ISSN 0159-4583

Quidvis recte factum quamvis humile praeclarum* PR^CLARVM The Federal Journal of the Rolls-Royce Owners’ Club of Australia. No. 2-94. April, 1994

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S. -fcifL : '^YuCrTy-'I 97LK Richard Knight (Vic.)

A Grand Silver Ghost Reappears

* Whatever is rightly done, however humble, is noble— Royce, 1924 "I felt a tremendous sensation of power. And then I switched II the engine on. f

For those used to being in the driving seat, the driving seat of the Bentley Turbo R is the

place to be. It affords a feeling of power that becomes decidedly more tangible when the turbo-charged, inter-cooled V8 engine breathes into life, transporting you from standstill to one hundred in something under seven seconds.

And, should you choose to make a takeover bid, you'll find more than enough

brake horse power at your disposal. Certainly enough to enjoy life in the fast lane.

Fortunately, stopping is considerably less dramatic, thanks to power braking, while revolutionary suspension and interactive power steering allow you to

manoeuvre with astonishing agility. No wonder so many of the well-heeled

put their foot down and insist on the Bentley Turbo R.

York Motors (Sales) Pty Limited 101 William Street, Sydney 201 1. Telephone (02) 33 1 3377 Distributor: NSW, ACT, Vic. & Qld. PR/ECLARVM The Federal Journal of the Rolls-Royce Owners’ Club of Australia.

PRAECLARUM (ISSN 0159-4583) is published six times per year by the Federal Council of the Rolls-Royce Owners' Club of Australia. Issue No. 2-94. April, 1994

Subscriptions: PRAECLARUM is available to overseas non-members on a subscription basis at $A50.00 per year by air mail. Such subscrip­ tions carry no membership privileges. REGULAR FEATURES

Change of Address: Club members should notify their Branch Secretary (addresses below) in the first instance to advise non-receipt of an issue or change of address. Subscribers should notify From the Editor 2348 DISPATCH (see below). Contributions: Articles, letters and/or illustrations for publication Events List 2348 should be sent to the Editor, address below. Articles can be accepted as ASCII file on 3VS’ or 51/4‘ computer disk. Whilst every care is taken to check information published in PRAECLARUM, no responsibility can be accepted for errors, either typographical or factual. Views From the Federal President 2350 expressed by the Editor and contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect the policies of the Club. Market Place 2363

FEDERAL EXECUTIVE ARTICLES PRESIDENT: Peter Cox, 48 Myall Ave., Kensington Gardens, S.A. 5068 08-31-6766 (’Phone/FAX) The Napier-Bentley Had the plans of W.0.Bentley not been thwarted SECRETARY: Wendy Friezer, 19 Keston Ave., Mosman, N.S.W. 2088 by the unforeseen intervention of Rolls-Royce Ltd, 02-267-1455 (w) 02-969-5834 (h) 02-267-1716 (FAX) the 1930s would have seen the emergence of a TREASURER: David Miller, Napier-Bentley car. Nigel Ferguson-Walker, 9 Banvard PL, Chapman, A.C.T. 2611 writing in 1960, recalls his role in this 06-276-2172 (w) 06-288-6910 (h) 06-276-1223 (FAX) fascinating but ill-fated project and FEDERAL PUBLICATIONS how it came to a sudden halt 2351

PRAECLARUM EDITOR: Martin Bennett, ’Allambi’, RMB 3310, Goulburn, N.S.W. 2580 Old Coachbuilders Recall 048-29-7140 (’Phone/FAX) some fascinating notes from Tom Clarke 2355 REGISTRAR: George Forbes, 345-53 Clarendon St., Sth. Melbourne, Vic. 3205 Two Aussie Ghosts in Ireland 03-690-1455 (w) 03-593-1455 (h) 03-696-2996 (FAX) After ‘Alpine 93’, two of the Australian entries DISPATCH: Eric and May Goudie, went on to tour the Emerald Isle. Kerry Wherry 25 Cowper St., Ainslie, A.C.T. 2602 06-248-5183 tells us all about it in her inimitable style 2358

BRANCH SECRETARIES Front Cover Photo: This magnificent 1923 Silver Ghost (97LK), owned for many years by Richard Knight (Vic.), Australian Capital Territory: has been the subject of along and thorough restoration. Its first reappearance at a Club St. John Herbert, 9 Titheradge PL, event was on October 17th last year when Richard brought it out for a Victoria Branch Chapman, A.C.T. 2611.06-288-0647 (’Phone/FAX) outing to 'Coliban Park'. The striking tourer coachwork is original and of Australian design New South Wales: and construction, by Waring Brothers of Melbourne. Photograph by Graham Cornish. Judith Merlin, 31A Terry Rd., Denistone, N.S.W. 2114. 02-808-3329

Queensland: Brian Brannelly, 50 Dunsmore St., Kelvin Grove, Old. 4059. 07-356-4963 lira South Australia: Melanie Sandford-Morgan, 2 Alexander Ave., Klemzig, S.A. 5087. 08-266-3092

Victoria: Robin Hickman, P.O. Box 330, Vermont, Vic. 3133. 03-872-3233

Western Australia: Jacqui Walker, c/- 53 First Avenue, Rossmoyne, W.A. 6148. 09-298-9116 2348 PR^CLARVM

From the Editor

The engine for the earliest 40/50 No doubt readers would have enjoyed Fred Robinson’s recollections in PRAECLARUM 6-93, p.2305, under the heading 60 546: The Engine for the Oldest 40/50 Rolls-Royce. Since then, however, your Editor has been supplied with information which seems to in­ validate the main thrust of the final paragraph of the article, which tells how the very early 40/50 h.p. engine found and rescued by Fred in about 1961 found its way into Millard Newman's 1907 1939 Bentley 41/4 Litre (B53MX). This car is notable for its extremely desirable combination of Silver Ghost, 60 547. 'M‘ series overdrive chassis and pretty H.J.Mulliner sunroof coupe coachwork. Photo by new It transpires that the engine referred owner Bryan Jones (R.R.E.C.) to by Fred is, in fact, still in Adrian Garrett’s possession in New Zealand and that the engine that went into 60 547 was found quite independently some Events List years later in Queensland. Both engines are very early so it may be assumed that either could be that from chassis 60 546, Branches which is known to have come to Members planning to attend events of other Branches should contact the Australia. More details please. Secretary of the Branch concerned (listed in the front of this journal) for full A Silver Wraith at last! details of times, venues, etc., and of other events not listed here. In these pages I have occasionally May 20-22 N.S. IV. Bruce Ross Memorial Weekend. alluded to my long-standing hankering after an early Silver Wraith. Of the cars June 4 & 5 W.A. Weekend Run to Margaret River. that would satisfy this need, WHD101, a 1950 touring limousine by H.J.Mulliner, May 14-15 Vic. Two-day Phillip Island Rally. is the one that would do so most com­ prehensively. Of the examples I have June 19 N.S.W. Annual Navigation Run. seen over the years, this one, which I first saw in the Melbourne showrooms of September 3-8 A.C.T. ‘Beyond the Black Stump’ International Kellow Falkiner in the mid-1960s, left the Overlander from Canberra to the Federal Rally in deepest impression on me. Nicely close- Toowoomba, Queensland. coupled with that superb, characteristic Members of all Branches invited. Mulliner styling, it looked stunning in Departing Sydney September 4. Kellows’ showroom with its original silver over dark blue paintwork and rich bur­ gundy leather. Completely awe-struck, I Federal sat in the back of the car and the sales­ man gave me a 1948 Silver Wraith September 9-12 36th Annual Federal Rally, Toowoomba, brochure which of course remains a Queensland. Hosted by the Queensland Branch. valued item in my collection. Exactly why Post-Rally Whitsunday Coast Tour follows. a Rolls-Royce salesman would give away such a collectors' item to an im- pecuneous lad of about 16 years old is International one of life’s little mysteries! The next thing I heard about WHD101 June 10-12 R. R. E. C. Annual Rally and Concours, was some years later when I heard that Althorp Park, Northamptonshire, U.K. it had been purchased by a fellow Vic­ toria Branch R.R.O.C. member, Jack July 26-30 ‘Continuing Elegance on Philadelphia’s Main Line' Witham, who used it as a taxi. That’s — the 43rd R.R.O.C. Inc. Annual Meet, right, a taxi. To adapt it for this duty it Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S.A. was painted black and fitted with some- 2-94 2349

what incongruous looking 15" wheels and a taxi meter where the glove com­ partment lid should be! After the taxi-cab stint WHD101 was acquired by Arthur McDermott, late father of Robert. After it passed to Robert McDermott, he used it for a short time before storing it. Robert had several times indicated to me that he did not intend to sell it and that it was his inten­ tion to eventually restore it. Then, in 1992, Robert came to the realisation that he would need to live to a very ripe old age indeed if he were to ever get around to restoring all the cars in his very considerable collection. The Silver Wraith was well down on the list of priorities and so was offered for sale in Concept Java, as exhibited on the Company's stand at last month's Geneva MotorShow. Much the Victoria Branch Newsletter. I ex­ smaller than we have become accustomed to, it is powered by the first Bentley engine of as pressed my interest but Robert seemed little as 3.5 litres capacity since 1936—but with four valves per cylinder and twin turbochargers to get cold feet about selling it so I was to more than make up for the comparitively small capacity! Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Ltd photo. back to looking elsewhere. The break-through came in Novem­ that it owes more than a little of its sporty publishing it. ber last year when my wife and I were in looks to the Continental R. A more com­ Members may be assured that the Melbourne for a Victoria Branch event. A plete report in our next issue. Federal Register is in excellent hands visit to McDermott's is, of course, man­ and will be published on an annual basis datory for any Rolls-Royce and Bentley Federal Register from now on. enthusiast visiting Melbourne. Robert Thanks to a monumental effort by our told me that he had again decided to part new Federal Registrar George Forbes Stolen parts with WHD101 and that he would like me (Vic.), who was appointed by the Federal Members’ attention is drawn to the to have it. We arranged to see it early on Council Meeting in Wagga Wagga, we advertisement under 'Parts Stolen’ in Sunday morning, before the Club event. are now back on track with our Federal Market Place, this issue. Any member Though it is now rather sad looking, Register, which is anticipated to be who comes into contact with any of the all I could see was the vision that was posted out with or soon after this issue of parts described or who has any informa­ burned into my mind all those years ago PRAECLARUM. You will notice that not tion regarding their whereabouts, please in Kellow’s showroom! And it will look only does the Register have a new name, contact Robert McDermott. that way again before too long. The quest CHASSIS PLATE, but also that a novel for a Silver Wraith is at an end. new approach has been taken to Martin Bennett

Concept Java R.R.O.C.A. (A.C.T. Branch) member Gary Wales of Woodland Hills, California, sent this picture At last month’s Geneva Motor Show of himself (left) and his wife Marilynn with Lord Wedgwood on the U. S. national T. V. programme Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Ltd exhibited a HOME SHOW in December last year. Their 1939 Wraith James Young saloon (WEC72) is about to be lowered onto four Wedgwood coffee cups, which of course passed this tough test! new Bentley concept car — i.e. an ex­ perimental model intended to gauge the reaction of potential purchasers in order to reach a well informed decision on whether to proceed with production. The new car, called Concept Java in the Company tradition of giving ex­ perimental cars far eastern place names, represents a radical break with tradition in two significant respects. Firstly, it is much smaller than any recent Rolls- Royce or Bentley car and secondly it is powered by the first entirely new engine since 1959 — a 32-valve, twin-turbo V-8 of only 3.5 litres capacity, developed in conjunction with fellow Vickers group company Cosworth Engineering. The photograph on this page shows 2350 PILECLARVM

From the Federal President

were on our way in another of the PRAECLARUM Tompkins’ proper cars. This was the U.K. trade visitors The history-making December 1993 readily recognisable red-and-black Prior to the cricket match, Tony Ward issue of PRAECLARUM requires my 25/30 (GAR43) from the rear compart­ introduced New South Wales Branch comment. Not only did it provide us with ment of which I regally took in the vista members to two visitors from the U.K. — a marvellous record of the extremely suc­ on the journey to Brooklyn Park — an Eric Healey of Healey Bros and Steve cessful Wagga Wagga Federal Rally but idyllic sports ground on the banks of the Lovatt of Ristes, both manufacturers of it was Martin Bennett’s sixtieth edition Hawkesbury just short of the little spare parts for Rolls-Royce and Bentley handled with professional aplomb over township of Brooklyn, which had only just cars. The following week the South ten years. Martin we congratulate you escaped the recent bushfires. Australian Branch was fortunate in host­ and are humbled by your commitment to The occasion was the Annual Cricket ing these gentlemen, along with Neil expend even more time and effort on Match between the Branch and the McLean from Western Australia, at a future editions. We should all be very Vintage Motor Club, this year hosted by small gathering where we learned of their proud of our Federal Journal, which is not the V.M.C., and this was the justification work in the spare parts field. only avidly read here in Australia but I had given for making the journey. It was finds its way to all corners of the globe. a great decision. Throughout the day I Federal correspondence and Rallies was able to make contact with many Unfortunately, over the past six Club laser printer N.S.W. members, which on more formal months letters on Federal matters have By the time this issue has reached occasions might not have been so easy. been widely circulated before the you the laser printer which we have had Long-standing as well as very new mem­ Federal Executive has been alerted. I on approval and which has been used by bers gave me the feeling the trip was very reiterate that all correspondence dealing Martin Bennett for PRAECLARUM from worthwhile. I thank the New South Wales with Federal matters should be address­ issue 5-93 will be paid for at an ad­ Branch members for their hospitality. ed to the Federal Secretary. vantageous price negotiated in our I am plesed to report that Kim One widely circulated letter queried favour by Federal Treasurer David Miller. Stapleton as Captain lead the R.R.O.C. my contention in PRAECLARUM 6-93 Thus with these achievements — the team to victory. Modified indoor rules (p.2285) that the Federal Rally is held Wagga Wagga Rally, PRAECLARUM were used. The V.M.C. batted first and each year at a venue agreed by the and the acquisition of the laser printer — produced only a modest score. Your Federal Council. The letter suggests that we have a great deal for which to thank Federal President was invited to take the there is nothing in the Deed of Agree­ various members of our Australian Capi­ field to bowl and in one otherwise ment between the Branches requiring tal Territory Branch. unimpressive over captured one wicket. such agreement and no precedent for After several awkward fielding attempts I Federal Council having control over the Official Branch visits then retired with the excuse that I had choice of Rally venues. I would like to Continuing my endeavour to visit each Club P.R. work to attend to! Actually a maKe it very clear that this is incorrect on Branch of the Club during my elected two few old muscles short of work were both counts. I refer you to Clause 17.1.8 year term of office I am happy to report making themselves felt. By the time it of the Agreement, which clearly gives the upon a very pleasant trip to officially visit was my turn to bat the R.R.O.C. team Federal body responsibility for where the the New South Wales Branch. had thankfully passed the V.M.C. score. Rally is to be held. It is organised each Branch President Bob Tompkins col­ Captain Kim Stapleton, not wishing to year in turn by one of the Branches on lected me at Sydney airport on the embarrass the V.M.C., dropped me from behalf of Federal Council. It is not a evening of Saturday, January 22nd. I the batting line-up and replaced me with Branch event to which it then invites the was briskly transported through the a very keen young lad who, proudly sup­ other Branches. Submissions by the host maze of Sydney streets and traffic in the ported by his dad (a Club member), had Branch as to where and when the Rally Tompkins’ uncomplaining Bentley S1 come fully equipped for a day’s cricket. is to be held have always been, and (B367AP) to their home where Bob and To my delight, this youngster devoured remain, subject to Federal Council Melva kindly looked after me until Mon­ the opposition bowling and produced ratification. I hope this clears up any day. some shots worthy of many far more fallacies about our Federal Rallies. Sunday dawned with promise and mature players. It was a great day with continued its excellent picnic weather our score greatly eclipsing that of our Happy Motoring, throughout the day. By 9.00 a.m. we opponents. Peter Cox 2-94 2351

The Napier-Bentley

by Nigel Ferguson-Walker

The manuscript for this article, which is on an unsuspecting public. This evening The dinner gong, sounded by the butler elated 1960, was found in a box of old she was in a sunny mood and the lorgnette whose name I am ashamed to say that I papers by J.N.B.Collins, Editor of the remained sheathed. Of Uncle Colin there have forgotten, boomed out on the stroke Malaysia and Singapore Vintage Car was no sign. His absence caused me not of eight as my Uncle detested eating late. Register Magazine, when he was living in the least surprise, as he heartily disliked all We trooped into the dining room, with Negombo, Sri Lanka, and with whose social gatherings, but I asked where he myself wondering which of the old bores permission it is published here. It was was. I was going to be trapped with, when I passed on to PRAECLARUM by Russell “He’s in that wretched shed of his”, found myself sitting next to Mr Hanis. He Burge (Vic.), who is a member of the M. & said Aunt Constance, “Go and fetch him now seemed to be in a slightly jollier mood S.V.C.R. please, and tell him that the guests are after a couple of glasses of sherry and arriving”. unbent further as the meal progressed. In­ Although there has been speculation in At her bidding, I walked out into the deed we entered into quite an animated print of the connection between garden, past the laurel hedge and down a conversation during the course of which I W.O.Bentley and Napier, these references path to a comer of the grounds where my related my experiences of recent years and have quite failed to tell the true story of uncle had his “hut”. Although leading a of my endeavours at Alvis, the unfortunate what might have been the most remarkable blameless life, Uncle Colin had one pas­ outcome, and my present need for employ­ automotive partnership of all time. Since I sion and that was collecting books about ment. At the mention of employment, a was there when these events occurred, I toadstools and fungii. These objects of his glazed look came into his eyes, and soon have decided to record the true story of the passion were not allowed in the house as he was talking to the guest on his left, a Napier-Bentley. Aunt Constance hated them and thought Mrs Frobisher, about the care of Pekinese When my temporary sojourn as acting they were a source of dust or disease or dogs in sickness and in health, and we did chief designer for Alvis came to an end in something dreadful of that nature. Rather not speak again until the end of the even­ 1930, as I have previously recounted, it than get rid of his collection, Uncle elected ing, when we were all gathering our coats was my avowed intention never to take up to keep his library in the old summerhouse prior to departing. As I was putting on my work in the motor car industry again. I left in the garden, and this was where I found overcoat, he came up to me and gave me Coventry, took lodgings in Richmond, him, seated in a battered but comfortable his card and said, “Come and see me at my Surrey, and contemplated my future. The old armchair, sipping sherry and leafing office tomorrow. I may be able to help beginning of the thirties was a difficult through one of his prized volumes. you”. time in Britain and elsewhere in Europe Uncle Colin was a very nice old boy I was somewhat taken aback, as his and America and the depression still bit with a fund of good stories about colonial manner at dinner had not been very help­ deeply. I scoured the papers for interesting life, but inclined, if one was not careful, to ful, but I was very pleased at the outcome. jobs in the engineering industry and went wander off on the subject of Lycoperdon At this time, Napier were very well known to several interviews, but nothing resulted. Giganteum and Fistula Hepatica not to in the aero engine field, although perhaps It was a dreary time, which was only mention AmanitaRubescens. This evening being outstripped by Rolls-Royce, and it relieved by visits to Brooklands in my I was able to steer the trend of conversation was years since they had made any motor Alvis 12/50 Ducksback. I had acquired this back to the approaching dinner, and after cars. Perhaps this was going to be the great car in Coventry and liked it so much that I some pungent remarks about “wretched opportunity I had been looking for, and I vowed never to be parted from it, and I people always disturbing me”, I was able returned that night to my lodgings in good never have been. to get him to the house. spirits. Now it so happened that an uncle of The guests seemed to be the usual col­ The very next day I travelled to Acton mine, Doctor Colin Barton, also lived in lection of local notables, and not really where Napier had their works and found Richmond, and one evening, as quite often very interesting, except for one who turned Mr Harris ’ office, situated in a rather grimy occurred, I was invited to dine at his river­ out to be a Mr Harris, who I was told was brick building, typical of British industrial side house, “The Limes”. Uncle Colin and a director of the Napier Company. Mr premises of the time. Inside was all brown Aunt Constance lived in a large Georgian Harris was a fine upstanding old gentle­ linoleum and cream paint and bare light house, and although they had no children, man whose chief observable feature was a bulbs. I found Mr Harris’ secretary and the house was always crowded partly due large white walrus moustache, which he introduced myself. I was then ushered into to the large collection of curios that they was inclined to puff up when annoyed, Harris’ office which, in great contrast to had acquired during years of living in the which seemed to be often. We were intro­ what I had just seen, was a richly appointed Federated Malay States and partly because duced before dinner but he took no great room more in keeping with Napier’s Aunt Constance liked having visitors. notice of me, being more concerned in reputation as a wealthy and successful When I arrived on this occasion, I was discussing with my Aunt the iniquities of company. The walls were covered by greeted by Aunt Constance, a formidable certain local shopkeepers, a matter of al­ mahogany panelling and gloomy portraits woman who used a lorgnette to good effect most never ending comment by her. of the founders of the firm stared down at 2352 PRA'CLARVM

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______■______The original Bentley company's most luxurious model was the fabulous 8 Litre. Napier's intention was to build a Napier-Bentley car to challenge Rolls-Royce's supremacy at the very top of the luxury car pyramid, a position with room for only one manufacturerand which, of course, Rolls-Royce still occupies today. This is a 1931 Bentley 8 Litre (YX5110) with saloon coachwork by H.J.Mulliner. Photo by Klaus-Josef Rotifeldt (R.R.E.C.) me, whilst underfoot there were a couple “We are going to start motor car simple agreement, Harris explained what of excellent oriental carpets. Mr Harris manufacture again and I want you to assist Napier proposed to do. “Before the Great rose from behind a substantial desk, the top our new chief designer”. War, we produced very fine motor cars, of which was almost entirely covered with Harris smiled as he spoke these words, technically far in advance of Rolls-Royce, papers and what looked like ledgers. “Wel­ little knowing that it was the last thing in but the fact is that Charlie Rolls was a come my boy, welcome”, was his opening the world that I wanted to hear. He must better salesman than Edge, and Rolls- remark, “Now sit down and make yourself have seen my face fall, and immediately Royce cornered our market. After the War comfortable”. drew the wrong conclusion because he we had labour troubles and we could not I was a little overwhelmed by his greet­ rushed on. “You realise that we could not deliver, and we lost our market again”. ing as he had been much less effusive the appoint someone as young as yourself as At this point he got up and started to evening before, but I was pleased nonethe­ chief designer, and in any case we have walk about the room as he spoke. “We are less. already appointed..., no, no, I cannot tell going to build the best car in the world “I have some good news for you”, he you yet as it is still secret. If you take the again, and we have the resources to do it. said. “I can see that you are an experienced position, you can start on Monday, and Our new Chief Designer is without peer, engineer and I am looking for someone then you will know”. and you will be able to support him ad­ like you for a very special project”. I was of course intrigued as to who the mirably. You must understand that we are This was indeed good news. Was I to new chief designer could be, and why his going to attain the highest possible stand­ be put in charge of a new aeroplane engine identity was so secret. I also realised that I ards and nothing must be allowed to design for a Schneider Trophy racer, or to was really in no position to decline such a interfere with this”. produce an engine for a Land Speed position, so I swallowed my pride and “Do you have a particular market in Record Car? Or perhaps something more accepted the quite generous, for the times, mind?” I asked. esoteric. After all, Napier used to build terms, and agreed to commence work as “Yes”, he said quietly, “we intend to printing presses and coin making Assistant Chief Designer (Motor Cars) on take over the entire luxury car market and machines. These hopes were soon to be the following Monday. that means pushing Rolls-Royce out”. dashed. As soon as we had completed the I now began to realise how serious 2-94 2353

Napier were. named Perkins. I was then shown to my now sat with Mr Bentley and he explained “Now I want you to meet Major Hal­ office which in reality was a cubicle at the what we were to do. The design of the new ford”. end of the drawing office. There was a car was to be put on the drawing boards Halford was Napier’s aero engine glazed partition between it and the draw­ immediately, and as he himself had other designer, although not at this time per­ ing office, and the room had a rather dirty duties, whatever they might have been, I manently attached to the company, as he window overlooking the yard below. I was was to act on his behalf in his absence. The preferred to be an independent consultant. then left to my own devices. room which I occupied was equipped with He had a long career in the aero engine It did not take me long to distribute my a drawing board and I had plenty of paper business and had designed some famous modest possessions around the room, and and pencils, so I suggested that he might engines and so I looked forward to meeting on the desk. I had made myself as comfort­ sketch out some details of what he wanted him. I was led by Mr Harris’ secretary able as I could when I heard the noise of a so that I could commence detail design and down a corridor with my footsteps ringing car driving into the yard and the sound of organise the drawing office. But no, this out on the hard linoleum, until we reached a door closing. Looking, with some dif­ was not what Bentley wanted at all. He a brown varnished door with the name ficulty, through the grimy window, I saw talked instead, and I took notes. When I say ‘Major Halford’ marked on it in white a splendid sight below. An 8 Litre Bentley he talked, do not imagine a fluent descrip­ letters. I knocked and a voice bade me saloon had drawn up, and out of it was tion of his concept of the Napier-Bentley enter. stepping a quietly dressed man. I could not car. No, it was a most disjointed exposi­ Halford welcomed me into his austere see who it was, but I assumed that it was tion, with an almost never ending stream book lined office, and soon launched into some important visitor to the works. I took of questions interjected by himself. I am a comprehensive questioning of my educa­ no further interest and returned to arrang­ not sure which one of us was the most tion, experience and abilities. I was rather ing my office, when I became aware of a exhausted at the end of that day. Bentley irritated at this as I believed that I was figure standing silently outside the glazed had of course developed many ideas with already an established engineer in my own door. I recognised him instantly. It was Mr the design of rotary aero engines in the first right, but I kept my feelings to myself, as W.O.Bentley. world war and the Bentley motor car of the after all, this was Napier. I presume that I So this was the new chief designer 1920s, although the latter were based on conducted myself in a satisfactory manner, whose name was so secret. I cheered up pre-World War I practice, and somewhat because when the catechism came to an immediately, as working with England’s outdated by 1931. This is not to say that he end, I was offered a cup of tea. Halford most famous sporting motor car engineer was completely conservative in design, now became much more friendly and we would be something that I would enjoy. I but he did cling to what one might call discussed motor car engineering at some darted to the door, opened it and invited steam locomotive engineering practice. length, although he admitted that he him­ Bentley in. “Good morning sir”, I said, “do I soon discovered that the other prob­ self was not actually involved with come in, my name is Ferguson-Walker”. lem I had to contend with, was that of the Napier’s intended re-entry into car Bentley smiled shyly and shook hands. relationship between Bentley and Halford, manufacture, but he did not elaborate. He He did not say anything but gave a slight with myself trapped between them. Hal­ next invited me on a tour of inspection of grunt. I was somewhat at a loss. What ford was the aeroplane engine man and had the works, which was most interesting. should I do next? Bentley then found his nothing to do with the car side of the Manufacture of the famous Lion aero voice. “Mr Harris has told you about all the business, but he was a keen automotive engine was beginning to come to an end, arrangements, of course?” engineer and had indeed built his own but construction of the prototype 16- I knew nothing about any “arrange­ racing car, known as the Halford Special, cylinder Dagger engine had just ments”, and told him so. A frown creased and felt that he knew all about cars. Equal­ commenced, and this was impressive Bentley’sbrow. “Oh”, he said,“that makes ly, Bentley had once been a designer of power plant indeed. My tour of the works things rather difficult”. aero engines and thought he knew all about convinced me that Napier certainly had the Again there was a silence, and in the that subject. The result was that they inter­ resources to produce the finest possible end, I felt that it was up to me to say fered in each other’s field of influence with motor car. We parted on excellent terms, something. “Perhaps you could tell me somewhat explosive results. This is not to and I looked forward to seeing him again what the arrangements are?” say that they disliked each other, far from when I took up my new position a week It then transpired that Bentley was it. But as soon as technical matters were later. secretly designing a new car for Napier, as discussed, the fur would fly, and on many I arrived at the works in my 12/50 Alvis they were going to buy the Bentley com­ occasions they would march out of the on the appointed day with my suit neatly pany including the services of Bentley office in opposite directions leaving me to pressed, and wearing a new trilby hat, and himself. However, this proposed transac­ try and carry on where they left off. The carrying my battered briefcase, which had tion was not common knowledge and it basis of the arguments was that Halford belonged to my father, and which con­ was apparently essential that no-one was interested in high power and design of tained some reference books, my should know what was going on. Arriving a most advanced type, whilst Bentley was notebooks and a slide-rule, without which at the Napier works in an 8 Litre Bentley rather more cautious in his approach. Hal­ no engineer moved in those days. I did not seem to come under the heading of ford would have been quite happy to reported to Major Halford who greeted me secrecy, but I assumed that those in charge consider a supercharged, air-cooled, in a friendly manner and showed me the knew better than myself how to manage sleeve valve engine for the new car, whilst drawing office and introduced me to the this cloak and dagger affair. Bentley would suggest fixed head, liquid- chief draughtsman, a lugubrious fellow Having cleared the air, so to speak, I cooled blocks for aero engines. 2354 PR/ECLARVM

rather heavy, was a masterpiece of Bentley design. It had independent front suspen­ sion by equal wishbones but with torsion bar springing. This was very much Bentley’s idea, but I believe that he had studied certain continental designers’ work before embarking on this unusual feature. The torsion bars were very long and reached back half way along the chassis, the ends being held in serrated steel clamps which allowed necessary ad­ justment. The chassis was of channel section. A massive front cross member supported the engine and wishbone bear­ ings, and the centre of the chassis was cross braced, with the gearbox partially sup­ ported by the two arms of the cross. The rear axle was of mixed construc­ tion with a cast aluminium alloy banjo with The Napier-Bentley car engine was to have been a 7Vz Litre V-12 of advanced design for its steel sleeves for the fully floating half period, with a single chain-driven overhead camshaft for each head and 'wet' cylinder liners. shafts. A spiral bevel final drive was fitted Rolls-Royce, on the other hand, would not sanction the use of overhead camshafts or chain and I think that the ratio was 3.77:1. The drives, for noise reasons, but they did use 'wet' liners for their aluminium alloy Phantom III V-12 axle was supported on semi-elliptic engine, which came five years later. Note the side-by-side connecting rods, where Rolls-Royce used a fork-and-blade arrangement for the PHI. springs and adjustable hydraulic dampers were fitted all round. The brake drums were cast iron, 14" diameter, well ribbed The other problem that I had was due to more than ten years. At first Bentley was and the shoes aluminium. Brake actuation Bentley’s method of working. He did not reluctant to design a twelve cylinder was by an hydraulic system. produce any drawings or calculations and engine, but later became a great enthusiast For reasons that at the time I did not he was what one might call an intuitive for the type. Indeed it was the experience fully appreciate, there was a tremendous engineer. He would tell me what he wanted with the Napier-Bentley which led Bentley urgency about the design and the whole and then I would have to design it in detail to design the V-12 Lagonda some years office worked late every night to produce and have it drawn up. He would then look later. the drawings. As each drawing was com­ at the drawings and agree — or more often Materials specified for the engine were pleted, I would check it, and then it would disagree — with what had been done. of the highest quality. The detachable be passed on to Bentley for his final ap­ Many details and specifications he would heads, blocks and the crankcase, were all proval. He had an uncanny knack of leave to me, but some matters he was cast in Elektron which gave a very light spotting errors or weaknesses in design, adamant about, and nothing that I could do engine and drew upon Napier’s expertise and these he would point out to me with a or say would change his mind. in the field of aero engines. The seven­ grunt. I was expected to put right whatever The heart of the new car was a single bearing crankshaft was of massive was wrong, immediately. This was really overhead camshaft twelve cylinder engine proportions and ran in whitemetal bear­ no problem at all as Napier had a very fine of 85 x 110 m.m. bore and stroke, giving a ings, whilst the connecting rods were of draughting office and staff second to none, capacity of 7 Vi litres. Originally the drive duralumin, run directly on the crankshaft. and the design proceeded speedily. to the camshaft was to have been by triple The block had wet liners of cast iron, with Harris had insisted that all the drawings eccentrics as on the 61/2 and 8 Litre stainless steel inspection plates. The water should be completed and approved before Bentleys, but I persuaded him — one of pump body was bronze with a stainless any work on the construction of a my few successes — to drop this in favour steel impeller. Two oil pumps were used, prototype could commence. This of course of a simple roller chain drive. The wedge one for the pressure feed system to the was a sensible approach, and certainly shaped combustion chambers had two crankshaft and big ends, and the second for would save time in the long run as well as valves each and one sparking plug. Dual the valve gear. A three gallon sump was preventing much wasted effort, but it was ignition with magneto and coil was used. fitted with a float indication for the oil frustrating as I dearly wanted to see the Bentley’s original idea was for a six level. construction of the new car started. We had cylinder 110 x 110 m.m. engine of 6Ut The multi-plate clutch had hydraulic discussions about building the prototype, litres, which would have been very similar actuation. The gearbox was a separate unit. which was going to be constructed in the to the then current 8 Litre Bentley engine, I wanted it to be in unit with the engine, experimental shop and we had earmarked but this was vetoed by the Napier Board of but Bentley insisted on a separate gearbox. an old body and radiator, circa 1920, to Directors. They wanted an engine with It had an Elektron casing and four speeds, mount on the new chassis, to disguise its twelve cylinders to reflect their aero en­ with a right-hand change. real identity during road testing. gine quality image, as well as an engine The chassis was a major change from Then the blow came. One morning I that could be developed over a period of previous Bentley practice and although was discussing some details with Bentley, 2-94 2355 when he was called away to a meeting with nor his design”. Editorial postscript: Napier never Mr Harris. He never came back. Later in “But what about all our drawings?” I built motor cars again and went on to the morning, I saw him drive away in his said. “Bum them”, growled Harris, and become part of The English Electric 8 Litre, with a stem expression on his face. showed me to the door. Company, building turbochargers for I had no idea what had occurred, until I was I tottered back to the office. It had hap­ English Electric diesel engines and such called into Harris’ office. He was in a foul pened to me again. I almost wept with the oddities as the ‘Deltic’ triple-bank, mood and made a series of extremely rude frustration and waste of it all. I was soon opposed piston, triple crankshaft remarks, the subject being a mysterious joined by the chief draughtsman, Perkins, high-speed diesel engines. These were “they”. After a time, he calmed down and who had obviously heard the news through used in Royal Navy fast patrol boats and explained. the office grapevine. He was never very also powered the famous English Electric Napier had been secretly bidding for jolly at the best of times, but he now looked 'Deltic' diesel-electric locomotives which purchase of the bankrupt Bentley business even more like a bloodhound with a secret provided the motive power for the world's and were completely confident that they sorrow. “Is it true sir?”, he asked in an first regular 100 mph train services would be successful in obtaining the awed voice. “I’m afraid that it is, Perkins”, between London, the north-east of company’s assets, including Mr Bentley. I said, “Please ask the men to gather up all England and Edinburgh, in the early 1960s. However, at the last minute, they had been the drawings and take them down to the Napier, along with English Electric, are now outbid by their hated aero engine manufac­ incinerator and bum them immediately”. part of the giant Anglo-French turing rivals, Rolls-Royce. Harris fumed Perkins trudged out, and I soon saw the GEC-Alsthom group of companies. Napier on about their iniquitous behaviour, and draughtsmen collecting bundles of paper state-of-the-art turbochargers for diesel made many more rude suggestions about and tearing drawings from their boards and engines, mainly for rail traction, are used them. When I could make him listen to me, departing from the office. There was little all over the world. I asked about the prototype car. “I assume else for me to do. I collected together my Rolls-Royce put their own interpretation that we will continue to build it”, I said. personal possessions and put them in my on the Bentley motor car to produce "The “You may not assume anything of the briefcase, and left. Silent Sports Car" in the 1930s. The Bentley sort”, he said, “Bentley goes to Rolls- is, of course, still a famous product of Royce, and we can neither use his name Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Ltd today. — Ed.

Old Coachbuilders Recall:

some notes by Tom Clarke

In 19891 began to contact survivors of trade as a draughtsman with the small their specialist expertise as did reviving the coachbuilding trade in preparation for provincial coachbuilders Rock, Thorpe & coachbuilders like Hooper & Co. in mat­ a seminar on this topic proposed by the Watson Ltd. of Tunbridge Wells in Kent. ters such as sun roofs, convertible hoods, R.R.E.C. In the event the seminar did not He joined Hooper & Co. for two years and trim. go ahead but some fasci nating material from 1945 after leaving the Royal Air One of the most interesting career was collected. As a tribute to those who Force, working as a scale drawing memoirs came from Harold E. Philpot, wrote down their experiences I thought it draughtsman. Towards the end of 1947 he now of Virginia, U.S.A. He had read an would be worthwhile collating their infor­ became the styling designer and technical appendix on Park Ward design methods, mation for publication. The coachbuilding representative of H.J. Mulliner & Co. written by Peter Wharton of Park Ward & trade, largely based in and around London, under the great Stanley J. Watts, Technical Co., which appeared in my book The pretty well vanished as distinctive ancient Director. Those elegant and distinctive Rolls-Royce Wraith (1986). This inspired companies and their almost equally an­ pre-War Mulliner lines were constantly him to add his own recollections. Philpot cient techniques were overwhelmed by reinterpreted in their capable hands. Not studied body design from 1930 at the all-metal body building. Today several long after Mulliners and Park Ward were Regent Street Polytechnic School of new strands can be distinguished in the combined by Rolls-Royce Ltd in 1961 Motor Body Building after winning a trade modem trade: the customisation of new Nye moved on because the scope for scholarship. (The Polytechnic was ab­ bodies; the cutting and lengthening of design and individuality disappeared, par­ sorbed by the new University of standard bodies (very occasionally a one- ticularly after the Silver Shadow. He Westminster in 1992.) George Moseley, off will be created on a standard floor pan); continued to work as a design consultant who joined Park Ward in 1935, started and finally replica bodies on old chassis which included some Rolls-Royce work. with him, and Wharton (at Park Ward some of which involves all the wood frame George Moseley lately of H.J. Mul­ 1934-79) a few years later. and aluminium techniques of old. Al­ liner, Park Ward and Stuart Peck of Philpot started as a draughtsman at though there are many fine practitioners Mulliners Ltd (Birmingham) were others Park Ward & Co. and set up a drawing the latter is not the trade we once knew. who entered the consultancy field at this table in the office of ‘the old man’, Herbert G.R. Nye began his life in the time. Large car manufacturers welcomed Charles W. Ward. (The latter’s article on 2356 PR^CLARVM

William Macdonald Park. He was a hot- sliding cap tempered firebrand who took responsibility for Scottish customers. In those days the Scottish Motor Show was slots an important fixture and sales were usual­ ly good. Coachbuilders entered the ballots to be allocated stands at the important London and Scottish shows. When riled by a badly made body in progress Park was known to wrench traditional commode door handles clear out of the woodwork and would even take a saw to every stand­ ing pillar above the belt line. Like Royce both Park and Ward were inclined to fire people on the spot and then wonder why 2 differentI depths/ they were not at work the next morning. Philpot saw that it was a form of bullying — the more you took of it the more you got! Sanity prevailed elsewhere in the upper echelons, however, in the form of com­ pany secretary W.C. Falconer, S. Penney the works manager and Miss Haines who spot weld was in charge of the general office. Finan­ ces were in the hands of a Mr Judelson and Mr Wood assisted by a Canadian, Patricia Crandall (later Mrs A.C. Hepburn). Phil­ pot left Park Ward in 1947. Albert H. Sibthorpe then joined the Full Size Draw­ Park Ward Meltz section. Drawn by the author. ing Office although he later went to the big body panels company Briggs in Dagen­ ham. In this post-War period Mark Young, ex-Mayfair coachbuilders, joined as a the evolution of coachwork from 1919 to the other when the desired shape had draughtsman and John M.P. Blatchley, ex­ appeared in PRAECLARUM in Dec. been reached the structure was ‘ locked up ’. Gurney Nutting, was attached from 1971.) Ward (1891-1963) was evolving The U-section could have one side higher Rolls-Royce at Belper to the Customer his all-steel construction system (launched than the other to create bevels. It was used Drawing Office. As is widely known, in 1934) and was at loggerheads with his for cantrails, roof and boot stiffeners, and Blatchley was soon working with Full Size Drawing Office chief Arthur scuttle side members. The new construc­ Evemden on the Bentley Continental and Sparks (with the company until 1949), tion was used extensively, for batch then went back to Crewe to design the who promoted a rival method. Ward production only, on 414 litre Bentleys; Silver Cloud. (He was also responsible for began to use extruded and rolled steel sec­ some Wraiths were also either all-steel or the ‘long boot’ Silver Dawn and Bentley tions, sourced from Germany and supplied steel frame with aluminium panels. R-type and from around 1952 also by F.J. Frodsham & Co. Some were Greater rigidity was achieved as well as designed all of Park Ward's coachwork. square box and some rectangular, with some weight saving. From 1938 Park — Ed.) flanges around which outer panels could Ward were building five all-metal bodies Philpot emigrated to the United States be clinched. Another type of section used per week alongside their traditional wood and in later years started the R.M.S. Queen was slotted which permitted easy bending. framed or composite types. In fact there Elizabeth Historical Society. Here he These probably originated from a sub­ were not enough workers available trained produced detailed scale drawings for contract with the Meltz ‘brothers’. ‘Joe’, in the new all-metal method. modellers and historians. He also taught ‘Buddy’ and ‘Uncle’ Meltz, who were As was usual in many aspects of the body design in Detroit. probably not true brothers though relat ed, trade panelling was done by two Peter Wharton remained at Park Ward were not on the Park Ward payroll but individuals on a sub-contract basis but on having started in 1934 just as Rolls-Royce worked closely with them and naturally the premises. When panelling of steel Ltd took a financial stake in the company, were despised by the ‘wood’ boys, the bodies was undertaken it was done ‘up the with control coming in 1939. He stayed traditionalists! road’ by Turner & Savage. The first run of into the days of ‘body engineering’ when The Meltz steel section patented by all-steel bodies, however, still had wood he welcomed the more traditional work Park Ward comprised a slotted U-section framed doors but panelled in steel. special Phantom Vs and Vis sometimes capped with a plain sliding top section. Park Ward had its wilder side par­ entailed. During the War he became a jig Both could bend and by spot welding one ticularly in the shape of co-founder and tool draughtsman for Park Ward’s aero 2-94 2357

work. After the War he regretted the loss of Park Ward’s independence as it was forced to use Crewe standard steel panels and other hardware on its bodies. This saved it economically from the same fate as Hooper, Freestone & Webb, Windovers etc, but it robbed Park Ward bodies of their full individuality. After the retirement of Ward in 1955 came difficult years with strikes and economic depression. Better times were ahead with the Silver Clouds and S Series, both coachbuilt (Bentley Continental chassis) and extended stand­ ard bodies (long wheelbase chassis). In the J 1960s Park Ward was lucky to be building Daimler hearses and bodies for Alvis cars. At least the name lives on, now at Crewe, to remind us of a great chapter in coach­ building. “The elegant and distinctive pre-War H.J.Mulliner lines were constantly reinterpreted in their capable hands." This is a 1949 Silver Wraith (WGC3), an example of Mulliners' first post-war close-coupled styling (design number 7062), usually a touring limousine and, more rarely, a saloon without division. Many elements of their pre-war styling are evident. Photo by the Editor.

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& & 2358 PR/ECLARVM

Keith & Kerry Wherry's 1911 Silver Ghost (1606) at Dromoland Castle, County Adare, Ireland.

Two Aussie Ghosts in Ireland

The Veteran Motor Car Club of America 1993 Irish Transcontinental Reliability Tour and the 90th Anniversary International Gordon Bennett Rally

by Kerry Wherry (N.S.W.)

At the end of Kerry’s extremely Chris the ever helpful host. to Ireland! “The Jeremys” (Jeremy & enjoyable article ‘Alpine ’93‘ in After Munich we drove through the Breda Greene ofWestern Australia—Ed.) PRAECLARUM 5-93, she referred to the Black Forest region and along the had left from St Malo two days earlier to 90th Anniversary Gordon Bennett Rally and French/German border, spent a night in the meet Breda’s family in Cork. the Irish Transcontinental Reliability Tour, hills behind the beautiful town of Baden adding “But therein lies another tale..." The Baden, meeting up the following evening Ghosts on tour in Ireland following article is that other tale! with the Milvertons at the Champagne What a delightful country, and such capital, Reims. A wonderful farewell din­ friendly people. It was wonderful to meet Across Europe to Ireland ner with these good friends before they up again with Millard & Maggie Newman After leaving Vienna and Budapest headed back to England and we went south who were organising the tour and who had following the completion in July 1993 of to Evreux. We skirted Paris and by pre-ar- chosen to bring their 1912 tourer (chassis the wonderful 80th anniversary re-enact­ rangement were delighted to meet Derek 2011) from their stable of ten Silver ment of the original 1913 Austrian Alpine & Avril Harris waiting beside the road for Ghosts. Not once was the hood erected on Trials, we pointed The Melbourne Qhost us in their magnificent Phantom II their car during the whole three weeks, westwards and headed down the autobahn sedanca. This car was specially built for its notwithstanding the Irish mist (translated, towards Munich. We spent several enjoy­ original owner for continental touring and that means rain and more rain!) Every able days with Christopher Leefe, the its specification includes dual second year Millard arranges a Transcon­ principal European Liaison organiser for mile/kilometre speedometer, long-range tinental Tour, usually from one side of the Alpine ’93 (and himself the owner of two fuel tanks, double luggage trunks and the United States to the other, on behalf of the Silver Ghosts!) and with his very able like. Derek and Avril are great vintage Veteran Car Club of America. This year he helpers Klaus Muller and Renate Gunther. tourists and attend most rallies in Europe decided to hold the tour in Ireland, and a We enjoyed visiting the wonderful and England. We spent a delightful eve­ total of 37 Veteran (i.e. pre-1915) cars, Bavarian countryside and the famous ning at their home before driving down the including some eleven Silver Ghosts, castles of King Ludwig, namely coast to Cherbourg the following day to registered for these Irish Reliability Trials. Neuschwanstein and Linderhof, with catch the overnight ferry and cross the sea Ghost owners in the American contin- 2-94 2359 gent included Scott & June Isquick (1913 Silver Ghost chassis 2651) who suffered the misfortune of being run off the road by an Israeli tourist. Once their Ghost had been righted by helpful onlookers, Scott primed the fuel and it started on the switch! John & Eleanor Baird were in their attrac­ tive 1914 Silver Ghost chassis 31EB. Also on the tour with their Ghosts were Terry & Maureen Spilsbury in their 1925 Springfield tourer (S120ML) and Ed & Mary Rowan in their 1913 L-to-E-style h 91 tourer (18NA), both of whom had been with us on the Alpine rally. We also met with Henry Petronis in his original-bodied 1914 Alpine Eagle (17RB) with the same Alpine specification as John Kennedy’s Radley car. Henry had started on Alpine Con & Vai Keogh (W.A.) at Russborough House, Blessington. near Dublin, flanked by the ’93 in June but had left following the death Wherrys’ 1911 Silver Ghost (1606) and Henry Petronis' 1914 Silver Ghost (17RB). of his wife. Others who came along but left their the Congo. In 1900 he established a motor an offer which was eagerly accepted as the Ghosts in the garage included Frank & racing challenge on the basis that the win­ house had ample bedrooms, hot and cold Genevieve Talavero, DeNea & Patti ning country would host the following running water and a flushing lavatory Stafford who brought their 1937 Wraith year’s race. Won by France for the first two (then still a novelty). There was a mile long (beautifully restored by John Dennison, years, in 1902 it was won by Great Britain. avenue leading to the house on which the who was in Australia for the Ballarat Racing then being illegal on English cars could be tested away from the public Federal Rally), Bill & Rita Haines and Ray roads, a decision was made to hold the gaze. & Beverley Lutgert (who own twelve 1903 event in Ireland and a 370 mile Three weeks before the event the Ghosts including eight pre-WWI cars!) course was set around Dublin. The British British Napier team arrived at Rheban Senator George Wingard and his wife team was based at Athy on the farm of Mr Castle. Napier’s S.F.Edge was the most Rhea also left their Ghost behind in favour Harry Large, which adjoined the ruin of determined in practising and covered the of their powerful 1904 Fiat, which was Rheban Castle, only three miles from the complete race circuit 40 times beforehand, overtaken only by Tom Lester (of Lester course. Large had been a keen cyclist and wearing out almost 100 tyres. Many of Tyre fame) in his magnificent 1908 had raced in Britain for Dunlop which had these tyres, spare parts and other Mercedes. Hudson & Wilma Fowler (who brought him into contact with S.F.Edge memorabilia lay about the farm for years participated in the 1988 Bicentennial Rally and J.W.Stocks who were originally afterwards. Today only Edge’s motoring from Adelaide to Sydney) brought their successful racing cyclists. Harry large coat is thought to survive. 1909 Packard. Michael & Cynthia Sierra offered to accommodate the British team, The ruin of Rheban Castle, which were in their 1911 Pope Hartford, having sold their 1912 Silver Ghost (1888) which formerly belonged to Victoria Branch Again at Russborough House, Terry Cohn’s 1913 Silver Ghost (2534) with tourer coachwork by R.R.O.C.A. member Dare Watkins. Kellner of Paris. Gordon Bennett Rally We were looking forward to participat­ ing in the 90th Anniversary of the International Gordon Bennett Rally, one of the reasons for our visit to Ireland. Gor­ don Bennett was the owner of the Paris edition of the New York Times, and whilst not noted as a particular sportsman him­ self, he frequently supported international events, sponsored by his newspaper, in­ cluding the notable mission by the explorer Henry Stanley to Africa to find the missing English missionary Dr David Livingstone. Other sponsorships included the America’s Cup yacht race and various aeronautical events and expeditions to find the North Pole and to explore Alaska and 2360 PRyECLARVM

The Rules of the Gordon Bennett Trophy Race stipulated that:

1. The cars must be made entirely in the country which they represented; 2. Only gentleman drivers would be allowed to compete; 3. Each year it should be held in the country which had won it previously.

In any event, the 1903 race was won by Belgian-born Camile Jenatzy, who ■■■ averaged 49.2 m.p.h. for the 370 mile race. One of the British Napiers driven by Jarrot Keith & Kerry Wherry's 1606 from Australia and Millard Newman’s 2011 from the United States and Bianchy crashed, thus putting paid to about to depart from Curragh Military Barracks at the start of the Gordon Bennett Race 90th Britain’s chance of winning. Anniversary Re-enactment. The idea of commemorating the Gor­ don Bennett Race in Ireland was revived stands next to the family home, appears to the Irish for their willingness to hold the in 1966/7 when a FIVA International Rally today much as it was in 1903, save for a race in Ireland. The colour became known was held in the country. A granite plinth denser growth of ivy. The lockup garages thereafter as British Racing Green. with bronze plaques was erected to com­ and the castle walls are still there and the Germany was to have been represented memorate the race and this was unveiled garden and railings have scarcely changed. by three 90 h.p. Mercedes, but these were on May 10th, 1967 in the presence of Irish The family descendants of Mr Harry Large destroyed by a fire which gutted the Veteran and Vintage Club member Miss still live there. company’s factory. The German Letitia Overend, who had actually been The four competing nations’ cars were Automobile Club wished to withdraw the present at the 1903 race and who owned coloured as follows: entries, but the German Emperor insisted and drove a 20 h.p. Rolls-Royce from new that offers of three privately owned 60 h.p. until her death in 1978. The commemora­ Britain Green Mercedes be accepted. tion run has been held every year since France Blue Each competing car was required to 1974 (when 55 entries took part) and in Germany White display 12" high numbers so that com­ 1993, for the 90th commemoration, a U.S.A. Red petitors could be identified without the aid record number in excess of 240 cars took of binoculars. The Dublin Stock Exchange part — more than the total number of cars It is said that the English choice of closed on race day as did many businesses in Ireland at the time of the original race! Shamrock green was a token of gratitude throughout Ireland. Contestants ranged from a 1898 Benz

Local dignitaries at the unveiling of the new monument to Keith & Kerry Wherry at the 1903 Gordon Bennett Race commemorate the 1903 Ballyfinnane Hillclimb, which was won by commemorative plinth. C.S.Rolls driving a 70 h.p. Mors.

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■i. ■Ml 2-94 2361 through to a 1930 Rolls-Royce Phantom II and included a 60 h.p. Mercedes of the type that won the 1903 race. One of the 1903 Napiers that had taken part in the race, now owned by the National Motor Museum at Beaulieu was entered by Lord Montagu and John Bentley. A total of 27 Rolls- Royce cars (the earliest being a 1908 Silver Ghost from Northern Ireland) was entered, - .j i and 18 Vintage Bentleys. r On the Friday, lunch was served at ■-1'1 Mercedes Benz Irish Headquarters where competitors got to meet each other before a leisurely drive to magnificent Rossborough House outside Dublin. It was great to meet up with Jeremy & Breda Greene and Con & Vai Keogh who had arrived the week before, and to again meet The Greene's 1924 Silver Ghost (41 EM) at Ashford Castle. Jeremy is driving and Breda can be Jeremy’s mother Joan, a frequent visitor to seen on the near-side running board. Like the Wherrys, the Greenes (who are members of the Australia. Western Australia Branch) drove their Silver Ghost on 'Alpine 93’ then on to their native Ireland. It was a magnificent sight to see some 250 veteran and vintage motor cars line up Veteran & Vintage Car Club to travel to Castle, Bunratty Castle, Blarney Castle at Curragh Military Barracks for the start Ballyfinnane for the unveiling of a plaque and the Ring of Kerry before meeting with of the day’s run. In view of the number of to honour C.S.Rolls, the winner of the the Galway section of the Irish Club to cars attending the 1993 event the race was Ballyfinnane Hillclimb in 1903, then part participate in the Shell sponsored Veteran run in both directions. Points were of the Gordon Bennett Race programme. & Vintage Car Rally at Ballinrobe in awarded for average speed maintenance During the “Irish Automobile Fortnight” which both Aussie Ghosts were official and there were a large number of secret Charles Rolls did well in various events entrants. The Jeremys were awarded the checkpoints — but plenty of time for con­ including the Cork Speed Trials where, in trophy for the longest distance travelled. vivial stops at Irish pubs and lunch at a 20 h.p. Panhard, he beat the Hon. John (Interesting to speculate by what route village restaurants! Scott Montagu, who was in a 22 h.p Western Australia is further from Ireland It appears that English Silver Ghost Daimler. Several dozen veteran, vintage than New South Wales! — Ed.) All owners have an affection for other vintage and classic cars clogged the narrow Irish together a most well organised and friend­ cars and it was a pleasant surprise to again country lanes at the top of Ballyfinnane, ly day. We joined the Greene Team meet other Alpinists, Peter & Rosemary where the Rolls-Royce owners in par­ (including Jeremy’s mother and sister) for Phillips in their Vauxhall 30/98, Stuart & ticular enjoyed the significance of the a magnificent day of motoring through Ruth Evison in a Bentley AVi Litre and ceremony. A wonderful dinner was held Tuam, Ballinrobe and Maam Cross. Well Bob May in a Bentley Speed Six. that evening with members of the local known Ghost enthusiast John Fasal had On the Sunday was a commemorative County Kerry section of the Club. flown across from England and joined us drive to Dublin from Phoenix Park, the site for part of the day, driving The Melbourne of the original timed speed trials, and lunch Galway Veteran & Vintage Rally Ghost some of the distance to Clifden on at Trinity College. Those of you who have Several pleasant days’ motoring the rugged western coast. We again met seen these magnificent buildings will ap­ through the south and west of Ireland in­ with great Irish veteran and vintage car preciate the sense of history as we dined in cluding visits to Adair Manor, Drumoland owners Jim & Breda Boland, this time in the main rectory hall and afterwards im­ bibed in the cellar bar. Unfortunately, by 1606 at Hom Head, the western-most point of Ireland. July 29th, 1993. this stage the rain was falling heavily and we had about 120 miles to drive to historic Cashel to meet up with the American con­ tingent, so it was hood up, headlights on and foot down as we motored off into the Irish countryside for two and a half weeks of splendid veteran motoring. The next few days included some wonderful touring ■4—__ through Tipperary, Cork and Waterford before spending three days at Killamey. Ballyfinnane Hillclimb A highlight during this period was join­ ing with the Killamey section of the Irish 2362 PRtECLARVM

* with Steve Lovatt at Ristes Motors. When passing through Derby we saw the sign to the R-R works in Nightingale Road and took the opportunity to photograph the cars at their birthplace (see PRAECLARUM 5-93, P.2263). Jeremy had arranged to leave his car at Ristes until another visit this year and we were having maintenance work carried out on The Melbourne Ghost. A day or two around the Nottingham dis­ trict before we went down to Heathrow to farewell the Greenes on their return to Australia whilst Keith and I flew to Amsterdam for a few days’ non-motoring holiday! We returned to Nottingham to collect the Ghost and spent some time touring southern England visiting fellow Alpinists At Ballinrobe. From left to right: Kerry Wherry (N.S. W.), Jeremy Greene (W.A.), Con Keogh (W.A.), at their respective homes, including Peter Jeremy's mother Jean and Vai Keogh (W.A.) & Rosemary Phillips, Brian & Jo Wootton and Tim & Sue Forrest, before delivering their magnificent Bentley Speed Six. I meet the Greenes for a final banquet dinner the faithful Melbourne Ghost to the docks managed to swap cars and Keith, with and presentation of awards for the Irish for the return to Australia. Breda, set off in hot pursuit after us over Reliability Trials at Kilkea Castle. We Altogether some 8,300 miles covered the Irish moors, but the Ghost was no bade farewell to our American friends the in ten weeks. Apart from wearing out the match for the quick-footed Bentley and following morning, travelling to Naas for transmission brake lining on the many was unable to catch us until the next pub! breakfast with Jim & Breda Boland. Jim mountain passes, and the loss of several kindly drove us to the Dublin docks where beaded edge tyres, the only mechanical Irish Reliability Trials we met the Greenes and the two Aussie attention required was to electrical Several more days spent in the mag­ Ghosts together boarded the steamer for problems with the magneto and coil, greas­ nificent, rugged west of Ireland visiting the the four hour crossing of the Irish Sea to ing the universal joints and change of Aran Isles, and the natural beauty of Anglesey in Wales, arriving after a engine oil! Altogether a remarkable feat Donegal and Connemara, including the pleasant lunch in the ship’s dining room. for an 82-year-old motor car and a credit most western point of Ireland, a short to its makers — and to its restorer! detour into Northern Ireland (quite a con­ Return to England trast to the Irish Republic) before wending We had decided to drive across Photographs from our way back down to Dublin to again England to Nottingham that day to meet Keith & Kerry Wherry

1606 and 41 EM about to board the Isle of Innisfree for the four hour crossing of the Irish Sea from Dublin to Holyhead, on the Isle of Anglesey, north Wales, before driving on to Nottingham via the cars' birthplace at Derby. August 2nd, 1993.

1

■ ■111 “ ■■Ml II 11IIH M » " 11 ci Bl IIIIIIII H HII II IIIIII ■L 2-94 2363

Marketplace ROLLS-ROYCE OWNERS' CLUB CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING

Cars For Sale Cars For Sale Cars For Sale 1935 Bentley 31/z Litre (B46DG) Park Ward 1962 Bentley Continental S2 (BC104CZ) sports saloon. Ivory with excellent original tan H.J.Mulliner 'Flying Spur' saloon. Burgundy ■sr.wr™ hide. Engine rebuilt by ourselves at substan­ with off-white hide. This very last-of-series tial cost. $75,000. example features special order picnic tables R.A.McDermott & Co. LMCT 4141. and factory-fitted metal sunroof. Ultimate 03-428-8844 or FAX 03-428-0190 collector's car. $135,000. R.A.McDermott & Co. LMCT 4141. 1946 Bentley Mk VI (B190AK) subject of 03-428-8844 or FAX 03-428-0190 extensive restoration including bare metal repaint, new glass, rubber seals, chrome, 1963 Bentley S3 (B240CN) Sand with beige trim, carpets, tyres. Registered, carefully hide. Factory underwing refrigeration, 1985 Bentley Mulsanne Turbo (BSF12689) maintained and a delight to see and drive. electric windows. Kellows delivery. Very Chestnut with beige hide. Ordered new for Good spare engine and carburetters in­ desirable specification. Well-used example Melbourne customer. One subsequent cluded. $33,500. Mike Hubert 07-393-3779 ideal for refurbishment. $37,500. owner. Just 50,000 km from new. Outstand­ or 018-72-7145 R.A.McDermott & Co. LMCT 4141. ing condition attested to by numerous con­ 03-428-8844 or FAX 03-428-0190 cours wins. $125,000. R.A.McDermott & Co. LMCT 4141. 1966 Silver Shadow (SRH1222) dark blue, 03-428-8844 or FAX 03-428-0190 under 70,000 miles, good condition. Current roadworthy certificate by Austral Motors. Deceased estate. $25,000. Jim Noble, National Australia Trustees, GPO Box 2524, Cars Wanted Brisbane 4001. 07-234-5533 Silver Shadow or Silver Shadow II. Private cash buyer or take over your terms. Please 1968 Bentley T Series (CBH3772) H.J.Mul- send information and photo to Richard liner, Park Ward two-door saloon. Silver Grey Cebula, P.O. Box 9, Oatlands, N.S.W. 2117 with black hide. Only 98 of these elegant coachbuilt cars were ever made and they are now highly prized. Very original example. Parts For Sale 1947 Bentley Mk VI (B146BH) grey with blue $55,000. interior. Well maintained with minimal mileage R.A.McDermott & Co. LMCT 4141. by two owners over the past twenty years. Full 03-428-8844 or FAX 03-428-0190 records. One of the earliest Crewe Bentleys. $27,500. Tony Davidson 08-332-5550 1971 Silver Shadow (SRH10966) Shell Grey. ("phone & FAX) Dark blue upholstery and woodwork both ’ ->3| excellent. York Motors delivery. Second A 6 I., . ‘ r - owner eight years. Original and complete. J I 46,000 miles. N.S.W. registration number f '^l 267. $31,000. Ashley Hunter 02-489-2971 fl 1971 Corniche Convertible (DRH11208) Pacific Northwest Region of the R.R.O.C. Inc. Porcelain White with black hide. Long Mel­ announces a Derby Bentley replica tool bourne history. Substantially refurbished by project. The replica tools are seven open-end ourselves. $99,950. spanners included in all Derby tool kits. They R.A.McDermott & Co. LMCT 4141. are offered as concours ornaments cast in 03-428-8844 or FAX 03-428-0190 iron and plated with proper markings. As a companion item the Region also offers an 1974 Silver Shadow (SRH17389) Cardinal authentic tool roil custom made in first quality 1949 Silver Wraith (WFC67) Hooper touring Red with beige hide. Melbourne delivery with belting leather with nickel plated rivets and limousine. Lovely original car. Sound full service history from new. One of nine proper tooling. Prices of either item is mechanical condition, needs some cosmetic Silver Shadows and Silver Shadow I Is in stock $US150.00 plus $US13.25 for insured sur­ work. $40,000 o.n.o. David Crichton at the time of writing. $42,950. face postage. For air shipment, $US27.00 for 060-26-2278 R.A.McDermott & Co. LMCT 4141. the tools and $US28.75 for the roll. Immediate 03-428-8844 or FAX 03-428-0190 delivery. To order or for information, call Noel 1953 Silver Dawn (SNF71) Long-boot saloon Cook 1-206-232-6413 (h) 1-206-443-9424 (w) (ex-late Roger Johnston). $59,950, offers or FAX 1-206-443-1018. Cheques payable to considered. Gordon Johnston 02-489-6576 ■PNR-RROC’ to Noel, 2323 Third Avenue, Seattle, WA 98121, U.S.A.

INFORMATION: Classified ads must be PHOTOGRAPHS: Black & white prints COST: Ads are free to members who do factual and accurate. Persons mis­ normally reproduce best but good colour not regularly deal in sales or service of representing cars, parts or services will be prints are acceptable. Please do not send Rolls-Royce & Bentley cars. Non-members denied further advertising. Ads for cars for negatives or transparencies. are charged $15.00 for a non-commercial sale must include chassis number and DEALERS: Parties dealing in motor cars ad of reasonable length. Photographs may asking price. Ads are accepted subject to must, where required by law, quote their be included free of charge to members, availability of space and may be edited or dealer’s license number and comply with $15.00 for others. Cheques made payable rejected at the discretion of the Editor all other statutory requirements relating to to R.R.O.C. of Australia must accompany without discussion or explanation. their advertising. advertising copy. Send ads to:

Martin Bennett, ‘Allambi’, RMB 3310, Goulburn, N.S.W. 2580. ’Phone/FAX: (048) 29 7140 Deadlines: 15th of January, March, May, July, September, November. 2364

Marketplace ROLLS-ROYCE OWNERS' CLUB CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING

Parts For Sale Parts Stolen Services S1 parts: cylinder head in good condition, Stolen. Set of vintage Silver Ghost instruments Mechanical work for Rolls-Royce and differential with only 1,000 miles, set of SU including Lucas switchbox (less front cover), Bentley cars. Overdrive and power steering carburetters, tailshaft. Silver Wraith parts: 80 mph AT speedometer, fuel and oil gauges, units supplied and fitted. Also new electric cylinder head and other assorted bits. Dennis (black faced, brass rims), Weston ammeter cruise control units for Silver Cloud/S Series, Sowden 09-335-1202 (white faced), starting carburetter control, Silver Wraith/Dawn, Mk VI/R-type. Just in time Klaxon horn button and 'chinaman's hat' for the next Federal Rally. TK Motors, 43 Silver Shadow rear compartment footrests, instrument lights. Substantial reward for infor­ Chard Road, Brookvale, N.S.W. 2100. pair, beige carpet. $50. 06-288-2238 mation leading to the return of these parts. 'Phone 02-905-3507 or FAX 02-905-0260 Robert McDermott 03-428-8844 or FAX 03-428-0190 Interior Trimming carried out to exacting Parts Wanted standards using authentic Rolls-Royce and coachbuilders' materials and methods. Wanted for my Phantom II (143RY) sedanca Touch-up repairs, Connolly leather re-colour­ de ville by Barker: accessories for rear vanity LMARR has it! ing, carpets, heelpads, headlining repairs or compartments — ‘Barker’ bakelite cigarette Outer hub ring Inner hub plate complete replacements. lighter, small rectangular bevelled mirror McMillan Prestige Car Repairs 02-744-5111 (hand held) and note pad. All of the above fit Hub or FAX 02-744-5517 pockets in the near- and off-side vanity com­ 31 partments. Also any original tools for Phan­ Spanner (/^■Air valve tom II — will swap for original tools from \ extension T ravel/Accommodation Curved Phantom I. Darren Overend 03-592-5475 or air valve 018-37-0773 or FAX 03-525-3943 Homestay/Bed & Breakfast, Dandenong Ran­ Spanner- Air lock assembly ges, Victoria. Enjoy a restful sojourn at our AU you need to fit new • RoUs-Royce quiet, discrete residence on 11/fe acres at Wanted, tools for Silver Ghost/PI: spanner • Bentley wheel discs to your Picturesque Ferny Creek and yet be less than F51961 and wheel tools G3425a, G2899a, Pre-WWll Classic. • Jaguar F10106a & G3425b. Mark Babidge (FAX) • Hispano-Suiza one hour away from Melbourne CBD. Central Write, phone or fax • Lagonda 09-364-3458 heating and log fire. Lots of attractions and for full infomation. • Bugatti restaurants nearby. $45 pp per night B & B. • Delage Wanted: complete set of small tools to suit LMARR DISK,LTD Dinner also available by arrangement Satur­ Silver Cloud II tool-tray. Also one pair semi­ PO Box 910 Glen Ellen,CA,USA 95442-0910 day & Sunday, $25 pp three courses with Tel: (707) 938-9347 Fax: (707) 938-3020 coffee and mints. Club member Les sealed beam headlamps for same, new if D 1 possible. Allan Simpson 02-546-2159 (w) Myghalls. For booking or brochure, please 02-570-1005 (h) telephone 03-755-2197 Silver Ghost Pistons HIGH QUALITY * HIGH COMPRESSION

Highest quality materials using modern technology * Exceptionally long life * Total absence of noise * Complete oil control * Enormous increase in performance & smoothness * Fully balanced sets in a full range of oversizes The Finest Covers for the World’s Best Motor Cars PRICE: $2,520.00 PER SET

From $179, one of our high-quality tailored dust-covers will protect your SILVER GHOST cherished Rolls-Royce, Bentley or other classic car. Each cover is tailor-made by hand to its own individual pattern from your Beaded edge rims choice of the finest quality super-fleece material or lightweight 100% cotton, to fit all models from Silver Ghosts to Silver Spirits. In fact, the closest thing At last! A top quality authentic rim made to exacting to a Saville Row suit for your motor car. standards in correct thickness material of the highest We also tailor make lambswool over-rugs for your car’s interior and boot, quality. for that extra look and feel of luxury and to protect your original carpets. All * All dimensions within 0.015" of original specification. colours available. Guaranteed highest quality. * Correct shape valve and balance weight holes. * Full drilling and dimpling service to any pattern as Australia-wide delivery and world-wide export. required. * Trade enquiries welcome. I O N E E R PRICE: $450.00 EACH. RUGS & COVERS R.A.McDermott&Co. 420 Burnley Street, Richmond 3121 Telephone (042) 67 1700; FAX (042) 67 1264 Tel: (03) 428 8844 FAX: (03) 428 0190 Address correspondence to: P.O. Box 100, Bulli, N.S.W. 2516 2365 Insurance SHANNONS Veteran,vintage,classic and sports car owners ‘Keeping vehicles on Australian roads

Laid-up cover or full comprehensive, quality insurance with Shannons might not cost as much as you think. Shannons recognise that enthusiasts take care of their vehicles and pass the savings onto you. Phone Shannons for a free quote now.

Features: • Agreed value • Choice of repairer • You keep the salvage up to 1970 (modifieds up to 1960) • One windscreen or window glass replacement per year excess free • Personal effects cover • Standard pre- 1940 vehicles excess free *$5,000,000 legal liability • Prompt claims settlement • Australia wide service centres.

Head Office, Victoria New South Wales South Australia Wettem Australia Queensland Northern Territory 321 Warrigal Road, 48 Sailors Bay Road, 6/212 Brighton Road, Suite 1, 4 Canning Road, P.O. Box 485, 9259 Bagot Road, Cheltenham, Vic., 3192 Northbridge, N.S.W., 2063 Somerton Park, S.A., 5044 Kalamunda, W.A., 6076 Moorooka, Old., 4105 Coconut Grove, N.T., 0810 Phone (03) 584 7266 Phone (02) 958 7666 Phone (08) 294 9000 Phone (09) 257 1269 Phone (07) 892 2776 Phone(089) 85 2477 Fax (03) 583 9475 Fax (02) 958 7841 Fax (08 ) 294 9995 Fax (09) 257 1 289 Fax (07) 892 4319 Fax (089) 85 5583 Veteran, Vintage, Classic, Sports and Modified Insurance Specialists

RESTORATION BY R.A.McDERMOTT & Co. (1911 Silver Ghost Chassis No. 1606)

IF YOU WANT THE BEST Rolls-Royce and Bentley restoration and component rebuilding to the highest standard. No job too big or too small. Immense stocks of new and used parts for all models. R.A.McDermott&Co. 420 Burnley Street, Richmond 3121 Tel: (03) 4288844 FAX: (03) 428 0190 2366

Australia’s No.1 dismantler of Rolls-Royce & Bentley cars.

Now wrecking for parts: post-war Rolls-Royce & Bentley cars from Mk VI to

Silver Shadow. Fast Australia-wide despatch of parts. Very reasonable prices.

Servicing and mechanical repairs. Excellent spare parts service — all models.

Engine rebuild and cylinder head reconditioning service.

Wanted: damaged and unwanted Rolls-Royce and Bentley cars for parts.

Neil McLean Automotives Specialising in post-war Rolls-Royce & Bentley motor cars

I.SPECIALISTS ASSOCIATION],

14 Beaconsfield Avenue, ’Phone: (09) 2501400 Midvale, Western Australia 6056 FAX: (09) 2501404

r Now, The Yanks’ //J Best Kept Secret P-S-SS-T of 25 Years Had the Revealed!! o Ghost?

If you intend to own your masterpiece and drive FOREIGN PARTS CONNECTION, INC. it into the future, we have the solutions for you. 2028 Cotner Avenue NEW Overdrive Unit - specifically tailor-made Los Angeles, California 90025 USA for certain Rolls-Royce and Bentleys, will reduce engine wear, give quieter engine operation, Tel. (310)473-7773 delightfully higher cruising speeds and improve Fax. (310) 479-1197 your fuel economy. world’s most complete stock of used NEW Power Steering Unit - the utmost in post-war (1946-1991) Rolls-Royce and craftsmanship which makes even parking an Bentley spares. effortless pleasure. Virtually everything on hand, immedi­ For more than a Ghost of a chance! ately available, and at reasonable prices. Knowledgeable assistance and personal Phone (02) 905 3507 service always. • Restorable and Turnkey RHD Rolls-Royce and I MOTORS! Bentleys available. • UPS, Air and Mail Shipments Daily. 43 Chard Road, Brookvale, NSW 2100 Fax (02) 905 0260 • Phone Calls or Fax Preferred. 2367

BROSS QA®

NOTICE TO MEMBERS

BROSS CLASSIC PTY LTD

Continue to provide fully-qualified, experienced staff to assist with all mechanical problems, in addition to our friendly, efficient spare parts service.

Some of our qualifications include:

* Motor Vehicle Repair Industry Council repairer’s licence for motor mechanic, panel beating and auto re-spraying;

* Member of Motor Trader’s Association since 1961;

* Holder of Certificate of Appointment as R.T.A.’s New Vehicle Safety Check inspectors;

* Member of Institute of Automotive Mechanical Engineers;

* Fully qualified tradesmen, licensed by the M.V.R.I.C. for all trades;

* Fully licensed spraybooth facilities for automotive re-spraying.

We are proud of our professional achievements and wish members to be aware that all work performed by us is of the highest standard.

Heather Pryor, Managing Director. Bross Classic pty limited A.C.N. 000 271 643 M.V.R.I.C. Repairers Licence No. 44-004321-2 ♦ Rolls-Royce & Bentley Specialists ♦ 340 Pennant Hills Road, Pennant Hills 2120 P.O. Box 83, Pennant Hills N.S.W. Australia 2120 Phone: 484 1239 or 484 4419 Fax: 980 6592 QUALITY is never an accident; it is always ROLLS the result of high intention, sincere effort, intelligent direction and skilful execution. It represents the wise choice of many alternatives. IR ROYCE Willa A. Foster & B

This observation epitomises the sensation at McMillan s, the skilled craftsmen demonstrating their workmanship

Panel beating and forming Aluminium, brass and stainless steel welding Re-chroming, stainless steel linishing and polishing Interior timber replacement, repair and refurbishment Spray painting, fine detailing and showroom finishing

THE ATMOSPHERE OF PATIENT PURSUIT OF PERFECTION

But why take our word for it? Why not observe for yourself? Call at our Five Dock premises weekdays 8.00 a.m. - 4.00 p.m., Saturdays by appointment For country and inter-State visitors we provide a collect and return service from the City or Kingsford-Smith Airport

The Finest Quality you can buy McMillan Prestige Car Repairs Pty Ltd 25-27 Regatta Road, Five Dock, 2046 Telephone: (02) 744 5111 Facsimile: (02) 744 5517

Authorised Rolls-Royce & Bentley Coachwork Repairer

UNION OFFSET CO. PTY. LTD Print Post Approved PP229219 100048 20 PYRIE STREET FYSHWICK ACT 2609 (06) 280 6733 Lodgement Office: Canberra Mail Centre, Fyshwick, 2609