Austin re-Registers

Good to see that the unusual 1909 Austin town-carriage with its underfloor engine and driving compartment right at the front, only the radiator ahead of it, has resurfaced in a fine colour-spread in the Vintage Austin Register’s magazine.

I remember when it was owned by the late Maurice Smith, DFC, son of Geoffrey Smith, who headed The Autocar in its Iliffe days. I admired Maurice, firstly because he was a pilot, flying The Autocar’s Auster before the war and for his distinguished RAF days — I admire all aeroplane pilots – but also for another episode not relevant here.

The rare Austin, which is named ‘Mrs Pankhurst’, is now owned by Maurice’s son Colin. It was taken for an airing recently, after a party of VAR enthusiasts — driving their 1929 16/6 Burnham, 1929 16/6 Iver and 1930 9hp Austin cars — had been to see it.

The aforesaid Club magazine excels; well edited by Jim Stringer.