Those Were The Days!

Sir,

In this year of the Ghost, I thought I’d send you a photograph as my little contribution. This is inspired by your splendid article in the March Motor Sport. The carburettor differs somewhat. I purchased the car from the late Lord Woolavington’s chauffeur and his next mistress had it rebodied in 1937, quite commendably. He forgot to mention to open the bonnet side shutters when in use and the heat generated without the through draft caused a certain amount of pre-ignition. With an almighty bang it konked out in London’s Cambridge Circus. However, it restarted and we found a parking place and accommodation nearby and waited for daylight after one or two large gins and tonics. This would be around the year 1964, I think. Should the present owner recognise his inflation-proof investment he might let me know how it is doing.

Incidentally, Cambridge Circus was also an involuntary halt spot for my Alfonso Hispano Suiza, in or around 1925. When stationary in warm September weather steam was issuing from a small hole in the radiator cap and a cab drew alongside. Leaning over the cabby asked “what time does the balloon go up?” Thereupon it coughed and stopped. An understanding policeman came over and said “sit still, sir” and push-started it in a couple of yards.

Those were the days! I then reeled off 275 miles up North with no bother. At the time I bought this one, it, I was informed, had won the fast August 1914 race at Brooklands. Perhaps you could delve into your archives and enlighten me. It had had a hard life obviously, as the reserve oil tank always needed topping up. It did use a bit.

Lytham-St.-Annes, V. B. WRIGHT

Yes, an Alfonso Hispano Suiza, driven by L. G. Nicolson, did win the last run at Brooklands before the 1914/18 war. -Ed.)