Christmas is just around the corner and we will be beginning our festive celebrations with our Mince Pie Drive 2024.
On Friday 5th December, we will be taking a small convoy of our classic cars to four local care homes to deliver mince pies, festive cheer, and some nostalgia in the form of cars from yesteryear.
The concept behind the Mince Pie Drive is simple – we want to help combat loneliness and disconnection during the festive season by delivering moments of happiness that only memories can bring.
Visiting Four Care Homes
The Mince Pie Drive will visit four care homes in the area – Henley House, The Willows, Silver Birch, and Haughgate House. We will also be making a quick stop to display our classic cars at Christchurch Mansion from 12pm to 1pm. This is so more people can admire the beautiful classics as well as giving the care team and residents to have their lunch undisturbed.
At each care home, we will deliver mince pies for staff and residents to enjoy. While it may seem like a small gesture, last year’s drive showed just how meaningful such acts of kindness can be.
The Bridge Classic Cars Mince Pie Drive 2024 is about more than just Christmas. It’s part of a bigger mission to inspire acts of kindness all year round. By showing how small efforts can make a big difference, we hope to encourage others to connect with their communities and spread joy, whatever time of year.
We are very excited to be returning to The Classic Car Show at Culford in 2024 after the enjoyment we experienced last year. The highlights from 2023 can be found here. The team will be on a stand once more and will be on hand to chat to you about our current projects as well as our competition cars. The stand will be a perfect place to unwind and chat to us about all things automotive. We will also be wandering around the show so if you see us, do say hello.
The Classic Car Show – we have just one space on our stand to host a Bridge Classic Cars Member’s vehicle! If you would like to attend alongside the Bridge Classic Cars team, join up as a member and then email us at events@bridgeclassiccars.co.uk
For more details on how to get tickets, head to the event website
The entire team here at Bridge Classic Cars understand how important the charity’s work is and we are very proud to be doing our part in helping them raise much-needed funds.
More information about the event can be found here and we will share more details of our involvement very soon too.
We’re excited to invite you to the Classic & Sports Cars by the Bridge event happening on Monday, 26th August 2024. This special event, hosted and organised by Suffolk Food Hall, is all about bringing together car enthusiasts for a great cause—raising money for Cancer Support Suffolk. As the headline sponsor, we are thrilled to be a part of this fundraising event.
Cancer Support Suffolk is a charity that we have a special connection with. Many of us at Bridge Classic Cars have been personally touched by cancer, whether through our own battles or supporting loved ones through theirs. That’s why we’re determined to make this event a success and raise as much money as possible to help those who need it most.
As part of our efforts, we have launched a competition where you can win a stunning 1990 Jaguar XJ6 for just £5.00. All proceeds from the ticket sales will go directly to Cancer Support Suffolk, so every entry counts. It’s not just about winning a beautiful car; it’s about supporting a cause that impacts so many lives.
While registrations for display cars have closed, you can still join us on the day. There’s plenty of space in the large parking area where you can showcase your car and be part of the celebration. Whether you’re bringing a sports car, a classic or just coming to enjoy the day and admire the 250 cars being displayed, we look forward to seeing you there.
We recently welcomed a much more modern vehicle into the Bridge Classic Cars workshop.
Our 2023 Toyota Hilux has been in the paintshop so Chris could repair a crack in the bumper and dent on the door. The truck was then primed and prepped for paint.
We understand that cars can hold a very special place in the hearts of their current and previous owners. It’s for this reason that we are asking for your help to find a 1934 Lagonda Rapier.
The Story
I recently received an email from John Baker asking if we had seen his former vehicle, his 1934 Lagonda Rapier, registration AYW 27. Unfortunately, although over the years we have had similar vehicles from this era in the workshop, John’s car wasn’t one of them so we have been unable to help him locate his nostalgic car.
So, now…we are asking for your help to find John’s classic Lagonda Rapier. Here’s what we know so far:
John owned the car in the late 50s/early 60s
It was originally a fixed-head coupe finished in green
It was converted to a drophead coupe before John took ownership
The car was owned post-2000 by someone in our local area of Suffolk
John believes the car was restored in the early 90s when a white 2-seater body was fitted and the engine increased from a 1.1 to a 1.5-litre
It competed in various Vintage Sports Car Club events
Valid insurance seems to be on the vehicle
It was potentially up for sale around 2006
In John’s own words:
“This car, which I owned in the late 1950s/early 1960s, gave me enormous pleasure and I have recently wondered what happened to it 90 years after it was manufactured (just a year older than me). The original body by Abbott was a fixed head coupe but it had been converted to DHC when I bought it. The last owner I have traced is RASlater who lived in Suffolk and I think may have died recently. I understand that in the early 1990s, he restored the car, fitting a white 2 seater body and enlarging the engine from 1100 to 1500cc – and competed in various VSCC events. I believe that the car was advertised for sale in 2006 but do not know if it was sold and can find no later information – except that it appears to be currently insured.
I know that since 1991 it has been a white 2 seater special. The car was definitely based in Suffolk in the 90s and early 2000s.”
Can You Help?
If you know anything about John’s 1934 Lagonda Rapier (AYW 27), then please get in touch.
As one of the last iterations of the iconic Spider, the 1989 model held true to Alfa Romeo’s legacy. With its classic Pininfarina-designed body, the 2.0-litre four-cylinder engine gave a spirited driving experience while the stylish interior offered a sense of comfort and luxury.
Our 1989 Alfa Romeo Spider is a rare find thanks to its right-hand drive configuration and is the fuel-injected Series 3 model. This Italian sports car benefits from a recent repaint, and has been well-maintained both inside and out. Finished in an eye-catching red exterior paired with a tasteful black-trimmed interior, you certainly get the Italian luxury you might expect. This is further complimented by its wood-rimmed Nardi steering wheel.
This example was originally registered overseas before acquiring its UK registration later on. Our Spider shows 55,976 kilometres (34,781 miles) over its 6 previous owners – the most recent being since 2017.
The accompanying history file contains MoTs dating back to 1994, receipts, original sales brochures, tax discs, the owner’s manual, and spare keys.
Here is another incredible story from Keith Belcher, in his own words, about his Dad’s Armstrong Siddeley Sapphire:
“It was a Saturday evening in the late spring of 1962. Mum and Dad had visitors in our little house in Nearmoor Road. “The Gang” as they called themselves. Dad, Dennis, Big Eric and Little Eric and their wives. A get-together with alcohol flowing was not unusual. In those days, people used to drink and drive, mostly sensibly. Being now 12 years old, after putting my little brother to bed, I stayed up and listened intensively to the adult conversation. The chatter was about the space race, JFK’s presidency, the Cold War etc. etc. The conversation turned to how Dad’s business was doing. Dad explained that he had just taken on a new business partner and things were looking up. He had promoted Ray, his second in command, to Service Manager and he had given Ray his quite new Vauxhall Victor as a company car. That left Dad driving a van. He needed funds for new plant [and an expensive planned holiday] so a new car was not really possible.
Now Big Eric was a car dealer, a lovely bloke. He was the “Spiv” type of chap, you know, you expected him to open his jacket for you to see wristwatches hung on the lining, just like George Cole in the movies. He piped up “Hey Ken. I know where there is a beautiful car going for a song!” Dad replied “What is it?” Eric: “Well, I’m not really sure. It’s something like a Princess or a Daimler, you know a limousine supposed to be in superb nick. The blokes been gone for ages and his wife just wants rid. I bet you could get it for a song.” Dad said “Not my style Eric. Too old for me don’t you think?” At that statement everyone piled in the discussion saying that he should go for it, it would suit him and other stuff. Over the evening the gang ribbed and cajoled, poked and prodded Dad, they were relentless, until he promised to follow up on that car. I remember the laughter as they left that night. Little Eric coughed and turned with his arm up behind him as if expecting a tip and said “I’ll be leaving you now Sir….” (a reference to the popular TV series Bootsie & Snudge).
A few days later I went with Dad to 290 Highbridge Road, Sutton Coldfield. The smart lady led us down her garden to a garage. Inside was this gorgeous dark grey Armstrong Siddeley Sapphire Automatic car. It was on blocks, the wheels removed and completely covered in Vaseline. With sumptuous leather interior the engine was spotless and started easily. She explained that her husband was away and was going to be away longer than expected. She didn’t volunteer why she had not advertised it, but she was concerned that the car would have to be collected in darkness, so no one would see it go. Dad made a lowball offer of £250 cash politely but in a take it or leave it manner. To his surprise she agreed.
The next day a fitter sorted the wheels, drained fuel tank and put new fuel in. Dad had that car for some two years or so. RWD 828 was a lovely car. Later when driving it around he was approached occasionally by unsavoury characters and ladies would wave at him for no apparent reason. It turned out the car had belonged to a doctor who had been imprisoned for illegal abortions & was well known to the local working girls and of course their pimps. Needless to say, the registration 187 KHA was moved from the Vauxhall to the Armstrong. It was later sold for a thumping profit.
Share Your Story
If you have memories of a special vehicle, we’d love to share them. Simply email rob@bridgeclassiccars.co.uk with some photos and why your vehicle means so much to you.
The paint team here at Bridge Classic Cars have been hard at work getting our 2022 C-Type Replica into paint. The team have meticulously prepared the body and primer to get to the stage of laying down the first shades of pale green across the iconic silhouette of the car.
Dozens, if not hundreds, of hours have gone into getting the car to this stage with a large proportion of those being in the Bridge Classic Cars bodyshop.
Alan and the team have gone through every square inch of the car through every single stage to ensure the cars final finish is nothing short of perfection.
In such a fast moving world, there’s a certain allure to embracing the classics. Enter classic cars and superyachts, two realms where craftsmanship, elegance, and adventure unite. From the gleaming chrome and paintwork of classic cars to the opulent interiors of luxury yachts, these icons evoke a sense of nostalgia and sophistication that transcends time and fascinates owners and enthusiasts alike.
Restoring a classic car or superyacht is a labour of love, requiring patience, skill, and extraordinarily high attention to detail. It’s a journey of discovery, uncovering hidden treasures, stories and history, preserving the legacy of these icons. From sourcing or fabricating rare parts to meticulously refurbishing interiors, each restoration project is a testament to the dedication and passion of enthusiasts who seek to honour the craftsmanship of generations past. The restoration process creates a story in itself, just look at some of the projects of Bridge Classic Cars, you can follow the whole journey from stripping the car back, to adding the finishing touches, all on their website.
The timeless appeal of classic cars and superyachts finds its ultimate expression amidst the luxurious Côte d’Azur. Against the backdrop of Monaco’s clean streets and the lively promenades of Saint-Tropez, the Riviera sets the stage for an unparalleled display of sophistication and luxury. The global elite converges upon this coastal haven, eager to showcase their cherished possessions at prestigious gatherings like the Grand Prix de Monaco Historique and the Cannes Yachting Festival. Here, classic cars bask in the Mediterranean sunlight, their sleek contours reflecting the essence of Riviera elegance, meanwhile, superyachts stand as beacons of opulence in the marinas of the Mediterranean.
As custodians of automotive and maritime heritage, enthusiasts play a vital role in ensuring that classic cars and superyachts continue to inspire future generations. Through meticulous restoration efforts and responsible ownership, they preserve these icons for posterity. It’s a commitment to excellence and a reverence for the past that drives their passion and dedication.
Owning a superyacht or classic car isn’t just about the destination, it’s about the journey. Whether you’re exploring the scenic coastal routes of Croatia or setting sail to the remote islands of the South Pacific, the thrill of adventure is an integral part of the experience. It’s about enjoying the now, forging connections with like-minded individuals and creating memories that last a lifetime.
Classic cars and superyachts are more than just vehicles – they’re a passion, a pursuit, a lifestyle. Picture yourself behind the wheel of a Jaguar E-Type, the wind in your hair as you navigate the winding coastal roads of the Cote d’Azur. Or imagine yourself aboard a 60m Feadship, cruising through the crystal clear waters of the Amalfi Coast. These experiences could simply be dreams, or for some, a well earned pastime, transporting us back to a time, where craftsmanship and elegance were the symbols of luxury.
Here is a full run down on the works carried out recently on our Ford Transit Mk2.
Tony has collected a new/old stock prop shaft whilst on his travels and it is now safely back with us here at Bridge Classic Cars HQ.
Mauro has been working on some of the smaller components to get them black up and ready for refit.
Steve has been fitting up the windows and quarter lights. We have replaced the lower mounting point for the offside quarter light frame. He has also blasted the mirror casings.
Meanwhile, Lydia in the trim-shop has cut out the plastic liner for the door cards and stuck this to the door. She has then made some minor adjustments to the door card to allow it to fit correctly under the top rail, and then put the door card clips in.
The fuel tank is in need of repair so Steve has photographed the unit to send over in preparation for the repairers.
The beloved panel van formed a core moment in the automotive lives of so many. Maybe it was your first role of responsibility at work or it was an early runaround filled with friends and laughter, either way it was always there but have become a seldom sight in the UK classic car scene.
Just like this one, our 1982 Bedford HA.
Using the Vauxhall Viva as a base, the HA’s were first let loose on British roads in 1964 and would continue to play a key role in the high-street landscape up until production ended in the early 1980’s. A favourite with utility companies, the HA’s would wear a multitude of liveries throughout their production run including the Royal Mail, British Gas, British European Airways and the famous yellow and blue British Telecom livery like our van.
After their working life was over, many of these vans would find themselves on the driveways of young petrolheads across the UK as some of their first forays onto the open road, and into a special place in their automotive hearts.
Our 1982 Bedford HA has been subject to a comprehensive restoration by a previous owner who transformed KTS 92X into the beautiful panel van that you see today and pay tribute to the bright and eye-catching British Telecom vans of the 1970s/1980s as documented in the wonderful photos of the cars transformative journey.
The Bridge Classic Cars Competitions team have got something to ‘blow your doors off’!
In the early 1990’s to celebrate the cult classic 1969 film, The Italian Job, the Longbridge company began a small, limited edition run of cars to pay homage to the Peter Collinson film.
Featuring unique and special graphics packs, adorning this bite size classic with its namesake, the Italian Job Minis would be available in the classic Red, White and Blue paint schemes of the hero cars in the film as well as celebrating their homeland with a timeless British Racing Green option.
Our 1992 Rover Italian Job, based on the Red Mk1 Mini driven by stunt driver David Salamone with Michael Caine as his passenger, is finished in stunning Flame Red with more modern Black bonnet stripes and a classic set of double rally lights on the front.
Powered by the quintessential 1275cc 4-cylinder engine paired with a manual gearbox, this classic Mini really does… ‘’get its skates on’’ to quote the film.
Included with the car is a history file which contains the original grey vinyl booklet pack alongside numerous invoices dating from June 2023 all the way back to the 19th of May 2000.
Also included is a valuation certificate from the British Mini club from 2015 confirming the car as one of the 1750 Italian Job Mini’s built with the inspector noting the car was ‘A nice example of a Mini Italian Job LE’.
So, whether you’re looking at doing a ‘big job’ with some gold bullion or a tranquil Sunday drive our 1992 Rover Italian Job Mini ticks all those boxes.
Queen Elizabeth II’s custom Land Rover Range Rover SDV8 Autobiography LWB is for sale on PistonHeads.com for the price of £224,850. The vehicle was commissioned by the Royal Household in March 2016 and was seen transporting the late Queen and Duke of Edinburgh to various high-profile events.
Noteworthy appearances include its role during Barack Obama’s state visit to the U.K. in the same year, where the former U.S. President and First Lady Michelle Obama were seen entering the rear of the car.
The late Queen’s Range Rover was modified by the Land Rover Workshop in Gaydon, to meet the Royal Household’s specifications. These modifications included side steps and a police siren. However, certain adjustments have been removed for homologation purposes. The set of grab handles requested by Her Majesty The Queen, along with a warning label for the police siren, are included in the sale though.
image: Bramley Motors – PistonHeads
The Vehicle
This SDV8 Autobiography LWB has a metallic blue exterior with a cream leather interior. The extended wheelbase provides dignitaries in the rear with added legroom, and the rear headrest screens have been reinstated for the new owner.
Under the bonnet, a 4.4-litre, twin-turbocharged diesel V8 with 339hp and 519 lb-ft of torque powers the vehicle, delivering its capabilities through an eight-speed automatic gearbox to all four wheels. With a quick 0 to 60mph time of 6.5 seconds and a top speed of 135mph, this luxurious vehicle, listed by Bramley Motors on PistonHeads.com, comes with 18,000 miles on the odometer, including 2,586 miles driven during its Royal ownership. The sale includes the original number plates, OU16 XVH, as seen on the vehicle during Royal events.
Matt Bird, Deputy Editor of PistonHeads, said: “There are few finer ways to travel than in the back of a long-wheelbase Range Rover. They really are unmatched for opulence and sense of occasion, especially when specified like this one with lovely light leather and dark wood. Even the wheels look ideal for sumptuous rolling refinement, and the lusty V8 diesel will be the perfect accompaniment for mile after effortless mile.
This model is desirable enough already, but to know this was personal transport for the late Queen and Prince Phillip elevates this Range Rover onto another plane of specialness entirely. This would have been one of the final vehicles specified by Her Majesty; that it remains with some of those features intact is lovely to see. Knowing that this vehicle was used for the Obamas on a state visit only furthers the appeal. For those enamoured with the Royal family, it’s an unrepeatable (and wonderful) piece of history.”
As much as we love classic cars, sometimes, a more modern car comes into the workshop and we can’t help but admire it. The memories it brings, the stories it tells, the way it makes you feel!
Recently, Bridge Classic Cars Managing Director Craig added a 2007 BMW E93 335i to his collection and, so far, it seems to be proving quite popular with many members of the team.
The Look
Craig’s BMW 335i is certainly nice to look at but it is so much more than that.
It’s black exterior with the striking red interior makes a statement while also looking stylish and cool.
Performance
The 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged inline-six engine delivers 300bhp and 300 lb-ft of torque. As a daily driver, you get more than enough power to go along with the comfort this car offers. However, if needed, you can quickly turn the 335i into a performance car with very little drama.
Craig’s 2007 BMW E93 335i
The previous owner of Craig’s car purchased the car from a very well known (within the communities in Suffolk) car enthusiast with 45,000 miles on the clock. He has spent more than £3000 on preventive maintenance to bring it up to the condition it’s in today. He even took it on a week-long adventure in Snowdonia, and it handled like a dream.
As it is still in its original specification, it’s not very often a car like this becomes available to buy. It’s for that reason that Craig felt even more inclined to add it to his collection. Back in 2007, its original bill of sales stated a price of £47,000 and in today’s market, a 335 cabriolet is becoming harder and harder to find. making this one to watch in the future!
It has recently undergone following service, carried out at Cecil and Larter Volvo who have known the car for many years.
In July they carried out a major service including spark plugs, oil and filter, pollen filter, air filter, gearbox service including automatic box filter and sump replacement. Spark plugs replaced at same time. The diff oil was changed and a new input seal replaced as this is an area that is prone to leaks. The vacuum hoses in the engine bay have been replaced as these are prone to failure, as are the boost control valves. The coolant has been changed prior to this winter to ensure reliability in colder temperatures.
The real rarity of this car, other than the specification is that it is entirely stock, there are no modifications at all.
Specification as follows…
Black Sapphire with Coral Red interior Upgraded to M sport seats at factory with full electric, lumbar and memory. Heated seats Professional navigation Parking sensors front and rear Upgraded hifi system 19inch 5 spoke alloys with matching Bridgestone runflats, all north of 5mm of tread and replaced within the last 3 years. All Brakes replaced circa 12,000 miles ago, just prior to my ownership.
The original bill of sale at £48,000 in 2007 is also included in the paperwork.
Embarking on a career in the superyacht industry offers young individuals a unique opportunity to explore the world, develop valuable skills, and forge lasting connections and friendships. Whether it’s working as a deckhand, engineer, stewardess or chef, joining a superyacht as crew can be a transformative experience with lifelong positive impacts.
I personally starting working on yachts just after turning 18, which back in 2006 was unusual, all other new crew were post university age, typically 22/23 years old. It meant with 4 years of hard work and studying in any leave periods I had, I gained my OOW around my 22nd birthday, then learning to lead as a deck officer. It has been one of the most rewarding careers I could have imagined, with countless opportunities and exciting adventures.
One of the most exciting aspects of working on a superyacht is the opportunity to travel to some of the most stunning and exotic destinations in the world. From the beautiful waters of the Caribbean, to the remote environment of the Pacific and the glamorous coastlines of the Mediterranean, young crew have the chance to explore diverse cultures, cuisines, and environments. This exposure to different countries and customs cultivates a broad worldview, a deeper appreciation for cultural diversity and an inner confidence to be able to travel anywhere anytime.
The high level of professionalism and expertise from crew that the superyacht industry requires provides young crew with an ideal environment for personal and professional growth. Whether it’s learning navigational skills, improving mechanical abilities, honing culinary techniques or mastering onboard hospitality, working on a superyacht offers a wealth of opportunities for skill acquisition and career advancement. Additionally and easily overlooked, crewmembers receive training and certifications in safety, first aid, fire fighting and security, further enhancing their skill set and future employability, not many typical jobs would give you such a broad range of experiences.
Not easily forgotten is the financial rewards, with very competitive salaries, tips, and bonuses, often tax free, young yachties can build themselves unimaginable investments and savings which to their land based friends is unbelievable. I personally bought my first house at age 24, which 12 years later many of my land based friends still have not managed. In addition to the financial incentives, working on a superyacht provides access to a luxurious lifestyle, mixing with the world’s elite, socialising in high-end places and eating out at top restaurants. For young crew, this lifestyle can be both rewarding and fulfilling, offering a unique blend of work and play, in some of the world’s most exclusive settings (although caution must be exercised to not spend all their hard earned wealth).
The superyacht industry is a close-knit community, offering ample opportunities for networking and career advancement. Young crew members have the chance to connect with industry professionals, yacht owners and charter guests, building valuable relationships that can lead to desirable future career opportunities. Whether it’s securing a position on a larger yacht, transitioning into a shoreside role in yacht management or brokerage, or breaking out into entrepreneurship, the connections made within the superyacht industry can open doors to exciting career paths and professional growth.
Working on a superyacht is not just a job, it’s an adventurous lifestyle. The demanding nature of the work requires young crewmembers to adapt quickly to new environments, overcome challenges and develop a strong work ethic. This fosters personal growth, resilience and self-confidence, as crewmembers learn to navigate the complexities of life at sea. Additionally, the sense of camaraderie and teamwork onboard creates a supportive environment where young individuals can thrive, develop and really excel.
Joining the superyacht industry as a young crewmember offers a wealth of opportunities for personal and professional development, travel, and adventure. From exploring exotic destinations to honing valuable skills and forging lifelong connections, working on a superyacht provides an unparalleled experience that can shape the course of a young person’s life, as it has done with my own. Whether it’s embarking on a career at sea or using the skills acquired to pursue other future endeavours, the positive impacts of joining the superyacht industry are as boundless as the horizon is far.
The humble Mini served as both a way to get from A to B as well as the first steps out onto the open road for a generation of would-be petrolheads.
From its earliest days in the late 1950’s all the way to its retirement in the early 2000’s, the classic Mini holds a special place in the classic car world – Just like this one, our 1976 Mini Clubman 1100.
With beautiful Antique Gold paintwork over a Black interior, with colour matched piping, our 1976 Mini has been lovingly looked after and cherished by its previous owners. Fitted with a 1098cc 4-cylinder engine and 4-speed manual gearbox, this bite-sized piece of gold has all the right feel for a classic Mini experience.
Our Mini Clubman has recently been restored inside and out, with all parts sourced from marque specialists such as Mini Spares and Mini Sport Ltd – as evidenced in the extensive history file which also includes the original Austin Morris ‘Passport to Service’ which details all the way back to the cars original PDI in August of 1976 at Melrose Garages in Norwich, where the car appears to have spent its first 20 years before migrating to the Northwest.
In its 48 years, the car is showing to have covered just under 63,000 miles. It is believed the engine was refreshed around 2018 with sales invoices for a piston ring set and new water pump.
Also included in our Mini’s file is a Best in Show award from the St Helens Classic Car Club dated April 2019, with this, we believe any restorative or restoration works were carried out prior to the award supported by parts invoices dating back to 2017/2016.
Some of you may be thinking ‘haven’t I seen this Mini before?’ and the answer is yes, but Bridge Classic Cars Competitions is giving you another chance to win this incredible 1976 Mini Clubman 1100 for just a few pounds.
This is the story of John Piper and his 1938 Morgan F Super, told in John’s own words.
“My first car was a 1938 Morgan 3-wheeler, an F-Super with an inboard Ford Ten engine, reg GPG 539.
I bought her for £15 in 1964 when I was 16. She had been run into a Keep Left island in Bloomsbury, so she was a bit sad. The owner had bought her because she looked so ‘cute’ but had not considered the performance of a Ford Ten engine in a car that weighed almost nothing, nor the difficulty of manoeuvring in Central London with direct steering.
Anyway, his loss was my gain. Then I returned on the Sunday with my sister and my mum in her Austin Metropolitan, to tow my purchase home from Woburn Square. Sunday was a good day to choose because there was only minimal traffic. I had not been able to test drive, so it was a surprise to discover there were very little brakes and no handbrake! However, to the amusement of American tourists, we set out. The lack of handbrake was alleviated by the fact that she was so low to the ground, I could put my hand flat on the ground to hold her at traffic lights!
Her first port of call was Albion Mews in SE25 (long since gone) and the workshop of Major L T N (Larry) Barlow who was going to straighten out the front chassis bars and fix the radiator. In his opinion, when he had finished, they were probably straighter than when she had been pushed out through the famous hole in the hedge in Malvern Links. Larry had served his apprenticeship with the Riley company building Riley 9s.
Although I was sixteen, I was legally allowed to drive a three-wheeler since I had a full motorbike licence and she counted as a motorbike and sidecar. So I had the exciting opportunity of driving her home, having never driven a car before! I taught myself to drive in her, with a fully crash gearbox, mostly by trial and error.
On attaining seventeen years, I bought a 1949 2200 cc Triumph Roadster, so the Moggie had to go. I sold her to a colleague at art school so I was able to follow her fortunes for a while. A few years ago, during an attack of nostalgia, I contacted the Morgan Three-Wheeler Club. What a marvellous and helpful organisation! It turned out that my Morgan was still in use (save a temporary engine issue). She had travelled to the Nurburgring and to Brooklands and been raced at both venues.”
Share Your Story
If you have memories of a special vehicle, we’d love to share them. Simply email rob@bridgeclassiccars.co.uk with some photos and why your vehicle means so much to you.
One response to “Nostalgia – 1938 Morgan 3-Wheeler F Super”
Paul Alexander Boyle
I bought a 1934 F4 in 1963 for(I think£15) & drove it in all weathers always with the hood down wearing a Belstaff motobike jacket & don’t recall ever getting wet or feeling cold.I had a full motorcycle licence but had not yet passed my car test.She would cruise happily at 50+ mph.She finally met her end(but luckily not me!) at Swiss Cottage when side swiped by a Mini that had jumped the lights.I received a £20 payout with which a bought a later F Super that I could not get running so,for reasons best known to myself,returned to motorcycling with an Ariel Square Four combination which was a disaster & did;nt pass my car test until some time later.Happy(mostly!) days.
The Morgan 4/4 is undeniably and unapologetically British. It is one of the most timeless and nostalgic designs to grace the roads across not only this island, but the world at large. From its earliest days, the company’s DNA has run strong through each of the models combining a beautiful blend of craftsmanship, style, and nostalgia.
From its introduction in 1936 and onwards to the modern day, the 4/4 has been a mainstay of the Malvern master’s arsenal – Just like this one, our 1972 Morgan 4/4.
With the classic pairing of Midnight Blue paintwork alongside a black cabin, our 4/4’s beauty is highlighted by the limited use of chrome across the flowing, elegant lines of the car and its satin grey wheels. The car’s long and signature handmade bonnet, stretches out from the driver’s seat, with the tops of its rolled arches allowing you to perfectly place this sports car out on the open road, but some may have noticed that this bonnet is not like others – this one has a new intake and hints at the sportier life it has led.
Supplied new in 1972 by I & J Macdonald in County Durham, our 4/4 is fitted with the signature Ford 1600cc crossflow 4-cylinder engine and has been developed to make this nostalgic sports car feel more modern in terms of performance. With a set of twin Dell’Orto 40 carburettors working in conjunction with a sports cam and a 4-into-1 exhaust, and when set up on a rolling road in 2019 made 117bhp to the crankshaft and 91bhp to the wheels with 120 lb/ft of torque, between 30 and 50bhp more than it originally had.
Included in the vehicle’s history file, which dates back to 1978, are invoices relating to replacements of the aluminium wings and other items as well as the general maintenance of the cars 44 years.
Over the last week, we’ve welcomed two loads of cars to our Suffolk HQ to be safely put into storage with ourselves.
The first batch belong to longtime friend of Bridge Classic Cars, Karl. His classic sports cars, classic Jaguar and Land Rover were unloaded after being transported by EM Rogers to our workshops to await transit to our secure storage facility.
After being carefully unloaded, the cars were inspected and prepared for the next step in their storage journey.
Then a few days later, we welcomed a pair of classic cars which had made their way over to us from Europe for a customer. Again, the team at EM Rogers Transport handled the long-distance move before the cars were checked and then loaded up by the Bridge Classic Cars team for their journey to our storage facility.
The classic Triumph 2500TC as well as the beautiful patina’d Fiat 1500 will join the ranks of the other stunning and cared for classics in our storage space.
Our 1953 Aston Martin DB2/4 has arrived back at our Suffolk HQ following its appointment with the media blasters.
The body was carefully removed from the chassis of the 1950’s GT previously by our workshop technicians and carefully transported to a local blasting company to carefully remove the Claret paint as well as exposing any areas which will need attention by the team here at the Bridge Classic Cars restoration workshops.
The body arrived back at our workshops earlier this week and was taken straight into our in-house fabrication shop for our expert team of fabricators to work on getting this rare and unique GT car back into better than new shape.
The team have begun to get the body onto the framing jig to get it ready for the delicate and highly-skilled work of repairing the areas affected by 71 years of being used and stored.
Our 1976 Triumph Spitfire has made a lot of progress recently. After having its body painted in Java Green, it left the Bridge Classic Cars paintshop and went back to Rob in the main workshop.
Rob has now begun the process of reassembling the car. After reassembling the rear brakes with new and reconditioned parts, the bodyshell was refitted and bolted down.
The new and reconditioned parts have also started to be fitted as the restoration of our classic Spitfire continues.
In February, a select group of individuals will be presented with a very special opportunity to become the new owner of one of Ferrari’s most iconic and desired models, a 1958 Ferrari 250 “Pontoon Fender” Testa Rossa. Celebrated for the beauty of its design alongside its now legendary racing legacy, this automotive icon will be a once-in-a-lifetime addition to someone’s collection.
The auction, hosted by RM Sotheby’s, will take place in Blenheim, Canada. Widely regarded as one of the most beautiful automotive creations of all time, the Ferrari 250 Testa Rossa comes with a staggering valuation of $34,000,000 to $38,000,000 (approximately £27,000,000 – £30,000,000).
This particular example, Chassis no. 0738 TR, is one of only 19 crafted by the renowned Italian coachbuilder Sergio Scaglietti. As well as being a stunning car to look at, 0738 TR has an impressive record on the track too. With nearly 20 period races and four overall victories, it was in active competition for over a decade. Recently restored in 2013, at Ferrari Classiche, it was awarded full Red Book Certification and is one of the very few TRs that retains its matching engine and gearbox
The importance and desirability of this special classic will obviously draw attention. With this in mind, the auction will be hosted through Sotheby’s Sealed, providing potential buyers with the opportunity to competitively bid in a private setting.
Shelby Myers, Global Head of Private Sales at RM Sotheby’s said “I have always believed that the 250 Testa Rossa should be the most desirable automobile in the world, especially in the context of Ferrari. When compared to the most revered prancing horse model, the 250 GTO, the TR far outpaces the GTO’s competition record. It revolutionised the World Sportscar Championship and won the 24 Hours of Le Mans an unprecedented four times; it is also much rarer in terms of the total number of cars produced. Its rarity, open-top experience, and iconic ‘pontoon fender’ design, present in only 19 cars, elevate it to the level of Michelangelo and Bernini’s art. No world-class collection is complete without the masterpiece that is the Ferrari 250 TR, the epitome of rolling art. These opportunities rarely come up, and it is fittingly offered through Sotheby’s Sealed, our most exclusive acquisition method,”
The Superyacht industry has always been known for luxury, excess, exclusivity and above all, discretion. Whether it’s the golden teak decks, unique interiors, or luxury destinations, superyachts are floating gin palaces that cater to the world’s elite. However, behind this world of extravagance, there exists a crucial aspect that is often overshadowed these days – the importance of discretion and secrecy by the crew, particularly in the age of social media.
Everyday I see photos from crew tagging their location and even their next destination, clearly with guests onboard, if you see enough of their ‘stories’ you can piece together exactly what cruising the yacht is doing. Dinner table and party set up pictures, posted in real time can easily give away numbers of guests coming, a 200 person party set up is bound to be attended by some persons of interest.
I remember the days we were asked to not mention to anyone our upcoming plans on-board, which was easy to comply with, as long as you didn’t blab about it when at the Blue Lady or the Mad Mongoose. These days you ask the crew not to post anything on social media about the upcoming trip with resounding nods and agreement, then day one of the voyage and everybody has seemed to have turned into Cameron Crowe, documenting every wave that hits the porthole or every glistening sunset.
A simple location tag on a photo from a crewmember is often enough for a keen yacht spotter to deduce where the yacht is and reveal the presence of high-profile guests on board, potentially compromising their privacy and safety.
The crew onboard superyachts are privy to the personal lives, preferences, and sometimes even the darkest secrets of their guests. Business deals, mistresses, prostitutes, secret games and affairs are all to be kept tight-lipped about. While crew wouldn’t intentionally post about the guests themselves, it is getting more and more usual for guests to add crew as ‘friends’ on their social media accounts, this then means if a crew member posts about the yacht, they may inadvertently give away some personal information the guests would rather their friends not know about. Crew often sign non-disclosure agreements and are expected to maintain the public perception of their guests, however, these are usually forgotten about and not followed up by the senior crew. Discretion and secrecy are of utmost importance to protect the privacy and reputation of the guests and the integrity of the superyacht industry as a whole.
Maintaining confidentiality is not just about respecting personal boundaries; it is about creating an atmosphere where guests can unwind, be themselves, and enjoy their time without the fear of being exposed to the public eye.
The superyacht industry’s success largely depends on its reputation for providing a secure and discreet environment for high-profile clients. Business meetings with rival firms are kept quiet while it could effect stock prices and trust from shareholders. Any breach of confidentiality can damage this reputation and deter future clients from seeking the superyacht experience.
The introduction of social media has transformed the way information is shared and consumed. Platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube allow anyone to become a content creator and instantly share their experiences with a global audience hoping to become the next big thing. While this has undoubtedly brought numerous benefits to individuals, it has also presented challenges to the industry. All too often the news outlets are grasping onto negative stories shared on social media, barely having to do any investigatory work themselves as people have shared their limited thoughts on an incident all over their profiles.
The use of social media is a worry to all who hold a position of command in ensuring the privacy of their guests is maintained, paparazzi, fans, or even fellow crew members can inadvertently or deliberately share sensitive information, photos, or videos of guests on social media platforms.
On the flip side, social media can be a valuable tool for marketing and promoting the superyacht industry. Crewmembers can showcase the beauty and fun of the industry, its destinations, and the exceptional service provided – as long as it’s done without violating the privacy of guests. These days we have all seen certain yachts that have their own social media pages or YouTube channels to help promote themselves for charter and I’m sure they do well out of it, although I often wonder what potential charterers watch these.
It is a delicate balancing act between preserving guest privacy and leveraging the power of social media for positive promotion. This requires careful training, clear communication, and strict adherence to guidelines, often the best approach is to employ someone with prior training in social media and marketing. In doing so, the superyacht industry can continue to offer a haven of luxury, exclusivity, and discretion for its discerning clientele.
In the world of luxury and extravagance, few things are as iconic and beautiful as a superyacht. These floating gin palaces represent the pinnacle of wealth, showcasing not only exquisite craftsmanship, the finest materials money can buy and cutting-edge technology. From immaculate decks to opulent interiors, superyachts spare no expense in creating an unparalleled experience for their fortunate owners.
Superyachts are known for their stylish and designer exteriors, often crafted from expensive materials to achieve a perfect finish of beauty and functionality. From the keel up, generally, on larger vessels, the hull is made from marine grade steel and the superstructure from aluminium, renowned for its lightweight properties and corrosion resistance. It not only contributes to the yacht’s overall durability but also allows for weight-saving and intricate exterior designs. The bare metal is then sealed with primers and faired numerous times until a perfectly smooth surface is achieved to paint over with polyurethane paints, leaving a perfect mirror finish.
Teak, a hardwood renowned for its natural beauty and resilience, is another favourite for superyacht decks. Its warm, golden tones not only provide a stunning visual contrast against the painted elements but also offers a comfortable, hardwearing and non-slip surface for guests to enjoy on the open sea. Teak is also used for perfectly varnished handrails, supported by mirror-finished stainless steel railings.
All fittings on the exterior are made from highly polished mirror finish stainless steel, from door handles, to mooring bits, fairleads and windlasses.
The extravagance of a superyacht is most evident in its interiors, where no expense is spared to create a haven of luxury. Hardwoods such as mahogany, teak, and oak are commonly used for wall panelling, and bespoke built furniture.
Marble is used for the flooring throughout communal areas, bathrooms and dayheads, with silk carpets used in cabins and salons. The yacht’s bathrooms are usually crafted with marble countertops, floors, walls and even intricately designed sinks, sometimes with gold or crystal fittings.
The interiors are adorned with the finest fabrics and furnishings, elevating the onboard experience to unparalleled heights of comfort. From custom-designed sofas to handcrafted bed linens, every inch of a superyacht’s living space is a testament to luxury. There may be exotic materials such as stingray skin, leathers and silk used to create bespoke wall coverings or furniture. Exquisite curtains and blinds delicately filter the sunlight, adding an extra layer of refinement and privacy.
Priceless paintings and art pieces adorn the living spaces, many being one-of-a-kind and irreplaceable.
In addition to the lavish use of traditional materials and handcraftsmanship, superyachts boast cutting-edge technology, integrated into the overall design. Smart glass technology allows windows to transition from transparent to opaque with a simple touch, automatic blinds, curtains and lights offer both privacy and ease. Huge entertainment systems, onboard Internet, air-conditioning and lighting are all controlled through sophisticated touchpad interfaces, enhancing the overall onboard experience.
The other extravagance of a superyacht, is the level of crewing involved, from ratios of 2 or 3 crew to every 1 guest onboard, all highly trained and highly skilled in their fields. The crew offer every type of service imaginable and make every request of the guests a priority, all while maintaining absolute discretion.
The extravagance of a superyacht is not merely a display of wealth, it is an artful combination of engineering prowess and the use of the finest materials available. These floating marvels are a testament to the limitless possibilities when money meets craftsmanship, creating an experience that is truly beyond compare.
We have several vacancies that we are currently trying to fill:
Classic Car Paint Restoration Specialist
We are looking for an enthusiastic and meticulous Classic Car Paint Restoration Specialist.
An eye for detail, good time management and experience in a body shop is crucial.
The daily duties of the role include; bodywork stripping and preparation, smaller component painting, chassis painting and bodywork painting.
The ideal candidate will be comfortable working with both solvent and water-based paint.
Fabricator / Welder
The ideal candidate will have the necessary experience in working with old cars and be familiar with the challenges that come with working on them.
You must be able to MIG weld. TIG weld would be an advantage but not a necessity.
If you have other talents relating to the restoration of classic cars these could also be used.
Events Promotional Staff
Marketing and branding is a huge part of our operation here at Bridge Classic Cars. Whether you know us for our award-winning restorations, our amazing competitions, our free online sales platform or our clothing range, it all makes up the Bridge Classic Cars brand. We host private events and open days at our workshops and The Atelier is our showroom space with an in-house licenced bar. It’s a fun and quirky place for like-minded enthusiasts to get together.
We’re looking for enthusiastic and dedicated people to help us with getting out and about in the car world. Whether it’s selling tickets to our hugely popular competitions, talking to potential clients about restoration work or talking to our amazing friends who come by to say hello – we want you to be one of the faces of Bridge Classic Cars.
Events normally take place on the weekends or evenings so you will need to be available and somewhat flexible.
If you’re looking for a fun way of getting into the classic car world or you’re looking for some part-time work then get in touch with the team at events@bridgeclassiccars.co.uk
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