The Historic Specials Day
13th August 2000 The Cotswold Wildlife Park

Organised by the Fairthorpe Sports Car Club, this years Historic Specials Day was yet again well worth a visit. Although in small attendance, the P & W Register were there with three fine examples on display which once again attracted a curious and highly complimentary swathe of public interest

There was a surprise visit from Graham Heather and his wife in their very well presented racing green Warwick. This yet again made it a day where Warwicks outnumbered Peerlesses, a phenomenon I didn't think I'd see again this year. I had not met Graham and his wife before but I had spoken to them on the telephone, so it was lovely to finally meet them and see the car. Their car has at some point been quite skilfully re-sculpted in a most exquisite way.

The front wings, which normally have a very flat line from front to back, have been curved downward slightly towards the front of the car. This has had a most remarkable yet incredibly subtle effect. It is perhaps a little reminiscent of the Aston Martin DB5 without the lamp covers. Cream spoke wheels and a lovely leather interior make this a very desirable car indeed and I hope we see much more of it next year. Nigel and I had the good fortune to be interviewed and had the cars photographed by a very nice lady from 'Classics' magazine. She was preparing several articles but could not confirm which one her editor would choose or indeed which issue it would appear in, so keep a close eye out in your newsagents, you never know.

A highlight for me was meeting Dudley Thomson again whom some of you may remember was a previous P & W Registrar in the 1970's. He sends his regards to those who remember him and has even volunteered (not sure that's the correct word to use) to write an article for TRaction about his time as registrar and indeed his life post P & W. I had also arranged to meet up with Robert Styles who was a previous owner of the John Bolster Test Warwick. They both came armed with bundles of old documents and photos for me to put on the website, so look out for them over the cold winter months.

As usual at Burford, there were some exceptionally unusual cars to feast the eyes upon and I will definitely be there next August along with many more of you I hope. The Wildlife Park is a full days entertainment in itself, with interesting animals roaming about and a café that produces the best homemade Steak pie I've ever tasted !

I Like The Historic Specials Day !