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The Shropshire Spitfire |
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| The
Spitfire emerging from the garage after 25 years with (left to
right) David Embery, Steve Cureton, Karen Miller
& Chris Ray. |
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| We
need you! Please consider helping us with
this project by making a Donation, however small |
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The Shropshire Spitfire is a charitable project
that has always belonged to the whole Triumph Sports Six
Club (TSSC), Shropshire Area Group, rather than any one
particular individual. Countless volunteers and sponsors
have given to help with the project over the years and also
pledged their further support via donations of parts, cash,
time etc.
The overriding primary aim is to raise funds for the local
Severn Hospice. This is not just in memory of the previous
owner of the car, but also for everyone, their family and
friends who, despite having been touched over the years by
varying degrees of tragedy, have had their lives made just
that little bit easier by all that they do at the hospice.
The Shropshire Spitfire story began when David Embery,
received a call out of the blue from Karen Miller whose late
father was a Triumph enthusiast. He had bought her a Triumph
Spitfire for her 18th birthday to satisfy Karen's desire for
a sports car. However, despite loving the car, Karen could
not drive it easily due to having no synchro on 1st gear and
thereby having to 'double de-clutch' when changing gear. No
matter, Karen's father was a ‘Triumph Nut’ like ourselves
and was undeterred. He decided to keep the car and gradually
restore it to 'mint' condition for his own benefit in later
life. The Spitfire went into the garage at the back of his
house to be worked upon as and when time permitted.
Sadly, approximately 25 years later, Karen lost her father
when he died at the Severn Hospice in Shrewsbury. It was
then that the Spitfire was re-discovered.
Karen asked the TSSC Shropshire Area group if they could
help her do something with the Spitfire. She knew that her
father loved the car and so she wanted to respect his memory
and ensure that the Spitfire went to someone who would
appreciate it.
David went along for an initial viewing of the car,
expecting to help put the car up for sale. However, what was
in the garage was not just any old Spitfire but a 1966 (C
registration) early Mark 2 with its original hard 'bubble'
top. The car had not moved out of the garage for over 20
years.
David and Karen discussed possible options available. These
included taking a lead from a recent local classic car rally
in June 2010. Not only did it raise some vital money for the
Seven Hospice but, perhaps more importantly, also raised
many smiles on the faces of the patients. They had been
moved outside of the hospice building to watch and admire
all the cars at the start of the rally. All those present
that day witnessed the hospice perhaps doing what it does
best. Helping patients, their family and friends, even when
life has dealt them a hand where they are left feeling they
don't have much to smile about anymore.
With that as inspiration, Karen and David agreed that it
would be fantastic if lots of people could enjoy the
Spitfire, respect Karen's father's memory and, at the same
time, do something charitable for the hospice that had cared
for not only him but also so many others. Karen stated that
she would be prepared to donate the car to the TSSC
Shropshire Area Group on the understanding that it would not
only be restored to how her father had envisaged but also
then used to raise vital cash funds. The main overriding aim
would always be to bring smiles to the faces of those people
in Shropshire who, through no fault of their own, found
themselves in need of help from all those at the Hospice.
The restoration began with much enthusiasm. So much so that
after only a few sessions, confidence was high about passing
an MOT! However, it would be something of an understatement
to say that things did not go according to plan! As many
Triumph owners can relate to, one patch of rot led to the
discovering of many others and a full body off restoration
ended up being the only sensible way forward.
The engine and its internals were re-bored, re-ground, and
rebuilt. The drive train, chassis, brakes etc were all
refurbished with the aid of sponsorship from TD Fitchetts,
Mike Papworth and Jigsaw to name but a few of our willing
sponsors. The project was gaining pace until we came to
trying to sort the bodywork. Despite having received a very
generous donation of many body panels by TD Fitchetts, the
project ground to a halt as we struggled to find anyone with
the required welding skills. Therefore, back into long term
storage went the Shropshire Spitfire.
In October 2020, the project gained a very much need
injection of energy and belief in that we became aware of an
early Spitfire body that was available for purchase.
However, initially, things did not seem too encouraging as
it had spent the past 25+ years within a ‘Pig-Pen’ in the
middle of a field in Reading. It was decided to give it a
chance, so a viewing was arranged. A deal was done and the
body brought back to Telford so that the project could then
come back from its long-term hibernation.
The body was taken back to metal by Soda Blasting Ltd in
Wolverhampton. Incredibly, the body had survived better than
many cherished classic cars that are regularly garaged!
However, the project stalled again as we tried to cope with
not only all the pandemic had to threw at us but also that
needed to secure the appropriate welding skills required to
bring the body shell up to the standard it deserves.
Success in 2024 has been significant with regards to the
Shropshire Spitfire restoration project. A 1965 Triumph
Spitfire 4, Mk 2.
Before we look at what has been achieved, it is only right
that we confirm the one constant. The project’s aim has not
changed in wanting to raise the most amount of money
possible for the Severn Hospice. This will be achieved as we
look to sell the car, very likely, via Mathewsons Classic
Car Auctions in the Spring/Summer of 2025. Matthewsons you
might be aware of via their television series ‘Bangers &
Cash’ shown on the ‘U&Yesterday’ TV Channel.
The Shropshire Spitfire now has the perfect home in Messrs
TD Fitchett located in Oakengates, Telford. They are
renowned Triumph parts and knowledge specialists and have
consistently continued their extremely valuable support.
Initially, they donated a large amount of new body panels.
As we now get to the final phase, and some would say the
hardest, there can be no better place to be as we’ll no
doubt be in need of all their help and expertise tracking
down and providing those ‘hard to find’ fasteners, clips,
washers etc. A vital support as we transform the car from a
restoration project back to a stunning road going vehicle.
Following on from a ‘call for help’ communication sent via
the Severn Hospice, experienced welder and metal fabricator,
Mick Cox, volunteered and joined forces with Colin Johnson.
Their industry allowed us to restart the project’s momentum
in terms of the required welding to the car’s body.
Car restorer specialist Paul Williams has also now come
onboard and joined forces with the welding team. Now we have
new floors, door skins and a multitude of other panels
replaced/repaired. All this gives the car back its original
style and important structural strength. With Paul’s expert
help, we’ll soon be looking to take the body shell onto to
next phase re paint etc. As one member commented, ‘…this is
now exciting.’ We totally agree and even more so once the
‘Signal Red’ paint is completed and the car is brought back
to TD Fitchett’s workshop for its final refit.
In addition to the above progress, we have other areas of
fabulous news to provide an update on. Both individuals and
several businesses are now joining in with the project: -
1) Shropshire Triumph Group members Cliff Griffiths and Paul
Darby kindly agreed to help by donating their significant
experience, resources and expertise re the restoration of
both the genuine leather Seats and Steering Wheel.
2) Coverdale UK Ltd have provided the carpets.
3) Newton Commercial the interior finishings such as Door
Cards, Parcel-Shelf etc. Also, the exterior and other
finishings such as the engine-bay valances, interior boot
surround etc.
4) PolyBush, Nr. Wrexham, have provided a full set of
suspension Poly-Bushes that have been fitted.
5) With the safety for the new owners very much in mind,
Simon Morgan, via his company Linxdesign Ltd and in
conjunction with AutoSparks, has provided a complete new
electrical loom for the Spitfire. In addition, Simon’s
father Eric has very kindly made a large cash donation that
is proving invaluable to the project and the achievement of
its aim to restore the car.
6) Star Polishing & Plating in Wolverhampton are re-chroming
Bumpers etc. Vic from Star Polishing & Plating has now taken
receipt of the bumpers and petrol cap and this will ensure
the car’s refurbishment is carried out to the highest
standard.
7) ClassicLine Classic Car insurers are providing one year’s
car insurance that should see us safely through to the
auction in Spring/Summer 2025.
Our sincere gratitude to all those businesses and
individuals that have contributed. It really is very much
appreciated. As everyone can see, terrific progress is now
being made with the Shropshire Spitfire project. However,
there is still much to do so that we can then capitalise on
all that has been achieved so far.
With the above in-mind, we aim to continue with our success
in 2024 by taking a couple of very important steps.
1) The main classic car show of the year takes place at the
NEC in November. The Shropshire Spitfire is taking pride of
place on the main Triumph Sports Six Club (TSSC) stand and
we’ll be there promoting the project and looking to raise
further funds through sales of our very own t-shirts and
baseball caps. A very big thank you to Simon Morgan and his
company Linxdesign Ltd who have very kindly donated the cost
of initial production and purchase of the t-shirts and caps
2) We are looking to sell tickets that will go into a draw
for individuals to enjoy rides in the Shropshire Spitfire as
a classic car restored post MOT and back to its former
glory. All funds raised will be used towards the restoration
costs. Details on how to purchase, will be made available
very soon.
The two activities mentioned above are why we are making
this call to all within the Shropshire community, who, as
stalwart supporters of the Severn Hospice, will hopefully
now look to join in and make sure we get the Shropshire
Spitfire over the restoration finish line.
We are delighted to receive all levels of support and we are
extremely grateful to all those who want to make a donation
via the link on our group web-site.
http://www.tssc-shropshire.co.uk/tssc-shropshire/shropshire_spitfire.asp.
Please consider making a donation and/or look to purchase a
raffle ticket, t-shirt and/or baseball cap. Success will be
achieved but only by all of us being together as one in
support of the Severn Hospice.
More progress report in 2025. |
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The Shropshire Spitfire Gallery |
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The TSSC Shropshire Spitfire project to raise money for The Severn Hospice. |
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The Shropshire Spitfire Sponsors ...
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| A.R.B |
The Company designs, engineers and produces a wide range of components used in the restoration of older cars. These products are carefully quality controlled and are distributed to most parts of the world, through specialist dealers
A.R.B Vehicle Restoration Components have kindly offered to supply a number of miscellaneous fasteners and other small parts to help with the final stages of the assembly of the Shropshire Spitfire.
Click for more ...
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| Andrew Turner |
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We recondition carburettors for many classic cars, as well as stocking new and used parts for those brave enough to tackle the rebuild themselves.
Click for more ...
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| ANG Classic Car Parts Ltd |
ANG supplied us with shiny new boot hinges. They are a family run Business who own, drive & maintain classic cars so they know how important it is to obtain the best products currently available, at the right price and delivered in a timely manner. They always strive to achieve these goals in thier level of service to you and over time improve on them.
ANG have access to a wide range of classic car spares and are adding new product lines every week - if there is a specific item that you require but cannot see it available on the website, please e-mail them with your enquiry and they'll will do thier best to provide you with a competitive quotation.
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| Autosparks Ltd. |
Autosparks: suppliers of our wiring loom.
TRADITIONAL CRAFTSMANSHIP, CLASSIC BRITISH QUALITY.
Starting in 1977, I had a vision of not only manufacturing quality looms for the automotive trade, but to offer a service to enthusiast who are as equally passionate about authentically restoring classic cars as I am.
Instilling my passion for the business in others, we have built a great team of likeminded individuals which now totals 80 plus years of technical expertise.
Click for more ...
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| Classic & Vintage Dynamos Ltd |
Dynamos, starters, alternators, wiper motors for all classic, veteran & vintage cars at very reasonable prices.
Very kindly donated a dynamo, starter, wiper motor & voltage regulator at the Stafford International in 2012.
Units 3 -4 Vernon Street Industrial Estate,
Shirebrook,
Notts,
NG20 8SS
Tel: 01623 747666
Customer quote:-
I met this guy at the Triumph Spares day today, and bought a starter motor for my Herald. He said I could pay by card (£30) or £25 cash ... I had a total of £23.40 on me and asked if he would accept that. He said he would, and then took pity on me and let me have it for £20! What a nice guy!
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| Coverdale Ltd |
Coverdale have supplied the interior carpets for the Shropshire Spitfire.
Coverdale was established in 1988 and quickly gained a formidable reputation for manufacturing automotive carpet and carpet sets for classic cars in the UK. We pride ourselves on delivering an exceptional standard and quality of carpets and customer service for both the automotive industry and retail customers in both the UK and Worldwide.
Click for more ...
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| Jepson & Co. |
Jepson & Co have provided the number plates for the car. They were established in 1894 and habe been manufacturing number plates for the trade for over 120 years.
* The oldest number plate manufacturer in the UK.
* One of the UK's largest manufacturers and suppliers of number plates and plate printing systems.
* Experienced suppliers to the trade in the UK and Europe.
* Family-run business based in Sheffield, South Yorkshire.
Click for more ...
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| Linxdesign Internet Ltd |
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Linxdesign provided this website for TSSC Shropshire and have purchased some parts for the Shropshire Spitfire.
Click for more ...
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| Mike Papworth Triumph Parts |
The Triumph Greabox, Overdrive, Differential extpert. Mike very kindly refurbished our grearbox and differential for the Shropshire Spitfire.
One The Croft
Off Lady Lane
Longford, Coventry
West Midlands
CV6 6BA
Tel: 024 76644499/07
Click for more ...
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| Newton Commercial |
Newton Commercial have supplied us with the interior trim for the Shropshire Spitfire.
Formed in 1979 by husband and wife team Richard and Vera Newton, Newton Commercial is the industry leader in the manufacture of original style reproduction classic car upholstery. We are the only British Motor Heritage approved trimmer in the world, an industry standard that only the most elite traders are given within the automotive industry and highlights are focus on creating original style interior trim in the original way using our variety of skills and original production methods.
Click for more ...
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| Polybush |
Polybush have supplied a full set of suspension bushes for the Shropshire Spitfire.
Polybush are experts in polyurethane.
Polyurethane is an ideal material for making into suspension bushes. Its combination of high tensile strength and elasticity translates into immense durability in the toughest conditions. Polyurethane Bushes have excellent resilience, springing back in to shape effortlessly to absorb shock and prevent dirt ingress and wear. Lastly, it doesn’t age or perish – rubber bushes both perish and are attacked by oils and fuels.
Click for more ...
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| Powder Coating Shropshire |
Our Philosophy
Quite simply, we keep our customers happy by producing excellent work at a fair price and on time.
Advice
We can only suggest colours, pitfalls and positives to our customers but we feel it responsible to advise on all aspects of the job our customers want to achieve with their requirement. Call us - we are always happy to help.
Standards
Absolutely nothing leaves our premises until we are happy with the results. We pride ourselves on our ability to produce top notch work thereby keeping our customers happy and returning to us. Our customers are our biggest advertising and marketing tool.
Choice
We offer a massive choice of colours and finishes. If not in stock, we can obtain anything to suit your requirements. Check out the RAL colour chart for some examples of standard colours.
Click for more ...
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| TD Fitchett Ltd. |
TD Fitchett Ltd have provided us with many panels for the Shropshire Spitfire. Crucially they have now given us a space in their warehouse to put the car back together which is a huge help.
Since the early Sixties when TD Fitchett or (Tony to those who know him well), launched in the accident repair market, fixing cars that have become today’s classics.
The firm produces gearboxes, overdrives, final drives and many small panels. Larger panels are manufactured off-site using original Triumph tooling, some of which has been improved to ensure a better-than-new fit. Many parts are hand-built by Tony to ensure build quality remains high – an early Triumph Herald with only 248 miles on the clock was kept as one of many reference items.
Today, TD Fitchett is one of the largest suppliers to the classic trade. If you’re in the market for Triumph parts TD Fitchett will come as a pleasant surprise.
CONTACT:
TD Fitchett, Redland Industrial Estate, Telford, Shropshire TF2 9JX.
Phone: 01952 620434
Click for more ...
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| The Blockley Tyre Company |
In the time that The Blockley Tyre Company has been formed our products have been acclaimed the world over and we are pleased to have been given the first Historic Motor Sports Company Of The Year Award. Our pre-war sizes are also FIA eligible. In addition to our ever increasing range of tyres for pre-war cars (Beaded Edge/ Clincher, Straight Sided, and cross(bias) ply tyres) that we are well known for, we have also embarked on a comprehensive range of post war and Radial ply tyres which are second to none. Which are less known about, but of staggering quality, so much so that we guarantee that if they are not the best tyres you have driven on in your classic car then even after 1000 miles or so of use can be returned for a full refund.
It is our company policy to provide products designed and built to the very highest quality.
Click for more ...
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| Tollgate MOT & Service Centre Ltd |
Conveniently located near Junction 14 of the M6 and the A34, Tollgate MOT & Service Centre provides a comprehensive range of services for all makes and models. From diagnostics and tyre fitting to MOT testing, car servicing and breakdown recovery, we are the trusted choice for all Class 4 vehicles in Stafford, Staffordshire. With over a decade in operation and a team boasting more than 30 years of industry experience, we deliver service excellence backed by our affiliations with the RMI and IGA, ensuring high standards and competitive pricing.
Our highly skilled, local mechanics guarantee top-quality service every time. In addition to our general vehicle services, we also offer a courtesy car (available with advance booking) and complimentary winter brake checks.
Click for more ...
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