" tackled, unless the car is first, and if you do not find it really enormous and has very much simpler the first time it little lock for the front wheels. will be very surprising. The first thing to look for is Obviously, one should not a field gate—not necessarily select a gate on a bend in the one which will open. Most road if the lane is so narrow of these gates have a small that the car occupies the fiat piece of ground in front whole of it. If you must use of them generally bridging or such a gate on a very quiet filling in any ditch running road, ask the passenger to beside the road. Even if there dismount and keep a sharp is only two or three feet extra look-out both ways. space at the gate it is of the L.S.P. greatest assistance. Select if 9 With a Twelve to the Gulf of Lions An unusual run to the less frequented By C.R. LUCATO French Mediterranean shore

ITERALLY thousands of English folk have seen were in keeping with its tradition. Lthe Mediterranean for the first time in their own To the Auvergne car. Indeed, the delights of the Riviera during the last We now began one of the most attractive stretches of decade have become almost commonplace with a very the run through Evreux, Chartres, Orleans, Bourges, large number of British motorists. Moulins and Vichy to Thiers in the Auvergne, where, A Favoured Shore needless to add, we came upon some magnificent Now although no one would wish to decry that mountain scenery, broad landscapes dotted with delectable section of the earth's surface which within unspoiled villages, and the peasantry still lacking the a stretch of thirty miles gives you every conceivable sophistication one finds farther north. attraction—mountains, seascapes, good bathing, good In order that we should have a little time to spare in the shops, sophistication or rusticity to choice — as with Auvergne we drove through the night, thus saving the most things, one can become tired of it, and I believe time lost in getting into and out of an hotel, packing I am right in saying that a very large number of those the bags, finding the straps and all the innumerable who have already been to Nice, Monaco, Cannes and delays consequent upon a night's lodging. Thus, Mentone would find an agreeable change in visiting despite a great deal of time given to the admiration that stretch of the Mediterranean lying between of the rugged landscape which, incidentally, brought Marseilles and the Spanish border. To put the matter in its train literally hundreds of hairpin bends, and to the test I recently stole across the Channel with a mountain roads with a drop of 500 feet or so over the Morris Twelve, and instead of running down the much- side demanding careful and therefore moderately slow frequented N.7, I took N.28 upon arrival at Abbeville negotiation, we arrived at Nimes in time for dinner on on to Rouen, and then turned off for Louviers, where the third day out from London. the first night of a ten days' holiday was spent. Nimes is an interesting place at which to stay. There are 500 Years Old good shops, wide thoroughfares, a handsome square, The reason we chose Louviers was principally in and a superb water garden, with such a magnificent order to have an opportunity to inspect the beautiful stream running into it that I asked, to the amusement old church of Notre Dame, a twelfth-century edifice of a Frenchman, whether it was the Canal du Midi. of some distinction. Almost opposite the church we Nimes also boasts a Roman amphitheatre, which is found an inn of the old coaching type, which probably probably the finest of its kind in Europe. It is ina wasn't more than remarkable state of preservation and, I understand, one hundred upon occasion is still used for local assemblies. years younger A Desirable Headquarters than the church. In fact, we debated whether we should make Nimes our It had a fine headquarters from which to explore the surrounding old courtyard countryside, but decided we would find a point farther with a gallery west. We selected Sete, at the end of the Canal du Midi overlooking it, where it runs into the Mediterranean, as affording the and its kitchens most interest, and change from the holiday type of town, and secured rooms in a hotel overlooking the canal which, at our particular end of it, is laid out as a water front and is always interesting, especially at (Above) (Left) Looking Picturesque night when the long lines of quayside lights converge across Port upon one another in the far distance. There is also a the Vendres, picturesque little harbour, occupied for the most part harbour close to the with fishing boats, with their quaint lateen sails of a at Sete Spanish type peculiar to the Mediterranean. border Incidentally, I was surprised to hear that this rig is extraordinarily efficient, but loses time when going about. Here I ought to interpolate that the Gulf of Lions, upon which Sete is situated, and whose shores we (Right) were exploring for a matter of five days, did not live The Morris up to its reputation as a storm centre; for the whole Twelve beside of the period it was as placid as the lake in Battersea a row of lateen- Park. I can imagine that for those who own boats — rigged fishing as so many of our readers do these days sufficiently boats, typical of the district sizeable to make the passage to the western end of the Canal du Midi, just on the Bay of Biscay, one could 10 not manage a finer holiday than a run through to the the representative of law and order, or bribery and Gulf of Lions, and the subsequent exploration of the corruption, whichever way your feelings happen to be, many little harbours. and demands a little something on account; thereupon From Sete to the Spanish border you have an they reply: "Well, we can't give him any money, but we excellently surfaced road, in close but varying can give him some fruit." The liftman comes back with proximity to the sea, into interesting towns, many several tons of assorted fruit, which the employer has of them of course larger than Sete, and therefore by to sell as best he can, buy materials with the proceeds some to the preferred. Beziers, Narbonne, Perpignan and keep a little for himself, in order that he may are all sizeable towns with modern amenities, the last- not die of starvation, and thus rob the factory of its named being particularly well laid out in the matter of manager. gardens and public squares. It is good to recall that this man was happy and Perhaps the most attractive spots along the coast are smiling and more or less reconciled to his conditions. little Port Vendres and Cerbere, which is the last village At the moment the pound goes a long way in France, on the French side of the frontier. Although it is only in strong contrast to conditions last year, when one a little fishing village it is very popular as a holiday had to look at every sou before it was spent. We had resort for those who like the quiet kind of place, and good rooms in nice hotels at anything between fifteen in the Summer is well patronised by French visitors. francs and thirty-five francs, and I might add that it The road between Perpignan and Port Vendres is was never necessary to pay thirty-five francs, there one to be remembered in that it runs along the lower were always cheaper rooms available. slopes of the Pyrenees and mounts higher and higher, Ten Shillings a Day keeping the sea in view the whole time. In places it Thus it will be seen that those who contemplate a requires all the driver's attention, especially on a journey in our wheel tracks might safely budget for wet day such as we had for the run, and very new an average of twenty francs for rooms for the night, in drivers might find the trip a little anxious, but the other words 4s., while half-a-crown to three shillings compensations vastly outweigh any consideration for meals, lunch or dinner, is sufficient to allow; under this heading. although, of course, if you really want to knock up the The inhabitants at this end of the Mediterranean form high spots a little on holiday then there is abundant a strong contrast to those at its more frequented end opportunity, and good value for money for an extra (by English families). There is obviously a very strong few shillings. Wine is cheap, for two shillings or so Spanish strain, and some of the working people a bottle of really good table wine is obtainable, and are inclined to be, shall we say, leisurely. Which is if you only want to spend a shilling and your palate to say that they are no more fond of work than we isn't'too finicky, you can choose from a dozen kinds in are ourselves but they have greater opportunities for any wine shop. indulging their likes and dislikes. They are a kindly, The roads of this corner of France, if not quite the happy people, far more like the typical Frenchman equal of the well-cared-for Riviera, are at any rate quite in English minds than the shrewd, thrifty peasant passable, and relatively well-kept, except the most of Normandy and Picardy with whom we have more insignificant, which are sometimes loose. If anyone opportunities of coming into contact. cares to write in The return journey was made through Montpellier, for more advice Nimes to Avignon, a town of which one never tires. on the subject I The narrow mildly mysterious back streets hard by shall be happy the Palace of the Popes, and the banks of the swift- to furnish any flowing Rhone offer pleasant walks to those who like further details, or an hour or so's break on a long run. opinions for what At Avignon we linked up with N.7 and followed it all they are worth. the way back to Paris, and then on N.1 to Boulogne, a (Top) journey which I have described in these pages many The quays times. of the Canal The Smiling Spaniard du Midi Because I have been near the Spanish border I have been asked on numerous occasions what I saw of the (Right) war. I saw nothing. But one night we did fall in with a The fine Spaniard who had a puncture, and gave him a lift to a Roman garage with his wheel, and had an interesting insight amphi- into the conditions under which he was living. theatre at This man was a manufacturer in a sizeable way of Nimes business; he had a fine factory and all his workers were happy. With the coming of the troubles his factory was (Left) taken over entirely, and he was appointed an unpaid Behind the Morris manager on his own premises, the Government giving on the quay at Sete him money for his workers, but not a peseta for will be seen one of the quaint two- himself, and every so often he runs short of cash. wheeled drays used Then he calls the representative of the Government for transporting the — who normally is the liftman — and puts his case wine of the country before him, whereupon the said liftman goes to 11 Smart Police Work AST Summer an English couple parked their Lcar in a German seaside resort, carefully locked all doors and crossed the road to have lunch in a restaurant. From the doorway they noticed two well-dressed people looking at their car. This was NO BAR TO A MORRIS — The rear wheels of this not unusual, as English cars always attract notice Morris Major had dropped into a deep rut, leaving the abroad. differential casing on the mud, on this road in the Mackay District of North Queensland but after packing On returning from lunch it was found that a window branches beneath the wheels the car proceeded had inadvertently been left open, and that the lady's without trouble. The owner says "provided four wheels handbag had been stolen. It contained personal are on the ground, a Morris will pull through any kind clothing, a few articles of jewellery, and objects of of country" value and interest collected in travelling. Nine months later the bag was returned to the owner, It Means So Much intact except for two small items. It was evident that VERY year, scores of patients are discharged from the objects had been exposed for sale in second-hand ELondon hospitals, officially cured, but actually shops. This recovery reflects credit on the diligence needing the care and comforts of convalescence to of the German police. complete their recovery. Yet because they are unable to afford the cost of an ambulance from hospital to convalescent home, this precious period of rest is often denied them. Believing that there were many car owners who would welcome an opportunity to help others less fortunate, the R.A.C. some years ago instituted among its members a Motorists' Voluntary Hospital Service. This is composed of car owners who have registered their names and expressed their willingness to assist in this voluntary service whenever they are able to do so. Through the generosity of these motorists many poor people, who would otherwise have been unable to do so, have made the journeys so important to them in their fight for health. For obvious reasons, the number of names on the Register needs augmentation from time to time, AN UNEXPECTED REUNION — When officers and men of the 10th Royal Hussars visited the Works and the R.A.C. now appeals to all car owners in the at Cowley recently, an officer recognised one of the London district who are able to spare a little time men in the body mounting section as having served now and again, to register their names with the Club, with him in the War. He is Mr. A. Hunt (Centre), who mentioning the seating capacities of their cars. served from 1910-1918

A GOOD LINE — Part of fleets of Morris cars supplied for the use of their travellers to Pirelli General Cable Works Ltd., Toogoods Ltd., seedsmen and Messrs. Auguste Pellerin Ltd., by Wadham Bros., of Waterlooville, early this year 12 RUNNING HINTS IN PICTURES No. 71

Draining and flushing out the cooling system of the Morris Fourteen

1

1. Start up the engine and keep it running until it has warmed up sufficiently to open the thermostat 2

2. Open the drain tap and let the cooling water run into a receptacle large enough to hold the whole 24 pints. It is assumed that Stucco or other anti-freezing compound has been in use and that it is desired to use it again.

3. Then flush out the system with repeated cans of hot water until it is observed that perfectly clean water runs out of the radiator drain tap

3 4

4. The mixture previously drained off must be allowed to stand — preferably overnight — so that any sediment may sink to the bottom. It should then be heated and transferred to the can for pouring back into the radiator

5. As an additional precaution it is desirable to use a funnel with a gauze strainer when finally refilling the radiator with the mixture 5

The complete edition of The Morris Owner for June 1937 is available as a pdf on the website Other items of interest include: • You can Motor in the Hebrides • Coronation Flowers • The Continental Rally 13 Minor Musings Chris Lambert Missing Minors and the Market Place onsider this. There are approximately 11,000 recorded CAustin Seven survivors from a total production of around 290,000 cars. A survival rate of 3.8%. The current best estimate for the pre-war Morris Minor is that circa 1100 cars are believed to have survived from among the almost 87,000 that left Cowley, a significantly lower 1.3% of total production. There are undoubtedly many reasons for this anomaly, not least of these being the long-established network of Austin Seven car clubs and spare-parts suppliers many of which date back to the fifties and beyond. These networks ensured the ongoing viability of ownership at a time when pre-war cars were either expiring through neglect and general decrepitude or actively being driven off Britain’s roads and into scrapyards following the introduction of the MOT test in 1960. That surviving Sevens outnumber Minors, or come to that every other model of pre-1940 car, is very apparent Another Minor emerges – whenever these cars gather for rallies or sporting events such as the this one a 1931 SV two-seat special UR 9121 VSCC’s driving tests or trials. Here the Sevens dominate entry lists while at their own national rallies it’s not unusual for several hundred Sevens to be in attendance. What is unusual is that with around 1100 known surviving Morris Minors the largest recorded post-war gathering could muster just 23 cars. This really is a paltry total when compared with numbers at Seven gatherings and not at all in line with the number of Minors that are known to have survived. Getting 50 Minors together at a national rally should be both a realistic and achievable objective if the Austin Seven survivor criteria are applied. In addition to these ‘known’ Minors a further unrecorded number are to be found masquerading as MG M Types. Here owners have used both side valve and OHC Minor chassis upon which to construct replica MG M Type bodies, some being recorded by the VMR while none will appear listed on the MR database, or come to that the Triple M Register. (This is the MG Car Club’s register for their OHC cars). Therefore, while the recorded number of Minors may look to stand at around the 1100 mark, there are many more that could and should be added to this list. (Note to club officers – why not open-up membership to the Register for owners of these Minor based M Type replicas? They are largely ignored by the MG community and after all, these cars all originally left Cowley and not Oxford or Abingdon.) So where are these missing Minors, how do we begin our search to uncover them and why is the Register database the obvious place to start? For those interested enough to delve into this deeply, the Register will reveal the detail relating to those cars that are rarely seen at club noggins or rallies. To establish this would require the compilation of a regional vehicle sub-register, a simple task for anyone familiar with Microsoft Excel, while an examination of this document by the local club secretary and noggin leaders would quickly identify those members and their cars who are inactive or rarely seen. Owning this knowledge is potentially just the start of a process that could result in benefits for both sides of this equation. A listing of lapsed club members represents a further register source of potential Minor disinterments. It would reveal those former members who at the time of their leaving were recorded on the register as owning a Minor (or come to that any model in which the club had an interest). An email questionnaire to these members could reveal the reasons behind their action. Did they leave following the sale of their car or for another reason entirely? This research is a relatively simple task to follow through at post membership renewal time and of course may indeed already be the case. All of this sounds straightforward, but that isn’t the case as far as the Minor is concerned, as two vehicle registers exist. The 1932 McEvoy Minor Special – first of these registers is maintained by our own club, while The £25,000 Minor! (Image: Brightwells) 14 a second is compiled by the USA based Vintage Minor Register. It’s clear from inspecting each of the registers in turn, that while plenty of cars are common to both databases, many more are omitted from one while appearing on the other and of course, vice-versa. There also appear to be differing sets of rules relating to what can be included or excluded as a ‘known survivor’. Yet another source of known cars is the Pre-war Minor Network’s photographic archive where several thousand images of Minors are referenced by their allocated vehicle registration. When these registrations are cross checked against the two registers, it’s clear there exists a further large body of cars that do not appear on either of the databases in question, while also accepting that referencing by vehicle registration is an extremely imprecise and un-register like practice. Several active members of the PWMN share the view investigated above that many Minors are under-used with some rarely seeing the light of day, remaining tucked away in garages and lock-ups for months and even years on end. Those who follow the market frequently comment that after a well-known and widely recognised car is sold it simply disappears from the radar. It may then not be seen again until marketed or sold some years later. It is not as if the Minor has represented a lucrative investment opportunity for those speculators who just see a potential profit when purchasing historic vehicles, so Minors are presumably being bought by enthusiasts, only for that enthusiasm to wain while their cars languish, un-used, un-cherished and out of sight. Although Minor prices have been slowly rising in recent years they have not escalated at a comparable rate to that of the Seven or come remotely close to that of the MG M Type. However, that situation has been changing over the course of recent months, culminating in a record hammer price of £23,000 (£25,000+ with premiums) being achieved at auction for a 1932 McEvoy Minor Special in early April this year. This was followed by the recent marketing of a 1932 lwb Cunard Calshot special with an identical £23,000 price tag. It remains to be seen if the Calshot sells but it is symptomatic of an accelerating upward trend in Minor prices, although the two cases quoted above both relate to rare ‘specials’. As this article is being written (mid-May) there are many current examples of vendors asking £10,000 or more for two-seaters while a 1931 SV Minor Tourer is available at £13,750. On the continent Minor prices are even higher, a vendor in Holland asking £14,500 for a 1934 Two-seater while back here in the UK side-valve saloons are regularly marketed between £7000 and £10,000. While these are now typical asking prices there remain some genuine bargains to be found, with price-tags significantly lower than those quoted. Although a prospective purchaser may need to be patient. Just what relevance does the state of the market have upon our quest for uncovering and recording missing Minors? The hope is that this upward price movement might provide the spur for some owners to consider moving-on their possibly unrecorded and under-used car to someone who will buy it to enjoy the full range of motoring pleasures the Minor has on offer. If you know of a Minor in long-term storage or one that is used infrequently, please acquaint their owners with this recent upward movement in Minor prices which could provide the necessary impetus to move their car on. Furthermore, if they require any assistance in marketing their Minor, the writer will be only too pleased to help. It should also be noted that some Network forum members Some of the 23 Minors assembled for the 2015 PWMN Rally are actively engaged in finding a car to purchase. Therefore, at Holme-next-the-sea those looking to sell may not have too long a wait for a customer! A surprising number of unrecorded Minors continue to surface on a regular basis and not just here in the United Kingdom. Two recent ‘finds’ were discovered in the USA and its clear from this image of UR 9129 that genuine UK barn-find cars can still be unearthed. To date this year another five Minors have been added to the model’s ever lengthening list of survivors, although it’s a great shame that without a combined single register, actual survivor numbers can only be estimated. The role of a register in recording and tracking our cars should not be underestimated. As mentioned earlier, the assembly of 23 pre-war Minors at our rally in Norfolk in early June 2015 probably represents the post war zenith in respect of numbers at a Minor gathering. A similar number will gather at our 2017 rally which is due to take place later this month, over the weekend of 23rd-25th June in Medbourne, Leicestershire. If you are a Minor owner and live within striking distance then we will be delighted to see you and your car at The Nevill Arms, Medbourne (LE16 8EE) during the evenings of either 23rd or 25th June, where the presence of your Minor could help establish a new record! Similarly, if you simply have an interest in the pre-war Minor and are perhaps considering the purchase of such a car, then you are unlikely to find a better opportunity to examine at close quarters the many different Minor versions taking part, while Minor owners will I’m sure, be pleased to answer your questions. It’s also not too late to take part in the rally proper, although you will have to be quick as the latest date for acceptance of entries is Friday 16th June. Entry forms can be found on the website http://prewarminor.com/2017-pwmn-rally

There is every likelihood, that if you are a Minor owner and have read this item, then your car’s details are recorded in the Minor section of this club’s vehicle register. However, if you have recently sold your car or have a Minor chassis tucked away in your garage or workshop then please let the club’s vehicle registrar (Mike Brears) know the details, in order that they can be permanently recorded on the register’s database.

15 Above: This delightful photograph was taken in June c1930 on an ‘Alexandra’s Rose’ day and it features a 1929 Morris Minor being decorated by the flowers which would soon be handed out in exchange for charitable donations. An RAC badge was fitted in front of the Wilmot Breeden ‘Calorme- ter’ on the radiator cap.

‘Alexandra Rose’ day has been held in June since being established in 1912 through a chance en- counter between Queen Alexandra – a Dane and strong supporter of charities - and a Danish priest, who raised money for the needy, by selling roses grown in his garden. Inspired by him she launched her own ‘rose day’ and artificial flowers were given out in exchange for donations. Alexandra Rose Charities continues to this day, but for reasons of cost, stickers or ‘flags’ replaced the flowers. [Tim Harding’s Collection].

Left: This 1935 London registered Morris Eight Tourer and a rather awkwardly posed young woman, are shown at Tintern in . [Ken Martin’s Collection]. 16 Above: on ‘Derby Day’ (parochially also known as the ‘Londoner’s Day Out’), on a June Wednesday sometime in the mid-1920s. Many of the people in the crowds have come on the numerous London ‘General’ omnibuses. The Derby was first run in 1780 and is thought to have been named after the 12th Earl of Derby. It is Britain’s richest horse race and is open to three-year-old thoroughbred colts and fillies. The race is run over a distance of one mile, four furlongs and 10 yards (2423 metres). From 1995 the race has been run on the first Saturday in June. [LAT Plate 9385].

Above: 1936 RSAC Scottish Rally entrant Harry Stroud and his wife Lucy from Bedford (on the right) with their 1271cc six-cylinder ohc engined MG K1 Magnette (K0419). The Rally took place over 1-5 June and ran from Edinburgh over a 900 mile course ending in Glasgow. Stroud came last in Class 1. The man second from the left is Jack Bolton, (see November and December 2016 issues of ‘Morris Monthly’). Bolton’s wife Kaye (Stroud’s daughter) is alongside the rear offside mudguard and the other two people are probably Fred Conquest (Bolton’s former co-driver and his Best Man) and another of Stroud’s six daughters. [LAT Plate C9017].

The LAT images featured appear courtesy of LAT IMAGES. Prints can be ordered by emailing [email protected] quoting the image reference number provided and mentioning Morris Monthly. See the LAT IMAGES website for sizes and pricing at www.latimages.com. Important notice: Prints supplied may differ in appearance to those reproduced here, as images may have been cropped and subject to digital enhancement. 17 Regional Round Up

EDITOR: Geoff Campbell, 01494 875 783, [email protected] SECRETARY: John Powell, 01895 672 706, [email protected]

EDITORIAL nce again I was unable to get out on Drive-it-Day and had more of a "Work- Oon-it-Day"! However, some members of the Sherbucks noggin were able to fly the flag by marking the occasion and take advantage of the favourable conditions with a drive to Runnymede for lunch and a boat trip on Old Father Thames. Thanks to Mark Lemon for organising this and for the write up and to him and others for the photos. The Federation of British Historic Vehicle Clubs (FHBVC) sets the date for Drive-it-Day each year to be as close as possible to the anniversary of the 1000 Mile Trial. This event, organised by the Royal Automobile Club, took place over eleven days starting on 23rd April in 1900 and comprised a run from London via Bristol, Birmingham, Manchester, Derby, Kendal, Carlisle, Edinburgh, Newcastle, Leeds, Sheffield and Nottingham, back to London. There were eighty three entries of which sixty five started. By Edinburgh fifty one were still running and thirty five made it back to London. The various clubs that comprise the FBHVC plan and schedule local and regional events throughout the country. This year, Drive-it-Day fell on the one hundred and seventeenth anniversary of the Trial. It’s safe to say that most of these events are less gruelling than the original 1000 Mile Trial but then traffic conditions are worse these days! The annual events include drives, rallies, meetings at local beauty spots and historic sites including those of motoring heritage such as Beaulieu, Brooklands, The British Motor Museum, Gaydon and Bicester Heritage. On the subject of motor trials, the first short trials in England are reputed to have taken place at Bexhill-on-Sea in East Sussex. They ran on a course leading from Galley Hill to the De La Warr Parade and a marker showing that early motor racing track can be seen just west of Galley Hill. PLANES AND BOATS AND CARS: SHERBUCKS DRIVE-IT-DAY he “sun shone on the righteous” at the Sherbucks Noggin’s Drive-it-Day on 23rd April. Starting from Little Chalfont, the Troute ran through country lanes and villages down through Slough, and on to Old Windsor and the final destination at Runnymede. Slough had even laid on a large Sikh street festival for us to navigate as we in turn became part of their entertainment, with lots of waves and smiles from the festival goers! In due course, six cars assembled on the meadow near the Runnymede Memorial, as guests of the National Trust. The display represented a good range of models, and attracted a lot of interest from the many day trippers and locals enjoying the warm spring sunshine down by the Thames. Being St George’s day, we acted in true British spirit and headed straight for the National Trust Magna Carta Tea Rooms for a cuppa. A quick picnic lunch, then we boarded the beautiful replica Victorian steam boat, the Lucy Fisher. The cruise gave a lovely perspective to admire the several 100 year old Dutch barges, now used as houseboats, and the lovely scenery through the Runnymede Pleasure Gardens. The weather absolutely compelled us to have an ice cream at the mid-way stop, adjacent to the bronze statue of Queen Elizabeth II, unveiled to mark the 800th Anniversary of the Magna Carta.

18 Back on dry land, we took a leisurely four mile stroll to the three main Runnymede memorials. Firstly a climb up to the quite simple memorial to J.F Kennedy, then on up the hill to admire far reaching views of the Thames Valley. At the crest of the ridge, we came to the reflective setting of the Commonwealth Air Forces Memorial. Built around a quadrangle, it commemorates by name over 20,000 airmen from all parts of the Commonwealth who were lost in the Second World War, and who have no known grave. The memorial was immaculate, a testament to the care taken by the War Graves Commission. A mile further on, and we came to the famous Magna Carta Memorial, located at the place where, in 1215, King John was obliged to sign the charter drawn up by his Barons, and which was to become the foundation stone for law and justice in England. Returning to the cars, we enjoyed a final cuppa and slice of cake, with Glenn Miller playing on the old Decca wind-up gramophone, prior to setting off for home, hood down, basking in the late afternoon sun. OXFORD NOGGIN DRIVE-IT-DAY OUTING he Bicester Heritage Centre had advertised a "Sunday Scramble" on Drive-it-Day and as a number of us in the Oxford TNoggin had not been before we decided to go along. The weather gods smiled favourably and for once it was a pleasure to see quite a number of classic cars on the road. In fact one of my fellow nogginers caught up with me on the way so there were two Morrises in convoy. The number of cars was to increase substantially in Bicester. There were so many cars that it took around an hour of queuing to get to the venue. That made both drivers and cars hot and bothered. Once inside the scrambling began because it was almost impossible to find the area allotted to the club. I was directed all round the site and eventually parked under a tree next to a very nice E-type Jaguar. There were some very expensive pieces of automotive machinery parked around with names like Bentley, Alvis, Riley, Jaguar and Rolls Royce. Our humble Morrises are in a different class altogether, but I'm sure the running costs are but a fraction of the expensive cars. One of our nogginers broke her ankle and is not able to get around easily, so she borrowed an electric wheelchair. Perhaps that was appropriate for Drive- it-Day. On the way home it was a pleasure to see even more old cars being exercised. I have not seen so many on a Drive-it-Day before, so this year's event appears to have been a real success.

CHILTERNS EVENTS Saturday 24th June: Sherbucks Noggin Open Day (Maple Cross), contact Chris Andrew Sunday 25th June: Leighton Buzzard Railway Vintage Vehicle Rally Saturday 1st July: Datchet Village Fete, Contact Ian Thompson 01753 548 232 thompsoneda@ talktalk.net Saturday 1st July: Woodoak’s Festival Maple Cross 07835 282 819 Sat 1st–Sun 2nd July: Chiltern Steam Rally, Prestwood, contact Den Jarrott Sunday 2nd July: WDCVC Summer Car Show, Bushey Sports Club Wednesday 5th July: Classics in the Walled Garden, Luton Hoo Estate Saturday 15th July: Chorleywood Classic Car Show Sunday 16th July: Uxbridge Autoshow Sat 22nd – Sun 23rd July: Chiltern Open Air Museum Classic Car Show Wednesday 26th July: Classics on Harpenden Common Sat 29th – Sun 30th July: Dacorum Fayre & Steam Rally 19 THE BEAN CAR CLUB DAFFODIL RUN, 30th APRIL t 8 am on a chilly Sunday morning Ray and Mary, James and Lindsay, from the Sherbucks Noggin, joined members Aof the Jolly Woodman Austin Noggin for the start of the annul Daffodil run to Christchurch in Dorset. We set off from High Wycombe in convoy (luckily not much traffic about) to the first stop, The New Inn Hotel, Heckford, where we signed in and collected our route for Christchurch. We then proceeded to Stockbridge, our next stop, along some lovely country lanes and passing through typically English Villages with thatched roofs and village greens, made even more lovely because the sun was shining. At Stockbridge we made a beeline for the W.I. cake stall for some much needed refreshments. Their bread pudding was declared delicious by Ray and James. We continued along our very pretty route to our lunch stop, in the grounds of the Alice Lisle Public House. The idea had been to have a picnic all together, but unfortunately by this time it had started raining and so it was sandwiches in our cars. Our onward journey to Christchurch was a bit wet but by the time we reached our destination the rain had stopped, although it was rather windy and cold. We parked on the grass where the Mayor inspected the vehicles, awarded his prize and gave out the Bean Club Trophies (no prizes for us, ah!). We then continued onto Bournemouth for our overnight stop. The following day we made our way back home via a very good route worked out by Dave Coulton. Our first stop was for coffee at Stockbridge and then onto the Marsden Living Museum at Basingstoke. After a good look round and lunch we completed the last leg of our journey home. The enjoyment of the two days was due to very good organisation, good company and seeing the interest and pleasure our old cars gave to so many people.

20 WELSH REGION NEWSLETTER CYLCHLYTHYR RHANBARTH CYMRU EDITOR AND SECRETARY: John Howells, “Bronllys”, Vicarage Road, Penygraig, Rhondda,CF40 1HR 01443 432 542 [email protected]

DRIVE-IT-DAY uess where we went on Drive-it- GDay. Check out top left. Yes, it was the Nantgarw China Works museum. Nantgarw China Works is the only surviving 19th century porcelain works in Great Britain. Between the years 1813-14 and again in 1817-20, the finest porcelain of its day was produced by William Billingsley (1758-1828), one of the most remarkable porcelain John in relaxed pose painters and manufacturers of his time. Nantgarw China Works at the front entrance The pottery was established at Nantgarw in the year 1813. It was located on the outskirts of the village alongside the Glamorgan canal. This secluded spot had its advantages - coal was plentiful and living expenses were cheap. There was a mill nearby for grinding purposes. The canal provided convenient transport to Cardiff and its thriving shipping port. With financial aid from William Weston Young, a local business man, William Billingsley and his son in law, Some of the troops arriving Peter Wood’s Green Wolseley and Cyril Samuel Walker, produced what was & Beryl’s MG badged Morris 9 to become world renowned porcelain which was desired for its translucency and fine glaze. All was arranged for us to have a conducted tour and a cream tea at 11.00am. It was a very informative tour with a very knowledgeable guide, and delicious scones, jam and cream. The photos tell the story.

Colin & Carol Hazell with their lovely A nice line-up outside the works Morris 8

Above: Rhiannon inside our Humber 16/50 Starting the tour in the oldest part of the Left: A china kiln works 21 After the scrumptious cream tea (for elevenses) at the Museum, we headed off to Cyfarthfa Castle at Merthyr Tydfil, the home of the iron making family – the Crawshays. Built in 1824, Cyfarthfa Castle Museum and Art Gallery - described as the most impressive monument of the Industrial Iron Age in South - was once home to Ironmaster William Crawshay II and his family. It serves as a reminder to Our very informative guide on the tour An iron mould for making clay pipes the Ironmaster's dominance over the town and the wealth the iron industry brought to the area. Now home to a fantastic collection of artefacts spanning 2000 years of Merthyr's history, the Museum houses the first steam whistle, the first voting ballot box and dresses by Laura Ashley and Julien McDonald. At the castle you can admire the extensive fine and decorative art collections including Swansea, Nantgarw and Wedgwood Some modern work in progress Artifacts made at the works porcelain and art by Penry Williams in times gone by - the Welsh Turner, and George Frederick Harris. Stroll through the atmospheric social and industrial history galleries which chart the rise of this once great ironmaking town and learn about Richard Trevithick's Penydarren Locomotive of 1804, the first locomotive to pull a load along rails. Or discover the roots of the Labour movement, from the Merthyr Rising of 1831, and the martyrdom of Dic Penderyn, to the More site excavation to do. The old first Labour MP - Keir Hardie. Merthyr – Cardiff ‘Glamorgan Canal’ A kiln under restoration Unfortunately, the whole Castle was between the walls and the trees was covered with scaffolding when we visited, the outside being reminiscent of a building site, as necessary repairs are being carried out. For this reason we were not able to line-up outside for a photo, but had to park in a new area uphill at the side of the castle. Better luck next time perhaps.

Colin & Carol enjoying their elevenses As the canal used to be, alongside the China Works Right: At Cyfarthfa Castle, Rowley Evans admiring the back of his Hillman open tourer. Wife Josephine inside. Far R: Laura Wood with Dad Peter’s Wolseley, admiring the view. Cyril Ridley’s infamous Morris 9 is on the right

22 However, as with all true Welsh Region runs, we were still able to go inside for some more food – lunch this time. After looking around at the Ironworks exhibits at the castle, were again started and gears crunched, to make the last leg of our outward journey to Ty Newydd (New House) Country Hotel, where we partook of another scrumptious cream tea.

Waiting for our cream tea R to L: Beryl, Cyril, Bernard, Louise

Mair Colley and Laura Wood (with souvenir clay pipe) relaxing at Ty Newydd after our cream tea

WELSH EVENTS 10 June: Simon & Mererid’s M8 Jemima is going East to support Prostate Cymru's big walk from the Millenium Stadium (Principality Stadium?) to Kenfig Hill Rugby Club. More details can be found in the leaflet. Jemima is likely to be at the Heronston Hotel, Ewenny from late morning. 10/11 June: South Wales Austin 7 Club Rally at Bryngarw Country Park. Road run on the Sat, Rally field static and driving games etc. on the Sunday. Contact John Williams, 24, West Rd. Nottage, Porthcawl, CF36 3SN 11 June: Barry Festival of Transport. Contact: Mike 07733 302 242 (evenings) 20/21 June: Cheshire Show, Tabley Showground 24/25 June: Kelsall Steam Weekend, Ashton Cheshire 8 July: Penarth Carnival. Classic car show and ‘Downhill Derby’ This event will have its own afternoon, including the addition of food and drink stalls as well as Classic Cars 15 July: What seems to be a carnival continuation at Penarth: A family day of activities, stalls, music and stage entertainment on The Esplanade and at The Kymin 15 July: South Midlands auto jumble: Ross-on-Wye livestock centre HR9 7QQ, 400 yds. off end of M50. 20 July: “Treasure Hunt with a Difference”. As a break from normal we propose a “Walking Treasure Hunt”. Please assemble at the Aubrey Arms from 7.00 pm onwards. Contestants will drive to a nearby town of historical interest where they can park and then take part in a “Walking Treasure Hunt” looking for historical clues. When complete, return to the Aubrey Arms for refreshments of historical proportions! There will be no treasure hunting whilst driving, so anyone can take part. 17 Sept: The Big Welsh Car Show – this is to be held at Racecourse this year instead of Margam Park. Contact: 020 7504 2200 or website: www.bloodwise.org.uk/carshow (After you complete the first on-line page, you can then proceed to the next page and so on)

23 THE RED R SE North West Region inc. N. Ireland and Isle of Man EDITOR: Tom Taylor, 01772 316 598, [email protected] SECRETARY: Neil Truslove, 01204 598 526, [email protected]

STOCKPORT NOGGIN D-i-D his run had a seven car entry with Robert and Helena TBrown (M8 Saloon), Scott and Anita Brown (27 Oxford), Mike and Dianne Frith (M8 Tourer), Gary and Ann Clarke (Z Van), Paul Reece and young son William (M8 Saloon), Kate McClarence and Andy Russell-ward (SIII 12/4 Saloon), and Martin and Anne McClarence (Panhard 17b). We shared our Garden Centre start point with one or two other D-i-D Runs, notably several Austin Sevens and a group of Triumphs. Other vehicles seen on the road included MG Midgets, Bentleys, Alvis and a Triumph 2000. Our route was along nice gentle lanes and everyone was able to keep up until the Brown’s Oxford started misfiring and only restarting after cooling off and with much backfiring. Eventually we had to shorten the route and head for lunch minus Scott and Anita. The Oxford was left in Hazel Grove with a punctured carb’ float to be collected the following day. (Hope the Oxford is better in time for the Isle of Man tour). It was great to see everyone on the run, particularly the Reece M8, not seen for many years, and now conducted by Paul having been in the hands of parents Brian and Pat Reece who long standing members may remember from the 1970s when Paul was now’t but a lad! Martin & Anne McClarence

24 ANCHOR NOGGIN D-i-D he Anchor Noggin Drive-it-Day/St George’s Day Run Tattracted fifteen vehicles and twenty four members and guests for the ride to The Calf’s Head at Worston, near Clitheroe for lunch. Most of the Morris entrants we have seen before, but we also welcomed four Citroens entered by our friends from the Tracation Avant club and for the first time the delightful 1913 Sunbeam of Bernard and Carole Williamson. It was particularly pleasing to see Tom and Diana Hollingworth out in their Cowley Four which has been in the family for almost fifty years, most of the last thirty spent sleeping in the proverbial barn before Tom pulled it out last year and had it running again. An early Breakfast at Duxbury’s and lunch at The Calf’s Head proved to be too much of a prospect for some, but coffee and tea was enough fuel for others before setting off on the 18 mile run along the A59 in glorious sunshine with Longridge Fell and Pendle Hill providing dramatic backgrounds left and right. Most entrants took the Carvery Lunch while some were quite happy just re-fueling after a big breakfast. The return leg to finish at The Anchor took us off the A59 and through the pretty villages of Pendleton and Wiswell (pronounced ‘wizzel’) and through Whalley, Samlesbury and Walton-le-Dale before ending up back in Lostock Hall. Colin Evans was unable to join a run on the day but took his Minor out to the archeological dig near his home in Newton-le-Willows where the remains of the Newton Racecourse (forerunner of today’s Haydock Park) are being exposed. Well done, Colin!

25 Editor: Jenny Smithson 01959 525 265, [email protected] Chairman: John Mason 01689 858 546, [email protected]

EAST KENT MAYNOT RUN, 7th MAY small field of just eight cars turned out for the 29th edition of the East Kent Maynot Run on 7th May. Numbers would A have been higher but for a couple of injuries (bodily, not mechanical) and we wish those suffering a full recovery. Starting from Gibson’s Farm Shop near Wingham, the route took entrants across the Downs just south of Canterbury, to the small village of Bishopsbourne, through the woods and down to Stone Street which runs on the line of an ancient Roman road. A late change to take out a particularly hazardous junction added a couple of miles to the route but no-one seemed to mind. Back on the original planned route we encountered several horse riders out on a point to point event, while no great speed could be attained between Petham and Godmersham it made negotiating the narrow lanes a little slower having to stop for horse and rider to pass. A short stop to stretch legs and attend to other matters was made at Chilham before a start was made on the second half of the route. This took the two Morrises; three Austins; one Rolls Royce and two moderns north over the Downs through Perrywood, Hogben’s Hill, Sheldwich, past Belmont House to Eastling, Doddington, Erriottwood and Painter’s Forstal to the finish at the Brogdale Collection outside Faversham. Fortunately, everybody arrived safely although one of the Austins had difficulty selecting reverse gear which delayed them following an overshoot at one cross roads. I must thank those Register members, friends from the 750 Motor Club and the Kent Pre 50 Vehicle Club who came out on what was a rather dull and cold day. Mike Brears WEST SUSSEX NOGGIN he life and work of the famous Cornish-born engineer, Richard Trevithick, is celebrated every year in Dartford, Kent. TWhy should his legacy be remembered in a town over 300 miles away from his birthplace? Trevithick created the first ever working wheeled steam engine – the “Puffing Devil” – and was a pioneer in the use of high-pressure steam. In 1832 he was invited to come to Dartford by John Hall, the founder of local engineering company J & E Hall Ltd. He was needed to help develop a reaction turbine for the factory. Unfortunately after he had been working in Dartford for a year Trevithick developed pneumonia and died a week later on 22nd April 1833. He was 62. He died penniless and alone, with no friends and family at his bedside. His funeral was paid for by a collection amongst his colleagues at Halls and he was buried in an unmarked pauper’s grave in the town graveyard. His colleagues also paid for a night watchman to guard his grave as bodysnatching was rife at the time. In 2009, some 176 years after Trevithick’s death, a steam rally was held in Central Park, Dartford to celebrate the town’s connection with this great pioneer of steam and also to remember the town’s great industrial heritage, sadly now mostly consigned to history. The event has grown in popularity year on year and the weekend of May 6th and 7th 2017 saw the ninth rally. It is a free event and well worth a visit. There were many steam engines on display, including a large selection of miniature steamers. There was a large number of vintage motorcycles and a very large display of vintage and classic cars and commercial vehicles, including an original Dartford Leyland fire engine and a Hallford’s omnibus, manufactured in the town. This bus, now fully restored, saw service in France during the first World War. Amongst the car exhibits was the Morris Eight Series II 4-seater tourer that was restored by the late John Ellis, a long-standing Morris Register member who sadly passed away in 2015. Those members who attend the National Rally at Thoresby will remember him. He would have been very proud to see his beautiful Morris being shown off by his daughter Kaye and son James, as seen in the photo right. Kaye and James were thrilled that their dad’s car was pictured in the rally programme, having been photographed at the show in 2016! Richard Trevithick’s life and work is also commemorated every year in his home town of Camborne in Cornwall. The Trevithick Day celebrations are always held there on the last Saturday in April with parades of steam engines and tractors through the streets. 26 Here are some photos of steam engines and a steam car (with penny farthing bicycle) as seen at the rally in Dartford this year. Jenny Smithson

WEST SUSSEX NOGGIN n addition to the usual monthly Noggin at the “World’s End”, members have voted to participate in a series of ‘Breakfast’ Icar runs. These will include a short run (approx. 20 mins.) followed by a late breakfast (or brunch) to be enjoyed at a well-chosen restaurant. The first of these took place on Tuesday 25th April when seven vintage cars took part ending up at the Highdown Hotel, Ferring. On arrival, members gave a demonstration of some terrible parking (as seen below). Phil Barclay tries to manoeuvre his Morris 8 but makes the situation worse while Ted Smith talks to his Morris 10 blaming it for not going in the right place. Finally, all is well and Ted looks out of his car to see whether it is positioned correctly. A couple of weeks later, 14 members’ cars took part on our 2017 Spring run through the beautiful Sussex countryside. The weather was perfect, not too hot but with plenty of sunshine. Starting out from a café on the banks of the river Arun at Houghton, we travelled north-east through Storrington and then followed a northerly route with stunning views of the surroundings to our destination at Barns Green, near Billingshurst. Here we met up again for a meal at “The Café by the Lake”. The pictures below show a Morris 10 and Morris 8 in matching colours ready for the ‘off ’’ followed by the impressive line-up of cars at the end. The amount of cars on the run meant that the café owners had to allot a special parking area to accommodate the vehicles. Many thanks to Doug Groves and John Stevens for their excellent organisation of the run and planning the 24 mile route. Keith & Isabel Salmon

27 The North East Region Local News EDITOR: Ken Gosden, 01302 364 214, 07803 086 412, [email protected] SECRETARY: Roy Pidgeon, 01924 252 415, [email protected]

EDITORIAL must start of by thanking our Secretary, Roy Pidgeon, for holding the fort while my wife and I visited Australia for a Ifamily wedding. While Ruth and I were in the land down under we met up with the Victoria branch of the Register. By coincidence their President, Stephen Hands, lived five minutes walk from where we were staying in Melbourne. Their Secretary, David Smallacombe, lives a ten minute drive away. Needless to say I saw quite a bit of them both and I was round at Stephen's house a few times admiring his vehicles and his engineering skills. Anyone who knows Stephen is aware that he always has a story to tell. Stephen and his wife Gina made me very welcome and supplied me with plenty of biscuits and tea. John Gerrand (Victoria Newsletter Editor) and his wife Jan (who lived a mere twenty miles away) invited Ruth and I to their house for tea and coffee and to see John's cars. His son David visited with one of his Morris cars. John and I had a chat about our respective editorial duties and unknown to me he later put a story about my visit, etc., in the following month's Newsletter. In the evening John and Jan very kindly took Ruth and I out to dinner. After we returned to Melbourne, I was invited to their Monthly noggin at their permanent base in a community hall in the Melbourne suburbs. John asked if I would take part in a question and answer session. In Australia, for a reason I can't remember, they have to have a minuted meeting. Once the business was over and done with I was asked about life in Britain as a Register member. Questions varied from types of cars, insurance, spares accessibility, noggins, car shows, Drive-it-Days and about life in general here in the UK. Some members have up to a 200 kilometer round trip to attend the noggin. After my Q and A session, general discussion followed while enjoying a lovely buffet provided by members on a rota system. Due to the vastness of the country they do not have many car shows in their local area. They meet once a month at the community hall. From there they have a drive to various areas of interest. It is organised on a rota basis. Everybody seems to play a full part in the activities which was really good to see. It is approx 50/60 miles round trip with lunch or a picnic included. During the trip I was fortunate to be able to drive a member's Morris J van and Stephen Hinds magnificent 1916 Cowley "pick up". Before coming home Ruth and I had had dinner with Stephen and Gina Hinds, and David and Rosemary Smallacombe. It was a fantastic trip Morris wise and the friendliness and hospitality of everyone was second to none. Ken Gosden

L to R: John Gerrand's 1927 Cowley, L to R: Roly Woodcot's 1947 Series E, Stephen Hind's 1916 Cowley, John Brooksmith's 1960 J van, Ross Tony Healy's 1927 Cowley, Dave Ken with Stephen Hinds, President of Jamieson's 1949 Minor, Peter Fleming's Gerrand's 1936 Twenty-Five, David the Morris Register of Victoria 1932 Riley 9, Jim McIndoe's 1937 Twelve Smallacombe's 1974 van

L to R John Gerrand, Stephen Hands Ken driving Stephen's Cowley, Stephen with his Cowley and David Smallacombe watched carefully by his wife Gina 28 CLUB LORRY COMES NORTH big thank you must go to Brian for collecting the Register's one ton truck from the Midlands and storing it at his A premises. The North East now have it for the year. He has also had it steam cleaned. Brian has also said that he hopes to trailer it to Beamish in June for the Rally. Thanks again Brian. , N.E. EVENTS 10/11 June: Beamish Rally 13 June: Lunch time noggin at the New Inn Wetherby 12 noon. Afterwards a drive around the local area. In the evening at 6pm the Wetherby car club have a Meet at the Bridge Hotel & Spa, Walshford LS22 5HS 1 July: Yeadon Carnival at Yeadon Tarn, Yeadon 10am - 4pm 6 July: Scarborough Fair Collection, Scarborough YO11 3NU 9 July: Yorkshire Thorough Bred Car Club, WRBG Bus running day, Heath Common, Wakefield WF1 5SL 30 July: Ripon Classic Car Show & Auto Jumble, Ripon HG4 1UG 5/6 Aug; National Rally, Thoresby Park 19 Aug: City of Leeds MG & Classic Car Show, Temple Newsam Park, Leeds LS15 0AE 10 Sept: Otley Vintage Transport Extravaganza, Pool Road Otley. 10am - 4pm Monthly Noggin: 3rd Wednesday of the month at the New Wheel, Wrenthorpe, Wakefield WF2 0JN at 8pm

THE MIDLANDER MORRIS REGISTER MIDLAND REGION EDITOR: June Sargeant, 01905 840 155, [email protected] SECRETARY: Barbara Farmer, 01536 711 620, [email protected]

LEICS AND NORTHANTS NOGGIN efore we even get round to reporting on our latest noggin, there has been a lot of Morris activity to report. BBarbara and I attended the National Committee Meeting in April which was held at the very impressive Morris Minor Owners Club headquarters in Derby and although there was little car parking space, (and I’m only glad I didn’t go in the Isis), it left us wishing Morris Register had their own headquarters. But, of course, in monetary and membership terms we are the poor relation! Drive-it-Day has come and gone and thanks to Martin Gregory and his detailed and meticulous planning, it was a huge success. Twelve vehicles (seven of which were Morrises) took part on a lovely sunny day in a wonderful scenic route and participated in what also became a food fest! Rather than go into too much detail about the day, we thought the best way to tell our Drive-it-Day story was in pictures and hopefully our editor has found room, either in this issue or maybe a future edition, to present these to you. Barbara and I and Chris and Bob Williams also joined in the West Region’s Hereford Tour at the beginning of May. On our way to Holme Lacy, we started off with Stratford Festival of Motoring, arranging to meet at the A46 services near Coventry. We set off for Stratford with the Isis leading the way, or so we thought, only to find a mile or so down the road that Bob’s Series E was not behind us! He had broken a half shaft and disappointingly had to return home on a recovery vehicle returning later in the day in his modern. On arriving in Stratford, the Isis started cutting out, and, as they always do, at the most inappropriate spots in the town! I’d had a few issues with the points over Easter but this wasn’t the problem, but once I’d managed to manoeuvre the Morris into position, couldn’t do anything about it until the show had finished. Our overnight stop was in Alcester and although only a few miles away, we didn’t think we would make it suffering yet more cut-outs on leaving the town. Facing the prospect of also going home on a recovery vehicle, in desperation I decided to change the fuel pump – purely by chance I had fitted a spare pump alongside the existing pump soon after purchasing the car and was I glad I had! This solved this problem and somewhat tentatively we made our way to Hereford the next day with Bob and Chris leading the way at a steady pace in their modern. We had a most enjoyable week with the West Region members and what a fantastic sight the Morrises made lined up in front of Holme Lacy House. See photo (right) of “Little & Large” and do you recognise the character lurking in the bushes trying to get a good shot? Anne and Jim Riglar will no doubt be reporting on this but we completed all the runs in the Isis with Bob and 29 Chris as passengers but little did we appreciate the Isis had developed yet another problem – a hot wheel! After much investigative work by me and other Morris Register members, we came to the conclusion that the brake was rubbing on the drum but I was determined not to come home on a recovery vehicle so, once again with Bob and Chris as backup, we set off gingerly for home and albeit slowly but surely, we made it! Not wanting to let the grass grow under my feet, the next day I stripped the wheel down and it is now work in progress! Turning to May’s noggin – another good turnout of 28 joined us in the restaurant for a lively evening not helped by the poor acoustics in the room but we should be back to normal next month. We began the evening by showing respect to Hilda Johnson on her passing last month – she will be remembered fondly by our noggin. We went on to update those present on the National Committee meeting, our tour of Hereford, the forthcoming event at Wicksteed at War and the progress on Thoresby. We are also proposing possible visits to Abbey Pumping Station in September and the Bicester Heritage Sunday Scramble in October. Whilst discussing various car matters, it was noted how much sellers are asking for their cars – there has been a marked increase both at auctions and for private sellers. Toby Burnham told us of a recent encounter with the police! Toby has a Series E and a Willys Jeep which he keeps in a secure shipping container along with military weapons etc. which are used for re-enactment displays. One Sunday he and a friend were having a clear out and tidy up which must have been observed by passers-by. On starting up the Morris, there was a large backfiring bang in the enclosed space and before long he heard sirens approaching and soon after two armed response units arrived! It took him a long time to explain the situation but eventually they all sat down to a cup of tea! Next month’s “noggin” will be as usual on the 1st Tuesday of the month, at The Angel Hotel, Market Harborough, but don’t forget if you order food and can’t come, cancellations need to be made before 6.00 pm the day before. Pat Farmer WARWICKSHIRE NOGHGIN ur proposed fish and chip run arranged for last May's noggin meet had to be postponed. I forgot to send out a noggin Oreport last month and anyone turning up would have been disapointed to find a lack of Morris members! However, this month, June, we shall definitely be going, weather permitting. The plan is to meet up at around 7 pm leaving at 7.30ish, with the route to be decided on the night but ending up in Stratford. I will try and remember to bring a few beers and soft drinks, the free car park on the old Warwick road from Stratford is by the river and provides an ideal backdrop for our cars. We aim to be there at around 8.15 pm. We were all pleased to hear that Roger Pantling has taken over the restoration of our good friend, the late Paul Ollis's 1933 Minor. He hopes to have it ready for the NEC show in November. It was on the stand at the restoration show earlier in the year. We were pleased to hear that our friend, Mark Walker is making a good recovery from his spell in the Warwick "hotel". We look forward to seeing him soon at our noggin. I managed to get to the noggin in the Morris 10 last month with no issues, this month I will try the 14, although I think it is in desperate need of a decoke and is smoking badly. Further investigation is needed. If you plan to come on the run please let me know asap so no one is left behind. Ring 01386 832 447. We plan to have a daytime or Sunday run in July finishing with a BBQ, more details on that later. Next meeting is Tuesday 8th June. 7.00 pm. John Ford HEREFORDS AND WORCS NOGGIN ur noggin commenced with various forthcoming events mentioned (as Oshown below) together with their various entry forms. Ted Cannon passed round photographs of the Morris he is restoring and hopefuly he will be able to join us before too long at some of our future events. Drive-it-Day, or should we say "tow-it-day" (see photos): Tony Adlard and Len Dixon arranged our suggested route meeting at The Priory Car Park, Much Wenlock. We started off from there in good spirits but after a few miles we came across Tony and June whose Morris Minor rudely back fired at us and then came to a standstill. At this point Hayward and Mavis Morris met us coming in the opposite direction! He too was having some problems with his car and eventually went home with the AA breakdown service. However, after trying out various things to get Tony's car going, this was to no avail. There being no mobile phone reception, being miles from anywhere in a very quiet country lane, John decided to tow Tony's car further on along the route. After breaking the tow rope on four occasions, struggling up steep hills and meeting other vehicles in these narrow lanes we eventually towed Tony to the Wild Goose Nursery, some ten challenging miles away, to our lunch stop (arriving rather belatedly). See pictures below. We had lunch there together and walked around the nursery and walled gardens before travelling home. Tony and June went home with their neighbour, Len Dixon, and fetched their other car, Morris 10/4, and their trailer to take their Morris Minor home. Tony later found that the problem was an electrical one. After discussing the above, the evening continued with a video, 30 shown by Tony, entitled "100 Vintage Cars and Motor Cycles" which brought back many nostalgic memories. Shelsley Walsh Classic Nostalgia weekend takes place on 22/23rd July. In the past our Morris members have gone along on the Sunday. Club members get a discounted price when booking in advance. This year there will not be a designated area for classic cars with less than 20/25 cars, but lesser numbers arriving together (meeting beforehand) can be parked together. Anyone interested could you please let John Sargeant know by the middle of June. This year members with modern cars will have to pay the full £20 per head and park in the public car park. The June noggin will be an informal one. June Sargeant LEICS AND NORTHANTS DRIVE-IT-DAY PICTURES

1 1. Nevill Holt 2 2. Eyebrook Reservoir 3. Coffee Stop 4. Lyddington local 5. Penitent at Wing 6. Nevill Holt School - Horse's Head 7. Wing Maze 3 4 8. Barrowden lunch stop 9. This England 10. Welland Valley Viaduct

6

5 7

8 9 10

, MIDLAND EVENTS 1 July: Hanbury Countryside Show - 07885 325 382 5 Aug: Chaddesley Help for Heroes - 07725 224 175 19/20 Aug: Tewkesbury Classic Festival 01684 850 940 28 Aug: Pershore Plum Festival 07809 569 101 31 SUMMER MOTORING WESTWORDS THE NEWSLETTER OF THE MORRIS REGISTER WEST REGION EDITOR: Jim Riglar, 01225 754 981, [email protected] SEC: Jeremy Matthews, 01458 445 175, [email protected]

EDITORIAL ith the motoring season in full swing, there are many interesting events on offer over the coming months. I hope Wyou can attend some of them and enjoy a full summer of Morris motoring. I hope quite a few of you will be able visit our stand at the Bristol Classic Car Show, and I look forward to seeing you there. Jim Riglar NEWS FROM THE GROUPS East and South Devon: Hello Everyone, we had eighteen people attending the May Noggin. Well done! Our main discussion was about forthcoming classic car shows. Then we did our now regular spot of going around the table getting people to talk about any subject they wish, we had several queries about ignition problems and many other things. Our Drive-it-Day run organised by Edward Colman was attended by four cars and enjoyed by all. Paula Wood Somerset: Having just returned from the best part of a week together on the May break in Hereford, a number of noggin regulars obviously hadn’t tired of each other’s company and attended the noggin for yet more socialising. With the lighter evenings more Morrises appear in the car park and four were in evidence at the May noggin. As ever the noggin continues to attract more members, and joining the regulars this month were Richard and Frances Roper from Wigborough, who are the owners of a 1934 Morris Twelve Four. They are the third generation of family members to own the car, which is largely in original condition and still sporting some of its 2nd World War black-out arrangements. Richard has stored the car for a while and is now considering recommissioning it. With the season in full swing, a number of events were under discussion including Jeremy Matthews’ Nursery Rhymes Run, John Goodland’s Somerset & Dorset Run and the Somerset Steam Show at Low Ham. Jim Riglar has almost finalised the line-up for the stand at the Bristol Classic Car Show in June. Jim Riglar New Forest: A wet forecast meant an outing for the saloon despite not having aligned the headlamps after refurbishment! Spanners were taken to allow doing it once night had fallen. I am rebuilding the engine at the moment so it also has my "temporary" engine fitted, the 3rd car this engine has been in and a jolly good engine it is, hauling the saloon up hills in top that I would need to change down if in the 2 seater. Luckily the rain wasn't too heavy for the return journey as six volt headlamps (even re-polished ones with LED bulbs) combined with a 1932 wiper and rain don't make for great night driving speeds. Illness and holidays meant we were down on numbers. I was present along with Gerald, Malcolm, Reg and Lyn, John and Vera, but a good time was had by all with talk of Beaulieu autojumble, troublesome 8 fuel senders, things lost off trailers/vehicles whilst driving and how any of us survived childhood with no cycling helmets, electricity experiments, sharp blades and flammable liquids/fireworks freely available! I believe even in chemistry lessons it is rare these days to actually get to handle any chemicals. There was also talk of the planned inter-noggin meet on the 30th July, limited space and we already have a third of the seats taken by New Forest noggin members! If there's one thing our noggin members like it is a Sunday drive ending with food. Toby Sears BRISTOL CLASSIC CAR SHOW Sat/Sun 17/18 June - Royal Bath & West Showground, Shepton Mallet his year we are on stand M5 in the Mendip Hall. Our stand will again be featuring Tfour cars. Why not come and meet us. If you fancy taking the weight off your feet for a few minutes, we might even offer you a cuppa! At the time of writing, our vehicle line-up wasn’t quite finalised, but our display will certainly include one car which has never previously been on show. If you plan to visit, you can save a few pounds by buying tickets in advance either on- line at: http://bccs.bristolclassiccarshows.com/tickets/ or by phone: 01507 529529. The advance purchase price is: £10 (adult, one day) compared with - Price: - £13 (adult, one day) on the gate. Under 16s go FREE. If you come in your classic car, then a Classic Vehicle Car Park will again be in operation, adjacent to the show halls. 32 DRIVE-IT-DAY New Forest (North Gorley) & Somerset (Shepton Mallet) Noggin Runs to the Larmer Tree Gardens, near Tollard Royal, Wiltshire

ollowing discussions between Drive-it-Day Run organisers Chris Murray F(Somerset Noggin) and Toby Sears (New Forest Noggin), it was agreed to co-ordinate the two noggins’ 2017 Drive-it-Day efforts into some form of joint venture. Toby Sears suggested the Larmer Tree Gardens on the Wiltshire/ Dorset border just south-east of Shaftesbury as a suitable venue. This was quite fitting as two runs from the noggin venues would between them cross four of the region's counties. Toby organised a 20 mile route from North Gorley via Cranborne and Sixpenny Handley, returning by the same route, whilst Jim Riglar, providing assistance to Chris Murray, organised a 30 mile outbound route from Shepton Mallet via Bruton, Gillingham and Shaftesbury, with a 40 mile return route via Child Oakford, Wincanton and the outskirts of Castle Cary. Ten Morrises and a Ford Model A set out just before 11 am from Shepton Mallet on a hilly route to Larmer Tree Gardens. The Ford was making its first road run since its restoration had been completed just three days earlier! Between Gillingham and Shaftesbury we were joined by Dan Brockway and Shirley Martin in Dano’s “oily-rag” Minor Saloon. With traffic reasonably quiet, we made good time to Larmer Tree, arriving at about noon and about 20 minutes ahead of Toby Sears' convoy of seven vehicles from North Gorley. We were also joined at Larmer Tree by John and Mair Graham, who, giving the Morris a rest, popped across from Henstridge in their Morgan. It is good to have a chat with quite a few of the members in the car park, prior to the distractions offered by a stroll around the Victorian pleasure gardens. It was also a nice surprise to be joined by Phil and Sheila Butland, who were having a short break in the New Forest area and ventured over in their modern to take a look at the sights. After a light lunch and a leisurely stroll around the gardens to admire the flora (camellias and bluebells in flower) and fauna (peacocks displaying), the two groups headed off on their separate ways, with the Somerset group passing about a hundred Triumphs, (GT6s, Stags, Dolomites) out on their own Drive-it-Day run, before dropping off Dan Brockway on route and picking up Derek and Pearl Ayers in their Rover P6 for the last 16 miles of the run. The photos (right and on next page) show all of the cars that participated and a few snippets from the gardens. Also shown is the start of our encounter with the Triumphs; we were “driving against” them for about 4 miles! Between us all, we put on a great display in the spirit of Drive-it-Day and ensured our cars were on show to the public across swathes of Somerset, Dorset, Wiltshire and Hampshire. Jim Riglar

33 WEST REGION MAY BREAK - HEREFORD full report will appear in next month’s Westwords. It is pleasing to note that as with previous years the event again A proved successful and a group of members from the West, South-East, Wales and Midland regions thoroughly enjoyed the event. As usual, and to be expected with so many Morrises being well exercised, a few cars experienced problems but not to such a degree as to spoil anybody’s fun. With the dust hardly settled from the 2017 break in Hereford, considerable interest has already been expressed for another break in 2018. With previous events being 2012 - IoW, 2013 - Torquay, 2014 - Black Country, 2015 - Arundel, 2016 - IoW and 2017 - Hereford, Anne Riglar is suggesting a return to Torquay. Following a tried and tested formula, this will be based on stay at a quality hotel on half board terms and offer a range of optional visits to an eclectic mix of attractions in the South Devon and Dartmoor area. 34 FORTHCOMING EVENTS Dig for Victory Show - Saturday and Sunday 10/11 June At North Somerset Showground, Wraxall, Somerset. An event that is well worth attending. Why not immerse yourself in the 1940’s for a day or for the weekend. Details are available on-line at: http://digforvictoryshow.com Morris Register Spares Officers, Dave and Lindsay Smith, 01275 371 717 or [email protected] may also be able to provide more details. The East Mendips Tour (Nursery Rhymes Run) – Thursday 29 June Organised by Jeremy Matthews, this run will start from the Somerset noggin venue, The Highwayman, Shepton Mallet, and feature a morning run of 21 miles to lunch stop at the Red Lion, Woolverton. After lunch the run continues for another 18 miles to a finish for tea at Kilver Court, Shepton Mallet. There may be stops in the morning to visit a castle and a church and in the afternoon to visit a plague church! As for Nursery Rhymes, come on the run to find out where Jack & Jill got up to their hill-side antics! Contact Jeremy Matthews, 01458 445 175 or [email protected] Blackmore Vale Revival, Henstridge Airfield, Somerset – Saturday 1 July Now in its third year, this has become an established and popular event attracting a very large and interesting classic vehicle entry. Organised by the Blackmore Vale Lions as a fund raiser for the Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance, it is well worth attending and in the previous two years has attracted a large Morris Register presence. Contact John Graham (Morris Register & Blackmore Lions member) 01963 364 063 or [email protected] for more information or book a place on-line at: http://www.henstridgeclassicrevival.com/register-your-vehicle.html Somerset & Dorset Run – Thursday 20 July Starting from Orchard Park Garden Centre, Gillingham, Dorset, this run through the Dorset & Somerset borders will feature a visit to a private vehicle collection in Bruton. For details contact John Goodland 01747 825 929 or celia.g@ metronet.co.uk Somerset Steam & Country Show – Friday to Sunday 21-23 July At Netherham Farm, Low Ham, near Langport, Somerset TA10 9DR. Organised by the Somerset Traction Engine club, this show features a feast of transport delights; everything from traction engines, commercial vehicles, tractor and motor bikes through to a large and varied classic car show. It regularly attracts quite a few Morris Register members. For details contact Roy Bowden (Morris Register & STEC member), 01275 858 340 or [email protected] Inter-noggin Lunch Meet – Sunday 30 July At The Black Horse, Great Durnford, Wiltshire. Now firmly established as a regular event in the West Region calendar, the 2017 event, will again be held at The Black Horse, Great Durnford in the Avon Valley, between Salisbury and Amesbury. If you fancy a noggin and natter over Sunday lunch, then contact Toby Sears to make a lunch booking. Contact Toby Sears, 01590 644 269 or [email protected]

35 nglia Re t A g s io a n E

No.472 EDITOR AND SECRETARY: Tony Nathan, 01702 589 643, [email protected]

FROM THE CHAIR recent situation here brought home the fact that even the best laid plans made months in advance can come to A nothing with only the slightest of deviances. In my case it was my extended family health but could so easily have been the failure of that vital part to keep the car on the road. Just when you think you are there, failure to start or a mechanical failure can be very demoralising but keep your chin up and plough on it will be worth it in the end. As I will have limited opportunity to attend some of this year’s events I look forward to reading all about them from the reports you send to the EAYPs or Morris Monthly. Pam Lee

FROM THE EA SECRETARY/EDITOR ay 9th, and I’m just preparing the information required for the EA AGM on 14th May and will be able to acquaint Myou of the outcome in the August EAYPs. Please support North Cambs Noggin meets at midday on Wednesday 14th June, once again at Judes Ferry. Dudley Hedge is the coordinator and he would appreciate knowing if you are able to attend. Judes Ferry can be very popular during the summer months. Dudley can be contacted on 01 223 882 057 or [email protected] Also a big thank you to this month's EAYPs contributors, namely – Adrian Mitchell, Peter Sanders, Andy Wilson, John Landin, Mick and Judith Roberts and of course Ivan Rooke. Also included is a nice selection of photos. ROOKE’S RAMBLES he Cowley saloon had not been fired up for some months so having retrieved the magneto from the airing cupboard Tand fitted it I was very pleased how well it started. I noticed the fan belt was a little slack so a small adjustment was made. I took the opportunity of putting grease in the bearing which made it a little less noisy! Could possibly do with a new bearing but okay for the time being! There is a crack in the manifold. I must confess this has been a job I have intended doing for some time. The manifold hasn't been removed in my ownership and I am slightly concerned what I might find when it is taken apart. It clearly must be done however but I have decided to try one of the epoxy resins for the time being because having just checked the spare manifold, the is somewhat larger than the one on the car. I suspect now that it may be from an Oxford. I have another slightly smaller type but with a broken lug which looks the same size as that on the car but I will have to resort to having this professionally repaired. What has really delayed this repair is that the manifold is on the side of the car which is difficult to get at because of the amount of 'stuff' in my garage! When removing the magneto I always mark which lead goes to which plug. I am not very consistent with the method I use. Sometimes this comprises a piece of tape attached to the lead showing plug number or I just attach four of Olive's clothes pegs showing the appropriate cylinder. I also ensure the engine is not turned over after the magneto is removed and I tape up the actual magneto drive to ensure it remains in the same position as when taken off. It then merely has to be replaced to mate up with the appropriate marks on the fabric coupling. This avoids the necessity of resetting the timing. Why is it therefore, this year, when I removed the magneto from its winter slumbers the pegs had either fallen off or the marked peg did not coincide with the correct cylinder? Fortunately one marker did remain in situ and did seem right so it was a comparatively easy task to get it set up. Having done that a short drive indicated all was running well. A few days ago the two seater reached its 88th birthday. I do not normally celebrate such occasions, mainly because I never remember the actual date, but having recently checked the registration documents I entered the dates in my diary so with hood down it was nice to take it for a run. I will do the same with the saloon in a few days time when it reaches 90. Olive and myself have taken in a few local car boot sales and collectibles emporiums of late. We found several items of interest, were tempted but not in a purchasing mode. I couldn't however resist the pin dish! (See photo left). The red flag days are, of course, long gone but as the photograph indicates it was part of our motoring history. I suppose as a driver of old vehicles I just accept 'our' cars on the road but they our noticeably different in style to their modern counterparts. Modern cars do tend to look much the same and I can only use that as an 36 excuse for what happened recently when following Duncan in his car to his house. Unfortunately a large van got between us but I carefully kept an eye on the rear of his Mercedes. I was expecting it to turn left onto the A14? I was suspicious when the Mercedes turned right. However, I thought Duncan may have had a change of plan and was meeting at our house not his. The suspicions got stronger as the miles increased and the Mercedes took off into the distance. Cannot use the mobile, so eventually made my own decision to turn off. I had been following a similar colour car of the same make but clearly the wrong one! That would unlikely happen in a period car? Ivan Rooke ESSEX NOGGIN REPORTS From Adrian Mitchell: one of the *top people were at the Noggin on 13th April and nobody was there had the official form for us all to fill Nin to register our attendance so I made a note of the attendees for you so that you can keep your records up to date. In addition to me, Alan Montague, Laurie Cook, Peter Sanders, Judith Roberts, Mick Roberts, Dave Illsley, Rob Logan, Andy Bailey, Pat Colgan and Tim Birkin were present. EdEAYP: Thanks Adrian, I had received apologies from six of the usuals. I also had good intentions, but had slight chesticls, so gave it a miss, but all who attended deserve a mention. *It should be noted that Laurie Cook is amongst the ‘top people’, so you were not totally without committee support and that some Committee Members have other commitments at present. From Pete Sanders: regret that you were unable to get to the April noggin. We had a small, but lively meeting with about a dozen members, Iincluding two visitors from the Bullnose Morris Club who I believe have visited previously. It was a clear but chilly evening and the open log fire was most welcome as I had driven through the country lanes, hood up but no side screens. The Pink Lady special promotion was very tempting but I did not see any partakers. Several different discussions on such things as why pay to take part in a show or rally especially if there are also paying public. Mick Roberts, of Morris Minor fame, gave a progress report, plus photos of the body-off re-build of his Morris 25 limo. Stripped back to bare metal, the body, removed from the chassis, has been professionally re-sprayed in the original shade of maroon that Nick found hidden in a corner of door frame. Mick, who is professional carpenter, is also making a new body frame, a challenge for anyone. From personal experience having re-framed three derelict vehicles it's not quite as easy as they say in the DIY books – once one starts prising it apart the whole lot disintegrates into a pile of dust in rotten bits. However Mick is the man to get advice. He believes in screwing and gluing while I prefer just screwing, which gives one the opportunity to make corrections. Whatever way you choose, use stainless steel screws. Laurie Cook was in fine fettle and is in the process of re-covering the cab on his Morris lorry, but will not be going on the annual London – Brighton commercial run. Alan Montague is moving to Mersea Island so we may be seeing an amphibious Morris 8 conversion in the future as the causeway is inundated at certain times. It is dvisable to consult the tide tables. Adrian Mitchell has been helping Scott Sanderson (also a Mersea resident) restore his Morris 8 tourer. Strangely, my Morris 8 Jensen was the only old vehicle at the meeting (EdEAYP: You may have missed the arrival of Adrian Mitchell). I left early as it was under test having suffered a petrol leak via the sender unit seal. All the securing screws needed serious re-tightening. Is this the ethanol petrol gremlin? I had brisk ride back home, hitting a really nasty bit of the A12, mixing it with heavy lorries and ton-uppers – and they were the slow ones. I had only just reached home when there was an ominous smell of petrol and I found the fuel pipe union had unscrewed itself, disgorging fuel onto the exhaust pipe. And so to bed. COLNE VALLEY REPORTS went to the first day of this year's Colne Valley Railway Vintage Car Rally (22/23 April) with Scott Sanderson. There were Ithree Morris Register members' cars there: My Morris Eight saloon, a 1926 Bullnose , and a Morris Ten Four saloon. There was also a good selection of other vehicles at the rally, including other makes of cars, buses, motor cycles and heavy commercial vehicles. There was also a display of steam engines, agricultural vehicles and stationary engines. One of the exhibitors told me that it had taken him thirty years to build his working model from scratch, and that he had made for all of the castings that he needed. As usual the trains were running and exhibitors could have as many rides as they wanted. A good day out. I was told that they were expecting more exhibits on the second day. Adrian Mitchell EDEAYP: It so nice to have a selection of Colne Valley photos to choose from, both from Adrian & Andy. Here are some of my choice – unfortunately no drivers' names to go with them. See next page for second report.

37 lthough I am actually from the AChiltern region I thought that I should send this report to you as the event was in your area. Having missed many events last year due to mechanical problems I decided this year I would use my Bullnose as much as possible. The Colne Valley Railway event was mentioned in the Morris Monthly earlier in the year, this appealed to me being within the one to two hour drive away that I enjoy. So I sent off my entry and looked forward to the weekend hoping for good weather. It wasn’t the weather that ended up giving cause for concern, but a cylinder liner that decided 10 days before the event to stop sealing water and emptied the contents of the block into the oil. Fortunately I have a spare engine, all be it a little noisy due to a bit of piston slap, so in this went. It was a wet Saturday morning that I trekked off to The Colne Valley Railway with the promise from the BBC that the day would get brighter, as it did. The car ran faultlessly the whole way there taking only 15 minutes longer than I have taken in a modern to do the same journey. The Saturday was not too well attended with only about 30 cars turning up. Maybe the early drizzle put some off. The Morris marque made up a good parentage of the total, along with my Bullnose there was a very nice pre-series 8 (A Mitchell) and a beautiful 10/4 (S Kiddy) along with the obligatory Morris Minors. I decided to stay for both days and booked into a local b&b for the Saturday night. A few pints and a good curry later it was time to head back to the railway. From the outset it was obvious that the Sunday was going to be far busier, the roads seemed full of classic cars of all eras. When I arrived there were probably already a hundred cars on the field and during the day another hundred or so came. The Morris Register didn’t get anywhere near the 10% of the total like the day before, but still put on a good show. Ian Westrope brought his Bullnose Oxford (very nice, I’m a little jealous) and his Minor Family Eight plus enough people to fill one of the Colne Valley trains. Parked near to me was a rather nice Ten-Four salon (series II), I never got to meet the owner, Andy Smart. I was also parked a couple of cars away from a wonderful Eight series I tourer (B Williams) that I first saw in a petrol station on the way there. Then another Eight tourer (AOW 613) snuck in later in the day, again I didn’t get to meet the owner, but it looked as though he had done a lot of work on his car as it was very smart. The railway was very interesting, throughout both days they ran a Steam train (Barrington) and a Class 121 Diesel Railcar. The staff were especially friendly and helpful, I even managed to get taken into the restoration area. After seeing what is involved with restoring a steam locomotive, I will never complain about working on a car. I have included a few pictures of the Morris contingent (as if you haven’t seen enough). Andy Wilson (Bedford)

EdEAYP: I have included the Austin for two reasons 1. It has more badges on the front that my Morris 8! (Ref: A previous Rooke’s Ramble) 2. And that the car carries an AJO registration which indicates that it was registered in Oxford, so nearly a Morris! D-i-D 1 he charities supported were Little Havens Hospice and CHAPS The Men’s Health Charity. TOn 23rd April, together with fellow Morris 1000 owner Gordon Henderson (navigator), we took part in the National Drive-it-Day RHS Hyde Hall to The Royal Gunpowder Mills, Waltham Abbey, using my Morris 1000 Convertible. The event is organised by The Charity Classic Vehicle Club & Chelmer Valley Car Meet. The vehicle entry was limited to 300 and as it was a nice day I think all the entrants were present at the start at RHS Hyde Hall. I had the roof folded on the convertible, the heat generated by the “mouse breath” heater was still welcome. This is a well organised event with cars leaving in small groups at a few minute intervals so as to not cause any congestion en-route. We were give a Tour Instructions in the form of Tulip Rally Notes which are clear, that’s if you pay attention and do not get side tracked as we did. The instructions also 38 remind you to set the trip meter to zero which unusually my Morris 1000 does have. I set it to zero, however it steadfastly refused to leave zero for the journey of 60 miles, only waking up on the way home. All went well until well for 2/3rds of the journey until we encountered groups of classics coming the other way. So too busy classic spotting and with doubts about our direction setting in - we took a wrong turning which in the end seemed to cut about 10 miles out of the scheduled route, thus arriving only a few cars after the first arrivals at the finish. Anyhow we did have a grandstand view of all the cars finishing, too many to describe and list here, though it seemed that all who set out arrived. The Royal Gunpowder Mills is its own right worth a visit, but in truth will for many have limited interest as in the main it errs to the educational, which is no bad thing when you think of the horrors of war, in particular WW1. To sum up – a very enjoyable day well organised and with a chance to natter with many other enthusiasts. Not a Morris 8 in sight, some nice Bullnose Morrises, one Series E, that of Sue and Barry Davis. Then to be invited to dinner by Pam & Dave Lee was a great finish to a very pleasant day. PS: It is clear that the volunteer group works hard – see www.royalgunpowdermill.com and it is best to check their website. “Alongside the River Lee during its 300 year history the site manufactured for example guncotton, nitro-glycerine, cordite and highly explosive tetryl.” A very dangerous place to work. Tony Nathan D-i-D 2 his year was the first time I have had the opportunity to take part Tin a Drive-it-Day event. I chose to take my Morris 8, Guinevere, on a treasure hunt in Essex organised by my friends Tony and Malcolm, from the GCCG (Gay Classic Car Group). I set off from home in Attleborough with a friend, John, from my motorbike club at 8 am having arranged to meet some more friends in their Renault 16 and a Mercedes 190 at the services where the A140 joins the A14. I then lead our little convoy to the start of the event at the Museum of Power, Langford near Maldon. Due to timings for the day I stuck to the A14 and A12 dual carriageways. My thinking was that as it was early there wouldn’t be too much traffic. I had a full tank of “posh petrol” (Shell V Power) so put my foot down. Anyone who knows me will know that I don’t believe in hanging about! I was comfortably cruising at a steady 50 mph with some more power to spare (at one point doing over 60!) Admittedly downhill to get a run up at the next hill. Every fourth Sunday of the month the Museum of Power hosts a Cars & Coffee meet where anyone can turn up show their car and stay for as long as they want. This was the case on Drive-it-Day. So we parked up to look at the cars and have a cuppa. I could quite happily have stayed at the museum and had a look around. I’ve never been there before and it looks fascinating. The Treasure Hunt was a murder mystery entitled, Local Jam Maker Meets Sticky End. Entrants were given a list of suspects, a list of murder weapons and a clue sheet. We then set off. The first stop was Tiptree where we had to park up and wander the streets looking for clues to eliminate suspects and weapons. Clues included dates on houses, names on war memorials and even counting the number of words repeated on various signs. After a cuppa at the Wilkins & Sons jam factory tearoom we set off again. The route took us through some beautiful Essex villages including Tolleshunt D’Arcy and Tollesbury where we had to find more clues. Once we had eliminated suspects and weapons, we were left with one of each (it was all in the style of Cluedo). We then set off for a very enjoyable late lunch at the Bull in Great Totham (I’d recommend it). All but one of the entrants got all the clues right so there was a draw for the winner and runner up. John and I received the runners up prize of some Wilkins & Sons jam. I again led the way home covering 180 miles without missing a beat. John Landin EdEAYP: When do Morris 8s ever miss a beat? – Or am I tempting providence! 39 D-i-D 3 e had rattling good Drive-it-Day. Rendezvous was at Down Hall somewhere Wbeyond Matching Green and then we made our way back to lunch at Margaretting and then to Ingatestone Hall. Sue navigated and managed to combat all that Essex Highways could throw at us - numerous NO ENTRIES, ROAD CLOSED AHEAD, sink holes, Ford Ahead, road unsuitable for motor vehicles and of course the hundreds of seriously nasty potholes... Peter Sanders Peter's Jensen Morris Eight is on the right in this photo at Ingatestone Hall IPSWICH TO FELIXSTOWE, 7th MAY

t must be more than 35 years since I had the pleasure of driving the Ipswich–Felixstowe Irun as my father was with me then and he departed this life in 1983. It has been my intention take the run again as it is always popular and booked solid as soon as the date is fixed. I know several MR members do take part, Ivan and Olive Rooke in their Cowley Saloon, with, I presume, son Duncan, in the two seater Cowley, plus especially Nick Macey from the Netherlands who brought his S2 Tourer. This year I’m grateful to John Landin who took a number of photos (but forgot to take one of his Morris 8). I see from the photos that Ian Westrope was also there with Bullnose and his A40. I have chosen four of John’s (Landin) photos and one from Ivan Rooke features on the cover this month. Tony Nathan

MORRIS 25 PROGRESS REPORT Mick Roberts is progressing fast with the Twenty-five and all in the back garden!

VOLUNTEER NEEDED re you willing to help? Jane and I ventured north Arecently – well to Suffolk and stopped for lunch at the EAST ANGLIAN EVENTS Griffin Inn, High Street, Yoxford, Saxmundum, IP17 3EP. We (Events Sec still needed) thought that this would be an ideal venue for a noggin, being 14 June: North Cambs EA Mid-week Noggin – situated to the north-east of Suffolk and convenient for some Judes Ferry – details at beginning of from Norfolk. Parking is easy, the Griffin Inn, welcoming. EAYPs A noggin does not have to be monthly, perhaps even a 2 July: Maldon Show – Region Spaces one off. Could be mid-week as is the successful Nth Cambs limited to 10 – book now via Mike noggin organised by Dudley Hedge. Call Tony on 01 702 Adams or Tony Nathan 589 643. 40 Letters to the Editor Morris Mail BODGERS' CORNER? Dear Editor he Morris 8, has there ever been a more simple car? My good friend and excellent engineer John Minty and I decided Tto rebuild Tilley's engine some time ago. Let's do it properly, the little lady was definitely tired. So let's put her back to "as new" spec, new crank, pistons, cylinder liners, valves, timing chain, all bits and pieces such as distributor, core plugs, crank pulley, everything. Plus electronic ignition. All went well and no real problems ... Then the little misfire. Or the big misfire. Or no misfire. Mmm. It can only be ignition or fuel. The simple things were all tried. Sometimes our efforts resulted in no misfire. Or a small misfire. Or a big misfire. So now we were having to get serious. Fuel. Replace the tank, blow out the fuel lines backwards, rebuild the fuel pump, change the carburettor. Use 100 octane leaded aviation fuel, definitely not a good idea! All went well and no real problems ... Then the little misfire. Or the big misfire. Or no misfire. So, let's sort out the ignition. A new distributor had been fitted when the engine was rebuilt. So we changed the plugs (often), distributor cap, rotor arm (often) distributor carbon brush, ignition leads, coil, all ignition wiring. We changed electronic ignition for another system, fitted an extra earth strap from to body. We fitted standard ignition with points. We changed the plugs to a different type (often)! All went well and no real problems... Then the little misfire. Or the big misfire. Or no misfire. Then a eureka moment. John put his hand on the distributor cap and she ran smoother. We put Loctite on the baseplate screws and all was well. With no real problems ... Then the little misfire. Or the big misfire. Or no misfire. And finally ... The aluminium top part of the distributor that houses the points, etc., is a force fit onto the distributor drive shaft. A very small amount of play, approx .0015 thou was almost impossible to notice. When the points were set to .0012 thou, on the move with vibration it could change in one revolution of the rotor to anything from 12/24/6 thou or any gap in between, not good. When we removed the distributor from the engine, and punched marks around the bottom of the aluminium casting indicated an effort to correct the same problem previously. This was a new distributor fitted at the time of rebuild and we didn't suspect this could be the problem. John being a very good engineer accurately drilled two holes to hold the aluminium base to the steel shaft and secured with two spring pegs. Job done! We definitely do not have a misfire. Derek Redfern Thanks for this Derek, which you suggest could have featured in a new magazine section called 12330/5 "Bodgers' Corner". Not a bad idea as long as it features bodges members have discovered rather than Hants ones they have perpetrated! I look forward to hearing of shocking things done in the past to our cars.

LONDON TO BRIGHTON MEMORIES Dear Editor e were amazed when reading the latest Morris Register magazine volume 57 number 5 May 2017. On page 46 WLondon to Brighton Memories article there was a letter from Martin Stephens-Hodge who stated he had some photos of the London to Brighton run from 1966. There in the photo was our car, MU7149, looking just like it does today. In your editorial comments you said there was no record at DVLA or even the Morris Register. We are proud members and have been for some years. The car is fully taxed and used continuously. I restored this car about 15 years ago having bought it from a gentleman in Norfolk. It arrived on a trailer with many boxes of parts and an incomplete chassis. A true labour of love. It would be great to get a copy of this photo and any others so we have a history of such a great car. The car was owned by a chap in Reading at the time of the photo according to the log book. Chris and Rachel Moorhouse 09990/4 Cambs Apologies, Chris and Rachel. I must have entered the wrong reg number when I was searching. It is good to know MU 7149 is still much cherished, as the recent photo compares well with the one from 1966. 41 Members: A single private small ad, Morris Mart with/without a photo, is free. Non-members: contact the Editor Car for Sale Car for Sale Car for Sale 1933 Minor Tourer 1933 Morris 10/4 1932 Minor

Good working order with photographic record of full restoration to high specification some years ago. £9750. Early 1932 chrome rad Morris Minor side valve. D Llewellyn Restoration commenced: needs finishing. 01327 264 633 (Northants) Matching numbers car with original engine and Owned 45 years. Condition good. All works. Spare original number plate. I'm forced to sell due engine and some spares. Needs to be seen. Car for Sale to losing garaging space. Only small amount of £15000. 1934 Minor welding to floor/b post required. Mostly rewired, Peter Cowdrey (ex-member) using correct cable. Interior "distressed" and 01621 740 447 (Essex) exterior badly hand painted (not by me!) but this Car for Sale will make a straightforward restoration. If I get 1938 Morris Eight Series 2 dr sliding head saloon. close to my asking price, there's a spare block, Leather seats, 4 speed gearbox. Tidy car. Some head, a few bits n bobs, plus newish 6v battery, history. £8000. spare tyre and a Register manual that can go with Malcolm Jackson 01225 432 971 (Wilts) her. £3350 ovno. Parts for Sale Richard Black 07434 366 838 (Shropshire) Aprox.50+ leadprinting plates mostly Morris Please leave a text if I miss your call and I'll get vehicles and adverts.E10 each or £300 for all. back to you. Morris Minor new mahogony dash panels, axles, Parts for Sale new bonnets, wheels, all types and sizes, tyres, Black, superb condition inside and out, runs well. For Morris 10/4(?) radiators, almost complete body (saloon), Reason for sale, I've had a knee replacement that windscreens, rear metal floor panel, brake drums, went wrong so I can no longer drive it. firewall, wings, wing stays plus many more £9,000 or near offer. bits, all must go, come and fill a van. New Tony Whitehouse 01646 603 900 (Pembrokeshire) petrol caps for most models, Morris 8 wheels, [email protected] tyres, tourer windscreens, doors, chassis, saloon doors,1934 two-seater fibreglass body mould Parts Wanted complete (Minor). 16 inch Oxford wheel (rare). WANTED URGENTLY: Morris 10 Series 2 engine Bonnets, bulkheads,wings most models. block or complete engine suitable for full rebuild 57 years of collecting now all to go, come and if nec. Needed to complete restoration – existing make an offer. block has possible terminal problems! Will travel Gideon Booth to inspect/collect. 01931 714 624 (Cumbria) Ian Dunkley 07528 513 160 (Kent) Parts for Sale [email protected] For 1932 Morris family 8: 2x sets hydraulic brake overhaul rubbers, 4 parts per pack. 2x door Found in my loft. Only clue as to what car they Parts for Sale retaining straps in leather with fixing units on are from is the badge on the front grille so I am Lake and Elliot screw jack Part no S423. Very each end. Photos available. assuming the rest of the doors, seats, dash board much like the Shelley jack No 38265 for Morris 8. Bert Beagley (non-member) and small bumpers are all off the same car. 7¼ inch when down 11 inch raised with handle 07454 583 635 or 01252 782 336 (Hants) David Carty (non-member) 24 inches long and wooden cross piece. £35 plus [email protected] 07801 309 259 or 01908 62 55 74 (Bucks) p&p £12.50 (due to weight). Lake and Elliot twin screw jack 5½ inch lowered 11 inch raised with handle 30 inches long £35 plus p&p £12.50. Morris 8 windscreen, complete assembly with surround and opening slides in very good condition. Morris DAVID MOLYNEUX Morris 8 radiator assembly with the metal surround but core requires replacement. Buyer collects, MORRIS PISTONS offers. 4x con rods, £10. Oil pump, £7.50. Car Spares Timing gears, £4. Dynamo mounting bracket, for all models £5. Wiper motor, £25. Oil filler pipe and cap, New and used £7.50. 1x only opening windscreen chrome slide Morris 8 and Series E complete with 2x lock nuts, £15. 1x only chrome spares available screen slide, £4 both in very good condition. Fan used parts supplied blade, £4. 2x pear shape shock absorbers with links, £20.each. Chrome dash light cover, £4. AA Enquiries welcome Annual membership books and some keys and Job lots of M8 and E badges dating from 1950s to date, ring for more parts bought Happy to assist information. All parts plus postage. Alan Filby 07976 353 953 (Beds) M8 and E abandoned Parts for Sale For more information, For Morris Eight: A few mechanical and body projects/complete cars contact spares from a 1935 and also 1938 car. I still have bought for breaking a body chassis from the 38. Two radiators, new graham440@ loom, glass from two cars, front wings and much more. One is spoken for but cylinder 01229 584 972 or btinternet.com heads and another block. Con rods, crankshaft, or etc. Gearboxes, one from an E. All other stuff 07715 059 280 or from the earlier cars. [email protected] 07506 309 281 Dennis Mays (non-member) 01579 347 806 (Cornwall) [email protected] Acceptance of advertisements in Morris Monthly does not imply recommendation of advertisers or their products or services by the Morris 42 Register. When purchasing cars or spare parts from private sellers, purchasers must satisfy themselves as to the condition and value. Car for Sale Car for Sale Car for Sale 1933 Morris Major saloon, GV 1953 1938 Morris 8 Series 2 two-door saloon 1934 Morris 10/6

Purchased in barn find condition, appears all Curren townership 30 years (only two previous complete but not running (was running when laid owners). In very nice condition throughout, up by previous owner). Only 3 owners from new the interior is perfect, everything on this car is according to documents. Original reg number and working. Starts always first time, runs beautifully, original engine, chassis, buff log book and current Due to bereavement, dismantled for restoration. and drives well. It has been maintained and V5C. Requires full rebuild and new running boards Reg. KV 7602 some work already completed. In serviced regularly. The chrome is extremely good. but all 4 wings and other panels are very sound same family for over 50 years. Sensible offers Always kept in a heated garage. Paintwork has despite surface rust from storage.Wings ends at please. some micro blistering, but this does not detract running boards need minor welding to remake Paul Hudson 01984 634 038 (Somerset) from its look. It has its original registration joints to running boards. Interior well preserved [email protected] number, which is transferable, and old style buff and seats and trim will all clean up well. The Parts for Sale log book. Very reluctant sale. £15000 non-sliding fabric roof cover and head lining For ME: easiclean wheels 4 x 6 stud, £20. David Patman 01326 250 472 (Cornwall) need renewing. Chassis and running gear all look Easiclean wheels 2 x 3 stud, £10. Steering column [email protected] sound. Set of new hubcaps included in sale. with box, £10. Parts for Sale Needs trailering away. Reluctant sale as change For M10 1934: chrome windscreen surround Breaking 1934 Minor 4 door Family Eight. Most in circumstances prevents time to do it. Really (with glass), £100. Fan belt pulley, £5. Lucas body parts available including refurbished doors needs viewing to appreciate completeness and new alto horn, £5. Steering column base casting and front section with A posts (fits 2 door saloon overall solidity. £1500. onto chassis, £5. Clutch and brake pedals, £5. too) windscreen, interior wood trims etc.lwb Steve Dudley Aluminium brake shoes(3), £10. Starting handle, Chassis with V5c Ring for availability/prices. Also 07870 584 181 (Grtr Manchester) £20. Bonnet support rods, £5. Headlight & horn Gideon Booth fibreglass 1934 minor 2 seater body

What’s it Worth? (See p4): asking price is £9950 43 Please submit pictures Foto Finish of interest to the Editor DRIVE-IT-DAY Despite a specific plea last month asking individual members to share their Drive-it-Day experiences, offerings were a bit thin on the ground. Apart from the two individual member reports featured in East Anglia region pages, only three photos were received, for which much thanks.

Geoff Basketter writes: "We gave the 10/6 a run out to a local pub for a Sunday lunch. The only other classics seen were an Austin 7 Box saloon and a classic VW Campervan."

Irene Constable writes: "Our Morris 8 (FVT 778) at Plas Newydd in Llangollen. The Ladies of Llangollen's unusual house is set in beautiful natural gardens with follies and a river. They would welcome car clubs and have a really nice tea room which serves light lunches. Well worth a visit."

Paul Leach writes: "I thought I would email you a photo I took of my parents earlier today. Being Drive-It-Day my dad was keen to get CDL out for a spin. The photo is of my parents, Frank and Diana Leach. We are fortunate to be in rural Devon with miles of quiet, scenic roads on our doorstep. CDL is actually a 1938 Morris 8 two seater, but is temporarily in disguise as a Series 1 while our 1936 two seater is undergoing a long term restoration. We have owned the car for over twenty years and the restoration was completed in 2003, shortly after dad’s retirement. I can only take credit for doing all the paintwork (cellulose), whilst dad has done everything else. My two year old daughter didn’t quite know what to make of being driven up the farm lane – I’m not sure she has even really properly noticed ‘grandad’s funny blue car’ until today! In terms of milestones, mum did have one in January, but I couldn’t possibly give away the age!"