Volume 57 ORRIS Number 7 July MONTHLONTHLYY 2017

MAGAZINE OF THE MORRIS REGISTER The Club for Morris vehicles designed before 1940 www.morrisregister.co.uk Volume 57 ORRIS Number 7 July ONTHLY 2017 MAGAZINEM OF THE MORRIS REGISTER

CONTENTS CHAIRMAN John Ford writes: 2 Chairman s I reflect on last month, I can’t help but think about the Apoor people involved in the appalling terrorist attacks 3 Editor in Manchester and London, this, coupled with the raging 4 Secretary's Spot inferno at the Tower block in Kensington, London, which cost so many lives, our thoughts and condolences must go Bulletin Board out to these poor people in these dreadful events. I am sure as 5 Thoresby Thoughts a nation we can overcome and learn from these tragedies. June was certainly a busy month club-wise, with the Beamish weekend 6 Registrar's Ramblings again an outstanding success (see report elsewhere in the mag) and the What's it Worth? Bristol Classic Car Show where the club put on another attractive display. 7 Registration Revivals I am sure there were very many other rallies involving our Morrises, and Warm Welcome I am sure our editor would like you to let him know with a report. Our Thoresby Park rally in August is fast approaching, and with bookings 8/9 Forum Files flowing in, it promises to be another great event. This year I shall be 10-15 Exactly Eighty presenting the resurrected honorary awards to long serving members or spouses who have made a major contribution to the well being 16-18 Not the Morris Eight and running of the club. These are as follows: Frank Ashley, Corinne 19 Member's Morris (Eight) Beaumont (widow of the late Bob Beaumont), Ivan Rooke, Ken Martin, Rose and Arthur Peeling, Gideon Booth, Ray Frampton (widower of 20/21 Pictures from the Past Audrey Frampton), and Gloria Harris (widow of Dave Harris). I am 22/23 Minors and the M8TC extremely proud to be able to present these awards to these most deserving members. 24-44 Regional Round Up Our club shop is now in the capable hands of Barbara Farmer, I know 45-47 West Region Break (Part 1) she plans to introduce several new lines to tempt members. She will be displaying again this year at Thoresby and from the online shop. My 48 Woman's World thanks go out to Julian Jankowski who looked after proceedings for 48-50 Morris Mail several successful years. He will still be doing the embroidery and logo work for the club. 50/51 Morris Mart I hope you are all enjoying this spell of hot weather, if you have tourer 52 Foto Finish I am very envious, although when the rain comes... Happy motoring, whatever vehicle you are in.

Cover picture: Chris Lambert's 1930 Minor Semi-Sports on Mellis Common, Suffolk, on a beautiful late spring evening. [Photo: Chris Lambert] 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 engine, 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: EDITOR Rob Symonds writes: Rob Symonds, 49 Gorsy Road, ell, I reckon it pays to have a good moan every now Quinton, Birmingham B32 2SJ Wand then! Re-reading my editorial from last month, I [email protected] realise I was decidedly not in the best of spirits, but, guess  0121 682 0640 what, against all odds, it produced a very positive response from members. It would be stretching it a bit to say I have DEADLINE been overwhelmed, but I can certainly say that I have not 14th of the month prior to publication have so many items submitted or offers for future items in a single month MAGAZINE NON-ARRIVAL: since I took on the editorship. So, you can expect me to have a moan on Please contact the Membership Secretary a regular basis from now on if it produces such results. (I can somehow Contact details above hear the Chairman commenting that I already do this, anyway!) As it turns out, not much of the most recent stuff has made it into this BACK ISSUES: may be purchased month's edition as there is still a little bit in the pipeline, but you will no from the Club Shop doubt notice that we have a record fifty-two pages this month, so well done to all the regional editors and other members who feature. I cannot WEBSITE: www.morrisregister.co.uk Contact: Mike Rose, Webmaster promise to match this size every month, as I do have a life separate to [email protected] the Morris Register. (At least I did have the last time I checked). As is commented by others this month, Thoresby is almost upon us but SMALL ADS: Post/email to: don't allow your preparations for that to interfere with your other Morris The Editor (see above) activities and so do get out there in the sunshine and enjoy what will Free for members (max 1 car per month) undoubtedly be a brief summer. Don't forget, too, to drop me a line Non-members: please contact for charges. or an email, with a picture or two, to remind other members of the pleasures to be had in a Morris. Since Thoresby is so early in August, it is COMPLAINTS: Any complaints against any officer of the club, or about likely that not everyone (anyone?) will have the August edition of Morris the way the club is being administered Monthly before the rally, so could I make the usual plea now for reports should be referred to the Secretary covering all the activities, and especially those on the Saturday, when I am not there. I look forward to meeting members on the Sunday. 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 SECRETARY Secretary’s Spot Jim Riglar

must say that it is refreshing to know of younger members joining the club and it gladdened my heart to pick up the Ifollowing article submitted in the spring as a web news item. Currently the web news section of our website is off-line, with a lack of resource to manage, edit, upload new items and remove older time expired items. Hopefully we can find a volunteer to take on and manage the web news in future. "As a newly-licensed 17 year old driver, I never expected to buy a classic, let alone vintage car as my first. However, after a while looking through classifieds of modern cars, I could not find a single one that appealed. Instead I turned my attention to eBay and began looking down the classic car route. I hoped this would help indulge my passion for engineering, and antique machinery. After another long period of trawling, I stumbled upon a very nice looking 1935 Morris 10/4 (see photo). As well as having the vintage car style I liked, I soon learned that it was surprisingly advanced, with full hydraulic brakes and some synchro gears. This, teamed with the reasonable price and limited work needed, led me to buying the car in early June 2016. Since then, I have taken it to several shows where it has gained much interest and a magazine article. Some people I have met have shown surprise and asked why I would want a vintage car, and I regularly get friendly flashes and waves when I’m driving it about. I hope to travel many more miles with it. Will Edwards So, Will, I wish you many happy years of tinkering with and driving your Morris

Bulletin Board

Annual General Meeting The general cut and thrust of club business never stops and already initial preparations for the Annual General Meeting (AGM), which will be held on Saturday 7th October at the Ullesthorpe Court Hotel & Golf Club, Frolesworth Rd, Ullesthorpe, Lutterworth LE17 5BZ are in hand. The AGM offers you an opportunity to influence and make an impact on the operation of the club. I will issue a reminder next month, seeking any resolutions and/or officer/committee nominations but will advise that these should be sent to me by 23rd August. There is no particular format for resolutions or nominations, simply write or email, showing the proposer and a seconder. If nominating any member for a post, you must have the agreement of that person to be nominated. Under our rules, six posts are subject to election at the AGM, they are Chairman, Secretary, Treasurer, Editor, Membership Secretary and Webmaster. National Committee proceedings The minutes of and arising actions from the 8th April National Committee are available on our website. Accounts A 12 page report of our approved accounts for the year ending 31 January 2017, produced by our Treasurer Steve Gant with support from our accountants, Plummer Parsons, is available on our website. Hard copies will be available at the AGM, but are also available on request. If you require a copy and cannot access one from our website, contact the Secretary for a copy. National/MVA Rally If you have not yet submitted your Thoresby application form, then may I remind you that you have until the 15th of this month to get your application and entry fee to Ben Gadsby, our National Rally organiser. Entry forms were issued with the April issue of Morris Monthly and an on-line booking facility is also available on our website. New North and West Devon Noggin This from Jim Callachan (see also Westwords): "After preliminary discussion with Jim Riglar, a meeting was held at the Cyder Presse Inn attended by me, Ian Rament (secretary) and John Garrod (PR & IT official). From this inaugural meeting, we have decided that we will be holding our noggins at this establishment for the foreseeable future on the 2nd Thursday of each month at 11am. In the photo, from left to right, are Jim Callachan - 1927 Morris Oxford tourer, John Garrod - 1933 Morris 10/4 pramhood, and Ian Rament - 1948 Morris 8 series E Saloon. We hope that through the publicity in the MR magazine we can expand our attendance. Anyone interested in joining us can contact me 07873 132 344 or [email protected]. Epsom Downs Meet This new get-together takes place on the third Sunday of each month from 10 am, in the car park in front of the Beefeater (postcode KT18 5NY), facing the race course, organised by Simon Hadley (next meeting 16th July). Editor's note: It would be good to see a proper report appearing in the magazine for those who do not have internet access, so I would be grateful if one of the regulars could take on this task. 4 NATIONAL RALLY ORGANISER Thoresby Thoughts Ben Gadsby here are only a few days to go before the deadline for applications t o Tto be received for entry into this year’s National Rally programme. Applications received after this date will still be more than welcome and will be eligible to be judged but will not appear in the booklet. Entry forms are still available to download on the website or contact me at [email protected] and I will email a copy to you. There is also space for more traders, application forms are available through the same channels. A large number of applications have already been received and entry forms are still coming in on a daily basis, including those from other MVA clubs. Please do not worry if you do not get your entry details by return, I work abroad a lot and will process them when I am back in the UK. A reminder to those entrants who have chosen to take part in the Sunday Concours d’Elegance that you only judge those vehicles in the same class as yourselves and not in any other class. Confusion has arisen in the past with members awarding places to cars outside their own class resulting in wasted votes. Classes are keenly contested and every point counts. The Bob Beaumont Trophy is an open award for every vehicle on the parade field and everyone who attends on the Sunday will get to vote in this. REMINDER TO LAST YEAR’S PRIZEWINNERS: Please arrange to return your trophy to me either before the event by post or at the event itself.. Trophies should be engraved with your name and in a clean condition ready for presentation. Thank you. The last few details of the weekend are now falling into place with BogOake now confirmed to play on Friday evening and Mansfield and District Model Flying Club will be putting on static and hopefully flying displays over the weekend. We are making every effort to make sure this weekend is as enjoyable as it possibly can be (I take no responsibility for the weather as it’s one of the few parts I have no control over), but it will be nothing without you so please return your entries as soon as possible. I look forward to meeting as many of you as possible over the course of the weekend. Happy Morris motoring. Ben Gadsby National Rally Organiser, 01623 835 771, [email protected]

5 from Registrar’s Ramblings VEHICLE REGISTRAR Mike Brears have a confession to make, I’d much rather be out in the Morris than sitting a desk working on the computer, particularly Ias I’ve just managed to get the Ten back on the road after more than 12 months sorting out various core plug and clutch issues. But as they say that’s another story. The reason for all the computer work is that following the start of a new membership year, one of the tasks is to check through the Register of Vehicles on the website and make sure that only details of current members are included and with something like 4,000 lines of data this does take a while. Nevertheless, it’s done and a revised register of vehicles is now available for members to use. I will not claim it’s totally accurate as I can only go on the information given by you, the membership. In some cases, I can fill in some of the missing detail such as a prefix on a chassis number but in a lot of instances this is not the case. To illustrate the point, a gentleman joined the club earlier this year and he described his car as a 1924 Bullnose Tourer. However, he omitted to say whether it is an Oxford or a Cowley and unfortunately the chassis number given is not consistent with either sets of numbers for 1924. I think you can see it’s important to get the numbers right, if anybody is in doubt I’m only an email away. Please check your entry on the “Register of Vehicles” and let me know if any alterations need to be made. If you haven’t found it yet log on to the members' area of the website and look under “National Information” – Registers/Documents”. This link opens a pdf file with all the information currently on the database regarding Morris vehicles from 1913 to around 1952. You can email me at [email protected]. If you need to contact me other than by email my details are in the Directory of Club Officials in the same area as the members and vehicle registers. Please also do not forget to include your membership number in your message. Happy Morrising. Mike Brears [email protected] 1937 Eight What’s it Worth? 2 seater

ffered on eBay. Morris Eight Series O2 two seater (wrongly described as a tourer). The vendor states: "Relisted due to a complete time waster, I have for sale a 1937 Morris (Bluey), this car has been in the same family since 1946 many original features. Brown registration book. The hood is in good condition, it does run and drive but it will need new 6v battery. Only reason for selling is due to other work commitments. This is a great project for someone and would be fully roadworthy in no time." Answer on Page 51

6 MR DVLA OFFICER Registration Revivals Tom Bourne

any members will have their own firm views on the issue of registration numbers being taken off historic vehicles, Mto be applied as “cherished” numbers on modern vehicles. However, we have had a couple of examples recently where “cherished” numbers have in the past been transferred onto an old Morris and subsequently removed to be replaced with an “age related” number. If your car has been given an age-related number in the past, and you have the right evidence as required by DVLA, you might be able to get the original number restored to the car. WX 8485, MT 123, KFG 91A, WX 8485, a 1931 Morris Minor saloon, owner Philip Butland hilip Butland bought this lovely 1931 Morris Minor saloon in May last year, Pto complement his Minor CMS Sports. He explains: “we were hoping that a car with a roof would extend our vintage driving season as Sheila and the CMS Minor don't really get on in the colder weather. The car had been restored in the mid 1990s and then, apart from a couple of outings to a local show, been kept in the owner’s mother’s garage. “It became obvious that most of the restoration had been to the bodywork, which is in quite good condition, the mechanical side of things however have needed much attention but it is hoped to have it on the road by August. Naturally we didn’t like the age related number KFG 91A, but that didn’t put us off buying the car.” The car was already registered with the DVLA and had the V5C registration document under the age-related number KFG 91A. The V5C indicated that the car had been registered on 1st July 1983 as a “Cherished Transfer Vehicle”, previously registered as MT 123. However, MT 123 was not the original number for the car; MT 123 had been originally issued by Middlesex County Council in September 1928, two years before the Morris was made. The previous history of the car is revealed in the Club archive records, which confirm that the original registration number was WX 8485, a number issued by the West Riding of Yorkshire County Council in August 1931. The cherished number MT 123 had been transferred onto the Morris, probably sometime in the late 1960s, and then transferred off again in 1983 prior to the sale of the car. At that time, there was no mechanism for the then-new DVLA to revert from a cherished number to the original. However, the V765 scheme, introduced in 1990, now allows for a vehicle to revert from an age-related number to the original number, if it is available. The only evidence of the original number was that in the Club archives, and this was acceptable to the DVLA. Phil was delighted to receive the new V5C a couple of weeks later, and was able to get new plates made for WX 8485. He said “thanks to the Club’s V765 Scheme and the evidence in the club archives, my little car has been re-united with its correct number after a gap of almost 50 years”. This number is, of Now you see it, now you don’t! The course, non-transferable, so there will be no more changes of number for this previous age-related number has been well-travelled Morris Minor! consigned to the history book. New and returning members Warm Welcome est assured, there are several new members this month, but unfortunately, Membership Secretary, Jane Nathan, is Rindisposed and unable to generate a list. Normal service will be resumed in the August edition.

7 May on the Forum Forum Files Bob Williams

thought we would start this month's contributions with by now.” Clayton: “I am still looking but can’t find one Isome sunshine which can be found in Jerry’s post: A in my price range or they are just too far gone for me!” car show in Northern California, USA: “We just had Back to Grumpyjohn: “Yes I know Clayton. Mine was in our club car show this last weekend. 283 British Cars. a similar state to this one and took 4 years hard graft and No Morris 8s, 10s, but about 11 Morris Minors. Pictures looking for missing parts to restore it!” attached. There were about 45 different types displayed at the show. Not many Pre-war cars reached the USA. But we John posted Paint code: “I was looking through the photo do have a lot of MGs, Triumphs, Jaguars, Healeys. Bonus gallery on the Morris site to establish a good colour paint points if you can spot for my 1933 Cowley. my mini (red with white The photo on page 42 is top). the red/burgundy colour Bob replied: “Blue I am looking for. Does skies! It's sunny here anybody have a paint today, but we only enjoy code/ral number for that occasionally. Your mini, colour?” centre of photos? (Or Dave replied with a list should I say center?)" of possible colour codes Jerry advised: “Hit 95 at which I have included the show. A little warmer here as it may prove than I would like! Lucky useful to members that for us, our voting was do not view the Forum. finished, we handed out “These are modern the 130 trophies and colour codes that closely were done prior to 3 match original Morris pm so we missed some pre-war colours: of the heat. Amazingly, California sunshine Morris Light Brown = cars drove from 3-6 BLMC Fuscious Brown, hours away for the show. Berger ref 3527, ICI 7148, PJP 6170×4530. Morris Dark brown = BLMC Fawn Brown, Berger 3549, ICI Some register members keep an eye on what comes up for 4860, PJP 6170×4620. sale on eBay and helpfully alert others by posting on the Morris Dark Blue = Chrysler Biarritz Blue, Berger 0636, ICI Forum as did Little932 in post: Early Morris 10 1" SU 2831, PJP 6170×1510. Carb for sale. “If anyone needs one I have just noticed a Morris Green = Fiat Country Green, Berger 4312, ICI 6860, sound looking early 1 inch SU carb on eBay. It has body PJP 170z2530. number of 617T and appears to be the same as on my 1933 Morris Red = Austin Damask Red, Berger 1244, ICI 4808, Morris 10. It is advertised as being suitable for an Austin 7, PJP 6170×5110 or Peugot Amaranth Red, Berger 3957, ICI because of the horizontal mounting flange. The eBay item 7806, PJP 6177w5110. number is 201928478325.” Morris Dash Colour (Dark Purple not Black) = Fiat Richard also posted an alert: Lucas trafficator SF34N Amaranth, Berger 3597, ICI 7540, PJP 6170y5490” on eBay. John: “Thanks Dave for the information you sent I now Simon responded advising he had successfully bid and have something to work with.” was waiting delivery. He also commented that he needed the enclosing steel box in which it fitted. Further posts John: had another query and posted Headlights: “Can followed offering boxes. He commented “Wow, this forum anybody who owns a 1933 Cowley tell me the correct set and its members are great and generous.” up for the headlights I have one headlight with a chrome Grumpyjohn also reflector that is fitted to advised of another the near side The other eBay sale: Yet another light which has the unrestored Series E dipper solenoid has a tourer. “Up on eBay brass reflector and fitted at the moment. They to the offside. It looks keep appearing and like the brass one has it makes me wonder never been chromed is just how many are this correct?” left undiscovered!” Richard advised: Charlie: “Looked at this “Reflectors should never a few weeks ago, very be chromed! They are good project but no silver plated, the same room at the inn here.” material that’s used on Chris: “Surely they glass to make mirrors. must be running out of Chrome does not have us “oldies” to buy them Trafficator with steel mounting box the reflective properties 8 of silver, and will give harm, so I’d do that and headlamps a dull grey see how it performs. appearance.” If it’s a 12v unit it will Brian responded: “You function sluggishly, if can also have them at all. On the other plated with rhodium hand, applying 12v to which lasts longer then a 6v unit would make silver but it is expensive. it run very fast. Being It is what jewellers use.” an intermittent device Richard queried: it would regulate itself “Silvering is expensive to a certain extent, enough! But would but would probably your average plating overheat if used for shop have facilities for more than a few rhodium?” minutes.” Back to Brian: “Maybe Bob: “Here goes: not but your local 6v brown cap, 12v jeweller may!” black (but could have John again: “Thanks been swapped or be for your replies. I need missing). 6v green to look into getting the Yet another unrestored Series E tourer leads inside, 12v red headlamp silvered. (but they can discolour Now that you have told me about the finish, looking at with age). 6v brass disc inside where spring rests marked the good reflector it does look more silver than chrome PT1686, 12v PT1687. 6v coil resistance 2 ohms approx. and is in good condition. The odd thing is there is no trace 12v 4 ohms. This is courtesy of MG T document I have.” of silvering on the other one only clean brass. Which side Prometheus: “I’d suggest the coil resistance Bob has kindly should the dipper reflector be fitted?” supplied would be your key indicator.” Brian: “If the pump Peter suggested a supplier: “This chap has had good is in good working order just test it on a 6 volt battery and reports, Keith Ardley Reflector Re-silvering Service, 14 see how it runs as above. If it is OK, not a problem. If not try Bridge Road, Mepal, Ely, Cambs, CB6 2AR.” Phone and it on a 12 volt battery as a short burst of 12v won’t harm it.” email address are on the post. Murray once more: “Had an hour spare today so checked Andy: “I used Keith and he did a great job on my ’27 out the pump as per Bob's notes, all points show it to be a Cowley. He even modified my side lamp bulb holders to take 12v, I purchased this from the well-known auction site “Flea dual filament led bulbs to give white side lamps but flash Bite” or something. It was sold as a 6v, overhauled ready amber as indicators. to go! Mmmmm. However (unless A few weeks ago I this has changed) checked the flow his email address is and got exactly half kieth@ardley8142. the rate which got fsnet.co.uk (note the me thinking and it spelling). You may did seem to draw find that the ‘keith’ the current when one doesn’t work.” working. New parts Further posts on order to rebuild followed relating the pump which to single dipping/ came on the car extinguishing originally which ties headlights which are in correctly with not legal and that the 6v data. Thanks this was one of the to all for settling few legislations that this.” He then required owners Murray's petrol pump innards posted a photo of to retrospectively what he found in the modify vehicles! pump and added “The mass of red hermetite was sure to cause problems sooner or later!” Murray posted SU pump 6 or 12 volt?: “I have a pump in bits and would like to know if it’s a 6 or 12v. I cannot If you spot a Morris item on eBay why not log and tell see any markings that indicate either way, any ideas?” everyone! Bob Williams Dave: “what colour is the cap?” Richard: “I’ve seen at ([email protected]) least one Bakelite cap with '6v' moulded in, but of course EDITOR’S NOTE: that doesn’t mean it can’t be transferred to a 12v pump.” Any member intending to act upon advice given in the Murray again: “It had a 6 volt cap but it was new on an Forum or to use any products or services mentioned, old pump and I started thinking what if it was a 12v coil.” is strongly recommended to read the Morris Register Back to Richard: “Applying 6v to a 12v coil won’t do any disclaimer at the top of page 3 of Morris Monthly. 9 Items of interest Exactly Eighty from The Morris Owner magazine, July 1937 USE YOUR HYDRAULIC JACKS THERE is a tendency to regard the jacks on current models as a mere adjunct to wheel changing. In effect they simplify chassis lubrication, washing and other tasks by C.R. LUCATO

NE must regard it as unfortunate that the bestowal of Othe blessing of built-in hydraulic jacks could not have been ante-dated to the days when tyres lasted 2000 or 3000 miles, during which period one expected to have two or three punctures a wheel; what a godsend indeed they would have been! Because they are so seldom called into service many new owners lack the knowledge concerning their operation: although the whole process is so (Above), The jack simple that a solution may be obtained in operation, empirically, it may be prudent to begin and (below) the by explaining how the jacks should be line showing worked. the level above The Pump Unit which the If the carpet under the passenger's reservoir should feet is lifted there will be found a small never be filled metal hinged cover, roughly triangular in formation, which can be raised, disclosing the pump and operation mechanism. According to whether we want the front, the rear, or all the jacks in operation at once, we move the pointer to "F", "R", or three-quarters of an inch from the top of the tank. On no "All", and screw down the release valve. We take the jack account should the fluid ever be above this line, otherwise handle from the dash and push it over the stub lever at there is insufficient room for expansion with increases the side of the pump; we now merely have to move it gently in temperature, and in hot weather the fluid may exude backwards and forwards to dispatch the jacks on their through the air hole in the top of the container. downward course. When Topping-up Before we begin to move the lever we must be perfectly sure One cannot emphasise too strongly that only Jackall that the release valve is screwed down to its full extent. fluid should be used for topping up. This fluid has been This does not mean that we should exert all our force upon the subject of considerable investigation by the makers' it; we should just try it with our finger to make sure that it chemists, and is devoid of any constituent injurious to the is not capable of any further movement clockwise. As soon rubber gland, and at the same time adequately lubricates as the jacks touch the ground it will be noted that there is the moving surfaces. Quite apart from the circumstance a little more resistance to our efforts; a few more strokes that the use of a substitute might put the system out of will raise the car clear of the ground until the wheels spin business through causing the rubber components to freely. perish, it will also invalidate the makers' guarantee. To release the jacks the handle is taken away, and the We cannot, unfortunately, choose the position where we release valve opened very slowly, when the car will sink have our punctures, but as far as it is within our power we to the ground again. We must then continue to open the ought to select a hard road free from sand. release valve at least two or three turns. Cases have been known where punctures have occurred, Important for instance, on a road running close to the seashore, and When the tyres are in contact with the ground the indicator the jack has actually been lowered into a layer of sand and pointer must be turned to the "All" position — this is very stone chippings. This adheres to the top of the jacks and important — and we must see that we do not close the when they are retracted is pressed up against the rubber release valve in the process. gland, to its detriment. If we are so unlucky as to have a From time to time the fluid level of the supply tank on the puncture in a sandy or gritty location, having regard to the dash should be inspected, and if necessary — and only if amount of trouble we have been saved by our hydraulic necessary — it should be topped up. The correct level when jacks, it might not be too much to ask to attach a duster all the four jacks are retracted is shown by a dotted line to the end of the jack handle and flick the jacks free of any 10 grit on their upward passage. and be called to the 'phone. Incidentally, far too little use is The hand in this illustration is Personally, I would keep a caller made of the jacks. Although we turning the release valve to from Australia waiting until I believe that most conscientious retract the front jacks had lowered my jacks. owners jack up the front wheels Repairs when they oil the steering pins Incidentally, if any such — as they have so often been told misfortune should come to to do in our columns — it is not pass, the entire unit is very always realised that the whole easily detached by undoing two process of chassis lubrication nuts and, of course, detaching is simplified if all four jacks are the pipe leads from the top brought into use beforehand; of it. Provided the point of the the steering connections and indicator is immediately turned inner spring nipples are much to the opposite pair, there will more accessible with the car be relatively small loss of fluid. clear of the ground. Needless to say, this amount The same applies to washing must be replaced by topping up the car; with the car on the the container when the damaged jacks it is a simple task to hose jacks have been received the wheels clean — one might back from Messrs. S. Smith & almost be prepared to say that Sons (Motor Accessories) Ltd., it is a matter of impossibility Cricldewood Works, N.W.2, to to clean a stationary wheel whom they should be sent for properly, inside and out. repair. At the risk of being accused of offering a glimpse of To those whose garages or whose homes are situated on the obvious, experience justifies pointing out that it is a slope it might be prudent to mention that one should imprudent to leave a car in a public garage with only the always make sure that the hand brake is on before letting front jacks raised, even for a brief period of time. If any down the jacks. Instances have been known where, when unobservant and careless mechanic tries to move the car the car is jacked up on its four jacks for wheel washing, it is quite possible that the jacks may be damaged; indeed, and the brake has been taken off to permit the wheel to if he starts the engine and endeavours to back, they may spin, the car has begun to run downhill when the release be torn off. valve has been opened. It is conceivable that circumstances It would not be unusual for a car owner in a public garage might arise to prevent the hasty application of the hand to raise the front wheels to attend to the steering nipples, brake, with unpleasant consequences. £50 BUYS A GOOD MORRIS CAR

MANY who contemplate embarking upon their motoring career with a second-hand car at a relatively low price are uncertain of the value obtainable. In this article it is shown, with actual examples on offer at the showrooms of prominent Morris Distributors, that, provided a Morris car is chosen, a sound, presentable, serviceable vehicle can be bought.

The question of reliability having been settled to my own satisfaction, I was anxious to discover exactly what could be obtained for an outlay not exceeding The 1933 Oxford offered by Stewart & Ardern Ltd of £50. This is not too high a figure to spend on one's Acton first car, and for this outlay, I thought, there should be HERE is no pig-in-a-poke danger to-day about a wide selection of good used cars. But, frankly, I was Tbuying a second-hand car — provided the deal not prepared for the extent of the value obtainable. is made with a reliable motor trader. This is the At first I visited Stewart & Ardern Ltd., and was allowed conclusion I have arrived at after calling without to choose a car at random. Here I was surprised to previous arrangement on a number of well-known learn that there were few of the Morris Minor type Morris Distributors throughout the country. available. There is everywhere a big demand for this Serviced Before Sale economical light car, but the demand was larger than On this point I never had any real doubt, for the the supply in London, at the time of my call at any used car industry to-day is organised and run on a rate. The accompanying photograph shows a 1933 business footing, and it is generally realised that a Oxford saloon at that time in stock and on offer at used car offered for sale by a reliable dealer has been £50. It is a fair example of a type always available thoroughly tested and put into good running order, at about the same price. It was in exceedingly good for, obviously, the seller wants his customer to come condition both as to inside and outside finish, and the back one day for another car. engine started at the first touch of the starter. With 11 careful usage this car is capable of several more years of useful service. Mr. P. G. Page, of 38 Crouch Street, Colchester, had It should be interposed here that in the interval this excellent 1934 Minor two-seater for disposal, between writing this article and the time it is published while the 1933 Major (left) was an attractive the actual cars illustrated may already have been proposition offered by A. & D. Fraser Ltd., of sold. Nevertheless, they were picked at random and Glasgow, at £40. thus are fully representative of cars always available. In Glasgow Mr. P. G. Page, of Colchester, showed me a different Going farther north I came across a 1933 Major sliding type of car. It is a Minor two-seater which, in the three head saloon, offered by A. & D. Fraser Ltd., of Glasgow. years it has been on the road, has done only 20,000 This, too, is an attractive car, finished in brown with miles in the hands of one owner. It is in excellent brown hide upholstery. The equipment includes condition in every respect, has recently had wings, traffic direction indicators, Triplex glass throughout wheels and undercarriage repainted, and it is obvious and dipping headlamps. All the tyres are good, while I that this car has been an object of pride to its owner. was assured that the car had been well serviced, and Down South it was obviously in really sound mechanical condition. The Minor coachbuilt saloon first registered in April, Its price was £40. 1933, was among the stock on show by Wadham I purposely made my selection from stocks as Bros., of Waterlooville. It is a coachbuilt four-seater widespread as possible to show The MORRIS Owner saloon, in very fair condition throughout. Here, again, readers that £50 will buy a good used car equally is a car which has been well cared for. It seemed to easily in any part of the country. I would like to finish me, in looking through the stocks of used cars on on this note: that all of the cars I saw, of which the sale, that the majority of owners, knowing that one foregoing are but a small selection, had been through day they would want to realise on their cars, were at the workshops of the various Distributors and put pains to keep them in good condition. into good running condition. They could be bought The Colmore Depot of Birmingham had a rather wider with the fullest confidence that they represented the selection of cars at about £50 each. I found a difficulty best value that money could buy. in deciding between a 1933 Oxford saloon, 1933 The policy of thoroughness in manufacture which Cowley saloon, 1933 Ten saloon and a 1933 Minor exists to-day in the Morris factories has been the saloon. All were under £50, but I think it would be of guiding principle throughout the years in which Morris more interest for the purposes of the present article cars have been produced. It has been responsible to refer to the Ten saloon. This is an exceptionally for the sustained record demand for Morris cars smart car, finished in blue. It has Triplex glass for many years past, and has built up a reputation throughout, is complete with all standard equipment, for good service which is now world wide. The very having bumpers, trafficators, radiator stoneguard and types of car dealt with in this article, embodying the luggage carrier. virtues of outstanding reliability, economical running, This is a good family car in fine condition as to and generous seating capacity for their dimensions, upholstery and cellulose, and in very good running are to a great extent responsible for the present-day order. popularity of Morris cars. R.A.B. Wadham Bros., of Waterlooville, had this well-cared- for Morris Minor coachbuilt saloon

This 1933 Ten saloon, in really fine condition, was one of a selection shown by the Colmore Depot, of Birmingham 12 and again engage the On . . . grip on the rim. By moving the levers an FITTING TYRES inch or so you will Simple steps in the process of tyre manipulation that will ensure easier and ensure tubes and covers a fair chance of long life and good quicker fitting. Inserting the Tube service By G. FLOOD Assuming that one bead has now been LTHOUGH the tyre makers do their best to give the fitted over the rim, take motorist a trouble-free tyre, faults sometimes arise A the tube and make after the tyre has left the Works which lead to a short life sure the valve base for the tyre and many anxious and troublesome moments nut is tight; dust with for the motorist. chalk. Partially inflate, These faults are generally the cause of premature tyre putting in as much air When fitting the second bead failure, and can usually be primarily attributed to incorrect as will leave the tube of the cover work from the fitting of covers and tubes, and neglect of elementary sagging or wrinkled. Fit side opposite the valve essentials such as the tightening down of valve base nuts. the tube into the cover Although the tightening down of a base nut may seem a with the valve at the valve aperture and pointing upwards. trivial and unimportant point, tyre manufacturers have Now position yourself at that part of the rim opposite the shown the importance with which they regard it by passing valve. Insert both hands inside the cover, placing the instructions to the trade on the matter. fingers behind and thumbs in front of the valve. Now pull A Simple Precaution the valve towards you and guide it through the aperture, By ensuring that nuts are properly tightened down motorists withdraw one hand and secure the valve by screwing on would save themselves time, worry, and needless expense, the locking nut a few turns. The wheel is now ready for the and so obviate the necessity of continually inflating tyres final operation of fitting the second bead. which usually lose considerable pressure, and therefore In this operation great care must be taken to start at the are likely to fail prematurely. If one applies to the tyre section of the bead diametrically opposite the valve. The manufacturers for a rebate on such a tyre, one is likely reasons for this are threefold. to be met with a polite refusal, as their experts can tell at Firstly, if the above procedure is not adhered to and the a glance whether the tyre has been run under-inflated or start is made at the valve, the bead will rest on top of the flat. And after all one cannot expect the manufacturer to valve stem and is therefore prevented from slipping down make good a loss which has obviously been brought about into the well of the rim, which position facilitates the through neglect. process. Motorists should note that cars which are fitted with Secondly, damage to the bead and bead wires will be wheel base rims have the valve hole on the outer side of obviated in the final stage of fitting. Possibly many the rim, when the wheel is fitted to the car. Therefore it readers have witnessed the titanic efforts of one or more follows that the tube should be fitted inexperienced persons at this stage. in such a manner to coincide with Hammers, mallets, and many levers this characteristic of the well base are requisitioned as a means of rim. In fitting a tube the valve should persuasion to enable them to fit the be pointing upwards and straight last few inches or so of bead over the through the valve aperture instead of rim. The simple but important rule of downwards and against the aperture. starting opposite the valve and, as one A good guide prior to fitting is partially progresses, prodding the bead down to inflate the tube and lay it on the into the well of the rim, would have ground. For fitting purposes the made it an easy and pleasurable job. valve stem should then be pointing In the third instance incorrect method upwards. generally leads to tubes being nipped French chalk is supplied with new in many places. When the cover has tubes and should be used liberally, as eventually been fitted it is found on it acts as a lubricant between cover The valve base nut should be tightened inflating the tyre that there are many and tube, and also helps towards ease with a set spanner, preferably with the leaks, and we have to begin all over in fitting. valve held in a vice to obviate damaging again. Various methods are employed in the the threads fitting of covers and tubes to rims, Start Opposite the Valve Now that the dangers which must be and to the experienced one is as easy as another. But to avoided in the final operation have been explained we shall the inexperienced I would suggest the easiest way, and proceed, remembering to start opposite the valve. Insert that is to proceed step by step, ignoring all short cuts. First both levers under the lip of the rim and press the cover of all inspect your rim, and if it has a rim band fitted, see down gently. Kneel on the cover to prevent the bead from that it is centred properly around the circumference of the slipping out. Proceed now as with first bead before tube rim. Then lay it on the ground with was fitted, taking care that levers the valve aperture upwards. Next are engaged on the lip of the rim and take your cover, making sure that it free of the tube. As you progress, is free of any foreign material inside, remember to prod that part of the and place it on top of the rim with bead which is engaged into the well the bottom bead under the lip of the of the rim. The cover should now top half of the rim. Insert tyre levers practically fall on to the rim. between cover and rim on to the lip Before inflating, inspect between and engage a grip with both levers, cover and rim, making sure that the having one in each hand. Press over tube is not held. If it is held press alternately with each hand against lightly into position with a small the cover, forcing it gently over the blunt lever. Screw the valve locking rim. As you press down with the left nut down and inflate to required hand ease up with the right, and vice It is a good plan to lay the partly inflated pressure. versa. Whenever a part of the bead tube, valve pointing upwards, alongside has been pressed over the lip, move the wheel with valve and hole in their the levers round an inch or so only relative positions 13 A ROAD-HOUSE DE LUXE

A short description of "The Nautical William", recently opened on the Kidderminster — Bridgnorth Road

T will generally be conceded Ithat while there are a very large number of road-houses available for the delectation of the (Top) An architect's motorist, many of them leave a drawing of the new great deal to be desired, especially road-house, giving those conducted at what might an impression of its be termed, for want of a better maritime appearance. expression, honest prices. (Right) An idea of the An effort has recently been interior comforts and made by Mr. Derick Burcher, embellishments of Morris Distributor for North the dance hall Worcestershire, to combine the qualities of brightness, good cooking, a good dance floor and moderate charges in the very modern road-house called There are two intriguing bars. One Colour Effects "The Nautical William" on the to which access is gained through This spacious apartment affects Kidderminster to Bridgnorth road. a door labelled "Davy Jones's Bar", Holophane lighting, by which High, but not Dry wherein the furniture is made from some exquisite colour effects are As its name implies, "The tuns, and the lighting is provided obtained. Nautical William" is a ship, save by old-time lanterns of the period For those who do not wish to for the trifling circumstance of the late-lamented Sir Francis dance, and those who like to take that it is situated several miles Drake. their dancing and food separately, inland, and certain architectural The ballroom embodies the there is the quiet grill-room. considerations such a thing nautical and the magnificent. The Quarter-deck implies. It has bows complete with It has a beautiful floor, with The quarter-deck is situated upon port and starboard anchors, and accommodation for some the roof, commanding, in addition a captain's bridge, although there 250 couples who may disport to the magnificent landscape, a is a very nicely furnished lounge themselves from half-past seven waterscape in the shape of Fenn hall in front of it, and if you walk till eleven o'clock, Sundays Green bathing pool, a rose-girded up to the ship's bows. a tastefully included. On Sundays, too, there stretch of water with one of the dressed yachtswoman appears is a special tea-dance, between most efficient chlorination plants and asks you what you will have four and six. The bandsmen are in the country, which, of course, to drink, which, of course, is a big pirates; not the music pirates of will already be known to a large improvement on the customary the streets and cinema, of course. number of our readers. ship of the kind we find at sea. The establishment has all the usual appurtenances of a ship Morris Monthly editor's note: that matter, including a galley The Nautical William closed in — obviously the most important 1989 and is now the Bower Grange item — and a captain's stateroom, Residential Care Home (pictured). bollards and lifebuoys, while the It would be nice to think that some park attendant is dressed in the of its current residents availed fashion of an old-time sailor with themselves of its facilities in earlier striped trousers and pigtail. years. 14 The Continental Rally HE MORRIS Owner Rally to the Continent, Tannounced in our May and June issues, is going to be more popular than any previous exotic rally we have held. The announcement has drawn a very large number of enquiries from Morris owners all over the country, and we can be certain of a good muster on the day of departure, which has been fixed for 14th August. The party will pass through Calais, Amiens, St. SCOTTISH RALLY — The Morris Fourteen saloon Dizier (visiting the Champagne Cellars en route at driven by Mr. R. A. Bishop in the Scottish Rally, at the Reims), Strasbourg, Freudenstadt, the Black Forest, Balmoral check. This car was placed fourteenth out of Lindau, Otz-in-Tyrol, Ulm, Heidelberg, Coblenz, fifty-eight in its class, competing with many others of considerably higher price Cologne, Aachen, Brussels, Ghent, Bruges, Ostend, and return to England on the 28th August, taking in some of the finest scenery in Germany and the Austrian Tyrol. Readers who have missed previous announcements may obtain particulars from the Editor of The MORRIS Owner, Cowley, Oxford, or Auto-cheques Ltd., Piccadilly House, 33 Regent Street, Piccadilly, W.I. The Cambridge Arterial Road UPLICATING the carriageways and installing Dtraffic signals at important junctions are among the measures being contemplated by the Ministry of Transport to improve the Cambridge arterial road. IN SEARCH OF SCENERY — A Morris Ten-Four coupé crossing a gorge by a rough timber bridge on the Eglinton Valley road, Southland, New Zealand

ALL LIT UP — The very fine floodlighting display of the INDIAN MORRISES — The Yuvaraj of Parlakimedi, a premises of Morris Garages Ltd., in St. Aldate's, Oxford, Southern Indian State, at the wheel of his new M.G. was one of the best efforts or its kind in the city Two-litre. His brother owns the Morris Eight tourer in which he is seated

The complete edition of The Morris Owner for July 1937 is available as a pdf on the website Other items of interest include: • If a Car is Used for Business Purposes • Stowing the Luggage • For an Invalid's Use (Morris 14) 15 Not the Morris Eight Tom Bourne n his article entitled “Could Have Been?” in Ithe Summer 2008 Morris Register Journal, the 1 late Harry Edwards presented photographs of a prototype that resembled a Morris Minor. The photos, he said, emanated from Morris Motors in the 1930s. From the evidence in the photos, he commented on the design styles and speculated on the mechanical specification of these prototypes. He pointed out the similarity to the Austin 7 Ruby, and then concluded: “These interesting photographs pose more questions than they answer". In his article Harry pointed out: “By comparison with the Morris Minor of 1934, which appears to have donated the folded hood rests and the front mudguard design, the bonnet is longer with the radiator mounting well forward of the front axle. Would this suggest the intention of fitting a larger 2 engine or is this simply a design feature? Continuing to make comparisons with the 1934 season Morris Minor, the Armstrong hydraulic shock absorbers had been used, but, unlike the Minor, the track rod on this mystery vehicle was located in front of the axle in the manner of the 1933 Morris Ten”. The six photos that Harry used are from the Morris Register archive collection, and show a 2-seater and a 2-door saloon version of the prototype (see photos 1 to 4). We can now also show photos of a 4-door saloon version, courtesy of the British Motor Industry Heritage Trust photo archive at Gaydon (see photos 5 and 6). The Gaydon archives have also enabled us to date the photos. Now, with the 3 benefits of computer technology, it is easier to examine the detail in the photographs, and with this new evidence, we can attempt to answer at least some of the questions. Careful scaling of the photos on the computer screen shows that the wheelbase of the prototype is approximately 7’ 0”, which puts it half way between the 6’6” of the short wheelbase Minor and the 7’7” of the long wheelbase version. From the detail in the photos, the chassis is evidently a shortened version of the LWB Minor chassis – it has the level front dumb irons of the LWB Minor, not the curving type of the short wheel base Minor, and the front springs are shackled at the front of the spring, as on the LWB Minor. This goes against Harry’s conclusion that the prototype’s chassis is the same 4

1. Side view of the 2-seater version of the prototype [Morris Register Collection]

2. Oblique view of the 2-seater version of the prototype [Morris Register Collection]

3. Oblique view of the 2-door saloon version of the prototype [Morris Register Collection]

4. Side view of the 2-door saloon version of the prototype [Morris Register Collection] 16 as that of the SWB Minor. By comparing the prototype Minor with the production LWB 5 version, rather than the SWB version, it is easier to see the origins of the prototype, and this helps to solve many of the mysteries. Comparing the 4-door saloon version of the prototype with the catalogue pictures of the 1933 and 1934 production 4-door saloon, even more of the questions can be answered. See photo 7 and compare with photo 6. It can be seen that the body is almost exactly the same as the production model, apart from the prototype’s pronounced outward sweep of the tail. The bonnet length is also about the same length, although the louvre detail differs. The bodywork of the 2-door saloon and the 2-seater bear little resemblance to the production Minors. All of the cars shown in these pictures seem to be fully developed, complete in all detail, and ready to go. To consider this prototype as a variation of 6 the short wheelbase Minor suggests that the radiator has been moved forward, and the bonnet lengthened, as Harry observed. However, by changing to consider the prototype as a shortened version of the long wheelbase Minor, it is evident that the radiator is in fact in virtually the same place relative to the bonnet and body. What has happened is that the chassis has been shortened near the front end by about 6 inches, and the front axle moved backwards. The track rod has had to be moved forward of the axle in order to clear the engine. The styling of this prototype, viewed alongside the other models in the Morris range, shows a number of shared design 7 trends. In general, there was a clear trend for the new design features on the more expensive models in the range to become standard on the following season’s cheaper models. The front wings are the rounded style with side splashguards, as fitted to all the models in the 1933 range, and then to the SWB Minor for 1934. The rear wings are swept back, and include side splashguards. These side splashguards on the rear wings were a style introduced for the larger models for 1934, but not used at all on the Minor or pre-series Ten Four. It also has the tapering stone guard on the radiator, as was 5. Oblique view of the 4-door saloon version of the Minor Prototype introduced for the 1934 Minor and Ten Four. [© British Motor Industry Heritage Trust] The pronounced outward sweep of the tail 6. Side view of the 4-door saloon version of the Minor Prototype of these cars is unlike any other Morrises at [© British Motor Industry Heritage Trust] the time. Particularly significant is the radiator styling 7. Catalogue picture of the actual production Minor 4-door saloon for 1933. and position. Up to 1933, Morris followed This was still in production when the prototypes were built. Compare this the vintage convention, with the radiator with the side view of the prototype in photo 6. [Author’s collection] placed upright and more or less directly above the front axle. There was a trend and above the axle. beginning though for designers to move the It has been suggested that this prototype was produced as an early stage radiator further forwards of the axle, as seen in the design and development of the Morris Eight. However, thanks to in the 1934 Morris over 10 hp range. The the assistance of the Film & Picture Library at the British Motor Museum, production 1934 Minor however stuck with we now know that these photos were all taken on the 4th April 1933, and convention and kept the radiator vertical are captioned “Morris Minor for 1933-34”. The publicity photos of the 17 actual pre-production 1934 model SWB Minor tourer, see photo 8, were taken 3 weeks later, on 24th April 1933. This was all taking place against a background of plummeting sales and troubled management at Morris Motors. Morris’s share of the market had dropped from 35% in 1929 to 20% in 1933, and clearly remedial action was needed. 1933 was a bad year for the industry generally; attendance at the 1932 Motor Show, where the 1933 model ranges were launched, was at an all time low. Production Director Arthur Rowse had resigned on 12th April 1933, and William Morris moved Leonard Lord from his post with Wolseley to the Cowley plant on Saturday 29th April 1933, with the brief: “I want you at Cowley, things are in a mess there”. Lord became Managing Director of Morris Motors a few weeks later. It is not unreasonable to speculate that one of Lord’s first actions was to review the line up of models for the coming 1933 Motor Show launch of models for the 1934 season, and that he immediately put a stop to this prototype. He was of course to go on to implement a massive re-investment in the production facilities at Cowley, and to bring in a rationalised range of models, starting with the Morris 8, which was launched in August 1934. Small cars in the 7hp/8hp range were taking over the popular market, and Lord must have already seen the need for a totally new model; he would not want to be distracted by introducing new short-term variations on the Minor. It is equally possible that the design team, taking account of the loss of their Production Director, and the imminent arrival of Leonard Lord, decided that now was not a good time to raise their heads above the parapet with a radical new design, and quietly consigned their prototype to the bin. They had to work quickly though, as the date of the photos of the pre-production Minor shown in here (see photo 8) was only 3 weeks after the photos of the now-dropped prototype. Either of these scenarios would explain why the actual 1934 LWB Minor was virtually unchanged from 1933, and the SWB versions were little more than a “warm-over” of the 1933 model. Having established that the prototype was contemporary with the development of the Minor range for 1934, and therefore not directly related to the development of the Morris 8, we can only speculate about the reasons this prototype was developed, where it was intended to fit in the range, and why it was dropped. Perhaps it was intended to rationalise the Minor range, replacing both the current SWB and the LWB models. The unfortunate truth is that nobody seems to have interviewed the key pre-war engineers and body designers whilst they were alive, so a lot must remain intelligent supposition. What is abundantly clear is that when Lord arrived at Cowley, he moved fast, shrewdly and decisively – as was in his character. He also managed to have a free hand to do what he wanted, with a welcome lack of interference from William Morris. Additionally, coming from outside the Cowley hothouse, he brought a fresh perspective to bear. Probably the people at Morris were obsessed by the obvious competitor to the Minor, the Austin Seven, and its continuing success, and simply didn't see that the real danger was the Ford Eight. Their proposed re-jig of the Minor was perfectly honourable in the abstract, as a riposte to what Austin was in the process of doing to the Seven. But as a competitor to the Ford it was dated and unimaginative. Lord presumably saw this straightaway. If Lord felt constrained to concentrate on bringing a single “big bang” model to market as quickly as 8 possible, it made sense to concentrate on a Minor replacement. Pure speculation of course, but could the lack of an up-to-date small car be why the new Morris Eight was rushed out in advance of the rest of the new “series” models? Whilst the rest of what we now call the “pre series” range carried over the 1934 models into 1935 with minimal changes, the Eight replaced the Minor for the 1935 season, following its announcement in July 1934. Going back to Harry Edwards’ “Could Have Been?” question, we can now be quite certain about the date of these prototypes, and that they were constructed 8. Publicity photo of the production Minor tourer for 1934. “Little on a shortened Minor LWB chassis. It is also likely that more than a warm-over of the 1933 model?” There is no evidence they would have been intended as a replacement for of any of the styling influences of the prototype. both the LWB and SWB versions of the Minor for the [Morris Register Collection] 1934 season. For good reasons this development was stopped. It is unlikely that their sole purpose was as a styling exercise, as this could have been achieved with models. However, they do illustrate the styling trends of the time. The only hard facts in this story are the date of the photos, and the detail that can be seen in them. The rest is pure supposition. It has been interesting though to look deeper into the detail, and to speculate on the answers to some of the questions posed by Harry in his article. It is now clear though that whilst this prototype was not a direct ancestor of the Morris 8, it was mixed up in the machinations at Cowley that lead to the Morris 8. This poor prototype has been given the nickname “Ugly Duckling” by some present day enthusiasts, not without reason. The styling trends are massively exaggerated compared with what they actually led to. Had this prototype gone ahead though, and if Leonard Lord had not intervened at Cowley, there would not have been a Morris 8, and the Morris Company could well have failed. My thanks to Jon Pressnell, Chris Lambert and Ken Martin for their assistance with this article, and to Ken Martin for the digital enhancement of the photos. References: “The Morris Motor Car 1913-1983”, by Harry Edwards “Morris, the Cars and the Company”, by Jon Pressnell 18 Member’s Morris Dorothy Finds Her Way Home After 80 Years Simon Hadley purchased my Morris in January 2015, a 1937 Tourer from a dealer in Coventry. The provenance that came with the Icar was very good, with log books running from the original through to the 40s, 50s and into the 1970s. The original log book showing the car was first registered in November 1937 in Guildford and registered to a Miss Dorothy Elizabeth Sturges; hence I call her Dorothy; it seemed only fitting. Miss Sturges only kept the car for just under one year before selling it to another Guildford resident, a Mr Rex Henry Percy of Nightingale Road. Obviously intrigued, the original log book listed the car's first address as Fulfordfield, Pilgrims Way, Guildford. House names being largely a thing of the past, I went about trying to find if the house still existed as I thought a drive back to her original address would be a nostalgic adventure for the car and me, her current owner. So my research begun. I found reference to Fulfordfield in the 1938 land register, but could get no further with the internet thereafter. Next step was to use the Surrey History Centre in Woking to dig further. There the 1938 Guildford Street Directory listed Miss Sturges as living at the address, however the 1941 directory listed a new owner of the property who renamed the house ‘Woodside’. Then, there in the 1948 directory the property was first listed as being given the number 15. Now armed with a house number, there was no guarantee that the house would still exist or if land had been carved up and redeveloped in the near eight decades, so next was to review ordinance survey maps from the same time period. Once I had the OS map from 1934, I was able to locate Dorothy’s original property, cross reference this against Google maps to see that many of the plots in Pilgrims Way had been carved up, cut in half and two properties built where once one stood. However, number 15, Fulfordfield, still stands as in 1937 but with minor extensions to the main house. Next I turned my attention to the dealership from where the car may have been purchased. Again at the Surrey History Centre I went looking for Morris dealers in and from the 1930s, and found only one Morris dealer in Guildford in 1937, The Haslemere Motor Co. Ltd., also known locally as ‘The Morris House’ which looked like it was trading from the late 20s up and into the late 60s on the same site. Local Guildford newspapers were full of adverts in the 1930s from the dealership, interestingly advertising and offering film evenings showing the making of Morris cars. Given that this dealership was less than two miles from Dorothy’s first home in Pilgrims Way, I felt it more than a strong possibility the car was purchased here. Further research showed following its closure as a Morris dealer, the site has had car dealerships trading constantly with Rolls Royce, Land Rover and today currently a Jaguar dealership, some ninety years of ongoing car sales from the same site. So now having found the original registered address and largely confident of her original sales location, it was time for a jaunt in Dorothy and take her back to her original home, somewhere she had probably not visited in some 79 years. Bank Holiday weekend at the end of May 2017 and good weather, so off we went for the 60 mile round journey to her first home. Now Dorothy behaved well, eagerly eating up the miles and attracting many waves, head turns, flashes and thumbs up as we made our way. I have come to realise that my Morris Eight is ‘a total babe magnet’, and I have more women smiling at me, waving and commenting than in any car I have every driven. Forget your flash 60's sports cars; women love these Morrises; shame I can’t do anything about it nowadays being blissfully manacled to she who must be obeyed! We arrived in Guildford and first stop was the Jaguar forecourt where Dorothy most probably stood awaiting her first owner in 1937. Next a short trip 1.8 miles up the road to Pilgrims Way. Driving up the road and turning into the drive of number 15; back home to Fulfordfield. Dorothy’s first home. Well, having gone armed with copies of all my research, duplicate logo books, copies of 1930s OS maps, and a lovingly polished Dorothy; and having thought the current owners might either object to me taking photos of Dorothy on their drive or in front of the house; or being car fanatics and being interested, sadly no answer from the door bell and curtains shut. A neighbour walking her dog admired the car, asking questions and saying they were sure the owners would not mind; I stole the chance to photograph Dorothy on her first driveway, 80 years on from when she first sat there. A lovely feeling and some great photographs to add to my growing folder of Dorothy’s history and provenance. A lovely drive home, warm sun and Dorothy driving as if she were new, eating up the miles and purring all the way. A great day, a lovely drive, great photographs and happy happy memories. I wonder what Miss Sturges might have thought to know Dorothy, her namesake, would still be so youthful, beautiful, vigorous and making a visit home 80 years on.

19 On 18th July 1934, more than 200,000 people gathered to watch King George V and Queen Mary, officially open the 2.13 mile Liverpool to Birkenhead Mersey Tunnel and toll-road,

The construction started in 1925 and was a mam- moth undertaking.

The vehicles in the processional convoy included a 1933 Morris Ten-Four, a c1930 Morris Cowley and a Morris Commercial T2 GPO Van.

Your presenter started his career as a civil engineer in July 50 years ago with a contractor, constructing a much less grand tunnel in Birmingham. [Ken Martin’s Collection].

20 Top: A busy sunny day on Undercliff Drive Bournemouth, in 1930. [LAT Autocar Print 26 Septemer 1930].

Bottom: On Wednesday 12th July 1933, the first British around-the-streets race was held in Douglas, Isle of Man – the 230 mile 50- lap RAC ‘Mannin Beg’. Of the 14 starters, only two finished in the allotted time. Freddie Dixon won in a Riley (54.41mph ) followed by Dennis Mansell in a 746cc supercharged MG Midget (51.40mph). The photo shows J Ludovic Ford in his MG Midget rounding Greensills Corner. He had ignition trouble just before the time deadline, but he fixed the problem and was awarded 3rd place as his was the only other car running at the end (49.33mph). Ford and Mansell’s cars were highly developed from the first MG Midget which was essentially a re-badged Morris Minor. William Sullivan competed in the race with a 750cc side-valve engined Morris Minor ‘Sullivan Special’, but he retired with supercharger trouble after 14 laps: (Fastest lap 51.59mph). [LAT Plate 806-8]

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.. 21 Morris Minors and the Morris Eight Tourer Club 1960-68

Part 1 of 3

By Ken Martin

he Morris Eight Tourer Club was formed in late 1960 Tby Roy Chasmar and Bev Hicks and Morris Minor Tourers were accepted from the start. Morris Minor saloons were voted in at the 1961 AGM, but surprisingly, Morris Eight Saloons were not granted full membership status until 1967. The club became the Morris Register in 1968 and thereafter it has catered for all pre-1940 Morris models, including commercials.

Morris Minors coexisted happily with ’Eight Tourers during the early years of the club when the members were generally young, in their 20s and 30s building careers - or students. This 3-part photographic feature aims to take current members back to those times, through images of ’Minors and their owners captured 50 or more years ago.

Top: Queen Anne’s Gate, Westminster on 21st January 1962 and the start line-up for the first of the club’s many annual London to Brighton Runs. Gale force winds and heavy rain battered the 20 entrants, which included the white two-seat Morris Minor in the foreground belonging to Miss Kay Berry. [Morris Register]

Middle: Roy Hogg was a very prominent early member with his fiancé / wife Heather. They soon formed a close partnership with this 1929 Morris Minor, which Roy saved from a North Kennsington breaker’s yard for £25 in March 1962. It had been standing since 1953 and so a lot of work was done to get it into the state seen here in July 1962 when Roy was 22 years old. [H. Hogg]

Bottom: Co-founder of the club, Bev Hicks, aged 23 in 1963, beside his just renovated 1933 Morris Minor McEvoy Special. These cars came from the workshops of Michael McEvoy and used a ’Minor chassis with bodywork by Jensen. This car is a ‘Model 70’ which had a tuned side-valve engine. [Bev Hicks’ Collection] 22 Top: Beaulieu on 27th July 1963 in hot weather. Huge traffic jams caused problems and Roy Hogg broke the crankshaft in his Minor Tourer, but ten other Morris Minors arrived safely - a very good turnout. Here are three of them. [Morris Register]

Above left: Miss R Frazer’s 1933 Morris Minor at Leyhill Common during the M8TC Buckinghmshire Rally held on 6th December 1964. [R Hinton/Morris Register]

Above right: CG 2453 is a 1932 Morris Minor bought in the late 1950s by Peter Sanders, and used for commuting from Brentwood to Croydon and East London. It was much modified (see ‘Morris Monthly’, May 2013 P34). This jaunty little car was always a welcome and happy sight, especially if Peter’s wife Sue was in the passenger seat in one of her jolly hats. [Morris Regsiter]

Middle: The writer aged 17 in 1963 at about the time that he was introduced to the club by Harry Edwards. The Morris Minor saloon (VX 4590) was bought by his father in 1936, handed over to his uncle in 1956, and given to the writer in 1960 “to learn from”. He certainly did that - and has been driving it since 1965! [Phyllis Martin]

Bottom: Cliff Pratt was fast and exciting to watch in his 1932 Morris Minor, to which he had fitted hydraulic brakes and a 4-speed gearbox amongst other things. [Morris Register] 23 Regional Round Up

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

EDITORIAL he rally season is well and truly in swing now and I am grateful to contributors Twho have sent me reports on their outings. The Chiltern Hills Rally near Aylesbury benefited from a good show of Morris cars and I have heard that the newly formed Noggin at the Betsy Wynne pub in Swanbourne is proving popular – well done Nick Thorne! Nearer home the May Sherbucks Noggin featured a ‘Bring your Car’ evening and this provided plenty of discussion and general banter. Apart from my outing to the Enfield Pageant of Motoring over the Spring Bank Holiday week-end I also paid a visit to the “Southsea Spectacular” on Sunday 11th June. Although this event is a bus gathering, the Morris banner was flown by a well presented and equipped GPO Telephone Engineer’s Series Z van as shown below. We look forward to a continuing successful vintage motoring season. Sherbucks Noggin's "bring your car"

Chiltern Hills Rally [Photo Nick Thorne] Telephone van spotted at Southsea Pre-STD telephone gear OXFORD NOGGIN SPRING RUN he prospect of a fine dry day tempted twenty members of the Oxford Noggin to bring out their cars for a run round Tthe Oxfordshire countryside and a lunch afterwards. We had seven Morris Eights (of various models), a Riley Monaco and two moderns (the owners' Morrises had not awoken from hibernation) so it was a fine gathering outside our noggin pub, the Hand and Shears in Church Hanborough. After registration there was plenty of time for coffee and a chat before heading off towards a bridge over the Thames and on to Kingston Bagpuize and the B road running parallel to the main Oxford-Swindon road. This road was quiet and well suited to our cars, although they did find the road surface a bit "bouncy" in places where maintenance was somewhat overdue. After about an hour's running we met up at the lunch stop in Highworth. The landlord was a little surprised that four more than expected had turned up, but nevertheless found space for us all and in remarkably quick time had taken our orders and delivered our meals. The food was excellent; so much so that quite a number were tempted to have a pudding. Those of us with smaller stomachs left for the afternoon venue at Buscot House 24 while the rest finished eating to follow later. Buscot House and grounds is a National Trust Property, although Lord Faringdon and family still live on the estate. The grounds themselves are well worth a visit and after being cooped up in a Morris Eight I was glad of the opportunity for a leg stretch as I looked round the ornaments and decorations in the grounds. Others availed themselves of the tea room for afternoon tea and cake. By late afternoon it decided to rain a little but considering the weather forecast we got off lightly. Article/photos from Steve Gant

MORRISES AT NUFFIELD PLACE ack in the dark days of winter I was contacted by Paul BCook, Volunteer Car Display Coordinator for Nuffield Place, requiring a few pre war Morris cars for a display at the front of the house on the Spring Bank Holiday Monday 29th May. After all the dry and warm weather we had been having the day dawned rather grey and overcast with the threat of rain. It was dry when Mary and I left Amersham at 09.30 in our Eight, going via Beaconsfield, dropping down to Bourne End and then along the Thames valley through Marlow, Henley and finally the long steady climb to Nuffield, a nice easy run of thirty miles. Rob Russell, who had driven from Ruislip, was already parked up with his 1926 Flatnose Cowley tourer alongside Richard’s 1935 Eight saloon. We were soon to be joined by a 1934 Ten/Four two seater with dickey and a 1926 four seater Bullnose Cowley, but the star of the day was XE 7630; a 1916 Cowley two seater that had travelled about seventy miles from West Sussex. This must be one of the oldest Morris cars in regular use. Throughout the day there was a steady flow of visitors, much interest shown in the cars including Lady Nuffield’s Wolseley Eight which, although parked in its garage was easily accessible to visitors. Whilst browsing through the gift shop I overheard a visitor asking a staff member, why all the prominent M.G. merchandise, what has it got do with Morris? Before leaving we had a walk round the house and gardens. I took a slightly longer route home over the hills, by-passing Chinnor, Princes Risborough and Great Missenden, weaving and bouncing over our atrocious roads, I think am now a fully qualified member of the “Chiltern Pothole Dodgers”. Nuffield Place, now owned by the National Trust, stands high on the western edge of the Chilterns at the top of the hill from Wallingford. Built in 1914 by the Henley firm of Walden & Cox. Sir William Morris bought the house in 1933. Many alterations and additions were made including central heating and it was his home until his death in 1963. The furniture and fixings, including his bedroom workshop, are mainly all as it was left in 1963 including some of his coats hanging in the ante room by the entrance to the Billiard room. Article/photos from Ray Bickerton 25 NETHER WINCHENDEN FETE n Saturday 10 June, five cars from the Sherbucks ONoggin ventured into the nether regions of Bucks to attend the Nether Winchendon Fete. This is an annual fete held in the grounds of Nether Winchendon House by kind permission of the owner and we have been regular attendees for a number of years. Attendance is by invitation from Nigel Cox who has organised a selection of interesting cars for a small display. This year our group was represented by Den and Barbara Jarrott in their 1939 Morris 8 Series E saloon, James and Lindsey Wyper in their 1935 Morris 8 pre-series, Chris and Marion Andrew in their 1939 Morris 8 Series E Tourer, Ray Bickerton in his 1935 Morris 8 Series 1 and Terry and Pauline Ponting in their Wolseley 1800. Apart from these, Nigel had invited amongst others, a vintage Bentley, a rare fast-back pre-war Triumph Dolomite, a marvellous vintage Rolls Royce, racing Bugatti and a vintage Jaguar. This small selection attracted a lot of interest from young and old. The fete was formally opened by John Bercow, newly elected as Speaker of the House of Commons. It is a truly village event, with stalls being manned by villagers without any outside franchises. Stalls included tombola, second hand books, skittles, coconut shy, well stocked plants and cakes and a sheep shearing area. Refreshments were provided by a tea and cake area, barbecue and a Pimms stall. Children’s races were held on the lawn, organised by the new vicar. A variety of music was provided by the excellent Bisham Concert Band. The house itself has featured in Midsummer Murders and ‘open gardens’ and the pleasant grounds were open for wandering through. Article/photos from Ray Bickerton ENFIELD PAGEANT raditionally held over the Spring Bank Holiday week-end at the end of May, the Enfield Pageant of Motoring is Tsomething of a landmark in the vintage motoring calendar. Organised by the Enfield and District Veteran Vehicle Trust, who also run the Whitewebbs Museum of Transport, this year marked the event’s fortieth anniversary. An attraction for the vintage car owner is the huge autojumble and the danger is spending the whole day without seeing the cars on display! Arena events and musical entertainment take place throughout the day. Article/photos from Geoff Campbell

Pick up truck converted from Austin Seven Ruby Autojumble stalls CHILTERNS EVENTS 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 Wednesday 2nd August: Classics on Croxley Green 14.00 26 WELSH REGION NEWSLETTER CYLCHLYTHYR RHANBARTH CYMRU EDITOR AND SECRETARY: John Howells, “Bronllys”, Vicarage Road, Penygraig, Rhondda,CF40 1HR 01443 432 542 [email protected]

BLESSING AND PICNIC AT CRASWALL e have had an invitation (below) from the Vicar of St. Mary’s, Craswall, via the VSCC, which will interest our Wmembers. This is an unusual opportunity to gather with like minded folk in the stunning setting of the Eastern Black Mountains. Craswall is tucked away on an unclassified road just South East of Hay-on-Wye, and it's here you'll find the ancient St Mary's Church, Craswall HR2 0PN. On Saturday 22nd July, the blessing of vintage cars and other transport takes place from11 am onward. "St Christopher's Blessing Service and Picnic Lunch Craswall: St Christopher is the patron saint of Travellers. You are invited to bring your transport, ancient or modern, motorised or not, to the beautiful Black Mountains church of St Mary's for a short blessing service around the magnificent preaching cross in the churchyard followed by a ‘bring your own’ picnic in the grounds of the church (where pre-war cars will be parked) and adjoining field (for post-war). For the Parish, this is an entirely new venture which we are sure you will enjoy and which we hope to continue and expand in the years to come. The Church is in need of maintenance, and our support would be appreciated." ALUN EMLYN-JONES MEMORIAL FUND onations in memory of member Alun Emlyn-Jones, and sales of his book, amounted to £10,015.60p, which is to be Ddonated to the Prudence Emlyn-Jones Prize for Movement and Dance, given annually at the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama. The winning student receives a cheque and a copy of Emlyn’s book. MORE DRIVE-IT-DAY hina from the Nant Garw works went to Swansea, and also to Merthyr and Cardiff by canal. The canal depended on Ccoal and iron to and from the Crawshay’s Cyfarthfa Ironworks at Merthyr, but passed ‘next door’ to the China Works on the way.

The forecast was good on the day, but we had had continuous rain over the previous few days. “Better take your waterproof boots” said Rhiannon. ‘The Morris’ is out of action in dry dock, but Gwyneth, the Humber 16/50, was tanked up with oil, water and petrol and was ready to go. The two small deck chairs were checked for cement dust

Ye Olde Nant Garw Pottery (a c1900 Portraits of Alice & Benjamin Rawlings reconstruction. Note the canal and the at the museum, bequested from the old road bridge estate of Margaret M Genever

Shelley China for sale Bernard with a rivetting tale What a conversation 27 and put in (the builders working in the garage hadn’t half made a mess). It wasn’t far; up through Williamstown and Penrhiwfer, out into the country, down Barn Hill, skirting Tonyrefail, and out into the wilds of Wales. Gwyneth joyously flashed past Gilfach Goch doing at least 30, then turned left at Blackmill, and on toward Bryncethyn. Here we turned right and in next to no time Cars at Cyfarthfa Castle Gwyneth and I pulled into Bryngarw The Crawshey Ironworks sales display Country Park. cabinet. Note the various grades and A left turn into the rally field was sizes of iron tied in knots and/or twisted welcomed with a cheery smile and cold wave from an organiser. If you go down to the Park today you’re in for a big surprise, If you go down to the Park today you’ll hardly believe your eyes, For every one that ever there was, Will be there on its wheels because, What’s this? A Buick and another Morris? Today’s the day of the South Wales It gets worse! Austin Seven rally! Rally day for Austin Sevens... etc, etc. (Wales Ed’s Licence) In fact it was another lovely Austin But what’s this? Dave Lyall in his Morris? 7 rally day. A few spots of rain fell But isn’t this an Austin rally? for a few minutes, but the field was really very good, having dried up overnight, and I wasn’t the only one who said that we hadn’t needed our waterproof boots at all. But no driving games this year, Here’s two more! apparently due to insurance and H&S reasons. Unfortunately, Rhiannon arrived too late for us all to go to the lovely tea- room for a homemade cream tea, Well, an Austin 7 at last! and we all needed to leave to get the twins home on time. Well that’s it everyone. Gwyneth has gone back to bed for a while, and I must get back to working on ‘The Morris’ ready for Llangollen. Oooh! A whole gaggle of Austin 7s. So it really is an Austin 7 rally! Why can’t we Some of the opposition. conjure up a response like this at Morris Or “I wonder if that’ll fit mine?” days out?

28 “Ha, ha. What about that for “I’ll stand with a swagger pose ‘cos we “Quick Grampa, take the photo before opposition? Gwyneth – best in class” showed ‘em.” we fall off!” or Leilani and Grace are very happy or Does Gwyneth like butter?

See what you’re missing if you don’t rally in North Wales with us in August? (details below)

WELSH EVENTS 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. 23 July: Blessing of cars and picnic at Craswall Church (see page 27). 20-26 Aug: Llangollen Rally – contact John & Rhiannon on 01443 432 542. This is a week-long nice rally, staying at two venues, Dolgellau and Llangollen. You could do it all or just half of it as your time allows. People return time after time for this one to see what new treats lie in store in North Wales. If you would like a holiday in your old car, but without the hassle of cross-channel ferries then phone us to have a chat. 17 Sept: The Big Welsh Car Show – this is to be held at Chepstow 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) 29 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]

inally the Morris Manx Meander has happened and I am Fdelighted to say it went off successfully. Seven cars and 15 members took the ferry from either Liverpool or Heysham on Monday 15th May for 5 days. Christine and I went from Heysham and the crossing over was interesting with the boat rolling in bad weather and some unsteady passengers having to be assisted when moving about but the following morning was dry and the weather was excellent for the rest of the week. A number of drives and visits were organised by Martin Roters and me making best use of the Island’s roads including the TT course. The roads were relatively quiet and the islanders were patient making for excellent pre war driving. On Tuesday we drove to the Manx Aviation & Military Museum which had on 1 show a war time army Morris Commercial gun transporter. The gun is actually a reproduction made of wood but the Morris is real. The following day we took the Snaefell mountain road which really tested our brakes – my Bullnose Oxford having rear brakes only. This led to Milntown House and gardens near Ramsey where we had a private tour of the house. Lunch was then followed by a wander in the gardens and viewing the small Vintage Car and Motor Bike collection. On arrival we met up with local members Derek and Verena Russell who warmly invited us for a cuppa and to view their cars. On Thursday we visited the Isle of Man Motor Museum where we also met local enthusiast Michael Pearce in his Bullnose Oxford coupé and Chris Wellings in a Model T. The museum contained a very eclectic collection. A V16 Cadillac is not something you see every day. There was a preponderance 2 of big American and British cars which are rarely seen now. Not to everybody’s taste but I liked the shear extravagance of design and size. Martin booked a group meal in the evening which was a nice finish to the trip. The other attendees were Alan and Jean, Scott and Anita, Dave and Margaret, John and Kay, Martin and Anne and Mel and Milly. Apart from a puncture, a petrol leak and a grumbling back axle the group had no real technical problems. Return on the Heysham ferry was an early start but as the ferry to Liverpool did not leave until the afternoon others had free time or could travel the TT route that Martin had provided. Returning home on the A6 followed by Mel and Milly Ashcroft, I turned a bend in the road to find a long wheelbase white van doing a 3 point turn across the road. My back tyres were burning rubber! Neil Truslove 3 Other Events: The North West Leyburn Vintage weekend is from 21st to 23rd July. If you are planning to attend on a day only basis please let Martin Roters know so that he can arrange parking - [email protected] or 07968 158 968. Paul Studdart Photos: is organising a Register barbeque at his home on Sunday 27th 1. Alan offering advice August - more information to follow. 2. Michael Pearce and his Bullnose 3. Dave at the Russells 4. Gun carriage 5. IoM line up 6. At the Motor Museum 7. 10/4 tourer 8. Milntown House 9. Puncture repair 10. Ramsey Promenade 11. Ramsey sea front 30 4 5

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31 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 ell, this last weekend (10/11 June) saw our noggin use the new Midlands Region feather flags at Wicksteed at War Wfor the first time, and along with our cars, what an impressive line-up they made. Over the two days, we were supported by 15 cars, including 9 Morrises, a Jaguar, Wolseley, Daimler, Ford C type and a Rover Sterling. The visiting public are asked to vote for their favourite car and this year, the people’s choice was a Mark 2 Jaguar owned by Stuart Summerfield, as a Morris Register member he holds the Snibston shield for the year. The show seems to get bigger and better each year with lots of re-enactments, displays and stalls. Sadly it was too windy to have the scheduled fly pasts but this didn’t detract from the many other attractions on offer and we are pleased to be invited back with our cars year after year. Our thanks must also go to our members, and particularly the ladies, for providing us with tea and coffee and homemade cakes and biscuits throughout the weekend. Our monthly noggin was attended by 25 people, with a few regulars being on holiday, but was yet again a good meeting. After the preliminary notices advising of forthcoming events, several members showed their gratitude to Robert Leacroft for his continued help and advice on many aspects of their various cars and members gave progress reports on the stages of their own car’s maintenance. Bob Fleming, one of our Morris 8 owners, then gave us a superb insight and presentation into Abbey Pumping Station with slides and videos showing its rise from closure in 1964 when the beam engines were saved and transformed an abandoned industrial site to a thriving heritage attraction which was opened as a museum by Leicester City Council in 1972. The pumping house is now the only one in the world that houses four engines in one house. The museum also houses a steam shovel, a Leicester-built 1908 Clyde Car thought to be one of only three in existence, a narrow gauge engine and a steam road roller. Bob, and his wife, Judy, are part of a team of dedicated volunteers at Abbey Pumping Station and have kindly agreed to us visiting the site in our classic cars on Saturday 9th September 2017 – Heritage Open Day – where we will be given a tour of the museum and hopefully a beam engine will be running. If you would like to join us, please do let me know as I need to give numbers to Bob Fleming. Next month’s “noggin” will be as usual on the first 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 01536 711 620

32 HEREFORDS AND WORCS NOGGIN ur noggin was held on 6th June but as John and I had just returned from OScotland we were not at the meeting. Michael Halls informed us that although depleted in number, the evening went very well with Allan Waite entertaining them with a series of jokes, etc. On the 27th May John and 1 went to the Little Comberton Fete & Classic Car Show, this was just a small village show with around 30 cars and steam traction engines. The road through the village was closed off and craft stalls, tombola and produce stalls lined the street. A small but enjoyable show. Ragley Hall Classic Car Show took place on 28/29th May and we went along on Monday 29th. This was our first visit to the show and we were very impressed with the organisation. On Sunday there were around 700 cars there but on Monday there were 350. The weather was very overcast until midday but afterwards we had torrential rain. The cars were parked in their various age groups and prize giving was brought forward to enable to show to finish at 3pm instead of 4pm as planned. We won our class with our Morris 8 and at the end of these presentations a cup was given to the overall winner of the show which we were pleased to receive from Lord Hertford. Due to the weather, photographs were done in rush in a gazebo and to date we have been unable to get the photographers name. It was envisaged that the photos would be taken just outside Ragley Hall but it was far too wet to walk up to there from the field. Mark Lander and Bob Bryant went to Highnam Court Classic Car Show for the first time (see photo). This is always a very well supported and enjoyable event held in beautiful surroundings which John and I usually attend, but due to family commitments, were unable to be there this time. Our next meeting takes place on 4th July at our usual venue, The Duke of York. June Sargeant

WARWICKSHIRE NOGGIN ur planned fish and chip run into Stratford went ahead this month. We met up at our usual noggin venue, the OCrown Inn, Claverdon, at around 7 pm for a quick drink before setting off (see photos below middle and right). We were joined by new members, Peter Shilton, and his wife, Justine, in their newly aquired Morris Eight tourer, a very nice looking car, fitted with white wall tyres and in lovely condition, which Peter had bought the previous weekend (see photo below left). A total of seven cars set off at around 7.45 towards Wootten Wawen heading for Stratford on Avon. Peter intended to go only has far as Wootten because of the doubtful steering on the car, which tended to wander, and also because of the brakes, which he thought were a bit vague, but having followed the rest of us he decided to carry on with us because we all seemed to do the same! This is thirties motoring for you, Peter! We arrived at the chippy after a very pleasant run through Wilmcote, (past Mary Arden's House. If you are a Shakespeare buff you will know who she was, if not, look it up!) The staff at the chippy and their customers all came out to admire our cars. Having collected our food we then proceeded through Stratford and along the old Warwick road to the council car park on the riverside. A very enjoyable evening was had by all. We discussed our next event coming up in July when we plan a Sunday picnic/BBQ on 23rd July at Burton Dassett Country Park, near Temple Herdewyde (off the A4100, Warwickshire: CV47 2AB), very close to the Gaydon Motor Museum. Barbecues and fires are prohibited, so bring your own chairs/picnic table, etc., and join us for a great day out from 12 noon. We will have coffee, tea, etc., on site. Please try and support the noggin at this event. We have again been given a stand at this year's NEC Classic Car Chow in November. The theme this year is "a family affair" so thinking caps on please, I know we can design a good stand. Our National Rally at Thoresby is looking good, I am sure many of you will be attending over the weekend. It is such a good place to meet up with old friends. Our next noggin is on Tuesday 11th July. See you all there at the Crown, Henley Road, Claverdon, Warwick CV35 8LJ. Stephen and Roz Parkes, John Ford

MIDLAND EVENTS 5 August: Chaddesley Help for Heroes - 07725 224 175 19/20 August: Tewkesbury Classic Festival 01684 850 940 28 August: Pershore Plum Festival 07809 569 101 33 Editor: Jenny Smithson 01959 525 265, [email protected] Chairman: John Mason 01689 858 546, [email protected]

SE REGION BUS RUN, 14th JUNE n a perfect warm midsummer’s evening, 19 intrepid Morris Register Omembers and friends gathered by a bus stop in Borough Green, Kent. They were awaiting the arrival of driver Roland and one of his collection of vintage buses. At precisely 19.45 hours the bus arrived. A gleaming cream and green AEC Reliance single-decker, built in 1958, looking resplendent in the livery of the Maidstone & District Bus Company. We boarded, excited at the prospect of a mystery tour through the glorious Kent countryside followed by the chance of liquid refreshment at a country pub. We were not to be disappointed. Roland had worked out a route that took us along narrow country roads, brushing the hedges on either side. Any oncoming cars had to pull into the hedgerow to let us pass. They must have been surprised to see such an unusual vehicle approaching them. Our route took us along the A25 past Sevenoaks to Riverhead then up past the woodland of Goathurst Common, devastated in the 1987 hurricane but thankfully now recovered. Then up again towards Ide Hill with beautiful views across to Bough Beech Reservoir. Roland really had to work hard on his gear changes, steering and braking. Down again to the village of Four Elms then a left turn towards Bough Beech, crossing over the railway by a very narrow bridge and onwards through Penshurst and Leigh towards Tonbridge. We went under a very low railway bridge with a sharp bend, luckily the bus wasn’t a double decker! Where were we going? Time was getting on and we were getting thirsty. We came to a T-junction and instead of turning towards Tonbridge we went left through Hildenborough and back in the direction of Sevenoaks again. Were we going to go up the notoriously steep and twisty River Hill into Sevenoaks town centre? No, we went towards the village of Sevenoaks Weald at the bottom of the hill. This was to be our final destination, the Windmill Inn in the centre of the village. We disembarked, having thoroughly enjoyed the journey but ready for a “noggin and a natter”. It was good to be among old friends, most of whom attend the South-East Roving Noggins. It was especially pleasing to welcome some new faces, namely members Eric and Janice Cheetham, who had travelled all the way from Epsom in Surrey to come on the Bus Run. Also present were Nicola Harvey and her friend, who had driven up from Hastings for the evening. At 10pm it was time to leave for the ride back to Borough Green. It was dark by then so the route was much shorter and was supposed to be on faster roads. However, Roland was taken by surprise at one junction to find out that a section of the main A227 between Tonbridge and Borough Green had been closed for overnight roadworks. We had to divert down very narrow lanes in a bus with very dim headlights, an unplanned diversion that made for a very exciting end to a very enjoyable evening. Luckily Roland knows his way around all the back roads in the area and we arrived back at Borough Green just a little later than planned. Our thanks go to Roland for his expert driving and local knowledge, to his friend who owns the lovely AEC Reliance for allowing us to use his precious vehicle, and to Terry for organising the event. I am sure everybody enjoyed the evening and are already looking forward to next year’s outing. Keep reading Morris Monthly for details of next year’s bus run. Jenny Smithson

34 WEST SUSSEX NOGGIN embers were greeted with glorious weather for our June Noggin at the M"World’s End” in Patching. Although some of the regulars were away on holiday, others arrived with their vehicles in large numbers as seen in the line-up below. Future events discussed included a re-run of our Spring Run centred around the “Café by the Lake” at Barns Green, near Billingshurst. Here, the café organisers have generously offered to provide twenty two free meals for this event as compensation for some unfortunate misunderstandings offered to members in May. A barbecue is arranged for 24th June and our spokesman, Phil Barclay asked if there would be any interest in another “Breakfast Run”. This will be held on 18th July at the “Goodwood Motor Circuit Café“. As usual, Phil arrived in “Alice”, his 1936 Morris 8 saloon (shown below). He has owned this vehicle for about seven years and has carried out a host of repairs during this time. These included an engine rebuild with white-metalling of bearings, differential renewal and replacement dynamo. Since his ownership, Phil has driven over 7000 miles in the car and uses it regularly on Fridays when he visits his elderly mother. Keith & Isabel Salmon AS THE GRIFFIN FLIES t was the first Wednesday of the month Iand I had decided to visit the East Kent Noggin at The Griffin’s Head, Chillenden, CT3 1PS. I took with me a long-standing friend and neighbour, Dennis, who acts as my navigator on my longer journeys. It was so far East that I was going to say “there be dragons” but I guess Griffins A POEM are much the same. Anyway, The hanks to Colin Holden for sending in the poem reproduced below, with Griffins Head was way out in the back of Tdue acknowledgement to its author, Edwin Price. The circular teacup beyond and I was beginning to wonder stain on the right hand side sets it off nicely! whether or not we would find our way back, never mind find our way there. However we arrived just on 7.30 pm and just as Mike Brears was walking in the door. We were made welcome by the eight members present and we swelled the party to ten. It was a splendid venue, very Harry Potter-like and I found myself wondering if any Register members had been lost while looking for it, never to be seen again. Two hours soon passed with all the assembled company, unusually I thought, talking almost entirely about Morris cars. The four ladies present contributed as much, if not more, than the men. Alas, enjoyable though it was we had to depart. An hour and a quarter journey each way and two hours at the noggin makes for a late night and I need my beauty sleep. Thanks go to Mike, and all at the Chillenden noggin, for a very enjoyable evening. I will visit you again sometime in the future. West Sussex and Epsom noggins, I will be coming your way soon. John Mason 35 nglia Re t A g s io a n E

No.473 EDITOR AND SECRETARY: Tony Nathan, 01702 589 643, [email protected]

FROM THE CHAIR s some of you that attended the AGM already know, I advised that I will be standing down from the EA committee Ain 2018. I feel that after hosting committee meetings, etc., for over forty years that the time has come for some of the other issues in my life to have some time. I have, on the whole, enjoyed my time being involved at committee level but feel that the time has come for me to step down. I thank those that have supported me during this time and wish the Region well it whichever direction it takes. I have not had the opportunity yet this season to get to many rallies but husband Dave and I were lucky enough to be given a lift by Graham Storey in his early '60s Morris Minor along to our last meeting at the Duck. Hopefully now the evenings are lighter a few more classics will venture out, but if you cannot make it in your oldie, we would love to see you anyway. Pam Lee FROM THE EA SECRETARY/EDITOR am’s "From the Chair" expresses the feelings of the rest of EA Committee who will also stand down as of the 2018 PAGM. The reasons were discussed in length at the East Anglian AGM on 14th May and a big thank you to those (24) who attended. Most I would class as the "old faithfuls" who all have, over the years, done their bit for the East Anglian Region. The Committee were re-elected for one more year as follows: Pam Lee – Chair. Dave Illsley – Treasurer. Pat & Peter Weale – Region Membership. Tony Nathan – Secretary/Events/ EAYP’s. Assistants – Dave Lee (Morris 8’s guru). Mike Adams EA Morris Register Region Coordinator – Maldon Show. Rex Webb. Peter & Jenny Brown & Laurie Cook. We will continue to support both Essex & Nth Cambs Noggins and hopefully learn of offers from the wider East Anglian membership to take a turn on the Committee.

Above: AGM Photos taken by Brian Gilders. CAE 922: Brian Gilders. Family 8: Ian Westrope & Nigel Chapman. Eight Tourers: Bill Williams, Steve Waring And a thank you to Adrian Mitchell from Mike Adams for assistance with Mike’s Jensen, CRE 114 S-o-S "ON THE BEACH" AND C4 NEWS will not go on again about the very pleasant “Breakfast on the IBeach” promoted by Southend on Sea Council and the Southend and District Classic Car Club, except to say 21st May was sunny. A C4 News team were in Southend to get what they considered to be a typical Essex and, perhaps, older view on the (then) forthcoming election and homed in on the Southend and District Classic Car Club (mmm!). The opening sequence was of the Union Flag on my Morris 8, then panning up (is that the term?) on what appeared to be a grey haired old git (me) seemingly asleep. Or am I that typical? When in fact I was reading with my head tilted down (honest!) EdEAYP 36 EA REGION - FROM THE PAST ur Treasurer, Dave Illsley, every so often opens a drawer in to the past and recently unearthed two more photos. O“Hi Tony: A couple of pictures of our cars at the Bell, Ingatestone taken around early 1970s. As far as I can tell the registrations are as follows: JN 6669 (Roy Pilkington), DDF 246, CPJ 562, PU 700?, NLW 486, JO 9088, CV 7419, GWL 719, BVX 5 (John Farmer), DMU 639 (club truck), CMU 267 (Ian Harris). EdEAYP: Thanks Dave. Time, or lack of it, has prevented me from investigating the current whereabouts of the cars. However, if anyone recognises their vehicle, please let me know.

IPSWICH TO FELIXSTOWE EXTRA y partner Rob, our two dogs, Casperand Ivy, and I set off from home at 8 am for the 45 mile drive to Ipswich. We Mhad arranged to meet fellow Morris Register member, Dave Sawtell, and his partner Andy at the Shell garage at the A140/A14 junction. As we drove round to the service Dave came into view in his 1935 Pre Series 8. We pulled into the garage together and I duly filled up with my normal V Power petrol. Or so I thought. I went in to pay and the cashier asks if I meant to use Diesel! She went on to say that she nearly switched the pump off but assumed I knew what I was doing. Obviously I did not and added it to the ever growing list of “senior moments”. Luckily I had only put in just over 9 litres or about two gallons in Morris 8 terms. I decided to press on and hope for the best. All was well until we got into Ipswich and every time we stopped so did the engine. She started again but needed extra revs so I increased the idle speed. So far so good. It was at this point that I became aware of a very smelly cloud of blue smoke issuing from the exhaust. The starting point for the Ipswich Felixstowe run is in Christchurch Park which were once the gardens of the Tudor Christchurch Mansion which is now owned by Ipswich Borough Council. I went straight past the entrance gesturing to Dave and Andy that we would catch them up. We drove straight out of Ipswich onto the North bound A12 and up as far as Woodbridge and back around Ipswich to the A14 and the old Felixstowe Road to burn off as much fuel as possible. We then called into Sainsburys Filling station where I managed to squeeze just under another gallon of petrol in. This helped a little with the slow idling but we were still issuing clouds of blue smoke. We pulled into Christchurch Park just before 10 am. Five hundred and ninety historic vehicles were listed in the program and judging by the sight that greeted us, I think most had turned up. At 11 am the run started with the military vehicles, buses and motorbikes. By the time we got underway it was about 11.45. I had warned the Ford Cortina behind me that it would be in a cloud of smelly blue smoke that he would follow me. The driver said it was all part of the fun! Due to the number of vehicles making their way to Felixstowe it was a very slow drive through Ipswich and out onto the old A45 Felixstowe Road. Crowds of people gathered in places by the route to wave the convoy on. I received a text from my cousin David Landin (1938 Morris 8) to say that he and my Uncle Harold (1930 Morris Major) were already parked up on the prom in Felixstowe. We were still trying to get out of Ipswich. Eventually we reached the sea front and took our place with the other cars on the prom. The weather was perfect in Felixstowe and crowds of people came to look all the vehicles. This was the first time in about 25 years that I have done this event and I had forgotten how popular it is. Morris Register member Nick Macey brought his 1938 Eight Tourer over from the Netherlands just to take part in the run. We had a nice chat and he gave me a leaflet with this link http://pionierautomobielenclub.nl to a club that he is involved with. The website is in Dutch but if you don’t speak the language there are some good pictures. Ivan and Olive Rooke were also in attendance with their son Duncan driving their Morris Cowleys, one of which is unrestored and is a thing of great beauty. I would recommend looking at it if you get the chance. I photographed all the prewar Morrises that I saw but completely forgot my own car! We stayed on the sea front until 4.45 pm when we were allowed to depart – again in a smelly blue haze. I stopped in Diss for more petrol managing to get just under two gallons in. After this things were almost back to normal. It just goes to prove how robust and reliable 1930's engineering is. At 81 years old, Guinevere the Morris 8 took it all in her stride. If anyone wants a great day out in by the sea I would thoroughly recommend the Ipswich Felixstowe Run. It is organised by the Ipswich Transport Museum. Entry forms will be found on thier website early next year, www.ipswichtransportmuseum. co.uk. John Landin EdEYAP: Thanks for the report but received after my self-imposed 8th of the month to send to Rob. However Rob was able to make use of the photos, which I was able to send nearer Rob's 14th deadline, hence their appearance in June Morris Monthly. 37 ROOKE’S RAMBLES rive-it-Day in April coincided with a weekend we had visitors. Whilst Dhaving these friends for fifty plus years they had never actually succumbed to the pleasures of our cars. Yes they were well aware of our Morris 8 in the early years and I believe they themselves had a Series E. So it was a good opportunity to give them this pleasure! The two seater was brought into action and individually they were given a ride around the vicinity. Could have used the dickey seat but a little wary of the use of the near side wing! Another first, our niece was opening a small garage unit on the outskirts of Ipswich and would we provide a little 'glamour'. Olive thought it meant her! We actually took the Cowley saloon and stood it outside the entrance. I had also run out the saloon a few days earlier to celebrate its 90th birthday A few days later was the Ipswich to Felixstowe vintage car run. Lovely day albeit a little chilly. The number of entrants at this event had been limited this year and it was easier on the road although still an awful lot of stop starting from Christchurch Park to the outskirts of town. The crowds were out along the route and were certainly in abundance at Felixstowe. Unfortunately I felt the numbers of pre war cars had decreased although I suspect there had been a decline for some years. I was pleased to have a chat with member, Nick Macey, attending from Holland in his very nice four seater tourer photographed in the park at the start of the event. He was pushing events in the Netherlands so if interested ,your next rally could be outside of the UK! It is not every day that one comes up behind a 1884 Rudge Penny Farthing, an 1860 Boneshaker and other very early velocipedes actually being ridden on the road. It must have been mighty uncomfortable even though the distance was only about 12 miles! Mind you similarly it is rather unusual to come across a 1904 Stanley Steamer! For the record two more photographs are shown here. Ivan Rooke ENFIELD 2017 his year, on Sunday 28th May when I attended this three day event, Pre- T1940 cars seemed to be getting thinner on the ground. However, the organisers had placed the pre-war section nicely and centrally and next to the Whitewebbs Museum’s own section. In fact My S1 M8 appeared to be the only representative of its type there, seen in good company alongside Austins and Rolls Royces. Likewise Tony Eldridge’s Minor was the model’s only representative (though parked elsewhere). Member Graham Storey chose to attend in his Morris 1000 (I think to be able to transport all the spares he purchases!) And I spotted one Bullnose Morris. Where have all the Morris 8s gone – hibernating perhaps? ENFIELD IN DAYS OF YORE e were always Wable to put on a good show on the East Anglian Region Pitch. Technically, Enfield is in the Chilterns Region, so we should call it a joint effort. In recent years with the London emissions zone, early classic lorries do not attend, since to enter the zone would cost £100 per day. Tony Nathan Left Photo: Left to Right: The late John Gulley, Laurie Cook, *Arthur Peeling with FKN 638, Dave and Pam Lee and Graham Storey. Right Photo: The wider view. If time permitted I would put owners’ names to cars. *Rose & Arthur Peeling used to make a long weekend of it. 38 PETER BEST INSURANCE ANNUAL EVENT took the M1000 convertible (and Jane!) to the Peter Best Insurance East Anglian IClassic Car & Social Rally, Prested Hall, on 17th May. Jane and I left Shoeburyness in the rain but soon met dry roads for the forty or so miles to Prested Hall. If memory is correct it must be twenty-five years since I attended one of the Peter Best Social Rallies. There was a charge of £10 each for those who wanted lunch, otherwise you could, I guess, have just parked and had a look round. However, I would imagine all who attended had lunch, which was held in Prested Hall’s wedding marquee, all white table cloths and proper napkins. Excellent food – all very present and well organised. I guess 130 folk sat down for the lunch. There was a concours for those who wished it, Brian Page did the judging. There was a strong contingent of folk from the Southend & District Classic Car Club. Adrian Mitchell’s Morris 8 and our Morris 1000 convertible were there to bring balance to some of the exotic vehicles present(!). And it was nice that we were all equal as far as being enthusiasts are concerned. Incidentally the concours was won by a beautiful Black 300S Mercedes 2 door convertible. (It can be seen slightly forward in the bottom left photo). Peter Best is a great supporter of the Morris Register – himself owning a Minor for many years. Unfortunately I can’t find a photo.

Photos: Above: Examples of the vehicles present. Top right: Adrian Mitchell (Flying the flag).

BACK AXLE CATASTROPHE

had a call recently from member Ian Hollowbread, his Morris I8 tourer had ground to a halt, surprisingly without warning or any catastrophic sounds. Once home the problem was easily diagnosed – the differential had, I think the best word would be, disintegrated, with *teeth broken, nuts & bolts loose, as seen in photos (*EdEAYP: Could be a description of me!) It may be difficult to gauge the full extent of the damage from the photos. However, I was able to put Ian in touch with Dave Lee who is always my first call for anything Morris 8 and fortunately Dave was able to assist, the car is now up and running.

SANDON OPEN GARDENS LAST BUT NOT LEAST managed to get to the Sandon Open Gardens at Butts Green for n 8th June (there was also something else Iyesterday afternoon 28th May. Mine was the only real Morris there! Ohappening!) at the Essex Noggin, the East But I did find our member with the white post-war Morris Minor (Colin Anglian Noggin Cup for 2016/17 for attendance Moles). There was quite an interesting collection of older cars together at a noggin in an eligible Morris Register vehicle with some very expensive modern ones. I attach a picture that I took was awarded to Adrian Mitchell for attending which might be of some interest. Brian Gilders an impressive ten noggins. Here seen being EdEAYP: Thank you, Brian. I have in the past attended this show and presented with the cup by Pam Lee. it is a pleasant day, and rather like my observations re Pre-1940 cars at Enfield, your comment “Mine was the only real Morris there” (I know said tongue-in-cheek) but as can be seen from the photo there were other fine vehicles, an E-Type, then your Morris 8, then Ford Y, Riley, Fiat, MG. Plus Colin Moles’s well-travelled Morris 1000 parked in another area. BUT I repeat “Where have the Morris 8s gone?” 39 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 s most of you will be aware from previous articles in Westwords, the West Region Committee remains keen to Aboth improve noggin coverage across the region and encourage inter-noggin activity. This is to promote good networking between members, so that they gain mutual benefit from the wealth of experience available across the region from Cornwall in the west, Hampshire in the east and Gloucestershire in the north. It is therefore a pleasure to note the establishment of the North and West Devon noggin, that the New Forest/Wiltshire/Somerset summer inter-noggin meeting is back for a third year and that the scope for and location of a North Somerset noggin is also being explored. The first part of a serialised account of the West Region May Break in Hereford features elsewhere in Morris Monthly. Jim Riglar NORTH AND WEST DEVON NOGGIN 11am - 2nd Thursday of the month Cyder Presse Inn, Weare Giffard, Bideford EX39 4QR Ideally located for members in North and West Devon, North East Cornwall and the Exmoor area of Somerset. The Cyder Presse Inn is a short drive off of the A386 between Bideford (4½ miles) and Great Torrington (2½ miles). Details of the pub’s lunch menus are available on its website: http://www.cyderpresse.co.uk/ For further details, contact noggin organiser: Jim Callachan: 07873 132 344 or [email protected]

NEWS FROM THE GROUPS North-East Wilts (24 May): Most of the regulars were in attendance at the noggin and were joined for lunch by West Region chairman Anne Riglar. Anne had gone to extraordinary lengths to obtain time off work to attend! Sporting a chipped funny bone (nothing to laugh about), Anne still managed single handed to enjoy a hearty lunch. There was the usual discussion about events members had or were planning to attend and about a number of vehicle projects. Paul James reported that Reg Wilson continues to make slow progress towards fitness, but that he remains uncertain about when he will next be back at the noggin. East & South Devon (1 June): Hello everyone, this time it was nice to welcome four fellow Morris owners from North Devon. They enjoyed our meeting and we discussed meeting at a venue halfway between our Noggin and North Devon in the future. Also they are considering creating a Noggin in North Devon. The Powderham Historic Vehicle Gathering, which takes place on the 8th and 9th of July at Powderham Castle, is approaching rapidly. We will have a Register pitch with seven to eight cars on display each day. All will be welcome to join us and light refreshments will be available to members and prospective members. By the time you read this we will have taken part in a social run along our south coast organised by David Palmer; report and pictures next month. We still have our noggin at the Halfway Inn on the A3052 near Aylesbeare starting at 7:30pm and all are most welcome to join us. Paula Wood (13 June): With a number of regulars having had the audacity to go on holiday instead of attending the noggin, attendance was lower than usual. Quite surprisingly for a sunny mid-summer evening, only two Morrises were gracing the car park; Brian Doggrell’s M8 SE saloon with a recently replaced head-gasket and Dave Barden’s M8 S1 saloon. Despite only 24 members in attendance, the noggin was as busy as ever. Discussions ranged from event arrangements, with stand set-up arrangements for exhibitors at the Bristol Classic Car show being finalised, and preparations for the East Mendips (June) and Somerset & Dorset (July) Runs dominating. On the vehicle front, Pete Cannard’s M10 PreS saloon restoration is nearly complete; having just resolved a troublesome brake master cylinder issue, he was seeking advice on radiator cowling and bonnet panel alignment. Brian Doggrell’s M8 SE saloon was back on the road, following issues with a sub- standard replacement head gasket. A further change to a new old stock gasket has resolved the problem. Jim Riglar 40 BRISTOL CLASSIC CAR SHOW mix of glorious weather and competition from a number of other events A in the area, resulted in fewer than usual numbers of people attending the show. Despite the lower numbers we had a steady flow of members visiting the stand in the Mendip Hall on both days. On the Sunday, we had a couple of enquiries regarding membership and hopefully these will result in applications over the next few weeks. Discussions with a few of the traders also indicated that numbers were down on the usual “footfall” numbers. On our stand were Colin Baker’s 1937 Morris 8 Series 2 two seater, Dan Brockway’s 1932 Morris Minor sv saloon, John Goodland’s 1939 Morris 8 Series E saloon and Peter East’s 1934 Morris 10 two seater with dickey. Peter East’s car was awarded highly commended and presented with a rosette. It was extremely hot work manning the stand over the weekend, with the smaller Sedgemoor and Mendip Halls heating up like ovens. Apart from the vehicles on our stand, Peter Maslen’s 1936 Morris 8 Series 1 was on display on the Bath Motor Club stand in the Sedgemoor Hall, and Glo Cressey’s 1926 Bullnose Cowley was up for sale in the Chaterhouse auction room further up the showground. A number of Morrises were spotted out in the car park over the weekend, including, on the Saturday, a Morris 8 Series 1 saloon, looking to be in almost original condition, and on the Sunday, a 1929 Flatnose Cowley coupé (see photos). Thanks go to Colin Baker, Dan Brockway, John Goodland and Peter East for providing the display vehicles and also to Roy Bowden, Celia Goodland, Justin Baker, Steve Knight, Derek and Sandra Brockway and Anne and Jim Riglar for their help in setting up and manning the stand.

WEST REGION EVENTS 8/9 July: Devon: Powderham Vehicle Gathering at Powderham Castle, Kenton, Exeter, Devon, EX6 8JQ. There will be a Morris Register stand. Contact Paula Woods, [email protected] or 01395 232 012 8/9 July: Wilts: Atwell-Wilson Motor Museum Annual Classic Vehicle Show, Calne SN11 0NF. (8th road run/ 9th static show) Contact 01249 814 848 or [email protected] 9 July: Devon: All Things Morris, Ilfracombe.Vehicle show on the seafront,11 am-3 pm. The event is part of a weekend dedicated to All Things Morris. Contact: www.visitilfracombe.co.uk or 01271 863 001 20 July: Somerset: Somerset & Dorset Run (56 miles}, 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, lunch at Longburton and tea at Udder Farm Shop, East Stour. For details contact John Goodland 01747 825 929 or [email protected] 21-23 July: Somerset: Somerset Steam & Country Show, Low Ham near Langport. Contact Roy Bowden, 01275 858 340 or [email protected] 22 July: Hants: The Winchfield, Dogmersfield & Crookham Village Horticultural Society Annual Flower Show and Fete. 13.00 at Pilcot Farm, Chatter Alley, Dogmersfield, Hants RG27 8SS. Free entry. Contact Brian Leversha, [email protected] or 01252 615 534. www.dwcvhortsoc.org 30 July: Wilts: Inter-noggin lunch at The Black Horse, Great Durnford SP4 6AY, in the Avon Valley, between Salisbury and Amesbury. Meet 12 noon onwards. Contact Toby Sears to make a lunch booking (spaces going fast!), 01590 644 269 or [email protected] 41 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]

EARLY SUMMER DINNER wenty-two members attended our recent dinner at the Royal TOak in Ossett, West Yorkshire. As always it was organised by the ever youthful Trevor Willsden. Good banter along with good food and a great selection of raffle prizes made it a very enjoyable evening. The climax of the evening was a presentation to Malcolm Dixon, the Club President of a bottle of his favourite tipple to mark his recent 80th birthday. Much to his embarrassment, I might add (see picture right).

BEAMISH WEEKEND ell, it was the time of year for what we all hope will become Wthe annual trek to Beamish Heritage Museum, near Durham. Last year's visit was a great success with a total of twenty Morris vehicles attending on the Saturday and Sunday, along with their owners and their partners. On Friday 9 June, ten vehicles met at a hotel just north of Wetherby to travel to Beamish in extended convoy with a break for lunch just north of Northallerton. The Register's truck was trailered up by Trevor. It is in the process of being repainted so it was a little plain in its primer coat. This was easily forgotten by the presence of the vehicle itself. If anyone hasn't seen it before it is certainly worth viewing. A real monster of a commercial vehicle. After leaving my house at 9 am I was pleased to arrive at Beamish Museum at 3.30 pm. There we met up with Beamish's Historic Events manager Paul Foster. The truck was unloaded and parked up for the night. It was then onto the nearby Beamish Park Hotel, our base for the next three nights. There we met up with fellow Register members from Scotland, Wales and many other parts of England. In total there were 32 vehicles this year, 50% more than last year, which is fantastic. On the Saturday we woke up to heavy rain which didn't stop until approx 2pm. After a hearty breakfast we all met up at 9am for an induction and a trip round the site in a vintage bus to familiarise ourselves with the dos and don'ts. On our return to base, a gazebo was quickly erected and tea and coffee, with a selection of biscuits and cake, was all of a sudden resting on a table looking very inviting. Like last year this was provided by Roy and Val Pidgeon with the help of Trevor, who like Roy, seems to be involved in everything! Our male equivalent of Thelma and Louise. Only joking lads. The wet weather didn't stop us hardy dedicated souls from going out and about on the museum's roads. When the rain did disappear we were able to fully get out and about visiting the many different attractions on the site. I for one made a bee line for the bakers where I purchased a deliciously fresh cheese and onion pie and a coconut and jam cake. The museum is a brilliant insight into life in bygone days. The buildings, the railways, individual external and internal displays are awesome. All staff are period dressed. The food in the bakery is all period creations. The sweet shop certainly reminded me of my youth and no doubt my parents and grandparents would have said the same. On the Saturday night, 39 of us sat down at our hotel to a three course meal and some liquid refreshment. By the chatter coming from all the tables everyone appeared be enjoying themselves. Afterwards we moved to a separate area where we enjoyed some games and quizzes ably compared by Roy Pidgeon, Bren Jones and Malcolm Dixon. A raffle was held with a good and varied selection of prizes. It was fitting that our President won a bottle of his favourite tipple. Sunday was a dry and windy day and we were all out and about enjoying the delights of the museum. We had a parade of most of the vehicles around the site just after lunch. It was a great success. Everybody seemed to be taking photos and it was a joy to see the faces of everyone, not least the young ones, who were waving and pointing at us as we drove around. While our cars were parked up, either at our base or "down town", people were taking photos and asking many

42 questions. If you didn't lock your car people were trying to sit inside, so much was their enthusiasm for the occasion. All in all, I know that everyone who attended really enjoyed themselves. We had such a lot of fun amongst ourselves and with many of the paying guests. Our hotel was excellent and our three evenings together were great fun. Not everyone stayed the three nights. That doesn't matter, just being part of the museum brought immense pride and pleasure to not only ourselves but to others as well. EVERYONE WHO ATTENDED WITH THEIR CARS DESERVES A PAT ON THE BACK FOR THEIR LOVE AND CARE OF THEIR MORRISES. Like any organised event a few words of thanks must be made. Firstly to Roy and Val Pidgeon

43 along with Trevor Willsden, a massive "thank you" is due. They travelled to the museum to discuss the programme with Paul from the museum. They travelled around the area looking at 5 or 6 hotels to gauge the quality and to negotiate a good deal, which they did! Terry Horn and Malcolm Dixon also added valuable assistance in the planning. Our resident mechanics, Terry Horn and Trevor Willsden, who at some point in the weekend did a repair of some sort on somebody's vehicle, as per last year. Secondly to Paul Foster from the museum who makes sure we have everything we need for a enjoyable visit. He even got the workshop opened up so we could recharge the truck's battery. Last but not least to the Ladies and Gentlemen of the Register who turned up with their vehicles and made this in my view a fantastic weekend. I hope you all enjoy the selection of photos. You know who you are. Please spread the word. Apologies to any one I have forgotten. IF ANYONE HAS PICTURES OR A LITTLE ANECDOTE OF THE WEEKEND PLEASE SEND THEM TO MY EMAIL ADDRESS WHICH YOU WILL FIND AT THE TOP OF THE NORTH EAST PAGE. I hope this has whetted the appetite for more members to attend next year. Please look on the museum website for a accurate description of what is available. Ken Gosden

44 West Region Hereford Break May 2017 (Part 1) Anne and Jim Riglar

ack in 2012 when a West Region May break was first organised, who would Bhave thought that such an event would prove so popular and enduring? For the sixth annual break, Hereford was selected as the venue, giving participants the opportunity to visit attractions in Gloucestershire, Herefordshire and Worcestershire. Using what is now a tried and tested formula, Anne Riglar booked a hotel, Warner’s Holme Lacy, on half board terms, to use as a base for the break. On offer were 4 or 7 night breaks, with 46 people staying for the first 4 nights, 13 of whom remained for the subsequent 3 nights. The group this year comprised members from the West, South-East, Wales and Midlands regions. As always, visits to an eclectic mix of attractions were arranged, and as ever members could participate or do their own thing as they saw fit. Perhaps it is the ability and relative ease for members of the group to “pick and mix” that is one of the aspects key to the continued success of these breaks. Monday 1st May - With many of the West Region contingent opting to travel to Hereford via the Severn Bridge and the Wye Valley, arrangements were made for those who so wished to meet at Severn Bridge Services, Aust, and then travel in convoy to Hereford. So at 10 am, a mix of Morrises and moderns descended on the M48 services. After a quick comfort break, it was off to Wales with Jim and Anne Riglar’s M10 S2 Saloon leading the way across the Severn Bridge and into the Wye Valley for a stop at Tintern Abbey for those who we so inclined. Whist many made their way north, direct to the hotel or to stop and explore Monmouth, a few of us enjoyed a tour of the Abbey ruins and a light lunch at the Anchor Inn! A couple of hours later and most of the group had arrived at the hotel. Anne Riglar had arranged, with the hotel’s management, for a private parking area at the hotel and the wide row of Morrises lined up on the gravel to the rear of the hotel was certainly attracting much attention from other hotel guests and indeed the cars continued to do so throughout the rest of the break. Such breaks are not without their traumas, and this year’s was proving no different. Indeed with 20 plus cars, it was almost a certainty that someone would have a vehicle problem during the course of the break and by late afternoon it was apparent that some of the group had already had an exciting start to the break. The first reported “casualty” was Alan and Shirley Hawkins' M10 PreS saloon. With the car loaded up for the journey to Aust, Alan had driven the car out of the garage and waited in the car whilst Shirley closed the garage door behind him. Shirley came back to report a large puddle of oil on the garage floor. A quick off-load of their luggage into one of their moderns, M10 reversed into the garage and locked up, and it was off on the break in a modern. The problem? The sump plug had cut through the gasket and the engine oil, at a significant drip rate, was steadily dumping itself out onto the ground. After returning home after the break, Alan quickly had the problem sorted with the replacement of the sump gasket with one made of a more robust material. The 45 second reported casualty, but chronologically the first, was Bob and Chris Williams’ M8 SE saloon. Bob and Chris were travelling from the East Midlands in convoy with Pat and Barbara Farmer, with the intention of calling in at the Festival of Motoring, Stratford on Avon, on the day before our break. Having pulled into and fuelled up their cars at a filling station in Coventry, Pat and Barbara then pulled away in their Morris Isis saloon, whilst Bob and Chris just heard the bang of a half-shaft breaking as they went to follow. So for Bob and Chris it was a return home on recovery vehicle before returning in their modern. Tuesday 2nd May – With most of the group having undertaken long journeys the preceding day, visits to attractions in Hereford, and requiring only short journeys from our hotel base were arranged. For the morning, a visit to the Hereford Cider Museum in a part of the old Bulmer Cider works was arranged, to be followed by a visit to the Hereford Waterworks Museum. On arrival at the Hereford Cider Museum, we rapidly filled the few remaining spaces in their busy car park. Fortunately the Museum had an overflow car park at the rear of the museum, which they opened up for many of our group to park in. Once inside the museum, we had a pre-arranged cup of tea/ coffee, whilst tour guides readied themselves to take us on group tours around the museum. You would never have believed that there could be so many, varied and interesting exhibits related to simply squashing the juice out of a few apples or pears or putting a bit of sparkle back into it, but the tour, lasting the best part of two hours, just flew by. Photos show members with pressing matters on their minds or pondering how many pints were in the large barrels (none – they have long been empty!) With the comprehensive tour of the Cider Museum complete, it was time for the long and arduous journey to the next venue. For those parked at the front of the Cider Museum, it took minutes to drive the mile to the Hereford Waterworks Museum, whilst for those parked in the rear overflow park, the 0.7 mile journey was a mere breeze. On arrival at the museum, a little manoeuvring of cars was required so that we could form a neat and ordered display on the forecourt. It was then into the café in the museum visitors centre for a pre-order lunch snack, prepared by the museum volunteers, before breaking into

46 three manageable groups for the tour of the museum’s pumping machinery which covered the operation of Hereford’s waterworks from opening in 1856 with a steam driven beam engine, the addition of a triple-expansion steam engine in 1895 to satisfy the ever increasing demand in Hereford for water and finally another twin steam engine and pumps in 1906. The steam engines were taken out of service in 1952. We had, by prior arrangement with the museum and payment of a “steaming fee” to cover the costs, arranged for the engines to be in steam. The sight of the triple expansion engine running at about 25 rpm was a sight to behold! Apart from the steam engines and pumping gear, there were other waterworks related items on site including a Blackstone 5 cylinder diesel engine used to provide fire services at Rotherwas Munitions Factory during WW2 and a 97 litre Tangye horizontal diesel engine. Also on site is a water park which shows various methods by which water has been pumped from ancient times to the present. Aimed principally at children, you would of course expect us to play and of course many of us did. We are all children at heart! Our needs to play with water satisfied, it was time to head back through the Hereford rush hour traffic to our hotel and a well-earned rest over a pre-dinner drink. Thirsty work spending all day looking at cider and water production! to be continued

47 Woman's World

Editor's Note: Older readers of Morris Monthly (are there any young ones?) will recall that the early editions of the revamped club magazine from 2009 sometimes featured a section with this title, written by the Editor's wife. It took some pretty hard work to persuade her to give it up, believe me. All was calm until a certain Mrs Elizabeth Jamieson, submitted a piece, "Living with a Petrol Head" which featured in the May edition. As we gentlemen appreciate, female solidarity is an awesome thing, and Mrs Jamieson's item has acted like the proverbial red rag to a bull. To make matters worse, Mrs J has sent in another offering for inclusion next month. I have no choice, therefore but to inflict on you the return of Woman's World with the piece below, penned by you know who. I hope it goes down well (honestly). In the interests of inclusivity, and so that I do not have to surrender every month, I now cordially invite/beg other ladies to submit their thoughts (only the ones that are printable, of course!) for this new regular feature. We Wonderful Women (No 117) by Barbara Symonds ne of my hobbies is proof reading Morris Monthly. Well, our Editor assumes I am proof reading it but I often get Odistracted by some of the lovely articles. I did enjoy Elizabeth Jamieson’s article last month. I was very touched by how supportive she is of her Beloved’s little hobby. A common thread of the club is how obsessed our classic car owners are with their cars and how essential we wonderful women are in supporting them. These moulded forms of metal, wood, fabric and rubber completely take over their lives and consequently affect ours. My hobbies include everything Morris of course and, happily, also washing, ironing, cooking, cleaning, food shopping, gardening and child minding, etc. Naturally, our classic car owner does not have the time or inclination to share our interesting and time-consuming activities. From conversations with many of the women I know, I think my observations might be quite common, and they too are equally curious to understand how the mind of their classic car owner works. For instance, on hearing of family plans, my classic car owner will suddenly look quite shocked and say, ”No, I am not available this Saturday” and we hear the word “Morris.” This is totally acceptable to all involved with no questions asked. Now if I try to wriggle out of a social occasion citing one of my favoured commitments, it would be, “Oh, can’t you change it?” or “You don’t really need to go do you?” Also, for instance, why, when, say, I am half way through cooking dinner (while vacuuming the stairs and getting the washing in) should I have to stop and immediately go to the garage to find “a tiny bronze hood stud that was left just there on the bench last week?” A trembling oily finger points to where the missing item once lovingly lay. After pretending to look for the lost item whilst expressing concern, I promise to look properly later. “Oh yes”, says I sweetly, when he finds it three weeks later. “I remember seeing it now. I thought I would pop it on the floor under the workbench, and put that oily towel and a tin of washers on top of it”. This explanation is perfectly acceptable as I am getting old and often inclined to lose things (especially his car keys) and am forgiven. Now, were I to call him out from under the car to help me look for a favourite kitchen knife, I am sure he would be happy to stop what he was doing and help me search for it. See where I am going with this one? And our dear classic car owners really know how to suffer. “That was Colin,” he will say with furrowed brow after finishing a tense phone call. “He’s got a strange knocking noise coming from somewhere near the front”. I am thinking his knees are playing up again when I hear, “We are just going to take the car on a quick run (no doubt via a country pub lunch) to see if we can trace it. Won’t be too long,” which means back in time for dinner. See where I am going with this one? Now, say we women did this. “Ann’s just phoned. Her sewing machine has stopped working. I am just popping out to have a quick look at it. Can you finish cooking the dinner and vacuum the stairs and…” (Oi, this is Morris Monthly, not Woman’s Realm. Ed). Also, when I return home after a few days’ away babysitting, the first thing I check for is smells. I can relax if there are oily hand prints on the paintwork, a small mucky box by the back door, a little mud on the stairs, or even car fumes in the house, indicating he’s probably had the car in the lounge. But if I can smell bleach, Cillit Bang or any other strong cleaning fluid I worry, especially if the bath is gleaming or the cooker is sparkling. I remember years ago when he left some car parts in the oven to dry off and (yes, I can see where you are going with this one. Thank you for your contribution. If any women owner/drivers have got this far, will they please write and let us have your views. Thank you. Ed).

Morris Mail Letters to the Editor

ATV CAR Dear Editor wonder if members in the Midlands Ican recall the ATV car from the late 60s/early 70s, as shown in this publicity handout? It would be interesting to know if it is still around. John Bradshaw 03821/2 Thanks for this, John. An internet search revealed its registration number, and I am happy to report that Warwickshire it belongs to a member Mark Holland in Yorkshire. Any chance of a recent picture, Mark? 48 TESTING TIMES Dear Editor have attached a couple of photos (right) of Ia chap on the day of his driving test in his Pre Series 10/4. One is showing him looking very confident as he ties on his homemade L plates. The second one looks as though he has completed his test. Does he look as confident? Did he pass? I think the plaque displayed on the wall behind the examiner says that it is the Nottingham test centre. Many thanks for this Harold. I don't suppose many of us go this far back for our driving test but it Harold Turner would be interesting to hear the experiences of anyone who took their test in a pre-war Morris. I 13865/6 am afraid I cannot make that claim, but I did pass my test in Nottingham and did own my Eight South Yorks two seater at the time. It was bought even before I passed my test and has been with me ever since! HAPPY HENRY'S ROUND BRITAIN CHALLENGE Dear Editor thought members might be interested to hear about my plans for the Isummer. After a previous false start (well not even a start) due to being let down by my dynastarter catching fire and an upholsterer who failed to make me a hood, I am embarking on a Round Britain Tour in my 1927 Cowley, Happy Henry. Starting in Carlisle, down to Worcester, a detour to Thoresby where I shall be entertaining the troops, South Wales, Land’s End, along the South coast to Whitstable then back "Oop North", then John O’Groats and back to Carlisle. I will be doing gigs and fundraising en route for Pancreatic Cancer Action in memory of my wife Lyn. It would be wonderful if members and friends could join me for parts of the run and perhaps get themselves sponsored for their stints as per the "round the coast relay" a year or two back, I think that was for MacMillan (who I have also raised funds for). There is a possibility that I may need someone to drive the support motorhome for some of the journey if my volunteers can’t cover the entire trip but at this stage I can’t be sure if this will be necessary. I’ve been very fortunate to re-acquaint Henry with the man who used to maintain him in the 60s for the lady owner. He is very knowledgeable and has been keen to do work on the car, including replacing all the valve guides. He has machined various parts which I could not have done. He also found potential problems that I was blissfully ignorant of, and has cured them. Happy Henry recently celebrated his 90th birthday and was featured on regional TV, press and radio. See http://www. itv.com/news/border/update/2017-05-04/90-year-old-car-named-happy-henry-prepares-to-embark-on-800-mile-mission/ (I don’t know where they have got the 800 mile figure from. So far it is between 2-3000 miles!) So far we have raised £2000 towards a target of £10000 so there is still a long way to go, literally! I’m looking for sponsors to help with this effort if any members have contacts in high places! I will be starting out on the 21st or 22nd July and will have my itinerary on the website shortly. I’m attaching links to Facebook, Just Giving and a website which is a bit of a ‘work in progress’. Andy McKay Thanks, Andy and the best of luck. I am sure members will wish to make a 13244/7 contribution. Relevant links are listed below. Do report back when it is all over. Cumbria Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/Happy-Henrys-Round-Britain-Challenge-1487337148008442/ Website: https://roundbritain.wixsite.com/happyhenry Donations: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/HappyHenrysChallenge Text Giving: Text HHAM66 £5 to 70070 MALTESE OXFORD? Dear Editor was looking at the “Pictures from the Past” (May Morris Monthly) and noticed IKen Martin’s photo of the Morris Oxford saloon (right, courtersy LAT IMAGES). It is always interesting to unravel motoring mysteries so I would like to suggest that this car was photographed in Malta. They used all number registrations at that time; certainly that was the case in the mid seventies when I was there. My Ford was registered as 51478 so a registration of 32286 in the thirties might fit. The style of architecture in the background and the sun would also bring Malta to mind. Martin Gregory 00714/2 Thanks, for this clarification, Martin. I am surprised that none of the recent Northants Midland region returnees from their Malta trip did not pass comment! 49 SINGAPORE MORRIS Dear Editor art of my time in the Royal Air Force was at PChangi in Singapore, hence I am a member of the RAF Changi Association. The picture (right) of Orchard Road with its prominent Morris sign may be of interest to members. It was taken some time in the 1950s. Please acknowledge John Flack and Les Davies of the Changi-ite Newsletter for use of the photo. Tony Etheridge 04223/1 Herts Thanks, Tony. I don't know if you have been back there recently, but looking on Google maps, none of this is left nowadays. Orcahrd Road is all huge mulit-storeys!

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 1930 Cowley 2 seater with dickey 1932 Morris Minor 2 door saloon 1926 Bullnose Cowley 2 seater

1933 model registered October 1932. Original Type MC 11.9 Reg no. TR1 799 Chassis no.137435 engine and valuable registration number (YG Engine no. 160476. 2017) with buff log books and some previous Re-wired and mechanically overhauled in 1990. history. Older full restoration (repainted, Used regularly. Body in original unrestored reupholstered, rewired, rechromed, etc.) which I condition. Interesting provenance – owned by one have improved over the years. 4 speed gearbox, family for 60 years. £10,000. hydraulic brakes with new master cylinder, shoes, Don Butler Runs well. Not concours but a pretty car in three pipes and wheel cylinders rebuilt. New Bosch 01737 823 375 (Surrey) colours: black, brown and fawn. Original tools and distributor with original included, new battery [email protected] driver's manual. Present owner 30 years – illness this year, rebuilt dynamo and cutout, rebuilt 4 Part Wanted forces sale. £12000 ono. brush starter motor, ethanol proof fuel pump, For Morris 8 Series 2; a complete luggage rack. Ivor Schraibman (Cheshire) stainless fuel tank and exhaust, recored radiator Mike Brookes [email protected] and new hoses, new Andre Hartford shocks with 07989 866 824 re set springs and new shackle pins, new clutch, [email protected] (Note: no 'e'') new hinge pins and balls, recent new Avon tyres and tubes. Full engine rebuild by Cox and Turner at a cost of £4,000. Easily driven over 500 miles over a weekend for Prewar Minor rally on several DAVID MOLYNEUX Morris occasions. Genuine reason for reluctant sale, £6,500 ono. MORRIS PISTONS Toby Sears 01590 644 269 (Hants) for all models Car Spares [email protected] New and used Car for Sale Morris 8 and Series E spares available Morris Series 2 4 door sliding head saloon used parts supplied Enquiries welcome Job lots of M8 and E parts bought Happy to assist M8 and E abandoned For more information, projects/complete cars contact bought for breaking graham440@ 01229 584 972 or btinternet.com 4 speed gearbox and reconditioned engine, all or other running gear renovated over recent years. 07715 059 280 or Outside and inside in good condition. £5800. [email protected] 07506 309 281 Brian Vincent 01689 857 549 (Kent) [email protected] Acceptance of advertisements in Morris Monthly does not imply recommendation of advertisers or their products or services by the Morris 50 Register. When purchasing cars or spare parts from private sellers, purchasers must satisfy themselves as to the condition and value. Parts Offered Car for Sale Car for Sale Various spare parts offered FREE to anyone who 1934 Minor two seater tourer There is a 4 seater tourer with a new engine can collect from Leatherhead. Spares were sitting in Bedfordshire together with a pile of originally bought for Morris Oxford 6 - 16 HP but other M8 bits and pieces from various cars. It some will suit other models. Many new/boxed. has no chassis number but it has a new ash wood Lucas brake shoes, valves and valve guides, spark frame and new body panels. Nicely painted but it plugs, lamps and bulbs, brake hoses, fan belts, has no upholstery although the original front seats contacts/points, crown wheel & pinion, set of hub are there. Photos available. caps, breakerless ignition system by Lumenition. Paul 0973 432 722 (Bedfords) Paul Scott (non-member) [email protected] 07748 105 851 (Surrey) [email protected] Part for Sale For Series M Ten: Radiator, no leaks, swap for Car for Sale repair of my 10/4 rad or £120. Pair 8" headlamp 1935 Morris 15/6 An older restoration by the previous owner innards, left hand dipper, reflectors and glass OK, Rare 2 door coupé model. Rebuilt with all new which then stood for a number of years in dry £50. Series M/3 new wiring loom, bought in error, wings and running boards. Body timbers replaced storage. Unfortunately the owner passed away £100. All ono. where required. Retrimmed interior in green and we acquired the car. All the bodywork was A.J. Collard leather. Most rechroming done. Wheels powder professionally restored, a small amount of work 01264 737 284 (Hants) coated and fitted new tyres and tubes. Complete is required to finish. Unfortunately my father and brake overhaul with new cylinders and pipes. New I don't have the time to finish her. Offers around clutch and shock absorbers fitted. Running and £5850. If you have any questions please call. Car for Sale driving. Requires completion. Mike Brookes 1928 Morris Cowley Flatnose Brian Wildon 07989 866 824 Stored for many years. Needs renovation. All 01287 660 606 (North Yorks) [email protected] (Note: no 'e'') complete including original radiator temperature [email protected] guage. Car for Sale T. Durrant (non-member) 1937 Morris Eight Series 1 two seater 01202 882 642 or 07976 411 225 (Dorset) Part for Sale Black paintwork, maroon trim. Totally rebuilt UB Lucas 6v voltage regulator (new old stock). engine with SE balanced crank & internals 2016, Unused, would fit 30s/40s Morris cars. £50. 4 speed box, Series 1 & 2 luggage racks, nippy, Part for Sale Ray Newbury pretty little car, on the road, spares available. Lucas magneto which has been completely 01225 752 155 or 07806 439 257 (Wilts) £12000 ovno. overhauled as a spare some years ago, no longer Chris Moffatt needed. £190 or near offer. Parts for Sale 01926 312 355 (Warwickshire) Mike Brookes For Morris 8 Series E: A complete set of seats christopher. [email protected] 07989 866 824 (West MIdlands) including rear arm rests, all in dark tan colour, [email protected] (Note: no 'e'') from a 1948 four door. Condition: well worn Parts for Sale but not tatty. For Pre-War Minor Parts: 1x 4 speed gearbox, 1x crown wheel & pinion (8/43), 1x camshaft, Literature for Sale Mike Scotten Surplus auction purchase of operator manuals: 1x camshaft rear bearing, 1x spiral crankshaft 0208 577 0416 (West London). M8 1935 plus parts list, M8 1937 Series 2, M8 1939 [email protected] oil pump drive gear, 3 unused pistons (std). 1 and 1948 Series E. All excellent condition plus set of pistons (+40s), 1x oil filter, 2x halfshafts, some other "workshop" copies. Item for Sale 1x first/reverse sliding gear (three speed), 1x Morris 10/4 Series M, Morris 12/4 Series 3, Morris Sealey Air Spray kit plus accessories in good front axle, 1x rear axle case, 1x 19" wheel, 1x 10/4 and 12/4 Series 2. All excellent condition. condition. £40 plus P & P. 18" wheel, for re-conditioning, 1x clutch cover, Available to members at cost plus postage. Dudley Hedge 1x brake cross shaft, 4x road springs. Harry Kirk 01223 882 057 (Cambs) Brian Shufflebotham 01743 790 747 (Shropshire) [email protected] 01782 515 802 (Staffs) [email protected]

What’s it Worth? (See p6): starting price was £3250 51 Please submit pictures Foto Finish of interest to the Editor BARN FIND MINOR VAN UPDATE embers may recall a feature in April 2016's Morris Monthly following the visit of member MMichael Page, of Ratby in Leicestershire, to the club stand at that March's NEC Restoration Show. The van’s owner, Alan Lamb of Lutterworth, joined the Register after the show and I phoned him to get the background story for that article. True to his word, Michael returned to the club stand at the 2017 show and the bottom four photographs show how much progress has been made in the intervening months. The top two are reproduced from last year's feature to show the improvement! Rob Symonds