At our planning meeting in January 2003, while we were setting the programme of events for the year, someone had the bright idea that the Lincolnshire Group could build a trial car/special. This was to be from the bits and pieces we had surplus to requirements. Almost straight away we had an engine, chassis and wheels donated. We knew then that it was a possibility. What we did not know, or if anyone did they kept it to themselves, was the size of the project we had taken on.
We decided to base the car on the Cambridge special and as luck would have it, one of our members had a body that we could copy. Peter Davis, a renowned cabinetmaker, offered to make the wooden frame, this was specialised work that we ‘handymen’ could not have attempted. Then Colin Davis Peter’s son, volunteered to clad the body in aluminium. Once again a specialist job that we would have been very difficult for us amateurs.
Work then commenced, firstly in Ian Bancroft’s workshop, then in Alan Cady’s workshop garage. Individual members take on ‘homework’ to prepare items to be fitted at the next session. As with most projects we hit a low point and the work stalled. New impetus arrived with the offer of Graham Beckett’s workshop facilities, as you may know, Graham is now our National Club Chairman. We soon had the rebuilt engine installed and the rolling chassis completed. With the body fitted the job looked almost done. Not so, now started the time consuming fitting out. Fitting the radiator enabled us to design and manufacture the bonnet parts. This meant moving to lock, stock and barrel to Colin’s workshop in the Wolds. this was to take advantage of his tools and expertise, We all learned a lot about metal bashing that day. The hardest part, physically, was forming the hockey section round the 6-inch radius at the rear of the body tub. With two of us holding and pulling, and Colin wielding his magic hammer the impossible was achieved.
We have now reached a point when more parts are needed. We have list of needs and if any of our readers have spare parts that will help, please get in touch with me.
I have been asked what the initial “Mission Statement” was. Opinions differ; I do not recall us thinking that far ahead! We did have an idea that we could enter the car in trials with several drivers from the group. We also thought the car could be loaned to new club members, who did not have a car, to experience the Austin Seven style of driving. Hence the car needed to be road legal, not just be trailed from event to event. I personally think the biggest gain for the group has been planning and working together, we have all learned so much!
