Scotland Central West Area News

The meeting is held on the first Wednesday of the month at

Lochinch Police Club

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 From now on meetings will be on the 1st Wednesday of the month

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July 2009

The June meeting at Lochinch was well attended; we were into double figures with 10 people. 5 Triumphs graced the car park, in between the rugby traffic. Tom was alone in his Herald having just re-varnished the dash. The two Johns were in a Herald convertible and a TR6 respectively. Colin had his Spitfire out and was joined by Ronnie and his son in their Spitfire.
The rest of us were in moderns apart from David who turned up in his Opel Kadette SR. We welcomed prospective member Frank who has a Burlington Arrow Special based on a Vitesse, which we hope to see soon. Not a lot of new news this month just a calendar of events.
The show at Dean Castle was cancelled at short notice due to the heavy rainfall and the ground not drying out. The show has been rescheduled for 30th August which is the same day as the big show at Culzean.
The Culzean show is going to be the main gathering of Triumphs in Scotland.
I have some takers already, both for the show and camping. So book early, weekend camping is available on the show site. It is recommended to visit both days with a club pass as last year the show was large and spread over the whole park. It will be noisy etc in the race /rally area; care will have to be taken with dogs. The park has a restaurant and facilities (basic).
I will be at Stafford but Chatelherault is on. I can book a space, all free, but dependant on ground conditions.
 I will continue to print the events list in all future Area News Reports:
A provisional 2009 Show Calendar is as follows:

16th August ? Chatelherault or Stafford
29/30th August ? Culzean Autoclassica or 30th August ? Dean Castle.
20th September - Selkirk
I am needing to get an idea of numbers for the shows at Chatelherault, Culzean and Selkirk, as the booking deadlines are looming. Let me know if you want to attend, so I can book a stand area etc. Entry details to be determined. Further details will be published as I get them. If interest is good we will have a Club Stand at each show.
We now have Area Windscreen Stickers in glorious colour. These will be on sale at the meetings and shows for £3.50. or send me an SAE plus £3.75. or
£5 inc p&p. All money going to area funds, so don?t miss out. Please let me know of any cars for sale as I have had enquiries. Similarly if you are selling spares etc. I know of a TR7 convertible for sale and some Spitfire
(1500) parts for sale.
 Mark Smith has his Spitfire website running which includes Area Information and some Area photos. Try this link or parts of it, Mark has kindly added our area to his site.
 http://homepage.ntlworld.com/mark-kaye/Scot%20West%20Nav%20Bar.htm

Remember to book your places for the shows.
A report on the Leven show next month.

The next meeting is on Wednesday 1st July. It is at Lochinch, Pollok Country Park, G41 4SN, as usual. Hope to see you there.

Gregor G.

June 2009

The May meeting at Lochinch was attended by only 3 Triumphs as the weather was poor again. Dave had his Spitfire out, Tom and Darren their Herald and Gareth had his Spitfire. All hoods up this time. We all went inside for the evening. The upcoming shows were discussed and the web details etc. Not a lot of new news this month just run review and calendar of events.
Mark Smith has his Spitfire website running which includes Area Information and some Area photos from a few years back. Try this link or the main mark-kaye ntlworld bit . I am not up on website design so Mark has kindly added our area to his site.
 http://homepage.ntlworld.com/mark-kaye/Scot%20West%20Nav%20Bar.htm
The Run 2009.
A total of 8 cars turned out, Spitfire Mk2 ( Gregor), Spitfire Mk3 (Mark/Kaye), Vitesse Conv (Martin), Spit 1500(Steven), Herald 1200 conv(John), Herald 1360 conv(Tom, Darren +1), TR4A( Iain),  Vitesse conv(David). We made our way through the Clyde Tunnel towards Clydebank and then Cardross and Helensburgh. After passing Faslane Naval Base we made a turn onto the Glen Fruin Road, which is a steep single track road up and down the hills to get to Loch Lomond. It is a little like the hillclimbs of days gone by, so, oops, or, after checking the route and doing a risk assesment  for the group and completing the necessary H&S forms, we had a little burst of speed. You could see well into the distance, so, I shot off in my 1147cc Spitfire closely followed by Mark and Kaye in their 1296cc Spitfire Mk 3. The reason for stating the cc?s of each cars is that the 1998cc cars could not keep up and we had to slow down for them. At the end of the single track once all together we made our way to the Lomond Shores promenade at the lochside. We were escorted by staff Alastair and Charlie to the Gathering, which is a circular area at the complex. We were given the use of a large gazebo for the Club etc, so the banners went up and the TSSC flag was flying. We were joined later by Ronnie who had been touring further north. As it was slightly colder the boat trip was not taken up, but we had a good number of people looking at the cars. Lunch for some was in the gazebo while others were inside at the restaurant for a good lunch with chips. About 3pm the first group wanted to head home as they had distances to travel to (Edinburgh and Ayr) or family to collect. The rest of us stayed for about an hour, tidied away the Club stuff and headed home.
It was a good day and we did show the cars to their best as part of Drive It Day. We had a lot of response along the route we took through the main streets, rather than the main roads. Not the most scenic but the hillclimb road made up for that. Thanks to all who turned out for the run, all with roofs down too, Martin was even forced to buy a hat, the rest of us have been on the annual run before and were equipped. At least it didn?t snow.
Thanks also to Lomond Shores for having us. We do now have a return invitation from them, when it is warmer, and an invitation to the Glasgow Hot Rod Cruise Nite which runs every month. A successful run thanks to all for attending and behaving, a credit to the Scotland Area and the Club.
(Embedded image moved to file: pic14771.jpg) (Embedded image moved to file: pic11538.jpg)  I will continue to print the events list in all future Area News Reports:
A provisional 2009 Show Calendar is as follows:
28th June - Leven
August? - Eglington Show CANCELLED
16th August ? Chatelherault or Stafford
29/30th August ? Culzean Autoclassica
20th September - Selkirk
Let me know if you want to attend, so I can book a stand area etc. Entry details to be determined. Further details will be published as I get them.
If interest is good we will have a Club Stand at each show. We now have Area Windscreen Stickers in glorious colour. These will be on sale at the meetings and shows for £3.50. or send me an SAE plus £3.75. or £5 inc p&p.
All money going to area funds, so don?t miss out. Please let me know of any cars for sale as I have had enquiries. Similarly if you are selling spares etc.
The next meeting is on Wednesday 3rd June. It is at Lochinch, Pollok Country Park, G41 4SN, as usual. Hope to see you there.
 As ever.
Gregor G

May 2009

What a difference a month makes. The football was on again, this time our national team, so roads a bit busy. The lighter nights are here and we had a surprising 7 Triumphs at the meeting plus 3 modern. New to the meeting was Gareth in his yellow Spitfire1500 and Darren and Tom returned for a second time, Bobby in his Spitfire and John in his Herald also turned out.
Mark (Spitfire MK3), David (Vitesse), Dave (Spitfire 1500) were in their respective Triumphs. Martin and Iain (complete with rather nice trailer) were the modern lot with me. Martin and David had a brief  tee shirt moment each having their own Vitesse design. Martin has also been removing his brake caliper pistons which were only fit to be used as ashtrays I'm afraid (surfaces a bit pitted). We lined the cars up for a brief photo shoot for the Lomond Shores publicity people before the light faded once dark we went inside.

We now have Area Windscreen Stickers in glorious colour. These will be on sale at the meetings and shows for £3.50 or send me an SAE plus £3.75. or £5 inc p&p. All money going towards area funds, don't miss out.
Three of us made the long trip to Stoneleigh at the beginning on the month through rain hail and 1 inch of snow on the M6 at Shap. It is getting difficult to justify going. This time the format had changed. Long queues,
less traders and fewer parts for sale. Sometimes a show is good sometimes not, it also depends on your shopping list. That said we did meet old friends and traders from years back and had a good day out. We did hear that there was another show nearby with cheaper prices for stalls?? True or not?? I did get a few bits but not as much as usual. Nothing really jumped out at me as a must have, so Stafford in August is a must now.
Mark Smith has his Spitfire web site running which includes Area Information and some area photos from a few years back.
 http://homepage.ntlworld.com/mark-kaye/Scot%20West%20Nav%20Bar.htm

The run report will be in next months news and as promised. I will continue to print the events list in all future Area News Reports:
A provisional 2009 Show Calendar is as follows:
26th April Drive It Day Run ? Lochinch to Loch Lomond. - Report next month..
10th May - Dean Castle
28th June - Leven
August? - Eglington Show CANCELLED
16th August ? Chatelherault or Stafford
29/30th August ? Culzean Autoclassica
20th September - Selkirk
It was decided to try the Selkirk show to make up for the cancellations.
Let me know if you want to attend, so I can book a stand area etc. Entry details to be determined. Further details will be published as I get them.
If interest is good we will have a Club Stand at each show.
I have had details of a 1972 GT6 unfinished project for sale. Lots of work done, some still to do. £1500 or offers. Contact me for details.
Also a TR7 with one years mot £2500, and A Spitfire IV/1500 project with refurbished chassis, Californian tub, 2 bonnets 2 engines etc. Offers. I have contact details for them.
The next meeting is on Wednesday 6th May. It is at Lochinch, Pollok Country Park, G41 4SN, as usual.
Meeting Directions: If you are using sat-nav continue on into the park and you will find the meeting, it is not the rugby club at the entrance, it is further into the park, it?s clearer when you get into the park, there is only one route through so you will pass us at some stage. The park is sign-posted Burrell Collection; we are towards the city/Ibrox side of the park, opposite the mountain bike track entrance.
Remember the next meeting is on Wednesday 6th May at Lochinch. Hope to see you there.
 As ever.
Gregor G.

That's all for now. What has happened to the triumph Spares Day at Stoneleigh? see above.

Until next month
Gregor
 AO Scotland Central and West

April 2009

The March meeting coincided with more snow and more football. Five of us managed to Lochinch and it was freezing. We had three Triumphs in the car park this time. Martin’s Vitesse convertible, me in my Spitfire and new member Darren in his very smart Herald 13/60 convertible, with his father Tom in the driving seat until the driving test is in the bag. Good to have a new car at the meeting and welcome to a younger member who at 21 chose a Triumph as their first car. Brings back memories as I did the same. We all spent time outside looking at Darren’s Herald then realised that the ice and snow on the cars was actually freezing over, so we went inside for a while. Three convertibles in the cold was a surprise, so was the ice on the inside of the hoods and windows at home time.
As promised details for the run. Sunday 26th April – Lochinch to Loch Lomond.
26th April - Area Run – Drive It Day – to Loch Lomond Shores -  Meet at Lochinch 9.45am for a 10 am set off time. Arrive Loch Lomond 12noon approx. We will have the cars displayed at the Gathering at Lomond Shores. There is also the chance of local press coverage, both for the Area and the Venue. The Lomond Shores manager has been extremely helpful and would be delighted to see us. There will also be a 1 hour optional boat trip from Balloch or shopping at Lomond Shores.
Lets use the cars! You can meet at Lochinch, on the way, or at Lomond Shores all welcome, let’s get some publicity for the area and cars. Phone me if you want to meet en route and I will supply a mobile number for the run.
I will continue to list the events in all future Area News reports:
A provisional 2009 Show Calendar is as follows:
26th April Drive It Day Run – Lochinch to Loch Lomond. See above.
April? - Lanark Autojumble CANCELLED
10th May - Dean Castle
28th June - Leven
August? - Eglington Show CANCELLED
16th August – Chatelherault or Stafford
29/30th August – Culzean Autoclassica
20th September - Selkirk
It was decided to try the Selkirk show to make up for the cancellations.
Let me know if you want to attend, so I can book a stand area etc. Entry details to be determined. Further details will be published as I get them. If interest is good we will have a Club Stand at each show. I have had one booking for 4 shows already, thanks Dave, so I’m not going to be on my own in my new tent.
More news for our Area, I am in the process of having Area windscreen stickers made locally. I will have to approve the artwork but they will be available soon. Details next month. These are being produced exclusively for our Area only on a limited run.
That is all the news for now. Think about the shows you would like to attend and I will organise places for the events.
I have had details of a 1972 GT6 unfinished project for sale. Lots of work done, some still to do. £1500 or offers. Contact me for details.
The next meeting is on Wednesday 1st April and will be my last as I am retiring. It is at Lochinch, Pollok Country Park, G41 4SN, as usual.
Meeting Directions: If you are using sat-nav continue on into the park and you will find the meeting, it’s clearer when you get into the park, there is only one route through so you will pass us at some stage. The park is sign-posted Burrell Collection; we are towards the city/Ibrox side of the park.
Remember the next meeting is on Wednesday 1st April at Lochinch. Hope to see you there. How observant have you been whilst reading this then?
Did you think I would let April take over…Fools.
 As ever.
Gregor G.

Nov 2008

The September meeting was attended by 4 dedicated members. Jim, Martin, David and myself. The weather had just turned nasty too, after a sunny afternoon we had torrential rain and localised flooding. When we braved the rain we found Lochinch was closed for some reason and in darkness. Martin?s Land Rover was the largest car so was quickly put into use as the new clubhouse. We finally decided no more cars would turn up so headed to the local Cartha Park Rugby Club which is our back up venue. We have met there before when Lochinch was closed, they were very accommodating and remembered us. Now with a roof over our heads back to all things Triumph.
David ?Mr Concours? has a new rare car, its an Opel not a Triumph! So, enough said.Seriously. It looks a good project one of only 410 Opel Kadette SR?s ever made. We wait to hear about its progress. Martin has new doors and bootlid for his Vitesse, Jim?s Herald is much the same as is my Spitfire, no progress. I have averted a storage crisis again and my 2 Vitesses are safe. But it does highlight a need for storage, any ideas? All my efforts have fallen through, including some very dodgy ones.
The shows are all over now for the year. I attended Scone Palace, which is really a farming show with cars. I was in the area visiting anyway. It was a little wet under foot although dry on the day. I also made the show at Selkirk which again was wet under foot but a dry day. A good turnout of Triumphs well done to those members who had their cars on display. I didn?t get round them all as I was delayed in arriving. A big show with lots of autojumble, but not Triumph stuff. We will consider this for a club event next year, if we can get the numbers.
The restoration show at Stoneleigh will be over by now, the longest journey we make. I will be thinking about possibly trying to get to other long distance shows without driving, now there?s a challenge. Seriously if it is feasible and fairly cheap it could be a possibility. But what happens if I buy things?
I have seen a number of Triumphs out in the autumn sun, a last outing before being garaged?
We will use the darker nights to review this year and go over plans for next year, and I will get on with my Spitfire. No for sales or wanted this month. I am looking for ideas for next year, (if I am AO). I have noted that some of the shows down south are looking for new venues that can cope with heavy rain, so there may be changes here too. The credit crunch may have an effect on things too. The main list of events is not out until early next year.
The November meeting may clash with fireworks and bonfires if so don?t worry, I will see you at the December one.

The next meeting is on Wednesday 5th November at Lochinch see you there. If it is closed again we will go to the Cartha Rugby Club at the entrance to the park on the motorway side.

Gregor G

Oct 2008

A bumper report this time. Firstly some sad news. I have been contacted by Robert (Bob, or Santa Bob) Johnston?s family, to say that sadly Bob passed away suddenly at his work earlier in the year. He always supported the area and was at all the shows and always was eager to help with spares and sheet metal (hence Santa Bob as this started one December meeting). We had not seen him at the shows, and presumed he was working away. Bob will be sadly missed.
Now for the shows. Chatelherault was cancelled due to the weather at short notice, so the entries were followed by messages to say not to go. All this done in the preparation for Stafford. Once again we had a drive of 280 miles through heavy rain and hold ups. On arriving David?s Vitesse was put in the Concours prep area and my Spitfire was consigned to the campsite.
Saturday was Masterclass concours preparation time. Once again I will have to check the AO small print as I helped with the prep of David?s (I need a longer bristled toothbrush to clean it) Vitesse. With the Vitesse presented, the show could be enjoyed. We had at least 3 other Scots there Andy and his wife, Colin M and his wife and Ian MacP in the noisy area. The show was very good and we all had a good time. Lots to see and do this time. I was at the AO meeting, a gathering for all AO?s. Very informative and entertaining, should have had the blue and white face though!
Entertainment and heavy rain at night, then Sunday. Sunny with some auto jumble and a chance to look for bits. Then time for awards. Once again very surprised and unprepared with the camera, David?s Vitesse won the Masterclass Concours Award against some tough competition. The car is very special and the care and originality detail is exceptional. So, congratulations, and all that after having travelled 280 miles, unlike some, it was rumoured. Back up over the border with the trophies again, same jams and some rain.
Onto, the next weekend, Culzean Autoclassica. My Spitfire was loaded up and base camp was set up on the Friday night, a quick walk established the layout for the stand, including a free gift? Saturday saw 3 cars on the stand. Martin, David and myself. This was the day for the Clubs and a chance to see some of the cars and circuit demos (some quite fast). The noises and the Castrol smells filled the air. David?s Vitesse was in the show ring too, he was interviewed by none other than Graham Robson, yes that one. Saturday night was wet so we were inside the visitor area with Bob and Frank. Sunday was dry with most of the club members and public turning up. The Manchester Area attended having driven down from Aberfoyle to attend the show as part of their holiday. We had a full stand after some last minute entries. The free gift didn?t last long; it was a large gazebo, which had been put up in the wrong place, 16 Porsche owners turned up to claim it. We had 20 Triumphs so, we outnumbered them. A marshal sorted it out. The show covers a wide area and there were lots to see and do, both cars and non cars events. The prizes were as follows; Best TSSC Car went to the beautiful white Stag of Paul and Kerry Cottrell from Manchester and Most Loved Club car went to the green Herald 1200 convertible of John Kelly from Ayr. All voted for by those on the stand. The show continued throughout the day with different events. The organisers again asked for cars for the main arena parade, specifically David?s Vitesse and Wullie?s Le Mans GT6. The drivers were both interviewed by Graham Robson, yes that one, who worked for the Triumph Competition Dept. Mr Robson, was particularly taken with both the Triumphs and asked for them to be brought into the arena. This was followed by a parade lap of the event behind the pace car. There was an autograph opportunity too. Once again the club stand was well attended by the public and old friends, a good event overall for the first (summer?) event to be held there. Same again next year? The grounds are vast and there is a lot of walking to see everything. Some people there for the day said they might camp for the weekend and get 2 days there next year. We decided to leave the free gazebo as I could not fit any more in my Spitfire. Thanks to all who helped out.
The September meeting was attended by 5 people Martin (Vitesse) Alan (Spit 1500), Amreek (Spit 1500) and my Spit Mk2. Iain had an Alpha this time.
Alan had travelled from Cowdenbeath via his work and Amreek was at his first meeting also. The two 1500?s were compared, lots of  good ideas on both, don?t know about the fuel consumption gauge on a Spit though? As it was getting dark we all went inside, some good info about how people treat their restorations (rust proofing, paint etc.) The shows are all over for the summer? So we can all get back into the garages and prepare for next year or continue the restorations.
The next meeting is early on Wednesday 1st October at Lochinch see you there.

Gregor G

That's all for this time.

Sorry I missed you at Stafford. Was busy with helping at Concours (roped in for polishing). Had a great time though.
found out my tent is not as waterproof as I thought.

Regards

Gregor Graham

Sept 2008

Hi Bernard,
            September already!
Here is the Area News for the September Courier from Scotland Central and West.

It is strange not having been to Stafford yet as I write this. By the time this is printed Stafford,Chatelherault and Culzean will be over all in the space of one week, so a report next month.
The August meeting was on one of the wettest nights, but we had 9 people turning out. Only 2 Club cars, my Spitfire and John?s Herald 1200. It was John and Tony?s first meeting with the newly acquired Herald, so welcome to them. Next month we can see the car properly. Jim, Martin, Mark, David, Scott, Colin had all braved the rain to discuss all things Triumph and the shows left on the events calendar.
I have had contacts from all over Scotland during the past month, so it is good to see you all read the area news. A call from Shona in the far west who travelled to Le Mans and had quite an adventure (you always do in a Triumph). Andy from Falkirk also enjoyed the event. Who had the Scottish flag on the track? TSSC or not?  I may be tempted to go in 2010 if Rosyth ferry is still on. I also had word from Peter Sherrard who, unfortunately wrote his Spitfire off this time last year. He was unhurt and despite efforts by all to persuade him to get another car, he hasn?t ..yet.
Although he said if he did it would have to be an open top, a true die hard.
 My Spitfire blew a tyre and tube which I had to hunt about to find someone to replace both, the local #### fitters refused. Tip; go to the ones that do lorries vans and JCB?s. No problem.
Not much progress on my Spitfire Mk 1, I have started treating the surface rust on the bits of body that are not needing replaced, before I weld the rear deck on. I was planning to get the Vitesse out but was thwarted by the storage facilities as my cars were boxed in. Next year I will plan better.
There are a number of people looking for car storage, so if anyone has any ideas or contacts let me know. The local industrial units are too expensive to rent as a whole, a partial let or sub let may be viable, if we can find one.
David?s Vitesse has been lowered using a Canley Classics lowering block on the rear diff/spring. This was partially fitted by the owner and persuaded into place by me, using believe it or not the original Stanpart hubcap removal tool, which was just the right size. Coincidence? As AO I did not realise that mobile mechanic was part of the job, should have read the small print. We managed not to use the spring lifting tool or remove any bolts other than the 6 at the diff. No fingers were lost in the process and no blood was drawn. With that finished I started to head home and promptly met Amreek and daughter in his newly completed Spitfire 1500 out for a test run.
I don?t know who was more surprised. Good to see another car being used. I had seen a TR6 earlier in the day too. My Spitfire is not the most subtle of cars so I think they may have heard me behind them.
There is a 1974 Mk3 GT6 for sale, a good, well cared for car, also a 1978 Spitfire 1500 again a good car contact me for details.
We still have people looking for Herald chassis and spares in general so if you know of any let me know for the spares wanted/for sale folder.
The shows we attend as a club are all over until next year, anything else will have to be as public or individual entry.

The next meeting is on Wednesday 3rd September at Lochinch see you there.

Gregor G

Thatt's it. Thanks for the advert in last months for the show at Culzean.
Club stand nearly full,might even break even this time.

Take care

Regards

Gregor

Thatt's it. Thanks for the advert in last months for the show at Culzean.
Club stand nearly full,might even break even this time.

Take care

Regards

Gregor

August 2008

We will start off this month with the run report. Well once again the traditional summer run was marred slightly by the traditional weather, not as bad as last year though. The run started at the Garfield Hotel with a total of, wait for it, two cars. We followed the coastal tourist route up to Leven with a couple of stops to put hoods up/down etc. The show was on the seafront and was busy. We met Andy from Perth in his yellow Spitfire 1500, good to see another TSSC member. There were another two Triumphs, a Herald 13/60 and a Spitfire Mk3 but we did not see the owners in between the heavy showers, and putting the hoods up and down( remember a Mk2 Spitfire has a separate hood and frame). We managed lunch at the show with mega filled rolls from the local café, truly worth the journey. I ventured onto the beach and tried a newly purchased power kite. After acting like a big kid, the kite got wet in the rain, covered in sand, the lines got tangled and then one finally broke. So it was put back in its bag. Can you sell a kite at autojumbles? The vintage cars took most of the prizes and then it was time to head home and despite having written the route directions I took one wrong turn but was soon back on the right road, top down all the way as, of course, it had dried up. We have been invited next year too, so we will make it a show only and have a run in another direction.
The July meeting at Lochinch was a little better attended than the run with
4 cars turning out. It was the attack of the clones with two white Vitesse convertibles ( David, Martin) and two red Spitfires Mk2 and Mk3 (myself and Mark). The second Vitesse belonged to new member Martin who lives nearby and had just had the car for 4 weeks. It was good to see a new face and car. His Vitesse is a nice car that has been used, but well cared for and, still running smoothly. It was built in 69 but not registered until 72, so maybe and interesting story there somewhere. It was fascinating to see the two cars together. Iain was in a Freelander having just missed a Spitfire on evilbay. With all inspections done outside some of us headed inside to escape the midges and have a seat. There is not much news this month. We have two shows at the end of August. Entries please, we have 8 cars from Manchester for the Sunday at Culzean. We need to match numbers. The Gazebo is on hold as we only have two shows to go, and the seasonal sales might be a source of a better one.
The show dates we are attending are still as follows:
3 August ? Eglington PLEASE NOTE THIS SHOW HAS BEEN CANCELLED.
17 August - Stafford or Chatelherault
23/24 August - Culzean Autoclassica
Contact me if you want to attend, and I will send out details / entries.
Entries please for Culzean Autoclassica, so I know how many places to book.
Any ideas for a theme? We are not going in the posh bit, so the stand should be roughly the same as last year. If you can bring anything that might help let me know.

The next meeting is on Wednesday 6th August at Lochinch see you there.

Gregor G

July 2008

The meeting at Lochinch coincided with the local football final, so the car park was a bit full. But in true tradition we spent most of the meeting there until the midges appeared. We had four Triumphs. My Mk2 Spit, Mark?s
Mk3 Spitfire, David in his Vitesse and a new shape for us, a TR6 belonging to John. Jim, Scott and Graham were all in modern cars (temporary). It was John and Graham?s first meeting, good to see the TR6 and Graham?s Vitesse is again a known Club car and will be up and running soon. We perused the cars and talked Triumph and tried to spot the bits common to the TR6 and the Spitfires and Vitesse. Remember the mountain bike circuit beside Lochinch? Well,  just as we were finishing the list of  common Triumph parts bin items, out of the single track wilderness appeared, Colin, under pedal power, or should that be under powered?. Colin campaigns a lightweight Spitfire Mk1in sprints and hillclimbs. The car has had a few tweeks and is still going strong. So members are coming to the meetings on all modes of transport. We are going to have a go at the bike circuit sometime, most of the people at the meeting said they had a bike.
That said; read on, the show at Dean Castle had three club cars plus two private entries. We had the red white and blue display, David?s white Vitesse, my red Spitfire and Bobby in his blue Spitfire with Katie who wanted to win the trophy. There was lots of interest in TSSC with some people looking for cars and parts, others had had various Triumphs and one person had rallied/navigated with Stuart Turner in the 1960?s. A good busy show this year and it stayed dry too.
(Embedded image moved to file: pic18467.jpg)  Once the show was over the Scotland West bicycle convoy was set up consisting of David plus daughter in a trailer buggy, myself in shorts with dazzlingly white legs, followed by Linda trying to avoid the glare off my legs. The country park is a good venue although the routes are not well marked; we did come to steps at one point and turned round. One way to stop tailgaters in the Spitfire is to have a bike carrier strapped to the back, although, the Spitfire is low and I had to take the front bike wheel off to get ground clearance.
I have made no progress on my Mk1 Spitfire in the garage as the Mk2 had to be Mot?d (passed first time)I now have two older car friendly garages on the Area list. Any more nominations?
A report on the Leven Show next month. Weather permitting.
The show dates we are attending are still as follows:
3 August ? Eglington PLEASE NOTE THIS SHOW HAS BEEN CANCELLED.
17 August - Stafford or Chatelherault
23/24 August - Culzean Autoclassica
Contact me if you want to attend, and I will send out details / entries.
I think the Mk 2 or 3 Spitfire is still in a yard in Muirhead for spares.
Condition v. poor, worsening. There is also a Mk4 Spitfire for sale, highly modified with Triumphtune items and twin webers.
I have details of a Herald 1200 convertible for sale in Edinburgh too.
I also have someone looking for a GT6 and another person wanting a Herald for customising (sacrilege!)

The next meeting is on Wednesday 2nd July at Lochinch see you there (all methods of transport accepted).

Gregor G

June 2008

Summer is here, well for a few days anyway. The cars are all emerging from garages again. The May meeting at Lochinch was turning out to be the red Spitfire meeting with 3 different models covered until David?s Vitesse joined in. Good to see all the cars. 8 people in total. Scott came back again and was awarded with a replacement petrol tank for his Herald, courtesy of Robert. My spitfire made it through the heavy football traffic at Ibrox but was stalling when hot and misfiring. A change of distributor cap helped but I think the problem is cheap condensers bought last year. I have had trouble with these before and was warned not to buy unbranded ones. Time for an electronic ignition module?  The meeting was slightly shorter as some elected to leave early to miss the football traffic coming out again. So the main meeting was in the car park. Two passing persons offered us a hardtop for a MG? As it is summer we don?t need a sledge, but plant pot was suggested. We declined the offer. I remembered to bring my Spitfire out for Drive It Day in April and saw a total of one other classic when I was in the queue for expensive petrol. I had to run the old stuff in the tank down to emptyish, only to find a local shortage, just made it.
Measuring out additive when there is a line of cars behind you is not a popular move.
Showtimes
A report on Dean Castle next month.
29 June - Leven
3 August ? Eglington PLEASE NOTE THIS SHOW HAS BEEN CANCELLED.
17 August - Stafford or Chatelherault
23/24 August - Culzean Autoclassica

Names for those wanting to attend Leven please. Meet Garfield Hotel Stepps and then drive up? 9.30 for a 10am set off. No convoy just travelling to show. I will provisionally book places. Same as last year but hopefully without the bad weather.
Names also for Chatelherault and Culzean Autoclassica please if only provisional. To give an idea of numbers.  I am looking for run suggestions, see below. (Autumn )?
If you want to attend any of the shows please phone me or see me at the meetings.
I think the Mk 2 or 3 Spitfire is still in a yard in Muirhead for spares.
Condition poor. There is also a Mk4 Spitfire for sale, highly modified with Triumphtune items and twin webers.
I have details of a Herald 1200 convertible for sale in Edinburgh too.
A run venue has been suggested, how about the David Coulthard Museum in Twynholm near Kirkudbright in Galloway. Possibly at the beginning of September. Thoughts please.
The shows are slightly less this year, a reaction to the weather last year, and some venue and date problems, this will hopefully pick up again next year. The gazebo is being debated, not many waterproof ones within budget, does water repellent mean leaky.Should we wait until next year, due to lack of shows, and try sales in autumn? Can anyone get a discount on one, if so contact me.
A reminder to those contacting through TSSC website, put a Triumph word in the subject box so I can see it amongst the large amount of spam forwarded to me.

The next meeting is at Lochinch on Wednesday 4th June.
See you there.

Gregor G

May 2008

Well summertime is here, lighter evenings. Nine people turned up for the April meet. Soon we will be in double figures. Dave was the only one in a club car. The first outing of the year for his Spitfire. We welcomed Scott who has a Herald saloon and is a new member; his car however is an old friend, good to see it has a new home. Jim didn?t bring his Herald but turned up with 4 tyres, which, went to Scott. See the benefits of attending the meetings? Robert kindly donated some sheet steel to my Spitfire, I have started welding (finally) only to find the gas is running out. Also, a tip, wear gloves, I have one pink UV burned hand and one normal coloured one. I also took the guard off the grinder. Oops, I have a nice disc width cut across one of my burned fingers now, still attached to my hand though. The Lanark autojumble turned out to be a success. A 5am start though, to get the trailer loaded (remember the clocks changed) thanks to Ian, Dennis, and Iain for help with the stall and Robert for backup. At one stage we were manning 6 various stalls (nature calls). Not so many Triumph people out, but we sold a few items and have a little money in the area piggybank. We also gave some stuff away rather than bring it back. Everyone went home happy and for once I did not buy a single thing! The auto jumble will be a regular event on the calendar now to raise funds for the following year, as it worked well.
The shows we will attend are provisionally as follows:
11 May - Dean Castle
29 June - Leven
3 August ? Eglington PLEASE NOTE THIS SHOW HAS BEEN CANCELLED.
17 August - Stafford or Chatelherault
23/24 August - Culzean Autoclassica
Chatelherault will be entrusted to Colin, as I am at Stafford. I will do the entries and paperwork etc. It?s free, run by the Local Council, and you get a goody bag.
Culzean will now be the only show we will all be together at, 8 cars are coming from Manchester. So try to make it if you can, we are curious to see what the new format show will be like.
The Northern Ireland Area are travelling to Skye during the May holiday weekend. Would anybody like to meet up with them? Possibly somewhere at Loch Lomond.
I know of a Mk 2 or 3 Spitfire in a yard in Muirhead for spares. Condition poor. There may also be some Vitesse spares coming up. More details as I get them.
There is also a Mk4 Spitfire for sale due to injury, to driver Jim Sinclair not the car, hope the arm is healing. Again it is a familiar car and ex concours car. It is highly tuned, balanced and lightened with double webers etc plus Triumphtune accessories and some spares. Phone me for details if you are interested. It will be mot?d and ready for summer. The shows are a bit less this year due to the Stafford date change and Eglington being cancelled. I am in the process of preparing the forms for the shows. There is still plenty of time. As ever I am looking for run suggestions (Autumn)?
If you want to attend any of the shows please phone me or see me at the meetings.

The next meeting is at Lochinch on Wednesday 7th May.
See you there.

Gregor G

April 2008 Courier.

Four people turned up for the March meet. Dave, Colin, Robert and myself.
David B sent apologies from Amsterdam. No club cars were out, due to the weather still being a bit weird. As it was cold, wet and windy, we were straight inside to the comfy seats. Robert has been busy recruiting new members, well done spotting the Triumphs and their owners. If your job involves travelling there is a chance you will see something interesting.
Not much is happening with the cars. We are all poised for the spring and better weather. I have started welding (finally) the Spitfire again, only to find the gas is running out. The pile of accumulated stuff in the garage is going to get sorted through. The Lanark autojumble will be past now, a report on that next month. We are just beginning to work out the shows we will attend.
They are provisionally as follows:
11 May - Dean Castle
29 June - Leven
3 August ? Eglington(venue tbc)
17 August - Stafford or Chatelherault
23/24 August - Culzean Autoclassica
Chatelherault will be run by Colin on the day, much appreciated as I am at Stafford. I will do the entry paperwork etc. It?s free, run by the local Council, and you get a goody bag. A good show for all the family.
We are going to have Pip, Frank and friends at Culzean with at least 8 cars coming from Manchester. We need to equal the numbers at least please.
Dressing up is not necessary as we will be beside the historic motorsport area. Dave is going to be on BBQ duty, thanks for that. I will still need some people to help for an hour each so I can have a break at some point.
If there are other shows we can arrange to travel or meet up, but not necessarily have a stand. It really depends on numbers.
Some form of fund raising will be at each show, or as much as we can do, of are allowed.
The month of July is free of events, but is holiday time for most so what about an autumn run? Suggestions of a place to visit please.
Three of us were at the Triumph Day at Stoneleigh. Why is it you see big or oily items when you are not in your own car? I did buy two doors for my Mk1 Spitfire, and thanks to Dennis for transporting them and the driving. I had to leave Elvis, the blue moped, behind. But did I really need another project???? All 3 of us had a good (long) day at what turned out to be a great show. If I missed anything/anyone it was due to being loaded with the cold and the various remedies taken.
I have looked at gazebos but am undecided; some are not easily stored, or transported especially in a Spitfire.
If you want to attend any of the shows please phone me or see me at the meetings.

The next meeting is at Lochinch on Wednesday 2nd April.
See you there.
Elvis has now left the building (or autojumble).

Gregor G

That is the news for this month. Sorry I'm not going to make the AGM, but I will be at Stafford.

Regards

Gregor Graham

March 2008 Courier.

Well what a difference a month makes. The weather was a bit better for the meeting in February. We had 7 members this time including 2 new faces, Neil from Paisley and Alasdair from Linlithgow (quite a distance for an evening meeting). Robert also made a return. Good to see you all. There were no club cars out yet. Bear this in mind if you are going to come to a meeting.
The Lochinch postcode for those with sat nav is G41 4SN.  The combined efforts of all those at the meeting were required to help with David?s overheating car (modern one). Jim was the main spanner man once we all bounced on the bonnet to release the stuck catch. With that sorted we all headed into Lochinch.
The SVVF Yearbook is out with listings of all the Scottish shows so we have definite dates to work to.
Lanark Autojumble 30th March- I am going to need help in manning the stall.
I need a break to buy as well as sell! If you have anything to sell on behalf of the area please bring it to the event. I am going to try to raise a much as I can for area funds.
Dean Castle show 11th May a Club invitation to attend has been received.
Leven Show 29th June we have an invitation to attend as a club as compensation for the wash out last year.
July ? it was put forward that the annual run be, during July, more to follow. Any suggestions?
Eglington Show 3rd August venue tba. Possibly changing location due to mud last year.
Stafford 16th 17th August. Same day as Chatelherault. Help required for this one as I am at Stafford (2008 only).I can complete all the paperwork for Chatelherault and will just need someone to sign in on the day and collect the entrant packs. Gazebo/Club stand set up etc is an option but not a necessity.
Culzean Autoclassica 23rd 24th August. A Club invitation has been received for this. It is slightly different to Callander more Goodwood styled. I think we should have the stand in the B area (non posh period dress) more scruff period dress. Seriously, there is a dress code for the event, details at the meetings. There appears to be activities similar to Callander including a soapbox race!? Does anyone have the time to produce one/ I can get the rules if you really want to.
 If you are interested in attending any of the events give me your details/car details to go in the club entry. There will be a slight additional charge added to the entry fee to cover admin and for club funds.
The shows are all dependant on having enough club cars to form a stand/display. Culzean is going to be the main one so we have enough time to plan and get a gazebo.
None of us at the meeting had done much work to the cars since the last meeting due to the poor weather. Although David has had success in contacting the original owner of his prize-winning Vitesse, who drove the car brand new, away from the dealership. There is a possibility of them reuniting later in the year. I will hopefully be able to get my Vitesse running this year complete with small trailer. I may have 2 club cars roadworthy, something I haven?t done for a few years.

Next meeting is at Lochinch on Wednesday 5th March. Hope to see you there.

Gregor G

That is the news for this month, hope everyone is well at HQ.

Regards

Gregor Graham
AO Scotland Central West

February 2008 Courier.

Having survived the severe gales the first meeting of 2008 had 4 members present.
We managed to get past the flooding and the fallen tree, and the bowling green which is now a pond outside Lochinch. No Triumphs were present, all tucked up in their respective garages. Most of us haven’t touched the Triumphs over the festive weeks despite promising to. No dates for events can be decided until the Scottish Events yearbook is available. I will print dates as soon as I can, still plenty time. We are still looking for ideas. As it was a little cold we ventured past the water feature and inside for Triumph talk. David is looking for advice on protecting the arch areas on his concours, Car of Show Vitesse as it is driven to shows. Iain’s GT6 will be needing general underside painting. We all have tried some methods which is best? The debate goes on. Jim’s Herald has still to be worked on, and my Spitfire is still a pile of panels. I have the parts for my welder now, Thanks to Ian W. The chassis has survived another winter outside, although the neighbours nearly got my tarpaulin in the gales. Just to join the debate, chassis – shot blasted, welded, rust converter, Finnegan’s (hammerite) primer, no topcoat yet. Seems to work. 
We have had an invitation from the Monklands Sporting Car Club to spectate at their events (RACMSA Licence required to compete plus scrutineered car). These vary from trialling to hillclimbing and are mostly based at Forrestburn near Kirk O’ Shotts. We will try to get out to see them later in the year possibly as a run to watch a hillclimb. Weather is usually poor at Shotts, so we will have to pick carefully. I used to compete with them many years ago, usually a good day out, if it’s dry. With varied machinery turning up. If you are reading this and are competing let me know and we will try to turn out on that day. 
The next meeting is on Wednesday 6th February at Lochinch. This is just before the Stoneleigh show and all being well some of us are going. Again if you are looking for something small let me know and I will do my best. As long as it isn’t something I want! We have started collecting for Area funds. Bring a list of your sales and wants and photos. Although if you are like me all my club car photos don’t have me in them.
We now have 2 takers for the Mt bike course in the park in the summer; if I am injured then the AO will be my seconder on the form. I can see the course now, lined with cushions and mattresses. I have looked at some gazebos but all have been unsuitable (heavy, not fold down or just too expensive) the search continues.
The Culzean Autoclassica show in August  is going to be our main big show, details nearer the time.
Lochinch is back to normal service and we will be very welcome for the foreseeable future. Remember the next meeting is Wednesday 6th February. Hope you can make it.

Gregor G

Jan 2008
~~~~
First of all Happy New Year to all.
It was the night near to Christmas and everything was still, including the AGM. Not the best of turnouts for what should have been the most important meeting of the year, to plan for 2008. Yes I have been given the AO mantle for another year and the AGM did go ahead, a summary will be available at the future meetings.
Festive Feely Fun or Santa?s Sack was postponed and will be aptly renamed to be run another evening. We did finish all the mince pies though.
A provisional calendar was put forward and will be drawn up once yearbook is published. We may also look at local shows and galas or charity events.
One point, if you have been using the tssc area email to contact me, the system of forwarding has also included a massive amount of spam etc. please put Triumph or Scotland Central West in the title, it is taking a while to filter them.
The meeting for January is being put off for a week to the 9th January as Lochinch is closed for New Year. The copy date for the next news will be tight so a reminder the February meeting is on Wednesday 6th February at Lochinch.
There will not be much to report on shows, as we will be working on the cars for 2008. I am finally aligning the rear panels of my Spitfire Mk1 for welding up. I think once I see it taking shape it will encourage me on with the chassis etc. It looks like a pile of panels right now. I also have to find the bits I have collected for it. My hard top is temporarily outside until I am ready for it. Iain?s GT6 is a little further on and David will be polishing from now to August.
The Lanark Autojumble in April? (TBA) will be the first outing and a Club Area stall to raise funds for equipment will require items and staff. If you would like to donate anything please either bring to the meetings or on the day. The same will apply to the shows later in the year, plus a tombola of general items, again for area funds (gazebo).
We will also be looking for ex display items or things we can use on the club stand. Do you know of or have anything that we could use? No Santas or reindeer please.
Remember January Meeting 9th January, February meeting 6th February and normal service from then on. It is good to see the date for Triumph day at Stoneleigh some of us should be going , so, if you are looking for anything
(small) let us know and we will try to find it, delivery to the meetings or pick up. The sales and wants folder is available at the meetings. Still need some photos of you and your car(s) for the Area album.

That is all for now, try to make the meetings if you can.

Gregor G

Dec 2007

Well: I?ve not been fired! Despite turning up in a Fiat!
The Area Liaison Officers and friends have been for a visit north of the border to Aberfoyle. The group also included the new International Area Liaison Officer: Scotland is not that far!! We all met up for a chat and to discuss all things TSSC one evening. It was good to have some support for our area and some input from the Club. We hope Pip and Frank plus some Manchester members will make it to the Culzean show in August next year.
Three of us went to Stoneleigh for the Restoration Show and picked up a few odds and ends, nothing major. It took one and a quarter hours to get into the show from the entrance road. Every year a different parking regime is in force, this time it didn?t work. Triumph parts were not as well catered for as Mini?s or MG?s or the vintage  cars. I did get part of a door catch for my Mk1 Spitfire.
It has taken 4 years to get the bits so far for the new doors. I?m not sure if I missed things or not, the day seemed a little rushed due to the delay at the entrance. A stop at a local hostelry for food, and six hours later we were back in Glasgow.
The November meeting consisted of seven people. Colin was the only one in a Triumph. I have finally sold my bonnet and am gaining a hardtop for my Spitfire. The two Ians are working on a 13/60 and GT6 respectively. One common theme was that the car under restoration in the garage tends to get other things put on top of it and around it, ranging from furniture to carpets or in my case bicycles.  The review of 2007 started a bit early and those present decided that a new gazebo was top priority for 2008, preferably one with sides and waterproof this time. Central heating is not really viable, Colin. Ideas for funding and sources please.
The next meeting is the AGM on Wednesday 5th December. The Area needs your input and ideas for shows to attend, the run, fund raising and equipment (see above). Also if there are any nominations for AO please stand up. We will be reviewing 2007 and trying to put together a calendar for next year.
We will wait for the Scottish yearbook before deciding definite dates, so the calendar will only be provisional. There have been suggestions for an excursion to a big show later in 2008, again plenty time to decide. There will be a competition to round off proceedings, not the traditional type.
Might be mince pies too?
The meeting in January will provisionally be on the second Wednesday, 9th January 2008, to allow for the holidays, Lochinch has still to confirm this. The 2008 AO will take it from there.
As this is the last news of 2007 all that remains for me to do is to thank the members who attended the meetings and shows, and helped me through my first year as AO, And to wish you all a Very Merry Christmas and a Prosperous (Triumphant) New Year.
And for a New Years resolution? Try to come to your Area Meetings.

Here?s to 2008 and a new gazebo ?.

Gregor
AO Scotland Central West .

e-mail : gregor.graham@eastdunbarton.gov.uk

Nov 2007

Well again three people turned out, for the October meeting this time.
Admittedly it was a very wet evening and the football was on. My Spitfire was the sole club car out in the rain. I will be putting it away to dry out now.
David and Mark turned up to complete the trio. It was a little bit of a shame about the lack of people as I had matters to be put forward for a meeting arranged with Pip and Frank , the TSSC Area Liaison officers who are (or will have, by the time you read this) been North of the border for a meeting to see the different areas. More on that next month, (providing I?m not sacked). We did come up with various questions. I had prepared a presentation to illustrate the 2007 year with our area. Was it really that wet?  We should be thinking about next year now and I (if I continue) will be trying to put together a provisional calendar and will finalise the dates once the SVVF Yearbook is published early next year. So we are looking for ideas for the area. Provisional thoughts are Lanark Autojumble, usually early April, the club will be taking out a stand and you have the option of donating either an item or % of sales to our area funds. Start looking out your stuff or have a think about it. This theme will be continued at the shows we attend (just smaller items we can get away with).
The club run ?? Well again, pick a date and place, traditionally, it will be raining anyway. Indoor venue or attraction, have you seen anywhere that we could go??
Stafford is in August now, we need to go and support David and his Vitesse in the Masterclass level concours. News has come in that the Callander show was, as I suspected, the last one at that venue. There will be an Autoclassica event to replace it, based at Culzean Castle in Ayrshire 23rd and 24th August 2008. I have placed a provisional enquiry for a stand. The other shows we attended in 2007 can be attended in 2008 if you so wish. We have standing invitations from our last visits. Again, do you want to attend?? Start thinking now.
I am going to try to get on with my Mk1 Spitfire now as it has been neglected recently as I have diverged onto other things (my Yamaha FS1E, and 1980?s bicycles of all things).Does anyone have any spares for a FS1E??
I might take a whole one. Here we go again?. I will bring a bicycle to Lochinch next year and have a go on the mtb circuit if you promise not to laugh. That could be another TSSC activity for the calendar?!
I am still looking for photos and a list of items for sale or wanted for the area folder, also recommended traders that you may have experience of.
One idea put forward was to offer help to anyone requiring assistance with their restoration etc. We have (just) enough people to help lift bodytubs, chassis  etc.
Next meeting is on Wednesday 7th November at Lochinch. With hopefully some feedback and ideas.
See you there
Gregor G

**
End of News.

Bernard, I am thinking of preparing an article about the Scotland Central West Area. Would there be a chance of getting magazine space in possibly spring next year? Full page or double page if possible. What would be required printwise/photowise, so I can inform the members, that actually come to the meetings!, to bring photos etc.

Regards

Gregor

Oct 2007

Firstly reports on the shows.
Chatelherault ? it was dry all day. There were3 cars on the stand. The heavy rain the night before made the grass a little muddy. A chance to try the banners and bunting this time. It worked too, as the stand had a good flow of visitors all day. Some new membership requests, scantily clad girls (from the Fast and Modified Show arena) had photos taken with the Classic Cars (David?s Vitesse was ideal as it took Best TSSC Car Trophy). The stand will also have been on Reporting Scotland who were filming the event and Mark?s Spitfire. Could be on t?interweb only vague details were given. So a change from the last show and we all got a goody bag for attending. After the flying display from a Tiger Moth and Barnstormers overhead, it was time to pack up after what is always a good show, and it was completely free.
Callander Show - almost 3 days camping with some of the largest insects living, out with the Avon skin lotion then. A proven remedy. The Spitfire managed to hold the camping gear as well as the gazebo and stand stuff.
A little rain on the Saturday morning when I was setting up but I ended up with 5 cars on the stand 3 Scottish and two English. Ken and his navigator went on the photo rally in the Herald , but I gather the clues were a little out of sync. Steven and Becky entrusted their cars to the stand which helped fill it. The usual Saturday night activities prevailed and the rain stayed off. The skies cleared on Sunday morning and our stand swelled to 8 cars. Thanks to all who came through and helped man our area stand. A lot of interest for the Club and the meetings in Glasgow, some membership enquiries should be on their way to HQ. Eric , from Sheffield took the TSSC Most Loved Car Award with his Courier Van , with window conversion, and towing a caravan. David?s ( ton up)  Vitesse took TSSC Best Car Award and generated a lot of interest. Dorothy sold her Spitfire on Sunday, so we hope to see it about with its new owner. What is capable of filling the empty Triumph space? The other Triumph owners at the show came over to the stand and promised to support us next year. A lot old friends were out too and all came over to say hello. Ian McK. Who had the very bad garage fire and lost his 13/60 is well and now has an MX5. I think we covered all age ranges over the weekend ranging from babies to retired persons. The Triumphs seem to have a universal appeal. With the lowering of the flag all was packed back into the Spitfire.
News from Peter S and his crash is that he is fine, but not surprisingly, the Spitfire was classed a write off. The Triumph driving gloves have been hung up temporarily. But?watch this space, it won?t last, once Triumph always Triumph.
The September meeting - Well, after the promises of attendance at the shows, there were exactly 3 people at the September meeting. Die hards Jim, Iain and myself. My Spitfire was the only Club car. It will be going into hibernation soon to dry out after a busy summer?? I will be looking for suggestions or comments at the area meetings for the future. Darker nights will probably mean less club cars at the meetings, but come along anyway and join in all things Triumph. The next meeting is on Wednesday 3rd October at Lochinch. Bring your photos, sales and wants etc and we will try to build these up during autumn and winter. See you on the 3rd October.

Gregor G

July 2007

July already, that?s the first six months (sentence?) news done, a report
on the run next month (copy deadlines). A bright sunny night saw an
increased turnout of cars at Lochinch for the June meeting. I was in a
Triumph for once; freshly MOT?d and described as an awkward little car?? It
did have the hood up, and the tester had work boots on, so not the easiest
situation. We had a total of 8 club cars and 1 modern plus 1 person on
foot, a true enthusiast. All were Spitfires ranging from Mk2 to 1500 apart
from a rally prepared TR4 and an ?as new? Vitesse convertible. Most of the
meeting was spent outside with the cars comparing this and that, a lot of
work is put into our cars and it is good to see how things fit if you are
thinking of doing something similar. Also some of the cars sometimes sport
unusual features courtesy of previous owners. Iain brought a box of
brackets and parts that he found in his additional GT6 project, a quick
look over the cars soon had most of them identified.
Colin and I were at the Dean Castle Show in May the only TSSC members and
cars there. Surprisingly we managed the whole day with the top down.
I have entry forms for the Club stands at Eglington and Chatelherault. The
stands will be able to take 12 cars at each. The forms are available at the
meetings up to 1st August or contact me if you want a place. No word of the
Doune/Callander show at time of writing this, again any details will be at
meeting in August. If you are going to other events use an individual
entry.
Steve with the TR4 has decided to sell his Bond Equipe. It is a red Mk2, 2L
with a fresh Mot. All ready for summer. I have his details if you are
interested. The1972 Spitfire Mk4 and the collection of parts is still for
sale. Phone me if you are interested, but the owner may be abroad now.
There are still two Herald chassis/ parts for sale in Ayrshire, and I have
a 13/60 bonnet which I need to sell.
Remember the Strathven Balloon Festival which is a mixture of classic cars
and hot air balloon experts and a good local event. It?s on 25th& 26th
August, an alternative to Callander.
Some of us are going to Stafford and it is now only a few days away, the
lists of spares wanted will be written and memorised. I will be there in
the Spitfire but I am defecting to a motorcycle show down the road for part
of the weekend. David is going to enter the concours category with his
Vitesse convertible.

The next meeting is on Wednesday 4th July at Lochinch; it now has been
refurbished and is open for the foreseeable future. Remember the joggers
and cyclists? We found out that Ian, who arrived on foot, has two dogs, one
of which likes to chase them and did! Revenge for all the disapproving
looks the cars get as we scythe through them on our way to Lochinch.
Proof then, that you don?t even have to bring a car, let alone a Triumph,
to the meetings.
Hope to see you there sometime.

Gregor G

March  2007

Hi All,
I start this report with a very big Thank You to the person who found my
mobile phone, which I dropped at the Stoneleigh Show, and put it beside the
cash machine. We managed to ring it and homed in on it, just before heading
back up the M6. If by any chance you read this or know who it was, Thank
you again. The show was excellent. I managed to get some of the missing
bits for my Mk1 Spit, quite a find after 3 years! The traders and
stallholders were very helpful. We will be back next year.
Well the weather has been slightly better and due to my modern cars being
off the road. My Spitfire Mk2 was pressed into action after a long
hibernation. It promptly broke down on the M8 the next week. A core plug at
the manifold side of the engine decided to make a bid for freedom, leaving
me with no water. Thanks to the recovery people who came to get me, and all
the ?people? that honked and gestured as they saw me on the hard shoulder.
A new core plug is now in and seems to be staying put. The local modified
car boys had a good look at the Spit when it was out and about. It is very
basic to them, no catalyst, no computer and no roof, as it all detaches in
the Mk 2. The dedication put into the modified cars probably equals us and
our Triumphs, horses for courses, we still all run on petrol. See them at
Chatelherault.
Welding class has progressed onto gas welding, the rear deck is now
repaired, and having no rear deck actually on the car now I have found I
can get in at the outer wheel arches enough to tack weld them in place and
align the wings.
The March meeting saw 5 people out, back at Lochinch too. My Spitfire was
the only Club Car present which is a first. Iain has now separated his GT6
body from chassis, but has been offered another car, a Stag this time. You
never really have just one Triumph. David has still got his very early
Herald Mk1 estate which will be up for sale shortly. A good solid project
for someone. Any offers? There was a general discussion about shows to
attend and the summer run. We came up with the idea to attend a show at
Leven on 24th June and use that as the run. More information will follow as
it becomes available. The provisional dates for shows are: 5th August ?
Eglington. 19th August ? Chatelherault. These again to be confirmed. There
will also be some of us at Stafford this year, so if you are going, let me
know.
There is an Autojumble at Lanark (old Doune Autojumble organisers) on
Sunday 1st April. The Dean Castle show on 13th May is to be confirmed. Try
www.svvf.org.uk for more info on shows or the yearbook, a copy is at the
meetings. We are going to try to get local traders to offer discounts to
club members. I know some people perhaps already use personal contacts etc
for this. Would this be able to extend to local club members too? The
Lochinch Club is now open on Wednesdays, so we are booked in for the next
few meetings, if anything changes I?ll put it in here. The lighter nights
should be here soon and the larger car park is ideal.


Next meeting is at LOCHINCH on Wednesday 4th April.

See You All There.

Gregor G. (and mobile)

Feb  2007

Hi enthusiasts,

The first meeting of 2007 was at the Rugby Club and as it was after the
copy deadline you are getting two reports this issue. A few brave ones
ventured out in January. Due to the dreadful weather no Triumphs were out.
Most I presume are being worked on.
Ian who had only one GT6 at his last meeting in November now has two. He
has acquired a partially restored second car. It seemed from the photos and
history to be a great find. Won't be long before it is up and running. The
proposal for a folder of useful contacts seems to meet with approval. The
same with sales and wants. The photos are an ongoing project. The hub
puller is still missing, anyone ?
There wasn't much else to report as everyone was recovering from New Year,
and being back at work.
The February meeting was a little better attended with five braving the
cold night again at the Rugby Club. This time there was one Spitfire, well
done Colin.
Ian had two Standard Triumph books detailing engines and fuel injection
systems which we all studied, they are available for reference. Can you
still get the film shows to go with them?
There are still two Heralds for spares or repair in Cumnock, phone me for
details, both are said to have good chassis(s).
There is now a copy of the Scottish Yearbook available at the meetings for
viewing.
There is an Auto jumble at Lanark (old Doune Auto jumble organisers) on
Sunday 1st April, can't promise any Triumph bits but worth supporting.
We have been invited to a Classic Car show at Dean Castle on 13th May by
the Ayrshire Classic Car Club. Details will follow at the meetings nearer
the time.
Stoneleigh will be past by the time this is printed this is the furthest
some of us travel. It is as much as you can manage in one day.
Welding class is progressing the door b-posts are repaired, but migs are a
bit too powerful for bodywork, we have been put on a smaller machine
especially for the thinner metal.
David has bought another car, a Herald this time, but is selling it. It was
not exactly as the seller described and is a little more work than
anticipated.
I have spoken to the manager at Lochinch and it seems it is open for
business again, so it is proposed to go back to Lochinch for the meeting
venue as it has a bigger car park. This may still change; we will run the
meetings on a month by month basis until further notice. The venue will be
in Pollock Country Park at one of the two clubhouses, keep reading the
reports for an update. We are still looking for ideas for a summer run
venue, where would you like to go?
Next meeting is at LOCHINCH on Wednesday 7th March, hopefully the weather
will improve.

See You All There

Gregor G

Jan 2007

Well Folks I?ve done it now haven?t I? Neither the Foreign Legion nor the
Circus would have me. So for 2007 at least I am now AO. Many thanks to Jim
for his work over the last 7 years. I didn?t know it had been that long. I
now have all the Club Regalia sitting in my Spitfire in the garage as I
haven?t worked out a place to keep it yet. Amongst the bunting and flags
etc. was a time capsule going back to 1991 with photos of a lot of old
friends, some of which have moved geographically, some have moved marques.
The time capsule did reveal an old activity which will be resurrected in
the very near future, but you will have to contain your excitement
meantime. As the January meeting is not until after the print deadline
there is no news as such yet.
So a brief introduction for those of you who don't know me. A long time ago
in a galaxy far, far, away? Sorry, seriously I was introduced to the TSSC at
the Doune Show in 1986 when I had a Herald 13/60 saloon, and have never
really got Triumphs out of my system since. I have always owned at least 2
since then. I now have 4, a Spitfire Mk1, Spitfire Mk2, Vitesse 1600
convertible, Vitesse Mk2 saloon, but did have 9 at one stage. I also have a
1987 Mercedes 190 2.5 Diesel and a Fiat Coupe which has just shed its cam
belt and balance belt, ouch! My Spitfire Mk1 is famous for having a tree
growing through the boot floor and out through the boot lid before I
?rescued? it, or it found me.
So by way of a 20th anniversary present I was given the role of AO.
I am hoping that the venue problems will be sorted out soon. The February
meeting is at the Cartha Queens Park Rugby Club which is still within
Pollock Country Park and will be our temporary venue on a month to month
basis, until Lochinch is manned again or we can find another venue.
Some of the Area workshop tools have appeared or their location is now
known, with the exception of the hub puller, does anyone know where it is?
I will be compiling a list of tools available (for a small charge +
deposit.) I am also hoping to put forward the idea of an Area Folder with
different sections for Sales and Wants, Tools Available, Etc, and any
information that might be useful to Club members. I have contacted the SVVF
for a yearbook/ event details which would also be kept in the folder. The
folder would be available at all meetings for all to view. I will be
looking for ideas for the area, A summer run? Shows to attend? Activities?
One final request is for a photo of you with your car, as the area photo
album is starting up again.
THE FEBRUARY 7th MEETING IS AT THE CARTHA QUEENS PARK RUGBY CLUB, our
temporary venue. See you there? I will keep you informed of progress at
Lochinch.

I'm off to start a welding course at a local college but cannot find a
piece of my spitfire small enough to take in to work on.

Gregor G
*

That's the news report .

Thanks.

Gregor Graham
Architectural Technologist
Partnership & Planning Department
The Triangle , Kirkintilloch Road ,
Bishopbriggs , G64 2TR .
Tel : 0141 578 8631
Fax : 0141 578 8575
e-mail : gregor.graham@eastdunbarton.gov.uk

 

Dec 2006

After what I think is seven years it is time for a change and after what I
am afraid to say was a poorly attended AGM in December I have handed over
the reins of the area group to Gregor Graham. Regular readers will know that
GG has deputised for me on numerous occasions over that last few years. My
poor attendance lately plus a lack of a (running) club car has reinforced
the need to move on and I am grateful to Gregor for taking over - please
give him all the support you can.

The only other real business at the AGM was a discussion over our meeting
place. Currently the Lochinch Sports Club is closed weekdays. Their
management hopes to have this resolved early in the new year but in the
meantime we shall meet in the in the _Cartha Queens Park Rugby Club_,
Pollock Park Glasgow on Wednesday 10th January from 7.30pm. The February
meeting (reverting to the first Wednesday as usual) is also likely to be in
the same location but thereafter things are up for discussion. Gregor hopes
we can get back to the Lochinch once they sort out staffing issues but watch
this space...

Meeting over we got down to the quiz... Slightly different this year as
contestants not only had had to work out the town/village etc on the virtual
tour of Scotland but who was born there! So twenty questions, forty one
answers (one questions had a bonus in case you were wondering!), a prize for
the winner and another for the person who most nearly guessed the mileage
covered. So 41 points and 542 miles. Without labouring the point Steve won
the first competition with a grand score of 26 (I'll gloss over the others!)
while stalwart Robert was closest on the miles at 487 - everyone else
guessed well over!

So its good night from me and hello to Gregor - please give him all the help
you can in keeping the TSSC alive and well in and around Glasgow.

All the best for the New Year and I hope Santa was good to you.

Yours aye

Jim
 

Nov 2006

Hi Folks, yes it's me Gregor G again.

A cold evening at Lochinch on the 1st of November with only one Triumph
present, topless too. David's newly finished and immaculate Vitesse
convertible was out, brave one, as the gritters were out too. We had a
brief tour of the car and tried to go into the Lochinch clubhouse only to
be told that it was now closed during the week. A brief discussion followed
and we had no venue. There were only four of us so we decided to go to the
local rugby club, Cartha Queens Park Rugby Club just at the entrance to the
park. Having explained the situation, we had a venue for the night, so on
with business. New member Ian has his eye on another GT6, low mileage and
complete although dismantled, you can never have only one Triumph, once you
get one the others just follow on, been there done that, a bit.
We have two members looking for a replacement chassis each, both 1200?s,
and I have a 13/60 bonnet for sale too. Most of the Club cars will be
tucked away for winter now or undergoing winter restoration so everything
is quiet. I had pictures of my Spitfire Mk1on view and realised just how
slow restoration is going. It is now half buried under all the summer junk
in the garage. I must clear up and weld all the panels held on with self
tapping screws permanently in place. Then the body can finally be lifted
off without fear of damage.
The manager of the rugby club is quite happy to have us for the NEXT
MEETING AT THE CARTHA QUEENS PARK RUGBY CLUB as Lochinch is now probably
not going to be available. The Rugby Club is at the Ibrox side of Pollock
Country Park, with the pitches usually floodlit. The next meeting is the
AGM with lots to discuss and Jim's famous quiz.

As you may have guessed me writing the Area News has become more frequent
and is about to become official, the mantle is being passed to myself next
year, about time some say. Jim is wishing to stand down after a good long
stint at AO. I will try to do my best to keep the area going, most of you
will know me as I've been hanging about Triumphs for a long time now.
The AGM on Wednesday 6th December is fairly important, so come along with
any ideas you may have, and there is no chance of you being made AO, unless
my Foreign Legion application comes through or I run off and join the
circus.

As this is for the December issue have A Happy Christmas with lots of
Triumph shaped presents and a good New Year. See you all soon.

Remember - December 6th AGM at the CARTHA QUEENS PARK RUGBY CLUB, Pollock
Country Park. It is booked, but there may be a change in venue early next
year.

Gregor G.

* *

That's all the news to be included. As you may well have read I am to take
over as AO from January.
Please let me know that this arrives OK.

Gregor Graham

e-mail : gregor.graham@eastdunbarton.gov.uk

Firstly let me apologise for  no report last month - as happened once before I typed it up, hit the send button, then nothing seems to have
happened! I was using a strange computer last month and it is possible it was blocked by a firewall!

Anyway turning to this month (and back on my own computer) a good gathering of around 10 met at the Lochinch when we decided on Sunday 12th June for a
club run to Motormania - described as a brand new interactive family attraction at Stirling Tillicoultry.  I have draw up a suitable scenic route which I hope to have done by next month's meeting.

Car news: Ian Kinning (0141 561 8775) has a 1974 Stag for sale. It was rebuilt 3 years ago and is finished in java green. It comes with hard and soft tops and, most importantly, a  MOT. Asking price is £7000.

That's all for now. See you on Wednesday 3rd May at the Lochinch Sports Club, Pollock Park, Glasgow.

Yours aye

Jim

 

March  2005

Nine members met at the Lochinch on the first Wednesday of February where we were surprised to find ourselves sharing the bar with a large group of
Hardly Davidson riders number maybe around 40 - and that was one of their quieter meets! Speaking to a couple of their Road Captains (think AO) it
turned out at least a couple of their number also owned a Triumph of some discription. They are a very friendly bunch but the bar at the Lochinch
isn't that big so we'll need to see how things work out over the next few months.

A couple of dates for your diary: Ian Russell (0141 775 0065) is looking for cars to attend both the Kirkintilloch Agricultural Show on Saturday 21st May and the Campsie Agricultural Show on Saturday 4th June. The former is usually a good wee show but I think it is the first time they have had cars
at the latter.

Robert Donaldson of Motherwell reports "I've recently got into the world of restoring Triumphs. The cars I currently have are a Moss Monaco. It's based around the Vitesse chassis but has a 2.5 SU carbed engine from a Triumph 2500. I also have a 1967 MK1 GT6 which was just a shell when I bought it. Both cars will be long term projects." He also has some surplusGT6 drive shafts for sale - full details on the area website and Robert can
be contacted as robert.donaldson@calmed.co.uk.

That's it for this month. See you at the Lochinch on Wednesday 2nd March.

Yours aye

Jim
 

February  2005

Wednesday 5th saw a good turn out of twelve on a cold dark January night. The tally included three newcomers so welcome to David B, David G and Barry- it was good to see you and I hope you'll all be back. I hope no one turned out on the Thursday so the Courier was out in good time before the meeting to inform everyone of the enforces change.

A good deal of discussion ensued (as well as various thoughts which I had received earlier in response to the e-mail sent out by HQ) as to the time
and place for our meetings for the coming year. In the end the consensus the FIRST WEDNESDAY of every month.

So, it having been a very quite month car-wise I'll close by inviting you all to the next meeting at the Lochinch Sports Club, Pollock Park, Glasgow
on WEDNESDAY 3rd February. Meetings are very informal and usually start around 7.30pm.

Yours aye

Jim
 

January  2005

The second of December saw a total of 10 members assemble at the Lochinch Sports Club for the AGM and quiz only to find it shut! We hastily reconvened at the nearby Clutha Rugby Club (and thanks to them for their hospitality offered at a moments notice) where we proceeded to hold a short business meeting where we decided 1) I would continue as AO 2)investigations into venue to be undertaken (see below) and 3) we would hold a run in the late spring/early summer - the date to be decided once the SVVF Handbook is available and allows us to find a free(ish) weekend - the destination finally being decided as Motor Mania, a new 'interactive family attraction' at Tillicoultry although quite a few other destinations/formats were discussed. That over it was eyes down for the annual quiz with the usual pair of road atlases on offer as prizes - actually they are new ones each year but you know what I mean! The format was also the same as usual with a set of clues leading you in a virtual tour of Scotland. Reckon I got the difficulty level more or less right this year as the winner was Ian Mc Kerracher with14 out of 20. The mileage prise went to David Parker was only five miles over the target of 720. So well done both and thank to everyone who tookpart .Turning back to point 2 above, it has subsequently been established that the Lochinch Sports Club will be shut on Monday, Tuesday and THURSDAY during 2005. This leaves us with two choices: we switch nights or we switch venue. There is a possibility that Clutha Rugby Club will be able to host us but it would have to be put to their committee who don't meet until sometime latter in January which, even if the decision proves favourable ,rules it out for January and probably February by the time details get communicated so I've, somewhat unilaterally, decided to switch the next meeting to WEDNESDAY 3rd January still at the Lochinch. Those of you who have an e-mail address registered with the Club should have received advance notification of this - anyone with a e-mail address who didn' t notice (Car to be collected by the weekend or it's scrap type of things!)John Mc Alasse in Troon has a set of Courier mags from 1982-1999 available free for collection. His number is 01292 314050.Finally I hope you all had a great festive session and I hope to see you atthe Lochinch Sports Club, Pollock Park, Glasgow on WEDNESDAY 5th January.

July 2004

The annual run in June was a bit of a disappointment with only four cars actually taking part in the run and another meeting us at the destination -weren't all superstitious about coming out on the 13th were you? However I think I can safely say that all of us who went had a good run and an enjoyable ride on the steam railway at Bo'ness plus we found a car museum just along the road. It's a bit of an odd mix of a pub and a museum and abit pricey to get into but there is a load original James Bond stuff amongother cars. The find (for me anyway) was what seemed to be a Tristan Herald convertible. It had the hood up but peering in (you can get right up tomost of the exhibits) you could see a Stag style cross bar. It car seemed to be in nice nick but I wouldn't be surprised if it had only been a cosmetic restoration.

The July meeting went well - no less than thirteen including two new comers whose names I've forgotten in my usual style. sorry guys but welcome any way and I hope you'll make it back soon. Both had 13/60 convertibles by the way.

The Culzean show will probably have come and gone by the time you get this1st August) which leaves Callander at the bank holiday weekend and Selkirkon September 19th as the remaining big shows this year. I doubt there will be a TSSC stand at Callander this year as I am not in a position to organise it and as far as I know no one from Lothian is either, Ian having resigned after a long stint at the end of last years show.

Think that's it for now - remember Thursday 5th August, at the Lochinch Sports Club, Pollock Park, Glasgow.

Yours aye

Jim
 

June 2004

April 2004

April 1st saw nine members at the Lochinch again - not by and large the same nine as last month - I'm sure if all managed to turn up on the same month we'd manage 20 plus...

A date for your diary - Saturday 15th May sees the Kirkintilloch Agricultural Show which is held just up the road from me and which is organised by a Herald driver (which still won't see me there this year as it clashes with a meeting I have in York.) I normally attend and find it to be a good wee show. Forms from Raymond Taylor, 27 Foxes Grove, Lenzie, GLASGOW,G66 5BN.

Another date which should already be in your diary is Sunday June 13th forthe Area run to the Bo'ness steam railway. I plotted up a route which take us over the Eriskine Bridge, up through the Trossachs and round by Striling which met with general approval at the meeting so I'll print it up soon for distribution at he next two meeting which we have before the run. Only snags the starting point - we'd agreed to start at te Lochinch until I checked with the club steward. Turns out it clashes with an open day at the club and their car-park will be out of bounds to us so I've arranged (subject to ratification by the committee...) to use the car park at the Cartha Queen'sPark Rugby Club to use their car park instead. (The club is just inside the gate to Pollock Park from Drumbreck Road.)

Bob Stuart writes "I'm looking for a good hood and windscreen for my Spitfire 1500, can any of your members help. In near future want a re-spray for the car, any advice, looking for good price no rust or repairs required, recommendations welcome.

I have a new old stock down pipe for a Dolly Sprint for a tenner if anyone is interested. I also have 2 spitfire 1500 boot lids which are in good nick, and some doors in not so good nick for sale, prices very cheap." Bob can be contacted on 0141 954 6836 which is, of course, a Glasgow number.

That's it again.

Yours aye

Jim

March 2004

March saw a healthy turnout of 9 gather at the Lochinch on what hopefully
was the last meeting 'in the dark'. Hopefully the light nights which are
coming will let us see newcomer Ian's 13/60 Herald convertible better for
it looks to be a very nice car with low mileage and a rather unusual colour
scheme of slate grey with a red hood. Also new was Gordon who is studying
in Glasgow and without his car which is at home in Elgin. Welcome to you
both.

I haven't yet finalised the route for the run in June but rest assured I'm
working on it. The only definite at the moment is that we need to be at
Bo'ness by 15:00 if we want a steam train ride. More detail next month
hopefully.

Car news: I've been forwarded an e-mail from Andrew Staddon who lives in
Falkirk and is looking for tips and advice on buying his first classic
Triumph. He is looking for a GT6 which must be a rolling restoration with
MOT and tax. Ideally he would like a car that requires no welding but any
mechanical work is no problem. Anyone help? Andrew can be contacted at
ajstaddon@blueyonder.co.uk

That's all for now.

Yours aye

Jim

Oct 2003

The Scottish season normally more or less winds up with the Selkirk show which by now must be about the largest in Scotland but this year we had a
new show - the Scottish Classic Car Show at the Royal Highland Show groundjust outside Edinburgh a fortnight later.

I really enjoyed Selkirk which had a great variety of exhibits - not just cars but lorries, traction engines, motorbikes, bicycles: basically everything do do with road vehicles big and small plus stationary engines and an improving selection of trade stands. The weather was fair and the
surrounding pleasant apart from rather too much animal muck on the ground!

On the other hand I've had mixed reports about the Scottish Classic - some really enjoyed it, some thought it was way overpriced. I didn't get there
myself as it fell on the Glasgow September holiday weekend when, as per normal, I was  in the West Highlands so I can't comment further
expect to say one can't expect miracles in the first year of a show. Lets give it a chance shall we?

There was a fair turnout at the Lochinch on the 2nd, but was I the only club car? Hamish delighted in showing off his new acquisition, a Smart coupe!Well I suppose it is in the Spitfire tradition, lightweight and fun to drive. Tad quicker I'd reckon and _much_ better on the go juice too.

To business - the Area AGM will be on Thursday December 4th, 7:45pm for a prompt 8:00pm start. No formal agenda except to agree next year's venue (everyone happy with the Lochinch?) and election of AO (as I've said I'd like to stand down as I may have to work away from home in the near future -any takers?) I might even manage a quiz for afters if the meeting doesn'ttake too long.

Car news: Bill Heatlie, of Selkirk has a rather nice Vallencia Blue, 1970Herald 13/60 estate for sale. Seen at Selkirk I have some photos of the car which I can lend/email to any prospective purchaser. Asking price is around£2900 including a lot of spares (inc engine) and Bill can be contacted on
01750 21052.

That's it for now, see you at the Lochinch on Thursday November 6th.

Yours aye

Jim
 

Sept 2003

Thursday last saw me back my hols so I must first thank Gregor for looking after the patch in my absence. I gather that the Culzean show and the August
meeting both went well so once again thanks.

I didn't see any Triumphs in the West Highlands during my break but soon made up for it on return at the Callender Classic over the August bank holiday weekend. For many years Ian Robertson (Lothian AO) has organised a fine display of club cars at this meet (and Doune before it). I don't know how many years he's been doing it but this was my 6th under his organisation and there were many before that. However he has now stepped down and is due a vote of thanks from all of us. Obviously if we don't want to lose what is the largest gathering of Club cars in Scotland a new organiser is required for next year. Any volunteers? I can't commit due to the fickle nature of my work. I'll be out of contract again be the time this reaches you and indeed for this reason I wouldn't mind stepping down as AO at the end of the year. Again any volunteers? There isn't that much to running the Area really - it basically comprises of turning up at the meetings to get the news, writing this bit every month, organising the Area for the Culzean show in August, perhaps a Club run, a quiz following the AGM in December and/or anything else you want to organise!

A smallish band met at the Lochinch in September including newcomer Dave who arrived from Carluke in a tidy Spitfire IV. Welcome sir and we hope to see you again. Once more my car (albeit with a new MOT - and clutch but that's another story!) was in disgrace - I stopped to answer the phone on the approach road to the Lochinch and when I went to restart there was a click and nothing else! Other members soon arrived and jammed starter motor was diagnosed. A bit of rocking in gear freed that off, so thanks guys!

Car news: Ian Walker on 0141 632 7452 knows of a Damson 1971 Herald 13/60saloon for sale. It needs a fair bit of work but as it is only £50 it should make a good project for someone. Those of you who have been around the Area for a few years will probably remember it as belonging to Gregor Steel (the last AO) up to about 4/5 years ago.

Think that's it for this month, Selkirk (basically the wind-up meet for the Scottish season) will have been and gone by the time you get this so see you
at the Lochinch Sports Club, Pollock Park, Glasgow on Thursday 2nd October.

Yours aye

Jim

 

July 2003

There was a good turnout at the Lochinch in July with several people having
a guess at my fuel starvation/lean mix problem which I still haven't got to
the bottom of yet but I'm still trying!

Due to the fickle nature of my work I've had to rearrange my holidays at
short notice which means I'll have to miss the Culzean Show on August 3rd.
I'll pass all the gubbins for the Club stand to Gregor Graham (0141 952
4624) and hopefully have posted out the numbers in advance. I'll also have
to miss the regular August meeting and have asked Gregor to do next month's
report.

Member Craig McClure of Gourock has emailed me to say that in addition to
his Petrol Blue Herald 1200 which some of you may remember from the show
circuit c10 years ago that he has another car for disposal. In his words:

'I got the car about 16yrs ago and was then a 1360 estate. I stripped the
car down, got a 'new' chassis minus outriggers. I fitted new outriggers and
the chassis is probably still pretty good. It currently has a 1250 body tub
sitting on the chassis (with Webasto sunroof) and I have all the estate
panels. The body proved too much for me to tackle so the restoration never
really got off the ground. I have all the parts - seats, trim fittings etc
and most of the mechanical parts (excl gear box) in boxes. The bonnet is
also past saving.

I haven't given it any attention for years and it shows. I'm really not sure
if it could be restored or whither it's now only good for spares.'

Contact numbers are 01475 718385 or 07812 606 902.

Next meeting is 8th August at, as usual, the Lochinch Sports Club, Pollock
Park, Glasgow - but as I said, I won't be there! Catch up with you at
Callender at the end of the month.

Yours aye

Jim
 

June 2003

May 18th saw a reasonable day for the Area's run down to the Aircraft museum
in Dumfries. A total of 8 cars finally got it together for the event - not
all of them club cars I might add - old friends John and Mariah McDonald
joined us for the day and once again we let John off with his choice of
cars, a Rolls Royse Shadow II! ('Need the power steering since I hurt my
shoulder.') His previous Herald convertible has been passed onto his son by
the way. I can only say the weather was better than on last year's run to
Duns but I'm afraid there were some pretty fearsome downpours during the
run. It was however mostly dry during our time at the museum which although
fairly small is packed with interesting stuff including aircraft the kids
(small and big) can actually sit in and let their imagination go wild.

June 5th saw a good turnout for the regular meeting at the Lochinch. Parking
was initially a bit tight due to a mini-football competition taking place
but that soon wound up leaving me to sign up a good number of entrants for
the Culzean show on August 3rd. A few more places are still available but I
need names as soon as possible please.

A chap by the name of Mike Gibbs happened apon us at the Lochinch. He has an
early Mk II Spitfire (1965) which is probably best described as an abandoned
restoration. It is white with both hard and soft tops but although is has
been off the road for c30 years half the welding to get it going again has
been done. A good deal can probably be had for a serious enthusiast willing
to complete the car - it is definitely not for breaking. Mike can be
contacted on 0141 427 1006 or 07789 198901.

Think that's all for this month. See you at the Lochinch on Thursday July
3rd.

Yours aye,

Jim
 

June 2003

OK, OK I got the meeting date wrong last month - I know fine well that the8th can't possibly be the first Thursday of a month but I obviously had a
mental block when I wrote last month's news. I hope none of you were fooled- the usual suspects certainly turned up at the Lochinch on the 1st but I
was unable to turn out last night (as I write this) to check. My apologies to anyone who did show up on the 8th but remember we always meet on the 1stThursday of the month, except in January when we meet on the 2nd Thursday if (and only if) the 1st Thursday happens to be the 1st or 2nd of the month (as it will next year). Clear?

The Area's run to the Areo museum at Dumfries on the 18th will have come and gone by the time you read this - I just hope that the weather will be better than last year! Full report on that next month.

I have the booking form in for Culzean show on August 3rd and need numbers ASAP. This is a very popular show and I know of at least one car club not being able to get a club stand last year even though they applied well before the closing date - the place was full. So ASAP please. Cost is £3 and
cheques etc should be payable to Jim Smellie.

Car news:
I know of a very good 1971 Triumph Vitesse Mk 2 convertible for sale at an asking price of £7000. A full body off restoration (with photos and
receipts) was completed about a year ago. There are too many extra to lis there but this car has drawn many admiring looks on the club circuit recently
and comes with a year's MOT, Contact number is 01560 484510.

Finally (and checking the date carefully) see you at the Lochinch on Thursday 5th June.

Yours aye

Jim

May 2003

No doubt as outlined elsewhere in this Courier I've had an e-mail to say that the Area News Review is now available online atwww.tssc.org.uk/areanews. I'm not sure yet what the timing of this will be compared to the printed copy in the Courier on around the first of the month given copy from AOs has to be filed by the preceding 10th but I'm slowly gathering up a list of e-mail addresses for local members to push it out to you soon after I've filed - got e-mail and not seen this in your in-tray?Then drop me an e-mail to centralandwestscotland@tssc.org.uk.

The instructions for the run to Dumfries on the 18th May are now available and were included in the aforesaid electronic copy but space precludes
inclusion in the printed version. For anyone whose not connected or didn't get them at the last meeting (we were some 12 or so at the Lochinch Sports
Club on the 3rd April by the way) can get them at the next meeting on the8th May or phone me and I'll post out a copy.

Car news:

Jim Watson (01698 374874) has a red G registration Mark 3 Spitfire which was totally restored 3 years ago with no expense spared as his daughter's
21 birthday present (and Jim has the receipts to prove it.) However his daughter's circumstances changed and she is now married with a family so its
not really as suitable car for her now. Although it has only done about 70miles since the restoration, it is not currently MOT'd - waste of money
until someone wants to drive it rather than anything else as it should breeze through by the sound of things. Jim and his daughter are open to a
'sensible offer' from an enthusiast who will look after the car. Location is South Lanarkshire.

Donald Kerr has a GT6 he'd like some help with, to quote his original e-mail' I have a GT6 MkII which was my father's car some years ago. This was
restored (poorly) some years ago and has been off the road for the last 5years or so. I would like someone who knows the ins and outs of these cars
to look it over with a view to making sure that it is safe to drive and to carry out any remedial work required on brakes and other vital parts. If you
can point me in the right direction then I'd be very grateful. I'm from Bothwell, near Hamilton, but would be prepared to transport the car across
the UK to the right person.'
Any thoughts? If so then e-mail Donald at donald@dkerr.co.uk any copy me in
please.

One final point: While we are still meeting at the Lochinch on the 8th May, I afraid it is going to be very busy - The Secret Policemen's Ball or some
such grand function is on that night. We'll need to play it by ear and be on our best behaviour!

Yours aye

Jim


TSSC CENTRAL AND WEST SCOTLAND AREA RUN 18th May 2003

10:00 AM Be ready to leave Bothwell Services, southbound on the M74.
At Junction 8, leave the M74 heading west on the A71 towards Stonehouse.

Continue on the A71 passing through Stonehouse, Strathaven, Darvel and
Newmilns until you reach Galston.

At Galson bear left onto the A719 in the direction of Ayr.

After 2 3/4 miles turn left onto the A76 in the direction of Dumfries.

Continue on the A76
passing through Mauchline, Cumnock, Sanquhar, Thornhill, Kirkpatrick et al
until you reach the junction with the A75 Dumfries bypass.

Bear left onto the bypass (Annan, Carlisle)

After about 1 1/4 miles, leave the bypass heading north on the A701
(Locharbriggs, Edinburgh - see map attached)

At the next roundabout, just before a petrol station turn right into Tinwald
Downs Road.

Continue on this road until you pass Dumfries Enterprise Park then turn
right - the museum is on your left-hand side based around the original
control tower of the former RAF Dumfries.

Meet up in the car park.

Normal rates are: Family £7.50
(at 2002 prices) Adults £2.50
Children/OAP £1.50
BUT IF I get enough response prior to the run I should be able to get a
reduced rate.

There is a cafe at the museum and also a picnic area - its up to you really
when it comes to catering - unlike Duns(!), Dumfries is a fairly large town
with a good variety of catering outlets of all sorts.

After the visit you are free to make your own way home. The suggested route
is to return to the A701 and continue north to Beattock.

From here you can join the A74(M) at junction 15 for the quick way back or
opt for something more scenic - perhaps transferring onto the B7076 for a
while before switching to the A702 near Junction 14 of the motorway and then
to the A73 at Abington coming back to Glasgow via Symington, Lanark etc. -
that bit is up to you.

April 2003

Nine members met at the Lochinch in March and after a bit of contrasting and comparing of cars in the dark we retired indoors. Because the place was quiet we were given the use of the function suite where Hamish, who has a passion for American cars and drag racing, and others pondered the feasibility of engine swaps for Spitfires and GT6s. No I don't mean putting a 6 cylinder lump into a Spitfire - what Hamish had in mind was a 'small block Chevvy' (think I got that right!) If anyone out there has done such radical things Hamish would be please to hear of your experiences. (Let me know and I'll pass it on.)

The Club run to the Areo Museum in Dumfries is confirmed as Sunday May 18th - details to follow. The day prior (Saturday May 17th in case you couldn't work it out...) Raymound Taylor is looking for cars for the Kirkintilloch Agricultural Show. This is my local show and starts with a c10mile run from Kirky, skirting the foot of the Campsie Fells to the showground at the north end of Bishopbriggs. Raymond, a long time Vauxhall man, has recent bought a Herald convertible so it would be good to have a large turnout of Club cars to support his efforts. There is modest entry fee (£2 from memory) but it goes straight to charity. Contact number is 0141 776 2249.

Ian Griffen has a white, 1970 (J reg) Herald 13/60 Convertible for sale. It was rebuild and part re-sprayed in 1990. Asking price is £3450 and the contact number is 01389 841852.

That’s all for this month. See you at the Lochinch Sports Club, Pollock Park, Glasgow. On Thursday April 3rd. At least the light nights should be with us.

Yours aye

Jim
 

March 2003

January is always a quiet month but this January seems to have been even
quieter than most so once again a short report. Around ten members met at
our new venue, the Lochinch Sports Club, Pollock Country Park, Glasgow.
This promises to be a glorious venue come the summer with plenty of level
parking surrounded by park land - assuming the sun actually shines some
Club nights this year...

I have the forms in for Mellerstain on 31st May/1st June. If anyone needs a
copy please let me know (closing date isn't until 3rd May). Unfortunately
the way Mellerstain works in this year there isn't the usual free(ish)
weekend at the start of June for our Club run. Dumfries to visit the Albion
Truck Museum and the Aero Museum is our destination this year and I am
proposing the earlier date of Sunday May 18th. How does this suit everyone?
Please let me have expressions of interest or counter proposals ASAP.

That all for now - said it had been a quiet month. See you at the Lochinch,
Thursday 6th March.

Yours aye

Jim

Feb 2003

As mentioned last month our meeting place has been the subject of some
discussion recently, in particular the parking at the Sherbrooke isn't too
good! Through the offices of Dennis MacFadden, we have been fortunate in
securing the use of the Lochinch Sports Club in Pollock Park not too far
from our current venue. Parking here is excellent and there isn't much
danger of it being turned into flats as happened to one of our previous
venues! A party of club members paid a visit last night (9th) and it was
unanimously agreed that meetings would be transferred to here as of
February. To find the Club, leave the M77 at Junction 1. From the north/M8
direction, cross Drumbreck Road (at the traffic lights at the end of the
slip road) and enter Pollock Park. From the south turn right into Drumbreck
Road at the end of the slip, cross over the motorway, then turn right again
into the Park. Now just follow the road (sorry about the speed bumps but
they are fairly gentle) until you come to the Club on your right after
about half a mile. The entrance which fronts the rugby field has a 'press
to enter' system, so press and wait for the buzz. The lounge is upstairs.

Sorry if I missed anyone at the Sherbrooke this month but I'm sure the
above explains why anyone who arrived after about 8:30pm couldn't find us!
One new member, Paul, did manage to make contact however. Paul only bought
his yellow Spitfire 1500 in December and intends to use it as his daily
driver. He's having a bit of trouble with the Weber carb. with which it is
fitted and would appreciate any help folks can give him with this.

One item of car news: Owen has e-mailed me to say he has an assortment of
mechanical parts up for grabs from an abandoned project. Items include a
Dolomite engine & gear box, Herald transmission, suspension etc. I have the
impression that they would be free on the assumption that you can collect.
Location is Helensburgh and the contact number is 07818 013678 or by e-mail
owen_inglis-humphrey@baa.com

Remember, see you at the Lochinch Sports Club, Pollock Park, Glasgow on
Thursday 6th February.

Yours aye

Jim
 

Jan 2003

Headline: Due to the 2nd of January being a public holiday hereabouts, the
January meeting will be on Thursday 9th January at the usual venue of the
Sherbrooke Castle Hotel, Pollockshaws.

Last night (5th Dec.) saw a distinctly poor turnout for the AGM - not that
there was much business to discuss but that is not the point. However! Main
points are:
1) I was reconfirmed as AO (but I think I might make this my last term so be
warned.)
2) The annual run will be to Dumfries to visit the Albion Museum and the
Dumfries and Galloway Aviation Museum in the near vicinity. This will
probably take place on the first Sunday of June but this is subject to
confirmation once the Yearbook appears early in the New Year.
3) The meeting venue was once more under consideration. Nothing concrete yet
but some enquiries are going to be made of alternatives as the Sherbrooke
obviously isn't suiting as the recent tail away in numbers shows.

That over we embarked on the 'traditional' round Scotland quiz. I obviously
made it a lot simpler this year as, after last year's dismal showing, there
was actually a member who got it all right! Nobody did very well on the
mileage though. Never mind, a couple of small prizes found new homes.

Car news: Ian Addison from Glenrothes has a Vitesse which has been sitting
in his garage for 10 years for sale. Contact number is 01592 202507.
Meantime, our onetime AO Mark Andrews of Newton Mearns has a nicely tuned
1973 |Mk Iv Spitfire for sale. Fully restored in 1994 to concourse condition
Mark is the second owner of the car which has covered around 33k miles. The
list of tuning bits is too long to go into here but start with a stage 3
head... Unfortunately due to a lack of time on Mark's part the car has been
off road under cover since 1997 and now needs 2 new front 1/4 valances.
Phone number is 0141 639 2195.

That is for this month. Have a good Christmas and a prosperous New Year.

Until the 9th, yours aye

Jim
centralandwestscotland@tssc.org.uk

Dec 2002

Its been a quite month on the car scene locally so this should be quite a
short report...

Eight of us, including newcomer Stephen who is looking to buy a Spitfire,
met at the Sherbrooke on the 7th. for a natter. Most of the talk seemed to
centre around the merits and demerits of ABS system rather than thinks
Triumph but there you go. Hamish had some photos of some quite incredibly
souped up (but street legal) cars of various description which he took at a
recent drag meet in York where said machines raced over the standing
quarter mile in some incredible times (certainly incredible for me driving
a bog standard Herald 1200. He reported no trouble at all from his Spitfire
in the 500 mile round trip and if that sounds like an advert that's because
it is - see below.

Next month on Thursday 5th December we will have short AGM at the
Sherbrooke Castle so could I ask for a good turn out please. Agenda is
still as advised last month and I might even have a little quiz for you
afterwards. I promise it will not be as difficult as last years if I do.

Robert has discovered that Kilmarnock College offer night classes in
Classic car restoration. With the next course to start in either January or
March for 10 weeks anyone interested should phone the college on 0800 389
6817.

Car news:
As mentioned above, Hamish has a green P reg Spitfire 1500 for sale at
£1800 with a recently fitted new hood and stainless steel extractor
manifold. MOT until 03/03. Contact number is 0787 923 8096.

Also for sale is a Herald 13/60 convertible in Valencia blue. Described as
being in A1 condition the price is £3000 and the contact is Chris Kelly on
01698 863113 (Motherwell area).

Finally Greg Steel (AO about 3 years back just prior to me) has been in
touch to say that he's missing his old Herald and wants to know if anyone
would be interested in swapping a Scimitar SS1 1600 convertible worth in
the region of £1500-2000 for a Herald convertible or maybe a saloon with a
full length (12/50 style) sunroof. Greg's e-mail address is
gregor@steele3.freeserve.co.uk.

That's all for now. See you at the Sherbrooke on 5th December.

Yours aye

Jim
centralandwestscotland@tssc.org.uk
 

Nov 2002

September saw the Scottish show circuit wind up for the season with the
Selkirk show. Now in its tenth year there was a field of around 1400
entrants so its come along way from the first show which apparently had
only 80! There was no TSSC paddock this year but there were a good number
of Club cars dotted around among the ranks including a Vittesse engined
Herald coupe hauling a trailer made from the rear end of another Herald!
I've seen it done with Mini vans but this one was a first for me.

September's meeting at the Sherbrooke got off to a slow start - Ranger were
playing a European game at home and the motorway was clogged for miles so
many folk were held up. Won't have to worry about that again till next
season... Eventually around 10 showed up for the crack. The subject of
venue came up again and I gather the Sherbrooke isn't to everyone's liking
- the drink being too dear for one thing. If anyone has any other ideas may
I suggest that they table them at our annual meeting which will be held at
the Sherbrooke on Thursday 5th December starting as soon after 7.30pm as
possible. Only three items on the agenda so far
1) Venue for meetings
2) Destination of our annual run
3) Election of Area Organiser

If anyone has any other items could they please let me know ASAP.

Round by me Club cars seem to be on the increase. Iain MacPherson's
Vittesse has taken up residence only a few streets away and the Part's
Manager at the local Vauxhall dealer (sorry if you are reading this but
your name escapes me as I type) has bought a very smart looking yellow
Herald convertible.

The TSSC club web-site has had a bit of a make-over recently and is now at
the new url "http://www.tssc.org.uk". Part of the update is that AOs now
have official e-mail addresses so you should use "
centralandwestscotland@tssc.org.uk" if you want to e-mail me on Club
business. I would also like to build up a list of local member's e-mail
addresses. Sometimes something urgent come up (e.g. car for spares - must
go by the weekend or its scrap!) and there is anything between a 3 and 7
week lag between me getting news and it appearing here whereas I could sent
out an e-mail immediately.

Car News:
Dougie has a 1969 Mark 1 2l Vittesse convertible for sale. It had a body
off restoration around 6/7 years ago and is MOTed to June. Asking price is
£2900 and the contact number is 07831 754 775.

Gerry Mann is selling his 1970 Herald 13/60 saloon. Described as being in
good condition, it is MOTed to August. Quick sale wanted to free up space
hence the price of £950, Many extras are also available. Contact numbers
are 0141 633 0639 and 07050 106 669 or e-mail mannofglasgow@ntlworld.com.

Finally, Charlie from the Kilmarnock area has a 1967 Herald 1200 going for
spares or repair. It boasts a Spitfire Mk4 1300cc engine and a stainless
steel exhaust but it has been standing outside for a number of years and
the space is now needed. The number here is 01563 538215

See you at the Sherbrooke on November 7th.

Yours aye

Jim
 

Oct 2002

The August Bank Holiday weekend saw a very good show at Callender with
members arriving from all over with quite a variety of cars - I still find
it a bit strange to see Stags and 2000s mingling with the traditional 'six'
cars but I'm sure I'll get used to it! We didn't do as well in the driving
championship this year but the conditions were a bit treacherous with a
fair bit of mud underfoot but at least it was dry and sunny on the day.

Following on from that around a dozen members managed to find their way to
our new venue at the Sherbrooke Castle Hotel in Pollokshields on the first
Thursday of September. Unfortunately we hit a very busy night with a large
wedding in full swing but eventually we managed to get into a room off the
bar where all things Triumph were talked. Apparently things have come full
circle - I'm told that the first meeting of the West Central Scotland Area
Group was in the very same hotel. Anyone know when? Anyone still around
from then? If so come and see us next month.

This weekend (well about two weekends past as you read this) sees the
Scottish show scene wind up for another year with a large bash at Selkirk
which a few local members plus some from Lothian normally attend. Full
report on that next month.

Car News:
I've a buyer for a 1971 (preferably) Vitesse or 13/60 convertible if any
knows of one for sale but that's it for this month.

See you Thursday 3rd October at the Sherbrooke.

Yours aye

Jim
jim@savsoft.com
 

Sept 2002

What a splendid gathering we managed for our final meeting at the Tinto
Firs Hotel in August. There must have been twelve cars and a good few more
members all chatting away looking at each others pride and joys on a
pleasant evening - the only thing missing this month was the midgies
(thankfully)!

However as of next month (due to the closure of the Tinto) we will be
meeting henceforth at the Sherbrooke Castle Hotel, 11 Sherbrooke Avenue ,
Pollokshields, Glasgow - this is on the north edge of the Pollock Country
Park and near Haggs Castle for anyone looking for a landmark. Phone or
e-mail me if you need more detail.

The following Sunday on the 4th August 11 Club Cars (including Will's Stag
which I suppose counts under the new rules) met at the Annual Show at
Culzean Castle in Ayrshire. A run of some 50 miles for me it was none too
promising when I (with family) in toe departed Glasgow but by the time we
got there (without incident this year thank you!) it was really hot and
sunny and so it remained all day. We only saw a slight touch of rain when
nearing Glasgow on the return journey. Bill Miller won our informal
concourse of the second year running with his fine green GT6 and went
forward into the main arena. Despite having come second in class at
Stafford the previous month it wasn't at all clear cut and not until the
last vote was counted did he draw clear of David Smith's recently and very
well restored Valencia Blue Vitesse convertible. I've mentioned that car
before recently and it draws much favourable comment. There were also a
number of other of the traditional club cars scattered round the paddocks
either as private entries or with various area car clubs and needless to say
a host of other cars of all shapes and sizes for everyone to ogle at. The
show apparently booked up very quickly this year and a few clubs didn't get
in. Must remember to book quickly next year.

Car news:

I know of a J reg 1300 Spitfire for sale in Kelso. It is described as in
need of complete restoration but the engine runs and the overdrive
apparently works OK. The asking price is only £100 so it must be worth a
look. Contact numbers are 01573 228740/07880 548547.

Hamish is selling his green P reg Spitfire 1500 for £2000. Seen at Club
meetings recently Hamish describes it as a straight car with a new engine
and a custom exhaust but with bad paint and a bad hood. MOT until 03/03.
Contact number is 0787 923 8096.

Iain MacFerson is selling his rather tidy Vitesse convertible. Cream over
Red it is well known in club circles locally and further afield due to
Iain's running reports in Triumph World. He has owned it for 11 years and
it has been the subject of a full rebuild (with photos) and boasts many
extras. Valuation £4200, asking price £3500. It comes with a full MOT.
Contact number is 0781 249 1356.

Finally, Craig Quinten on 0141 638 8094 is selling a T reg Spitfire 1500.
This has had the body restored and needs reassembled and painted. Price
£500.

That's it for this month. Remember - see you at the Sherbrook Castle Hotel
on Thursday 5th September.

Yours aye

Jim
jim@savsoft.com

August 2002

 First up : Due to the imminent closure of the Tinto Firs Hotel, as of
Thursday 5th September we will be meeting at the Sherbrooke Castle Hotel,
11 Sherbrooke Avenue, Glasgow, G41 4PG. This is just north of Pollock Park
rather than just south at present and was one of the venues discussed at
the last AGM. One or two other ideas were floated at the last meeting but
in the end it came down to what I could organise before going on holiday! I
have spoken to the Management at the Sherbrooke and they will be more than
happy to see us.

Around a dozen members met at the Tinto in July on one of those typical
Scottish evenings when we were eaten alive by midgies as we stood comparing
cars (and a very nice selection they were too) and chatting. Last month's
mechanical maladies appear to have been sorted out by and large although
Gregor arrived late having overheated while stuck in traffic caused by
roadwork's (in turn caused by a burst water main by what I read the next day
if that is any consolation).

Sunday 4th August is the annual show at Culzean Castle, Ayrshire where we
will have a Club stand and a wee trophy for what the members present decide
is the best Club Car in an informal concourse. The stand is actually full so
if anyone can't make it please let me know so that I can offer your place
to someone else. I should have the passes for distribution at the next
meeting - please let me know if you'd prefer yours posted as it will be a
little tight to post them out after the meeting.

Car News: There is a 1200 convertible for sale in Dundonald, Ayrshire. It
has had a body-off restoration (with photos) but has been sitting outside
under a tarpaulin for the last couple of years and needs some tidying up
because of this. Price is around £1200 and the contact is Charlie Harris on
01563 850962.

Short and sweet - I'm off on holiday...

Remember: This month's meeting as still at the Tinto Firs on 1st August.

Yours aye

Jim

jim@savsoft.com


 

June 2002

May 2nd saw a very good turnout at the Tinto Firs with around 20 members (including John, now fully returned to health albeit driving a very smart Riley 472 which he says is to be his winter car - we let him off as he promised to bring the Herald next month) and a good collection of Club cars gracing the car park which was otherwise quieter then usual so we had plenty of room. Lots of contrasting and comparing was done as newcomer Hamish, among others, tried to work out how things should fit on the Spitfire he has recently acquired. Even me after having owned the car for 4 years discovered I was missing the rubber seals on the front wheel arches - just never knew I should have them! Brothers David and Fraser together with their father, also David (if I've got that right), attracted much attention with their newly restored Vitesse convertible. It had only been on the road for about two weeks at the time of the meeting and it looked very well indeed. A credit to you lads!

Culzean Show 4th August: Entry forms for this are now available from me and should be returned by 1st July if you want a place in the club paddock. A healthy seven signed up at the meeting.

Club Run: I distributed the directions for the run to Dunbar on the 9th June at the meeting and left copies with Gregor Graham as there is an outside chance I may not make next month's meeting. Otherwise contact me for a copy or get them on the day, meeting point is the Bothwell Services, Southbound M74 at 10am sharp.

Car News: Alistair Cowen (07790 849 383) is looking for a cheap Spitfire II or III as a rolling restoration project.

David Owens (01355 903635 / 07879 426145) is selling a stripped down Herald 1200 convertible, either as a complete car for reassembly or for spares. Huge list of new parts including a reconditioned chassis and Supaslot alloys.

Mrs. Stewart (0141 772 6763) has a 1970 Herald 1200 going for spares or (a very brave) restoration. Large parts of the front chassis are shot I'm afraid but engine miles are low and it sports a Vitesse bonnet which is definitely salvageable.

That it for this month. Hopefully see you at the Tinto Firs on June 6th, otherwise on the run on the 9th. Yours aye

Jim jim@savsoft.com

May 2002

A smaller band met at the Tinto Firs on April 4th but perhaps many were still away after Easter and we were for course missing John and Marhi MacDonald, John having suffered a mild heart attack shortly after the last meeting for anyone how hadn't heard. I spoke to him recently and am pleased to report he is well on the mend. Apparently he has only been banned from driving for 4 weeks and hopes to see us all next month (tomorrow as you read this.) However we still numbered a dozen and there was a good smattering of Club cars in (and around) the car park. This month we tried the lounge bar which offered far more congenial surroundings than the public (and no competition from the quiz later on!) The door is to the left of the main foyer entrance if you are looking for us next month.

Having been unable to arrange a tour at the Belhaven Brewery, the Area's run is confirmed as being on Sunday 9th June to Dunbar via the Jim Clark Room in Duns. The assembly point will be the Bothwell Services on the southbound M74, after which we will drop into the Clyde Valley before climbing out again for the run to Duns via Peebles. Return from Duns is to Dunbar and then via the Lothian coast (optional - if you're tight for time you can cut back to the Edinburgh bypass via the A1) and I've plotted the route back to the Harthill Services on the M8 Westbound - I'm sure everyone knows their own way home from there. Maps and directions should be available by the next meeting or contact me and I'll send out a copy when they are ready. Alternatively Mark will carry them on his web site I'm sure (http://homepage.ntlworld.com/mark-kaye/)

Just one piece of car news: Bob Gillies of Strathaven has a MkIV Spitfire for sale - its on a Q plate and hasn't been used for a few years but as it was assembled from a new chassis and body shell by its previous owner in 1985 it is believed that a little TLC will soon bring it up to the mark again and he also has a spares car to go with it. Bob can be got on 01357 300302 or by e-mail as bobgillies@beeb.net. That's all for now. See you at the Tinto Firs on 2nd May.

Yours aye Jim jim@savsoft.com

The new venue at the Tinto Firs Hotel is proving popular with no fewer than 21 members turning up in March including return appearances from most of last month's new faces - welcome to you all. The general feeling is that the main bar is too noisy so in April we are going to try the lounge bar. The area run became a little firmer with Dunbar selected as the destination and Sunday 9th June selected as the date. The run will also include either a visit to the Jim Clark museum in Duns or a tour of the Belhaven brewery - I think most folk favoured the latter but I've still to find out if tours are available on a Sunday - they didn't used to be! Entry forms for the Kirkintilloch show on 18th May were handed out but there's still time to enter. Contact is Raymond Taylor on 0141 776 2249. Iain Walker knows an early (1964) Vitesse 1600 saloon which is up for sale - apparently the car will be scrapped if no new owner comes forward. It is green with a red interior and currently garaged in the West End of Glasgow. Described as being in fair condition the contact is Mrs Hutchison, who has owned the car since 1977, on 0141 632 6389. David Owens on 01355 903635 has an abandoned restoration project is for sale. The car concerned is a Herald convertible and it comes with £2500 worth of new parts. This it for now. See you at the Tinto Firs on April 4th.

Yours aye Jim jim@savsoft.com

March 2002

Well despite a small misprint in the current area directory, the Tinto Firs Hotel being in Kilmarnock ROAD, Glasgow and not in Kilmarnock itself, a grand total of 14 members managed to find our new venue in February for a lively meeting. So hello to many new faces among them David Snr., David Jnr., Fraser and Colin - hope you found it entertaining enough to come back again. For anyone who wasn't there please note that the meeting is in the International Bar which is round the corner to the left of the main hotel entrance. I circulated a list asking for ideas for a run this year. While I'm not sure it made it round everyone the indications are that people want to head to the south east with East Fortune (Air Museum), North Berwick/Dunbar (Belhaven Brewery tour ?) and Duns (Jim Clark Museum) all being mentioned. Any other ideas and what about the date? From the SVVF yearbook, the second weekend of June seems fairly quite locally so would Sunday 9th June suit most people? Events this year in which club members will be participating include: Kirkintilloch Country Fair: 18th May, contact Raymond Taylor on 0141 776 2249 Strathaven Gala: 8th June, contact Peter Sherrard on 01357 520672 Culzean: 4th August, contact me on 07771 956643 Doune Classic: 24/25th August, contact Ian Robertson (Lothian AO) on 0131 5391402 Selkirk: 15th September, contact Mike Firth on 01896 754751 and as they say in Selkirk "There will be all these and a great many more"... Give me a ring if you want an event plugged! Car news. Andy's GT6 (as mentioned last month) is still for sale (Andy's number is 0141 959 7646) while I know of a white 1963 Herald 1200 convertible for sale in the Glasgow area. Having been in the same family from new it is described as being somewhere between fair and good needing some bodywork but otherwise sound. Contact is Brian Fell on 0141 956 1432 or brian@barlochguesthouse.co.uk. Of the two cars I mentioned last month in the Rutherglen/Cambuslang area, one has gone (anybody out there got it?) but there is still an estate up for grabs and ace spotter Robert has discovered a black 1965 Herald on a caravan site at Carntyne Industrial Estate which may be for sale. See you at the Tinto Firs Hotel on 7th March.

Yours aye Jim

jim@savsoft.com

Feb 2002

First and foremost: As of February 7th 2002 the West Central Scotland Area Group's monthly meeting will be on the evening of the first Thursday of every month at Tinto Firs Hotel at 470 Kilmarnock Road, Glasgow. This is on the south side of the city and quite accessable from Junction 2 of the M77. From the south turn right on to Barrhead Road (left from the north obviously!) along the south side of Pollock Country Park along Barrhead Road/Nether Auldhouse Road until you reach the A77, Kilmarnock Road, turn right and then the hotel is just past the next set of traffic lights. See you there! Other than winning the Area draw which gives us £25 in vouchers for the club shop to spend its been a quiet month. Only five members met at for the final meeting at the Garfield - it was only January 3rd so I suppose it can be forgiven. Two however turned up in club cars including Iain in a convertable Vitesse sporting a rather nice hard top which made it look rather like a coupe. For once my Herald stayed in the garage as I decided that discresion was the better part of valour given the amount of salt the local councils had thrown on the roads over the previous few days during what was a very cold and frosty snap. The Mk III Spit bits I mentioned last month have been saved and no doubt a list of spare bits will be available at the next meeting. Car News: Andy Burnley has a J reg GT6 for sale at £2500. Andy's number is 0141 959 7646. Tony McNally (sorry if that's misspelt - I have difficulty reading my own writing sometimes and I couldn't see a similar name on the list that HQ send me) on 0141 334 4330 has a MkII Vitesse Convertible on offer for a swap for anything with an MOT. Apparently the Vit needs some bodywork and the tickover is high at c2500 RPM. I am told of two Heralds in a yard on the Rutherglen/Cambuslang road, one seems to be complete and the other has no headlights but apparently they are for sale 'as is' and not being broken which is good. The place is at a car wash on the left hand site of the road just after Budget as you go towards Cambuslang. If you reach Tully's and/or the Go-carts you've gone too far. REMEMBER: See you at the Tinto Firs Hotel on 7th February.

Yours aye Jim

Jan 2002

Well its going to be a short report this month - because of Christmas the news deadline is today and I've left all my notes at home! So here goes from memory... Last night was the business meeting at the Garfield where a smallish group convened on a dismal night to re-elect me as Area Organiser for next year and to decide the location for coming meetings. After some debate and reflection on the membership list it was decided to try a location in the south side of Glasgow as a fairly large percentage of the members in the area appear to come from south Glasgow and Ayrshire so we settled on the Tinto Firs Hotel at 470 Kilmarnock Road, Glasgow, Iain Walker having made approaches to the management there. Apparently they already host at least one other car club (on a different night I hasten to add) and would glad to see us. Hopefully this will be more accessible to more of you and we'll see an increased turnout at meetings. Meeting night remains the same at the first Thursday of every month. To allow for the post over Christmas it was agreed that this would take effect as from the February meeting to give everyone enough notice. Business over it was 'eyes down' for the annual quiz, another round Scotland tour composed by yours truly. Seems I made it a bit hard this year - there were a total of 39 points available for naming the 20 towns described by the clues and (in some cases) supplemental facts (names, dates etc.) about them. So how many points did the winner get? 30? 20? No try 12! Well done to John for that. (I think.) Contestants also had to work out (guess?) the milage covered in what was an anticlockwise tour of the country starting and ending in Glasgow. Here we came a bit closer, the actual mileage was 922 (as calculated by Route 66) and the nearest guess was 925. Again well done.

Car News: Free from deadlines this is 'wot I should have wrote' for the Janurary News Andy Burnley has a J reg GT6 for sale at £2500. Andy's number is 0141 959 7646. Tony McNnally (sorry if that's misspelt - I have difficulty reading my own writing sometimes and I couldn't see a similar name on the list that HQ send me) on 0141 334 4330 has a MkII Vitesse Convertible on offer for a swap for anything with an MOT. Apparently the Vit needs some bodywork and the tickover is high at c2500 RPM. I am told of two Heralds in a yard on the Rutherglen/Cambuslang road, one seems to be complete and the other has no headlights but apparently they are for sale 'as is' and not being broken which is good. The place is at a car wash on the left hand site of the road just after Budget as you go towards Cambuslang. If you reach Tully's and/or the Go-carts you've gone too far. Finally I know of a very original Courier Van (with factory fitted rear seat) for sale in Newcastle at £3500. Chris Steele can be reached on 01207 563106. See Courier (as in our mag.) No 237 p10. I also have some photos which can pass on if required. See you at the Garfield on 3rd January but remember that from 7th February area meetings will be at the Tinto Firs Hotel.

Yours aye Jim

Big news this month is the opening of a (more or less) local Triumph parts supplier. Cardinal Triumph Supplies formerly of Gateshead has been bought over and relocated to Unit 6, Lec Court, Bog Road Industrial Estate, Lauieston, Falkirk (phone: 01324 636999, e-mail: cardinaltriumph@compuserve.com, url: www.cardinaltriumph.co.uk). They officially opened on 3rd November but one member had already sampled their service and was favourably impressed so best of luck to them in their venture - heaven knows they have virtually no competition in this area and while the 'big boys' down south can normally send you parts for next day delivery nothing beats being able to 'nip up the road' (around half an hour each way for me) to get a replacement for that bit you just broke dismantling the car to get to the bit you wanted to fix! Falkirk is actually a very good location being no more than an hour away for around 70-80% of the population of Scotland! Seven members plus one guest attended the November meeting at the Garfield on a dismal night. Newcomer was Brian from Crawford with a rather nice looking Spitfire (from what I could see in the dark!). Debate rumbled on about our meeting place but that will be decided at our annual business meeting on Thursday 6th December in the Board Room at the Garfield House Hotel, Cumbernauld Road, Stepps, Glasgow. The meeting will start promptly at 8pm. Please make the effort to attend if you can. While I'm keen to hear everyone's views, all matters will ultimately be decided by those members present on the night so no grumbling if you're not there and don't agree with the outcome! Afterwards we will have a light hearted quiz - I've not made it up yet but it will probably be a 'Round Scotland' affair like last year's with a prize for the most correct answers and another for the nearest to the mileage covered. Everyone's Courier seems to have arrived promptly this month and it was good to see a local car on the cover - Kinley's Special having graced the club stand at Culzean earlier in the year as I previously mentioned. Our last but one area organiser Mark is selling his meticulously restored Spitfire Mk IV which amongst its comprehensive specification boasts a Triumphtine stage 3 engine. Further info from Mark on 0141 639 2895. He's looking for around £5000. Thats it for this month, see you at the Garfiled on 6th December.

Yours aye Jim jim@savsoft.com

Eight members met at the Garfield lst month with a good smattering of club cars gracing the car park. The major topic of conversation was where to meet next year. The Garfield is still an option but there is a proposal on the table to move to a venue in the south side of Glasgow, perhaps the Tinto Firs Hotel in Kilmarnock Road or the Sherbrook Hotel in Pollocshields as it is felt this may suit the geographic spread of members better. Certainly no one much comes to the Garfield from the north or east. What it basically comes down to is what suits you? Where would it suit you to have the meeting? Suggestions are certainly welcome and the basic requirements of a meeting place are 1 Willing hotel management. 2 Large, secure car park - large so we can park up in a spare corner without disturbing the day to day business of the hotel, secure so we can retire inside on the cold, dark (wet) nights safely. 3 Convenient location - perhaps handy for the motorway network to ease everyone's journey. So suggestions are welcome and while we are at it I suppose we should consider the question of the time of the meetings. Is the first Thursday evening of each month still suitable for the majority? That leads me to advance notice of the area's business on Thursday 6th December 2001 in the Board Room of the Garfield Hotel, Stepps, Glasgow (note not the resident's lounge as usual) starting sharply at 8pm. There are just two items on the agenda so far 1 Election of area rep - I am willing to stand again but would note I don't yet know where (if!) I'll be working come January. 2 Place and time of meetings in 2002. I hope a large number of you will make your views known to me beforehand so a balanced decision can be reached but ultimately things will be decided by a show of hands on the night so you'll need to be there to vote! After the formal meeting there will be a short quiz in a similar format to last year's with a couple of small prizes on offer - assuming we are all still talking! No car news this month so I'll close with a reminder of the next meeting on Thursday 1st November at the Garfield. Hope you get your Courier on time!

Yours aye Jim Smellie jim@savsoft.com

Oct 2001

Well I need to start with an apology this month and that's for the lack of news last month! I honestly don't know what happened. I wrote and sent it on time (by e-mail as usual) copied to Mark for the web site and thought no more of it. It was only some considerable time later when Mark sent me an e-mail asking for the news that I realised that I had not had the usual confirmation e-mail back from Bernard. It was by then far too late to do anything in time for last month's issue. I won't bore you by repeating anything but the car news (see later) but anyone interested can catch up on Mark's web site (http://homepage.ntlworld.com/mark-kaye/) Last month saw a good turnout of Club cars from all over the place at the Callander Classic Weekend - this well attended show seems to attract people from all over the country I think largely because it happens on the English bank holiday weekend so people from further afield don't have to worry about getting home in time to go to work on the Monday. In the driving challenge which is always a highlight of the show the TSSC team did exceptionally well eventually finishing second to the Morgan team by a mere 1.2 seconds having bettern the Fiat 500 (last year's winners) and Northants MG teams among others along the way. So well done to the drivers, Iain (red and white Vitesse convertable), Derek (yellow GT6) and Steve (white Spitfire) and to our young runners Iain Junior, his brother Euan and his friend John. I'll repeat the car news from last month as most of you won't have seen it: Sandy Douglas has a 1970 Mk II Vitesse convertible for sale at £2K. It comes with a year¹s MOT and Sandy can be contacted on 01475 568776. Graham Mack is selling a 1968 MkII Vitesse saloon. It only has 47K on the clock. It has however been in an accident but comes with all parts to repair. Graham is looking for £5-600 as is and the contact number is 01383 882883. At the Culzean show I was told of a Bond Equipe for sale in Turnberry. Sounded as though it needs a fair bit of work and it definitely needs a new back window. Contact is John Archer on 01655 331431 if you¹re an Equipe fan.

New news this month: Iain Campbell of Annan is selling his 'competition road legal Mk3 Spity' which has only done around 6K since its complete rebuild. Full details will be found on the web at http://freespace.virgin.net/spit.fire/ See you at the Garfield on October 4th.

Yours aye Jim Smellie jim@savsoft.com

Sept 2001

Firstly thanks to Gregor for last months meeting report while I was away in Holland - saw only 3 Spits albeit Dutch registered ones all holiday! The August meeting saw 9 club cars assembled at the Garfield, mostly Spitfires assorted, 1 Vitesse convertible and me in my Herald. There was revisits from last months new members and much contrasting and comparing was undertaken before at least some of us repaired to the bar - there¹s good profit to be had in soft drinks! Shortly after on Sunday 5th August, a dozen club cars represented the TSSC at the Culzean (Ayrshire in case you don¹t know) Classic Car show. Five of six as in TSSC were represented - the exception being Bond. Yes we did have a special in the paddock - a rather nice Burlington Burretta based on 12/50 running gear and with a Spit engine. Thanks for that Kinlay. A vote amongst the members present made Bill Miller¹s 1973 GT6 Mk III best club car on show - very convincingly too! Think he was quite chuffed as he went into the arena for the champions parade. Apparently his restoration of it took 12 years and his wife says that he turned the whole house green while he was spraying it. the stand looked very good I thought complete with the new banners and bunting supplied by HQ. The less said about my car the better! Suffice to say I arrived at the show on the end of a tow rope having failed some 3 miles short of the showground. (Thanks to the anonymous man in the Merc for that even if the likelihood of him reading this is slim.) Much scratching of heads ensued until the fault was eventually traced to the screw which holds the electronic ignition unit in place in the distributor (where the points normally are) having stripped its thread. Why I don¹t know - I put it down to the state of the roads. I have a friend who owns a couple of taxis and he reckons it cost him a tenner every time a car hits a pothole. Anyway a repair was made using a self- tapper and I was running. Again thanks to Ian Walker for baby- sitting me home. You must be sick of the sight of the rear of my car! Some car news: Sandy Douglas has a 1970 Mk II Vitesse convertible for sale at £2K. It comes with a year¹s MOT and Sandy can be contacted on 01475 568776. Graham Mack is selling a 1968 MkII Vitesse saloon. It only has 47K on the clock. It has however been in an accident but comes with all parts to repair. Graham is looking for £5-600 as is and the contact number is 01383 882883. Finally at the Culzean show I was told of a Bond Equipe for sale in Turnberry. Sounded as though it needs a fair bit of work and it definitely needs a new back window. Contact is John Archer on 01655 331431 if you¹re an Equipe fan. That¹s all for now folks see you at the Garfield on September 6th and then again at Selkirk on the 16th - hopefully under my own steam

! Yours aye Jim Smellie jim@savsoft.com

August 2001

10th June dawned bright and sunny (unlike the day before or the day after so somebody was looking after us) and a smallish group of us met in the carpark of the Garfield ready for our run to Anstruther via the Scottish Vintage Bus Museum at Dunfermline. Direction sheets were duly handed out and off we went... only for the first car to turn the wrong way out of the car park! That apart (and a group of us getting a little lost in Dunfermline itself) it was an uneventful run up the 'Crow Road' over the Campsie hills to Stirling and then via Alloa to the bus museum where two more cars joined us. Located in an old Navy supply depot this large site play host to a vast range of buses all stored under cover and with access to workshop and spray painting facilities. I think I can say we all enjoyed our tour and I can recommend a visit if you are ever in the area on a summer Sunday. Alternatively visit their web site at www.busweb.co.uk/svbm. After the tour and a quick spot of lunch we dropped onto the Fife coast for the run up to Anstruther which, it being a bright, sunny, summer Sunday was rather busy. However we all managed to squeeze into the car park and spend some time enjoying the delights - the Walker¹s dog having a whale of a time in the sea! All too soon it was time to depart so goodbyes were said and off we went only for my clutch to drop all its fluid when we stopped for chips in Leven. Luckily I'd planned the route home on 'fast' roads so I made it home with the minimum of (crunched) gear changes. Thanks to Ian W for shepherding me home. Down to Rattray the next day for a new slave cylinder - having fitted a repair kit only a couple of weeks before I reckoned something more serious was afoot (either that or I fitted the repair kit wrong!) Anyway everything has been OK since. I hope everyone enjoyed the day. A total of eight cars took part in all or some of the run and made a fine site lined up at the bus museum. I'll turn you over to Gregor Graham now for the meeting report as I'll be on holiday in Holland at the start of July. See you in August. Jim.

My turn again,

thanks to Jim for a most enjoyable run and visit , the reply to any complaints about our cars taking up space , money ,time etc is now ' just be glad it isn't a bus ! The Gala Day at Summerlea Centre was attended by two Spitfires , a Vitesse and a Stag , all of which managed to defend our space against the Minis that arrived in force . A good day with lots to see a do for all the family and all free .Our cars always seem to be well received by both staff and visitors , everyone at some stage has had a Triumph . A good turnout at the Garfield Hotel again with nine club cars of almost all varieties ( no specials ? ) .Two new members ventured out Graham in a very smart Spitfire 1500 and Robert who is completing a Spitfire Mk 3 , both only having had their cars for about a month , good luck to both of them and I hope they will become regulars. It did highlight the fact that if you are working away in the garage and have parts left over etc . come to the area meeting , see the cars , have a chat , I'm sure someone will have taken it to bits , angle ground it away or welded it back on . I must confess that we did spend the whole evening in the car park with the bonnets up .The variety of cars meant you could compare and contrast .This must have been the first time we have not been inside the Hotel at the bar so if we are not allowed in next month you know why . Only one Herald for sale Scott Grant is selling his saloon .It has 1300 engine, webasto fabric sunroof , leather seats , and is based on a new chassis , I will get details to Jim and it may be in the 'yellow paper ' . If you ventured to Stafford hope you fared well. Until the same time next year .

Gregor G

July 2001

By the time you read this the area¹s run to Anstruther will have long been and gone but sadly it falls after my copy deadline so a full report will have to wait for next month. During the planning it was interesting to note the reactions of the three Police forces whose areas the run passed through when I phoned to check what they needed to know. No names, no pack drill as they say but the first (³I¹m an MG man myself but there¹s a GT6 sitting in the Police garage just now²) didn¹t want to know at all. The second (a MK IV Cortina man who was disappointed to learn that it won¹t get tax exemption in a couple of years when it turns 25 - I wonder how many budding classics won¹t get preserved because of that rule change?) took a few details while the third (no car affiliation declared) wanted everything in writing! They later wrote back to say it was none of their business and wished us every success. I¹m getting together entries for the club stand at the Culzean Classic Vehicle show which is on Sunday 5th August. You can download an entry form as a pdf file from http://homepage.ntlworld.com/mark-kaye/ or send to me (15 Tay Crescent, Bishopbriggs, Glasgow, G64 1EU) for one. Entry fee is £3 to cover the £2 which goes to the organisers and various expenses like the trophy for best club car which will be informally judged by the participants on the day. I need all entries ASAP. I¹ve taken delivery of some banners and bunting from HQ and will borrow a 3m square gazebo so we should manage a very presentable stand - all I need are the cars. A fairly small group met at the Garfield in June despite dry if unseasonably cold weather but it was interesting to note that out of six club cars (+ a guest Stag) mine was the only tin-top! Even my brother-in-law Gordon now has a 13/60 convertible! Kelvin International Solutions Ltd in East Kilbride have a special introductory offer whereby £50 buys either: 1) Access to the Motorsports Centre facilities, expert advice from their automotive engineers and rolling road time with a complete engine performance check, or 2) Repairs to bumps and scratches, fine tuning and valeting. Kelvin International is a spin of from the National Engineering Laboratory and has some very highly qualified staff. Contact Liz on 01355 272419 if you are interested. Gregor G has found a Herald 1200 saloon in Montgomery¹s Scrap Yard in Kilmarnock (on the road to Knockentiber). All the body panels have rotted away but there is a 1200 engine, gearbox and diff together with a good black interior and glass if anyone is interested. Gordon McIntosh (01674 830200) is looking for a solid Vitesse convertible, preferable a Mk II. Apparently this was the type of car he had when first married 30 years ago and his wife is hankering for another. Finally Andy Parker (0141 773 2618) is looking for a tax exempt Spitfire in any condition. Andy has restored quite a few cars over the years. That¹s all for now folks. Next meeting is at the Garfield on 5th July but I won¹t be there as I¹ll be in Holland at that time.

Yours aye Jim Smellie jim@savsoft.com

June 2001 (includes info & directions for Anstruther run Sun 10th June

Sadly cancellations once again head up this month's piece - the shows at Mellerstain (2/3 June) and Dallmany House (21/22 July) are known to have been cancelled. So that gives you less of an excuse not to turn out to the area's run to Anstruther on Sunday 10th June. Leaving the Garfield around 10am, I have plotted a scenic route up over the Campsie's and via Stirling to the Scottish Vintage Bus Museum near Dunfermline. This should take around 90 minutes so I would envisage having lunch at the museum before leaving around 1pm and proceeding onto the Scottish Fisheries Museum at Anstruther. Via Kirkcaldy and the Fife coast road this should take about an hour. The day is then your own - the direct route back to the Garfield via the motorways etc. takes about an hour and a half. I'll have full route instructions available at the meeting on June 7th or on the morning itself and hopefully Mark Kaye will post them on his web site (http://homepage.ntlworld.com/mark-kaye/). Anyone from other areas is welcome to join in for all or part of the run - let me know if you need route info. May 3rd saw a good cross section of club cars assembled at the bottom end of the Garfield's car park now that the nights are finally light. Speaking of 'a cross section' do we have any specials in the area? I can't recall seeing one. Some items for sale. Firstly a 1960 948 saloon with a mint interior but sadly reported as requiring a lot of work done to the metal bits. The car is Mauve and White and the contact is Mr and Mrs Taylor on 01355 303 859 (Eaglesham). Next Alan Laird is selling a complete Spitfire Mk IV 'Technical College' chassis and running gear. This has never been on a car but was used to demonstrate basic principals to apprentice motor mechanics. Alan would prefer everything to be kept together and a 'new' car build on it. Price negotiable. Alan also has a red 1974 Mark IV Spitfire for sale which he describes as an older restoration. He can be contacted on 01786 860711. See you on the 7th. Jim Route info: TSSC Run to Anstruther via Scottish Vintage Bus Museum, Dunfermline. 10th June 2001. Be ready to leave the Garfield Hotel, Stepps no later than 10am. Please leave at intervals and remember this is NOT a convoy. You are each responsible for your own route to the destinations but the suggested route (and the one most people will be following if you need assistance) is as below. My phone number is 07771 956 643 ­ call if you need help and to help me help you could I have a note of numbers of any other mobiles of anyone taking part? (Assuming you have it with you of course!) Please be courteous to other road users at all times ­ even MG drivers. Note that while there is a café at the SVBM it doesn¹t open until 1pm (when the Museum opens to the public) and you may wish a bring a picnic. Approximate timings and mileages are: 1.5 hours 58.6 miles Garfield ­ SVBM 1.0 hours 37.8 miles SVBM ­ Anstruther 1.5 hours 69.8 miles Anstruther ­ Garfield Jim Smellie The Going - the scenic route! Turn RIGHT out of the hotel car park on to Hornshill Farm Road. After 150 yards turn left onto Mount Harriet Drive At the T junction after 350 yards turn right onto Lenzie Road At the T junction turn left onto Stepps Road signposted Bishopbriggs (B819) At the first (mini) roundabout turn left onto Crosshill Road After 0.7 mile turn right over the railway (still Crosshill Road) Follow road for about 1.5 miles past Lowmoss Prison then turn 1st right. At the roundabout take second exit signposted Torrance (A807) After 0.7 mile take second exit on roundabout signposted Torrance (B822) After 3 miles turn left on to the A891 into Lennoxtown After 0.7 mile turn into Crosshill Street. Signposted Fintry and Campsie Antiques is on corner (B822) After 0.2 mile turn right onto Crow Road (main road) Follow OThe Crow Road¹ for 8 miles to Fintry Turn right at the Fintry Inn signposted Kippen (B822) Continue for 7 miles through Kippen to Kippen Station Roundabout Turn right towards Stirling (A811) Continue for 8.5 miles to Kings Knot roundabout in Stirling Take the exit at 2 o¹clock still on the A811 Dumbarton Road which changes name to Albert Place Turn right into Port Street after 0.6 miles then left after 100 yards into St Ninian Street (still A811) At the roundabout follow the A811 to the left After 200 yards take the 2nd exit on the roundabout for the A9 north. After 1 mile to the next roundabout continue to follow the A9 After another mile turn right at the roundabout onto the A907 Alloa Road and follow for 11.5 miles through Alloa into the outskirts of Dunfermline Keep left onto the B9155 Baldridge Burn (main road bears right) and follow B9155 for 0.7 mile to a T junction with the A823 Turn left into Pilmuir Street and follow A823 for 2 miles to the junction with the B915 Follow B915 for about a mile and turn into the Scottish Vintage Bus Museum on your left. Park up and assemble no later than 12 noon for a private tour of the museum. <<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<

After the tour return to the B915 junction and turn left After 0.7 mile turn right onto the B914 towards Kelty at the T junction After 1.8 miles join the A909 (straight ahead at the crossroads in Kelty) Follow the A909 for 5.2 miles through Cowdenbeath to the junction with the B925 Turn left onto the B925 towards Kirkcaldy and follow for 6.0 miles to Kirkcaldy Take the second exit on the roundabout to join the A910 and follow for 1.6 miles to the sea front Turn left to join the A921 After 1.3 miles take the second exit on the roundabout for the A955 Follow the A955 for 5.5 miles through East Wymess Just before Methil turn left onto the B930 for about a mile Turn right onto the A915 Standing Stane Road and follow for 6 miles to Upper Largo The road number changes to A917 and after 2.4 miles keep left onto the B942 After 5.3 miles turn left onto the A917 toward Pittenweem and Anstruther After 2 miles and in Anstruther itself turn right onto Roger Street (B9131) Follow Roger Street for about 0.2 miles to the East Shore where the Fisheries Museum is situated. The car park is opposite the Museum and is a public OPay and Display¹ facility ­ please make sure you do. The Coming Home - the direct route There is no set time for leaving Anstruther ­ I suppose much will depend on the weather and perhaps your final destination. Follow Roger Street back to the A917 and turn left After Pittenweem turn right onto the B9131 Follow to the A917 and then join the A915 in Upper Largo Follow the A915 for 9.5 miles to a roundabout. Take the 3rd exit for the A921 for 1/2 mile At the roundabout take the 1st exit onto the A92 After 10 miles take the slip road for the M90 towards Edinburgh After 3.3 miles at M90 junction 1 exit for the A921(A985) Kincardine Bridge On the roundabout take the 3rd exit towards the A985 Follow the A985 for 13 miles to Kincardine At the roundabout turn left towards the bridge (A876) After 2 miles join the M876 towards Stirling, Edinburgh and Glasgow After 1 mile take the exit for the M9 Stirling and Glasgow After 1.7 miles at junction 8 join the M876 for Glasgow After 5 miles road becomes M80 Follow the M80/A80 for 11.5 miles back to the roundabout just north of the Garfield Now you¹re on your own! Hope you enjoyed your day. Jim

Firstly, the Vintage and Classic Show which was to have been held as part of the Kirkintilloch and District Agricultural Show (and presumably the whole show) on the 19th of May has been cancelled due to the Foot and Mouth situation. There have been a number of other cancellations so far and I would be grateful if you would give me a call should you get to hear of a Scottish show being cancelled so that I can spread the word. John McD arrived at the Garfield with a little treasure in the shape of a small book issued by Leyland's Group Sales and Service Training Centre which details how to assemble and adjust the Herald/Vitesse body range. Starting by assembly of the scuttle to the chassis it covers the complete body build. Fascinating stuff! As it was originally designed to be used with a film strip it was presumably used for training mechanics - possibly everyone who took the course was given a copy of the book for reference but its the first time I've seen one. If any one knows more about these sort of books I'd like to hear. There's no date on it but its from the Leyland period and doesn't mention the Courier or Coupe although it covers the other body variants. As the group, including first-timer Colin who has a Club car as his (impending) retirement project, sat discussing things Triumph it emerged that most folk would like a TSSC run this year. A straw poll indicated Fife and possibly Anstruther or the Scottish Vintage Bus Museum near Dunfermline as a destination, the Garfield as the main departure point and Sunday 10th June as the date. I'll need to get things worked and full details will follow next month or at the May meeting. Anyone from other Areas is welcome to join us en-route or at the destination. I have been told of a green Vitesse saloon for sale in Glasgow but have no other details. The vendor is Mrs P Hutchison who can be contacted on 0141 632 6389. That all for this month. See you at the Garfield on 3rd May. Yours aye Jim

April 2001

March 1st saw a small group of stalwarts meet at the Garfield, all but one sans club car but given that the area had been severely disrupted by blizzards only two days before and there was much snow still around this is entirely forgivable. Ian W sent his apologies - he is a telephone engineer and had been drafted down to the Borders area where many towns and villages were still cut off (roads, power and phones in some cases). Mark runs a web site which I've mentioned before (http://homepage.ntlworld.com/mark-kaye/) but he is keen to expand his coverage of club activities. What he is looking for is a picture of your car with a caption giving as much information as you care to provide. I've given him some which were taken at shows last year but he wants as many of this area's cars as possible represented and plans to organise a 'team photo' at the Garfield once the weather improves. Either scan a photo to a GIF sized around 150Kb and send it to Mark at mark-kaye@ntlworld.com, post the photo to me at 15 Tay Crescent, Bishopbriggs, GLASGOW, G64 1EU or give it to either Mark or I at any meeting. All photos will be returned. Peter S is looking for cars to join him at the Museum of Flight Aero and Auto Extravaganza (www.scotwings.com) on 5th/6th May. If you're interested, e-mail Peter on psherrard@supernet.com. Peter also intends to be at the Wigtonshire Yesteryear Transport and Machinery Club rally at Stranraer on 19th/20th May whereas I will be at the Vintage and Classic Show held as part of the Kirkintilloch and District Agricultural Show in Bishopbriggs on the 19th. Again anyone is most welcome to join either of us (which reminds me ? I must order a club banner or two for use at shows). That's it for this month, see you at the Garfield on the 5th of April and remember those photos. Yours aye Jim

March 2001

A group of seven members congregated at the Garfield last Thursday evening for some lively chat but otherwise it's been very quite on the Club front over the past month. Still the lighter nights are coming and we can soon get to enjoy our cars more. The SVVF yearbook is now out but I'm afraid I've only managed to secure 4 copies from the RSAC who looked at me rather strangely when 1 asked for 8 copies.But we only had 15 to start with' says they. So anyone still wanting a copy had better write to Mrs. A McCook, Dunduff Lodge, Dunfermline, KY12 OSF enclosing a cheque for £1.75 payable to S.V.V.F In the coming month (March) there are two autoiumbles, Barnton Hotel, Edinburgh on the llth and then Bigger the following week (18th). This year's Doune Classics Spring Club weekend is being held on the 30th and 31st of March and the lst April at Brunston Castle in AYRSHIRE! (is the name really that valuable? A move a few miles up the road to Callander was one thing but to relocate half way across the country is quite another) Anyway that's my bitch for this month. See you all at the Garfield on Thursday l at April. Yours aye. Jim Smellie (Area Organiser)

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Feb 2001

January 4th saw a small band of members at the Garfield - I was late and Club-carless as the Herald wouldn't start after not being used since Christmas Eve. Plenty of petrol, battery turning things over nicely, just no spark. Investigations the next night traced the fault to a duff coil that was soon replaced by one from the 'spares box' by way of John. lain M was there in his early black and white 21 Vitesse which has undergone a 'wreck to riches' restoration in about 3 months by my reckoning . So well done to him, and sorry for not mentioning the car last month but my deadline was a little tight, (last month's meeting was actually after the official deadline and I am grateful for the extension allowed. So I could report on the business meeting.) To the list which lan provided in the Edinburgh group's news last month, could I add Culzean to the list of shows in Scotland which the TSSC will have a Club presence? This is normally early August and I am prepared to make more of a thing of it this year if you, the members, are prepared to turn up. I know of a red and white Herald Saloon near me, which is reputedly for sale. No detail as yet but if you're interested give me a ring on.07771 956 643. That's it for this month.

Nov 2000

The second weekend in September saw the car show season in south and central Scotland draw to a close with the Selkirk show. This was unfortunately the weekend immediately after the petrol crisis and it was a bit touch-and-go wither enough golden nectar would be available for what is for me a 150+ mile round trip i.e. not far off the range of a Herald tank. In the end however we set off on the Saturday afternoon for run to the Borders. After enjoying a very good B&B and a look round my old hometown of Selkirk which I had not revisited for many a year having no ties there now it was off to the show. Car numbers appeared to be well down with large gaps in the ranks and even empty paddocks where whole clubs failed to materialise but no doubt it was due to the petrol situation (although both the main (perhaps now only) filling stations in Selkirk had supplies). The weather was mostly fair with just the odd shower until a downpour around 3:30 curtailed the show. A total of 7 cars were in the Club paddock with lan W joining me from this area-the rest being from the Edinburgh area - but there were several other Club cars entered either with other (regional) clubs or individually. The latter including MEK 848P, a 1976 Spitfire 1500 which won the class for post-war Cars 1971 on. The car was entered by Dorothy Sinclair of Deanburn according to the programme but I never managed to talk to her. Well done to you if you are reading this. Last night (as I write this) saw the regular Club meeting at the Garfield well attended by members and guests including a prospective new member. A large wedding at the hotel saw us decanted from our usual location to a back room which was even better as it had a large board room style table so we could all sit round and pass the photos etc. without anyone having their back to anyone else. Must speak to the management about getting that room again!. Perhaps the highlight of the meeting was one on the lads turning up with a large assortment of high quality pliers and cutters which his company had declared to be surplus stock following their take-over of another company. These were being sold off at silly prices and the stock was soon depleted. I have now managed to assemble an almost complete run of Courier and Turning Circle magazines from the earliest days of their publication to date missing only a few early copies. So might I suggest you all arm yourselves with the new edition of the Technical Directory and then when you require an article I will be able to supply a copy at cost. My thanks are due to Club HQ for filling in those gaps they could. For the record I am still looking for Courier issues 1, 2, 3, 8, 9, 11 and 22 plus Turning Circles 15 and 16 (and any later Turning Circle but I'm not sure there were any). Well that's my 500 (or so) words for this month. See you at the Garfield on the 2nd November - hope you all have your Courier by then.

Jim Smellie (Area Organiser)

Oct 2000

Firstly my apologies to Gregor Graham for getting his name wrong in my thanks last month! Never mind Gregor they liked your piece that much they ran it again. The August Bank holiday weekend saw a large gathering of club Cars and members at the Doune Classic, held this year for the first time in a new venue in Calandar. I could only make it on the Sunday (it not actually being a Scottish holiday) but the sun shone that day and a good time was had by all. I'll leave it to [Ian Robertson to go through the Club concourse winners as its his show really (in that he very ably organises the TSCC paddock) but I our driving team of lain M, Derek and Steve who, together with Iain's sons Iain and John and their friend Ewan as runners, put up a very commendable display in the driving challenge seeing off teams driving MGs and Morgans before losing to the eventual winners in Fiat 500s who had entered the competition for the first time. They beat a team in Reliant Robins in the final. The course, which involves driving, slaloms and in and out of cone garages on grass is quite tricky and obviously favours small cars. A smaller than average group met at the Garfield this month where the above Ian M showed us photos of his new project, a rather reputedly sound early 21 Vitesse saloon which he hopes to have scruffy but back on the road for the winter. Look forward to seeing it at the Garfield soon Iain. We also look forward to seeing Jim Campbell's 8-year restoration project soon. It's reported that Jim has restored his Mk IV Spitfire into a rather striking machine in Broom Yellow with black trim and it should appear at the Garfield soon. On the subject of MK IV Spits, can anyone help Kenneth Blackwood in Scotstoun? Kenneth is also nearing the end of a restoration but is having difficulty with some things like how the seatbelts fit and how to fit the chrome finishers on the B post. He would be grateful if someone would let him look over their car to see how it's done. If you can help please ring him on 0141 954 9680. Little response to my request for e-mail addresses last month but those of you who are connected to the web would maybe like to take a look at http://homepage.ntlworld.com/mark-kaye/ where Mark has put up quite a good site about his car and he promises to give the Area a plug when he next updates it. I would like to pass on my thanks to Securon Ltd who supplies the seatbelts on offer from the TSSC shop. Twice now they have helped me out with extra fittings to make fitting of their products easier in my particular case without charge and send by first class post, so again thank you. The weekend after my deadline will see me back on old territory in Selkirk for the first time in about 10 years and at the show for the first time ever so I'll let you know how that went next time. Yours Aye

Jim Smellie (Area Organiser)