Arriving to us via H&H Classic Auctioneers, from world renowned luxury and performance car specialist Hilton and Moss, here we have the absolutely stunning 1988 Mercedes 300SL. Being a 500SL R107 owner myself I have a real soft spot for this model. In my opinion, one of the coolest cars to own, as an everyday run around or a show winner. Like many classics, over the years we have witness a gradual rise in rarity and value on the R107, thanks to the increase in market value of the previous models.
Let’s discuss our latest addition. The 300SL was introduced at the September 1985 Frankfurt Motor Show, the ultimate six-cylinder derivative of Mercedes-Benz’s renowned R107 series. Sharing the same two-door monocoque bodyshell, all-round independent coil-sprung suspension and power-assisted steering as its V8 brethren it proved notably more fuel efficient. Fitted with a four-speed automatic transmission as standard, it further benefited from improved anti-corrosion treatment and ABS brakes. Only in production between 1985 and 1989, just 13,443 300SLs are thought to have been despatched worldwide.
Our stunning 300SL was delivered new by Mercedes-Benz main dealer Callanders of Glasgow to Cheshire Products Ltd on the 18th of March 1988.
It stayed with the company as a director’s vehicle for six years before passing into the hands of its second owner, a Mr Ian Jeffery, on the 25th March 1994. Mr Jeffery clearly liked the car as he kept it for the next 24 years.
The previous owner, Mr Martin Mitchell, acquired the Mercedes on the 25th of May 2018. Finished in Nautical Blue Metallic with a contrasting Cream leather interior, this Mercedes roadster is fitted with an automatic transmission and comes with its original factory hardtop.
The overall condition of this classic 300SL is very good and stamps in the Service Booklet together with the old MOTs and the invoices on file seem to support the 85,611 miles currently showing on the odometer. The current vendor has in recent times spent well over £15,000 with a reputable specialist to recommission the Mercedes and bring it up to its current lovely condition. Ready to hit the road in style for some summertime cruising.
Also new to us here at Bridge Classic Cars is something really special. 1 of just 142 cars made to celebrate the Morgan 4/4 entering its seventy-first year of production.
1 of only two ‘1952’ examples complete with appropriately numbered steering wheel and St Christopher Plaque.
Ford Duratec 1800cc DOHC engine and five-speed manual transmission. Well maintained with a large history file. Entering its seventy-first year in 2006, the Morgan 4/4 was already well established as the world’s longest-running production model. To celebrate, the Malvern manufacturer commissioned a run of 142 ‘70th Anniversary Edition’ cars (two per build year). Each decade was given its own ‘identity’ in terms of paint colours, soft-top designs and upholstery etc. Although, every ‘70th Anniversary Edition’ featured a fold-flat windscreen, bespoke dashboard, sheepskin bonnet strap, rubber mats and steel wheels with chrome hubcaps not to mention a St Christoper badge and wood-rim Moto Lita steering wheel both of which were inscribed with the model year it represented. Mechanically identical to a standard Morgan 4/4 1800, the ‘70th Anniversary Edition’ cars were powered by a Ford Duratec 1800cc DOHC four-cylinder engine allied to five-speed manual transmission. Among Morgan’s most sought after limited edition models, the ‘70th Anniversary Edition’ cars still enjoy a strong following.
One of the two ‘1952’ cars, chassis 4L00134 is finished in the stunning combination of Duck Egg Blue with Black leather upholstery and Dark Blue weather equipment. Supplied new via Thomson & Potter of Perth, ‘SH06 NKR’ had covered some 11,988 miles by the time it entered the current (second) ownership during October 2020. Built to commemorate the year that Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II took the throne.
“Henry Royce’s life followed a truly extraordinary arc. From impoverished origins and with minimal formal education, he became a giant of 20th Century engineering and innovation, responsible for designs and technology that helped shape the world we live in now. But this classic rags-to-riches tale belies the complexity of the man, and understates the many challenges he faced during his remarkable life. After 120 years, his influence on the marque he co-founded remains powerful and pervasive; he literally made us who we are today.” Andrew Ball, Head of Corporate Communications and Heritage, Rolls-Royce Motor Cars
Frederick Henry Royce was born on 27 March 1863 in Alwalton, near Peterborough. He was the youngest of five children in a family with extreme financial problems. After Henry’s father was declared bankrupt, he was put in prison (as was the law at the time!) Growing up in this situation had a deep affect on Royce’s character and health for the rest of his life.
Starting Work
When he was just 10 years old, Henry began working as a newspaper seller in London before later moving into a role as a telegram delivery boy. In 1877, with financial support from his aunt, he became an apprentice at the Great Northern Railway (GNR) workshops in Peterborough. It was here that his natural aptitude for design and working with his hands became clear. A set of three miniature wheelbarrows he made out of brass were early signs of the high standards he would set for himself and others throughout his career.
Just two years after starting his apprenticeship, his aunt ran into money troubles too. This left Henry unable to pay his annual apprenticeship fee. After returning to London, he began working for the Electric Lighting & Power Generating Company (EL&PG). Back then, electricity was still so new that it had no professional institutions, and therefore no formal examinations or entry qualifications. For someone like Henry Royce, who had only the most basic schooling, this was extremely fortunate.
Moving Up (And Down Again)
His fascination for the subject, intense work ethic, and commitment to improving himself (he attended evening classes in English and Maths after work) meant that in 1882, the EL&PG, by now renamed the Maxim-Weston Electric Company, sent him to manage the installation of street and theatre lighting in Liverpool. When the company abruptly collapsed, Royce, still only 19, again found himself unemployed.
In late 1884, Henry founded F H Royce & Co in Manchester. Initially producing small items such as battery-powered doorbells, the company progressed to making overhead cranes, railway shunting capstans and other heavy industrial equipment.
By 1901, the years of hard work and a less-than-ideal home life were taking a severe toll on Royce’s health, which had probably been permanently weakened by the struggles of his childhood. Things got even worse the following year when the company found its finances stretched. This was mainly due to the influx of cheaper imported electrical machinery that undercut its prices. As he was such a perfectionist, Royce was not prepared to compromise the quality of his products, but this extra stress meant that, in 1902, his health took a big dive!
The Break That Changed Automotive History
Royce’s doctors prescribed complete rest and persuaded him to take a 10-week holiday with his wife’s family in South Africa. On the long journey, he read a newly published book, ‘The Automobile – Its Construction and Management’. What he learned would change his life – and ultimately, the automotive world.
On his return to England, Royce purchased his first car, a French-built 10 H.P. Decauville. It is said that this first car was so poorly made and unreliable that Royce decided he could do better. In fact, his holiday reading had already made up his mind that he was going to produce his own car. He chose the Decauville because it was one of the finest cars available to him, in order to dismantle it and then, in his most famous phrase, ‘take the best that exists and make it better’.
He began by building three two-cylinder 10 H.P. cars, based on the Decauville layout. With these foundational machines, he demonstrated the analytical approach, attention to detail and pursuit of excellence in design and manufacture that would go on to define his life.
Rolls-Royce
His friend and business associate, Henry Edmunds, borrowed one of these original Royce 10H.P. cars to compete in the 1,000-mile Slide Slip Trials organised by the Automobile Club of Great Britain & Ireland (later the Royal Automobile Club, or RAC) in April 1904. Edmunds was enormously impressed and realised this was precisely the high-quality, British-made model that a friend and fellow Club member was looking for to stock in his new London car dealership. That friend was, of course, The Hon Charles Stewart Rolls.
As the technical mastermind behind the new partnership, Royce’s output was astounding. From the company’s foundation in 1904 until his death in 1933, he personally created the initial concept for every mechanical item in every Rolls-Royce car. An instinctive, intuitive engineer, he had an unmatchable ability to assess components purely by eye. He firmly believed that if something looked right, it probably was – and he was almost always proved correct.
As demand grew, and the cars themselves became increasingly complex, he established a design team, led by his motto, ‘Rub out, alter, improve, refine’. Everything the team produced would then either be rejected and sent back for more work or finally signed off, by Royce alone. In contrast to modern motor manufacturing, where models are introduced, updated and replaced at defined intervals, Royce made continuous improvements to his products, without any announcement or notice. Some of these improvements were tiny, but the impact of these changes was that almost no two Rolls-Royce motor cars were exactly alike in every detail.
It is worth noting that Henry Royce never actually designed a complete car. Up to 1949, Rolls-Royce produced only a ‘rolling chassis’, equipped with an engine and drivetrain, upon which a specialist coachbuilder built the bodywork to the customer’s specification. The rolling chassis did, however, include the bulkhead and the radiator, which determined, at least in part, the finished car’s overall proportions.
Henry Royce was meticulous in his work and had an inquisitive mind that made him strive for perfection. His work and his ethos have outlived him and, to this day, his legacy lives on in every Rolls-Royce made.
Coming into contact with a wide range of classic cars every day, it is painfully clear to me that each and every classic comes with a unique story and history. Whether it be a rare car with a racing pedigree, being previously owned by a celebrity, or even a former everyday car that is full of nostalgia and memories of times gone by; there is always something to experience.
There is a worry that over the coming decades, as these automotive legacies continue to age, there will be a lack of people passionate about these cars to keep them on the road for future generations to enjoy and admire.
With this in mind, the Classic Car Loan Project has been formed to help keep the interest in classic vehicles alive and to help more people into the classic car world.
Driving Passion in the Next Generation
The Classic Car Loan Project (CCLP) stems from a very simple idea: what if young people could experience the joy and challenge of driving a classic car; not as a rare treat but as part of their daily lives?
This question led to the launch of the Classic Car Loan Project 7 years ago, starting with just one generous owner and one classic car. Fast forward to today, the project has grown to include over 20 classic cars with more owners joining every year.
How The Classic Car Loan Project Works
The Classic Car Loan Project operates on a straightforward structure: selected young drivers are given the opportunity to borrow a classic car for up to a year. This arrangement isn’t just about driving a historical vehicle though; it’s a comprehensive experience that involves caring for and maintaining a piece of automotive history. The project targets individuals who have a genuine interest in classic cars but might not have the means or opportunity to own one themselves.
A Win-Win Situation
At its core, the project serves a dual purpose. For young enthusiasts, it offers an incredible opportunity to immerse themselves in the world of classic cars, learning not just about driving but also about the responsibilities of maintenance and preservation. For the owners, it provides the satisfaction of sharing their passion and the assurance that their classics are being enjoyed and not left to gather dust.
The Journey So Far
Over the years, the Classic Car Loan Project has caught the attention of the classic car community. Each story of a young driver bonding with their borrowed car is a testament to the project’s success in bridging the generational gap in automotive enthusiasm. From attending car shows to interacting with clubs, borrowers have taken their temporary ownership of these vehicles seriously, contributing to a renewed interest in classic car preservation.
The Future Of The Classic Car Loan Project
As the project continues to grow, the organisers are constantly looking for more owners willing to share their classic cars and for young enthusiasts keen to join the classic car lifestyle. The ultimate goal is not just to keep classic cars on the road but to ensure that the stories, heritage, and passion for these vehicles are passed down to future generations.
Nottinghamshire Police has recently taken delivery of 100 new Škodas. These will now form part of their expanding emergency vehicle fleet and will be utilised by a range of departments such as driver training, dog units, and road policing.
The force’s current collection of emergency vehicles already includes several Škodas which have been converted for use across a number of functions.
This new delivery comprises of 92 Octavia Estates and eight Superb Estates. The Octavias – 1.5 TSI and 2.0 TDI SE Tech models – will be used in response and neighbourhood policing roles, fitted with emergency warning equipment, full livery kit and light bar on the roof. They will also be used by driver training teams along with the Superb Estates – all in Sportline Plus 2.0 TSI 280 DSG 4×4 spec – which will be used in dog units and road policing roles too.
Vehicles used by the Dog units come with bespoke kennel conversions, developed by Pressfab EVO Limited – one of Škoda’s approved converters – in conjunction with Nottinghamshire Police to meet their specific requirements, with specialist air conditioning and blue light fitment. Road policing cars get a full blue light fit, ANPR (Automatic Number Plate Recognition) and matrix board.
Arriving in with us this week is our 1964 Mercedes 230SL. The car has come in for a possible engine rebuild but at this stage we are not convinced that this work is required. We want to carry out a few tests and checks before we make the decision of whether the engine needs to be removed.
Regarded as a masterpiece of Mercedes-Benz craftsmanship, chassis number 5500332 stands out as one of the rarest and most authentically preserved of the twenty-nine 300 SL Alloy Competition models ever made. This particular vehicle, a 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Alloy Gullwing, is now available for sale through Sotheby’s Sealed, with the bidding process concluding on March 22.
Offered for sale through Sotheby’s Sealed, this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to own one of the most original and significant competition-prepared Alloy Gullwings in existence.
This exceptional vehicle is currently up for auction with bidding closing at 5pm EDT (9pm UK time) today (March 22nd 2024). While nearly 1,400 300 SL Gullwings were manufactured, only 29 were made with specialised racing features and aluminium bodies. These 29 rare models are all held in significant collections around the world. However, highly original examples like this one are almost non-existent.
This incredible car is one of the exclusive 29 Alloy Gullwings made by Mercedes-Benz, separating it from the 1,371 models made with steel bodies.
Its construction, using lightweight aluminium for the body and Plexiglas for the windows, significantly reduces its weight. This makes it not only a rare car but a high-performing one too. The vehicle is powered by its original 3-litre NSL engine, which, through extensive modifications such as a competition-grade camshaft and a specialised butterfly throttle valve, achieves over 215 horsepower. Interestingly, this car also has a distinctive history; it is the only 300 SL Alloy model that was originally delivered to Casablanca, making it the sole example to be delivered to Africa.
This Alloy Gullwing’s uniqueness is developed further by its retention of many sought-after original features, including a sports suspension, a high-speed 3.42 rear axle, an uprated metric speedometer, belly pans, and Rudge wheels that came as standard. If that wasn’t enough, this example was owned for 32 years by Hyatt Cheek, the national president of the Gullwing Group and the Mercedes-Benz Club of America (MBCA).
Highlighting its exceptional authenticity, chassis number 5500332 retains its original chassis, engine, bodywork, rear axle, and front kingpins. While the gearbox has been replaced with a model of the correct type from 1957, its authenticity remains intact.
The car underwent a meticulous restoration led by the renowned Paul Russell in 1979. The car’s long-standing connection with Paul Russell’s workshop, starting in 1975, known for the exceptional restoration of classic cars, only adds to its desirability and history.
The 1955 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Alloy Gullwing, one of the rarest and most historically significant variants of the Gullwing, is now open for bidding on Sotheby’s Sealed
Considered as one of the purest and most original examples in existence
Delivered new to Casablanca as the only 300 SL Alloy delivered to Africa
One of only 29 Alloy Gullwings made, it features a lightweight aluminium body and enhanced performance
Powered by an original factory-prepared 3.0-liter NSL engine delivering over 215 horsepower
Retains desirable competition factory features such as sports suspension, NSL engine, and Rudge wheels
Previously owned for 32 years by Hyatt Cheek, President of the 300 SL Gullwing Group International
Verified by Mercedes-Benz Classic as retaining original chassis, engine, and bodywork
Born in Halifax, West Yorkshire, on March 20, 1853, Henry Edmunds was fascinated by electricity from a young age. His father, an engineer and iron merchant, sparked his interest, leading Henry into a career that would see him cross paths with Joseph Swan (the inventor of the incandescent lightbulb), Thomas Edison (the inventor of almost everything else) and was present at both the first successful sound recording and telephone call.
In 1886, Henry became a partner in WT Glover & Co, a Manchester-based electrical cable company. With the opening of the Manchester Ship Canel in 1894 along with the docks beside it, the company won the contract to supply the cabling for the mammoth lighting system. This lighting system was designed and manufactured by another Manchester company, F H Royce & Co. owned by Henry Royce.
In 1899, Edmunds joined the Automobile Club of Great Britain & Ireland (later the Royal Automobile Club, or RAC) and found a strong interest in motoring. The following year he entered the 1,000 Mile Trial from London to Edinburgh and back, Among the list of entrants was The Hon Charles Stewart Rolls.
By 1904, Edmunds had taken a business interest in the Parsons Non-skid Co Ltd, which made ‘chains’ that fitted to car tyres to prevent what was known as ‘slide-slipping’. They entered a competition, the Slide Slip Trials, at the end of April that year, but at the last minute found themselves without a suitable car. Edmunds asked Royce if they could use his first 10 H.P. car. Royce agreed and the car was sent by train to London, where Edmunds drove it successfully in the 1,000-mile event. Charles Rolls also took part, but there is no record of him having anything to do with the Royce car.
Edmunds was enormously impressed by the 10 H.P. He also knew Rolls was desperately looking for a high-quality British-made car to sell in his thriving London dealership. He was determined to bring the two men together, and earned his place in history when, on 4 May 1904 at The Midland Hotel in Manchester, he announced: “Henry, may I introduce Charles Rolls”.
Bridge Classic Cars has been rated strong in a new UK Classic Car Specialists industry analysis.
This new analysis is based on the latest data and intelligence available and includes a financial health rating on the top 348 companies in the UK Classic Car Specialists industry.
With so much uncertainty swirling around the market in 2024, this latest update is the most important yet.
It’s been a long time coming but we have finally completed the pre delivery inspection on our 1976 Leyland Mini Clubman 1100.
The road test proved a success. Just had to inflate the tyres and torque up the wheel nuts.
Jon has refitted the engine identification plate after the engine work has been carried out and she’s now good to go. Next stop, a very understanding and patient Henry who won the car back in January and is yet to see it. I’m sure, with all the unexpected work identified in the previous pre delivery inspection he’ll now be one very happy man.
Every day is that one step closer to revealing the finished project. Our 2023 Jaguar C-Type replica is coming on leaps and bounds now with the refit well and truly underway. John has been busy fitting the lights back up and the wiring back in.
The next biggest piece in the colour changing process was the bonnet and Alan has been making this a reality this week. We now have colour.
Meanwhile we have removed the spacer blocks from the boot lid pins. We have now fitted in place and masked in position.
We have heated up with hot air gun to reshape and periodically repeated the process over a few hours.
The front suspension braces are now spaced.
We have wire brushed and painted the rusty engine mount bolts and finished in black. The rusty calipers bolts have been wire brushed and paint in silver.
The fuel filler cap has been removed and the neck clamp has been slackened. Two of the screws have been removed and repositioned to the left in rotation before re-securing. Fit filler cap, grease seal and Loctite threads and knock up tight.
Bridge Classic Cars will be opening their doors to a private event being held by the MGOC. There will be drinks as well as a workshop tour. Please note this is a private event, any enquiries about attending should be directed to the MGOC.
If you would like to bring your club along for an exclusive event please contact Lily on events@bridgeclassiccars.co.uk
Club members will enjoy the cosy and welcoming atmosphere of The Classic Lounge, where the bar will be open and ready to serve a mix of hot and cold drinks. It’s the perfect setting to relax, enjoy yourself and, of course, admire plenty of classic cars.
One of the highlights of the event will be a short tour of the Bridge Classic Cars workshop. This behind-the-scenes look will give Aston Martin Owners Club members an up-close look at the work that goes into restoring classic cars to award-winning standards.
The team are looking forward to attending the Classic Car & Restoration Show at the Birmingham NEC. We will be on the Riley stand with our 1905 Riley 9hp which has been restored to it’s former glory by our team of technicians. Craig, Nick and Gordon will be wandering around the show as well as attending the auction. Please do say hello if you spot us.
The Goodwood Festival of Speed is a celebration of motorsport and all things automotive. People travel from all over the world to the idyllic West Sussex countryside, to enjoy the FOS at Goodwood House.
The Festival of Speed attracts a huge variety of historic and modern vehicles, from vintage racers and iconic classics to the latest supercars and prototypes. The main event is the legendary Hillclimb, where drivers push their machines to the limit on a challenging and picturesque course.
Petrol heads have the opportunity to get up close and personal with the vehicles, meet the drivers, and immerse themselves in the exciting and fast-moving atmosphere.
Some of the Bridge Classic Cars team are always in attendance so, if you see us, come and say hello.
Car auctions are always a great experience and we have found some incredible vehicles here in the past.
You never know….some of the vehicles in the photos below might just end up being available to win through Bridge Classic Cars Competitions.
Update on 14th March 2024 from Craig – The next day we received a call from EM Rogers to inform us that 4 cars were loaded up and on their way over to sunny Suffolk. Her are the arrival photos.
Our first of 20 good deeds we will be completing this year was giving away one of our Bridge Classic Cars branded Harrington jackets.
We asked you to nominate someone deserving in a recent social media post by tagging them in the comments. Once time ran out, we used Google’s random number generator to choose the deserving winner.
The winner was Peter Ling who is now the proud owner of a very stylish jacket.
Jonn has been refitting our 2022 Bridge C-Type Replica. He tried to fit the front suspension brace but the brackets were too small.
He polished and fitted the fuel cap before polishing the mirror bracket too. The windscreen was fitted and the ends were sanded down the ends to fit and polished both ends back to smooth.
Jonn then fitted the screen and drilled out the fixings.
Jonn used bigger brackets and fitted these to the front suspension and secured them. He then fitted the brace bar but this still requires spacers. The remaining windscreen screws were fitted and tightened.
Received a call from Luke at LRH Cars this morning to tell me he has sold his freshly listed Fiat 500, just 6 days after listing. He’s a very happy man and I’m sure he will soon have a very happy customer, if not already!
Great work, great result.
If you have a car for sale, list for free on MyClassics
In February our Riley 9hp underwent the next stage of its restoration by paying a visit to Joby Carter’s workshop in Berkshire.
Joby Carter is a traditional sign writer who is an expert in fairground style art. Up until 2022 his work could be seen decorating every ride as part of his touring steam fair. He has documented many of his creations alongside tips and ideas in a series of books.
In accordance with vehicles of a similar age, Carter was commissioned by Bridge Classic Cars to paint our Riley 9hp with a neat design. The pristine line work edges the shapes and contours of the car, outlining the doors. The sleek likes create an elegant and opulent aesthetic.
A cornerstone of the British sports car world. A car recognised and loved by so many for its usability, practicality, and it’s gorgeous looks. We are proud to offer for sale our 1975 MGB GT V8.
The most sought after of the MGB GT’s. Its elegant, sophisticated looks paired with the glorious rumble of the small block V8 are a recipe for a thrilling driving experience.
Our 1975 example is one of the 2591 V8 cars produced by MG between 1973 and 1976 and is one of the very best MGB’s we’ve had through our workshop. Finished in vibrant Maroon Red with Black accents, it is a classic and classy colour combination. The Rover sourced small-block V8 delivers 137BHP which was more than enough to get this small, nimble, and iconic sports car on the move quickly.
Interestingly, the V8 used in the MGB GT was the lightest V8 engine available at the time, so the V8 took 20 kilograms off the nose of these wonderful British cars compared to the 4-cylinder engine.
This car has a well-documented history with invoices from parts specialists as well as extensive MOT histories dating back to the early 1990s. The file also includes photos from its bare metal rebuild in the early 2010s with photographs of its journey for its next owner to pour over.
This car also features a fold back sunroof for those warm summers days where you can roll back the top and go out for a blast to enjoy that intoxicating V8 rumble and the playful dynamics of the MG’s handling.
One look at its famous slender grille and you can’t miss that glorious badge staring straight back at you with the simple “V8”. The car also features the multi-piece wheels which were a signature of the V8’s and special editions that came out during the cars production run.
In Bury St Edmunds, a unique bar experience has been created – The Secret Distillery. Situated at 3 Short Brackland, this is not your ordinary bar, but is a throwback to the past, recreating the atmosphere of a 1920s speakeasy, a time when such establishments operated in the shadows of Prohibition America.
A Nod To The Prohibition Era
During the 1920s in the United States, the sale of alcohol was outlawed, giving rise to the speakeasy, where drinks were discreetly sold. The term ‘speakeasy’ relates to the suggestion that patrons speak “easy” or quietly about these illicit bars. The Secret Distillery captures this feel, offering a space that feels both exclusive and full of history.
The Secret Distillery
Opened on a quiet Saturday evening, The Secret Distillery is the brainchild of Ryan Luke and Tom Mills and is the second bar launched by the Bacton-based gin distillery, Heart of Suffolk.
Since its creation in 2018, the distillery has created three award-winning London dry gins – Betty’s, Rosie’s, and Ivy’s. Their collection also includes limited edition liqueurs, adding a unique twist to their spirit selection.
The original Heart of Suffolk Distillery was in Finbow’s Yard, Stowmarket but has now expanded to include a shop, an events space, and a production unit. The new speakeasy-style bar is located at the site of the former St Distillery bar.
A Taste of Suffolk
Emphasising local flavours, The Secret Distillery offers a range of drinks from nearby producers, including Humber Doucy Brewing Company, Ampersand, Suffolk Village Ciders, Herbarium, Scobby’s, and Vino Gusto. This commitment to local sourcing not only supports the surrounding community but also provides patrons with a taste of Suffolk’s finest.
A Venue for All Occasions
The Secret Distillery is open Thursday and Friday evenings, Saturday 12 pm to 11 pm and Sunday 12 pm- 6 pm. It’s not just about the drinks though; the venue also houses a shop where you can purchase Heart of Suffolk spirits.
Bridge Classic Cars
We stock a range of gin from the Heart of Suffolk Distillery here at Bridge Classic Cars. In fact, it wasn’t too long ago that we welcomed them to our fully licensed bar to have a look around.
Jon has now completed the inspection on our 1993 Bentley Turbo R. He’s carried out the necessary repairs which included; sorting the connections on the nearside headlight and main beam. He’s stripped the nearside door panel and repositioned the electric window switch.
The car has been taken off the ramp and a road test has been carried out.
It returned to the workshop with a belt squeal and steering is out to the right.
We have tightened the alternator belt.
The steering has been adjust and we’ve inflate all tyres to the correct pressure.
Fuel has been added and now the car is ready for the draw!
Back in July 2022 we surprised David with the amazing news that he had won our 1997 Rover Mini. Soon after, he visited our Suffolk workshops in person to see the car for himself.
Almost 2 years on, as I scroll through my feed I recognised a familiar car pop up in a post on the ISMOC Facebook page. That’s our Mini…currently parked up on display at the 2024 Virginia Auto Show and the story has been posted by David! It’s always a joy to see or hear that our competition cars are being used, showed and enjoyed.
And even more lovely to see comments from admirers all over the world. Our competitions are being seen and enjoyed from all over the world, how amazing is that?
If you want to be our next winner, check out Bridge Classic Cars Competitions and maybe we’ll soon be calling you, just like we did for David.
We seen a few cars added this week to our ‘free to buy, free to sell’ website MyClassics.
First up, (and I do very much have a soft spot for these), is a lovely 2010 Fiat 500 1.2 Pop currently available from LRH Cars in Hadleigh, Suffolk. The car comes with a comprehensive service history and has also had its timing/cambelt and water pump replaced at 43778 miles on 17/08/2016.
It also has many supporting invoices for servicing including some not stamped in the book and this would be a fantastic little starter car or daily runner with the Insurance Group being just 5U.
For more information on the Fiat 500 contact LRH Cars.
Next up, a ridiculously rare 1988 Vauxhall Belmont Jubilee Edition, believed to be the only one left in existence and one of only twenty three Belmont’s left on the road. Available now, having just gone through the MOT after a light recommission.
Also, listed on MyClassics is a 1985 Austin Mini Mayfair (Berkeley). The car is a very rare Wood & Pickett Mini Mayfair ‘Berkeley’. It has a soft-top, bull-bars, walnut dash, Mountney leather steering wheel and Wolfrace alloys to name a few of the conversion parts. Covering just 29500 miles it has spent most of the last 25 years under cover in storage.
Steve Burkinshaw, the Mini Cooper Register coachbuilt Mini expert, has helped confirm the provenance and rarity as well as confirming that all of my information fits with it being a genuine W&P.
Regarding provenance and the vehicle’s story, we believe that only 3 of these particular Minis were commissioned or still exist. Henlys of Berkeley Square, who owned W&P at the time, commissioned a small number of these vehicles. The service book confirms that it was sold by Henlys with the dealers stamp and the original number plate of C121 BYW was confirmed as a London Reg. Likewise the additions on the vehicle such as the Wolfrace alloys and bull-bars were typical of W&P conversions.
It singles itself out however, as instead of W&P on the detail line around the car, it says “Berkeley”. It also has this on the boot lid. Steve Burkinshaw had only heard of 3 of these mini’s being commissioned so there is a chance for someone to own a particularly rare mini.
If you have a car or number plate to sell, MyClassics is our gift to you. No buyer fees or seller fees involved in any of the cars on our website. If you are looking to buy, simply log on and if you find a car you like you can speck directly to the seller. Alternatively, if you have a car or plate to sell, list it via MyClassics and get it seen my thousands of car enthusiasts.
February 29, 2024 12:24 pmPublished by Craig Ranson
The TV culinary world has lost one of its most beloved figures, Dave Myers, at the age of 66. Best known as one half of the duo, The Hairy Bikers, Myers’ died two years after announcing his diagnosis with cancer. His death is not only the loss of a great chef but also a loved television personality and family man.
A Life Well Lived
Born in Barrow-in-Furness, Myers’ early life was influenced by his mother’s cooking and his father’s love for fishing. This later turned into a deep passion for food. Despite facing the challenge of becoming a young carer, when his mother developed multiple sclerosis, Myers found a positive outlet in cooking, a skill that would later define his career and personal life.
After studying fine art at Goldsmiths in London, Myers had a somewhat unique career path that led him to become the BBC’s first male make-up artist, a role he would hold for 23 years. His work on shows ranging from Doctor Who to period dramas showcased his artistic talent beyond the kitchen. However, it was his meeting with Si King, on the set of a TV adaptation of Catherine Cookson’s ‘The Gambling Man’, that would change his life in a big way.
The Hairy Bikers’ Adventure
Myers and King’s partnership led to the creation of the Hairy Bikers. Their television journey began over 20 years ago when they hit the road on their motorbikes for adventures across the UK and around the world. From the roads of Portugal to the landscapes of Namibia, they shared their love for food and travel, becoming household names in the process.
Their series, such as The Hairy Bikers’ Cookbook, Mums Know Best, and Asian Adventure created entertaining television as well as showing the vast range of cuisine around the world.
Tributes and Memories
Earlier today, Si King posted on X:
“I’m afraid I bear some sad news. Most of you will know Dave has been fighting cancer for the past couple of years.
“Last night, on 28th February 2024, with Lili, Dave’s wife, his family, close friend David and myself by his side, he passed away peacefully at home. All who knew Dave are devastated at his passing. His beloved wife brought him such happiness as did her children, Iza and Sergiu who Dave loved like his own.
“Personally, I am not sure I can put into words how I feel at the moment. My best friend is on a journey that for now, I can’t follow.
“I will miss him every day and the bond and friendship we shared over half a lifetime. I wish you God’s speed brother; you are and will remain a beacon in this world. See you on the other side. Love ya.”
He also said:
“I know Dave and his family would want me to thank all of you who sent messages of support in recent times. It meant the world to him, his family and all The Hairy Bikers team. I am sending you all much love and gratitude for those simple acts of kindness, generosity and spirit. We are eternally grateful for them.
“May I ask you all for one further kindness and allow Lili, his wife, his family, close friends and I some time and some peace to process our huge loss. I am sure I will see you all soon.”
BBC chief content officer Charlotte Moore said:
“Everyone at the BBC is incredibly sad to hear this news.
“Dave made cooking a truly joyful adventure and he shared that joy with millions. The public loved him and his unique partnership with Si.
“Together they made every viewer feel like a friend. More than that he was simply a lovely man. Our thoughts go out to his family and many friends.”
Work is now complete on the hood of our Rover 216 so only one more job for Tony to complete, that’s returning the car back home looking lovely in our covered transporter.
February 26, 2024 12:42 pmPublished by Craig Ranson
The Classic Lounge will be opening its doors for an exclusive event for the Norfolk and Suffolk branches of the BMW Car Club. The bar will be open for hot and cold drinks and a workshop tour will take place. This is a private event, contact the club for more information.
If you would like to bring your club along for an exclusive event or to join one of our public events, contact Lily on events@bridgeclassiccars.co.uk
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