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MAGAZINE OF THE CITROËN SPECIALS CLUB

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Callum Beveridge

47 Old Mill Lane, Inverness, Highland IV2 3XP Tel: 01463 231787 Email: callum@bevs.org

ADDRESS LABELS

Carole Chitty

MAILING Peter and Margaret Cook

HINTS & TIPS

Jim Barry

CARTOONS John Wheatley

Printed in England by:

Paul Hackett

The next ‘FLAT OUT’ GOES TO THE PRINTER

on 5th. June 2007

Please send articles by e.mail or typed. Only use fonts Times New Roman, Arial or Trebu-

chet MS.

The next Flat Out will be issued around July 9th

www.citroenspecialsclub.org

The Editor nor the officers of the Citroen Specials Club are necessarily in agreement with opinions expressed in this

magazine. Such opinions are entirely the views of the author and imply no recommendation by the Citroen Specials Club

All rights reserved. Apart from any fair dealings as permitted under the terms of the Copyright Design and Patents Act of 1988,

no part of this magazine may be reproduced in any form whatsoever without the written permission of the Citroen

Specials Club

3 Chairmans Notes 6 Editorial 10 Letters 20 Classified Ads 25 Committee Profile 26 Monthly Meetings 27 MemSecs report

5 Eastern Angles 7 West Mids & Mid Wales 9 East Midlands (Mid Shires) 12 North West 13 Cotswold Chat 16 North Thames Gas 18 Not So Wild West 22 Scotland Frozen North 23 East Coasters 28 Down South Roundup

15 2008 Anniversary Meeting 24 Summer Camp 2007 30 Detling Report 32 Ireland Trip 34 The Car’s The Star

Editor

CSC Homepage

Copyright

Cover picture: Ian and Ranahs wedding

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I would like to start these notes with a thank you to all those members that attended the AGM in Harrogate, it was a wonderful turnout and show of sup-port, and few other clubs manage such a good turnout for their AGM’s. I had a lovely time there and many of those that attended assured me that they had enjoyed the weekend. I would also like to thank all those who stood for election and those that were prepared to continue, we now have a full committee with the exception of a representative for the South East area, come along there must be someone prepared to have a go. The weekend after the AGM saw Carole and I in the Cotswolds attending the wedding of Ian Kelly and Ranah Hart, congratulations Ian and Ranah, it was a lovely wedding and reception we all look forward to seeing the clubs new-est married couple at events around the country this year. Accompanied by Bill and Mary Johnson, Carole and I spent a few days in Bel-gium seeking a venue for the Clubs 2008 Twenty Year Anniversary Celebra-tions. I am pleased to say that we have found an excellent site in the centre of the Belgian Ardennes near the village of Dochamps. The area is very beauti-ful with many local places of interest. The site has excellent accommodation and the management team are very keen to welcome us to their facility. They are already helping us with the supply of information so that we can now start the detailed planning of the itinerary. The drivers and passengers of sixty three cars have already let me know of their intentions to come along

if you are not one of them and intend to join in the fun please let us know as an early indication of numbers is im-portant for our planning. All those who sign up will be kept up to date as things develop. I spent Easter Sunday getting “Scalleywag” out of winter hiberna-tion; she was very reluctant to run even after petrol was poured directly into the carburettor, this normally does the trick. On inspection no fuel was being drawn from the tank and I found that the tubing from the tank to the pump was badly corroded with a hole near the pump. I built the car eleven years ago and will now be re-placing this item. It might be a good idea to add this to your inspection list. Carole and I will be going to the Stone-leigh show; the club always has a good turnout there so we hope to see many old friends and to make some new ones. With the summer camp at Bake-well and the trip to Ireland it is going to be an eventful summer, we are looking forward to it. Please drive carefully and enjoy your special. Alan

CHAIRMANS NOTES

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Officers Chairman: Alan Peacock Verazza, 61 Windmill Avenue, St Albans 01727 862971 Herts. AL4 9SJ email: alan@hmdev.fsnet.co.uk Secretary: Richard Perfitt 10 Monmouth Road, Harlington LU2 01525 876 671 Dunstable, Beds. e.mail:richardperfitt@mac.com Treasurer: Peter Chitty 8 Forest End Courtmoor, Fleet, Hampshire, 01252 620 128 GU52 7XE Membership Carole Chitty As above Secretary: e-mail: admin@citroenspecialsclub.org

Area Representatives

North Thames: Vic Braybrook 11 Meade Road, Billericay, Essex 01277 622 331 CM11 1DE South East: Vacant South: Carole & Peter Chitty 8 Forest End Courtmoor, Fleet, 01252 620 128 Hampshire, GU52 7XE South West: Ron Bishop 2 Beresford Gardens, Landsdown 01225 335777 Lane, Weston Bath, Avon BA1 4NX Cotswolds: Gordon Burch 6 The Barracks, Parkend, Lydney 01594 562844 Glos. GL15 4HR E-mail badgerburch@tiscali.co.uk South Wales: Vacant Contact: Rob Raikes 90 Heol Bardd, Bridgend, 01656 668 683 Mid-Glamorgan CF31 4td email: owlin.kats@virgin.net North East: Dr John Fowler “Rivendell” Shortsill Lane Flaxby 01423 867410, Knaresborough, N Yorks HG5 0RT e-mail john.fowler67@ntlworld.com East Midlands: Jim & Joy Barry 164 Polwell Lane, Barton (Midshires Sub-Group) 01536 724 512 Seagrave, Kettering, Northants NN15 6UB North West: Richard Williams 316 Brindle Road, Bamber Bridge 01772 628470 Preston, Lancs. PR5 6ZL E-mail Tibetans@lineone.net Scotland: Jennie White Whitelaw Cottage, 01387 370 291 Carlesgill, Westerkirk Langholm, Dumfrieshire DG13 0NZ North Wales & Cliff Thomas-Smout 118 Kingsley Road, Kingswinford West Midlands: 01384 830140 West Midlands DY6 9RS Northern Keith Bomber Hummock House, 186 Abbey Road, Ireland: 0289 186 2667 Millisle, County Down, Northern Ireland BT22 2DH East Anglia: Bob Hartley 19 Grove Hill, Belstead Village, 01473 730 434 Ipswich, Suffolk IP8 3LP East Midlands: David Field Warren House, 24 Cherry Tree Lane (East Coast Sub-Group) 01522 753372 Nettleham, Lincoln, Lincs. LN2 2PR

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Falcon Registrar: Joyce Taylor Ridge Cottage, Glevering 01728 746 155 Hill, Wickham Market, Woodbridge, Suffolk IP13 0DG Specials Registrar: Richard Perfitt 10 Monmouth Road, Harlington LU2 01525 876 671 Dunstable, Beds. e.mail:richardperfitt@mac.com Technical Advisers: Derek Smith 4 Sherbourne Drive 01753 868 537 Windsor, Berks SL4 4AE5 Dicky Dawes 55 Pedlars grove, Frome, 01373 461589 Somerset BA11 2SX e.mail: Dickyandpat@hotmail.co.uk Regalia Sales: Brian Peters 43 Belstead Avenue, Ipswich, Suffolk. 01473 405974 IP2 8NR e.mai:l brian.peters@ntlworld.com Hints & Tips Jim Barry 164 Polwell Lane, Barton Seagrave 01536 724512 Kettering Northants NN15 6UB

Eastern Angles report Our monthly lunches at the Flixton Buck are very well attended and it's great to see so many friends: some travel quite a distance to our venue. We have been invited to three events during the summer months. These are: Sunday 13th. May Henham Park Wings & Wheels Saturday 9th. June Horham Bygones Country Sunday 12th August Classic Vehicle & Auto Jumble Rally, Mid Suf-folk Showground, Stonham Barnes. If you would like to take part contact me ASAP. Please note: Two of these events take place on the 2nd Sunday of the month so we have changed our lunch dates as follows: 20th May and 5th August (not 12th August). Best wishes Bob Hartley

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Hello, and welcome to my first ‘flat out’. Let me apologise for the lateness of this issue, but following my appoint-ment at the AGM, I’ve had a lot of learning and catching up to do. The format of the magazine is much as it was, although over the next few months, I want to insert some more regular features on more technical matters and current builds. There are a lot of builds going on out there, but we don’t get to hear about them very much, so I’m going to concentrate on some of the more special ‘specials’ which are being constructed. The AGM weekend was very well at-tended, as was the ‘run-out’ on the Saturday afternoon. I meant to talk to more of you that weekend, but I never seemed to get a moment to myself. For the benefit of the gentleman driv-ing behind me in his very nice Pemble-ton, you’ll be happy to know that I’ve now got a functioning handbrake, and hill starts won’t be quite as ‘interesting’ from now on! As regarding material for ‘flat out’, I would prefer emailed material, but failing that, typed or handwritten copy can be sent, but give me a few extra days in order to transcribe it. I’m making use of my 6 year-old daughter, who reads out the handwritten copy whilst I type it in. Her vocabulary is expanding exponentially, and before long, she’ll be well versed in all club matters as well as being a walking events diary! On the home-front, I’ve just finished installing an oil temperature gauge

into my Burton via a modified engine sump plug. Currently, when blasting around the A9 in the middle of winter, it’s a toss-up between cooking my en-gine with the muff on, or freezing the carb with it off. At least now, I’ll know the reason why I’ve come to a sudden stop! As I write this, it’s been exceptionally warm and sunny—hopefully a sign of what’s to come this summer. The event diary for the year is filling up and I’m looking forward to some top-down motoring in the Highlands and beyond. I hope to see some of you at Stone-leigh—it’s something I’ve never had the opportunity to go to in the past, but that’s all about to change. If you see me looking lost, please take pity and introduce yourself. I’m looking for-ward to seeing the variety of specials there, and to hopefully nick a few ide-as from you. Remember, this is your club, and your magazine. Even if you’ve never been tempted before, pick up a pen (or key-board) and jot something down for the next issue. Callum

EDITORIAL

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WEST MIDS – MID WALES Bob’s bit the Wrekin Border Man

We’ve had our February and March winter meeting at the Priorslee Lodge on the second Sundays of the month and at both meetings we have had about 12-14 members come along in particular at the March meetings we had about 6 specials turn up which I always find very pleasing. Bearing in mind I am writing this very early in April at the April meet-ing which (unbeknown to me at the time I booked it) coincides with Easter Sunday we are having a small competition lunch at the Lion at Leintwardine and the run has been organ-ised by David Sell a long time club member who has relocated to south Shropshire. Having recently qualified for a free TV licence I thought it was about time I put a second door on my little yellow car. I put one on Jeanne’s side last year so it is now May and I will fit it this summer. I have also refurbished a drum brake gearbox and an engine is now being looked at. I have run my car for 15 years same engine and gearbox so another en-gine and gearbox will last me until I am 90 (doesn’t bear thinking about). By the May/June Flatout it appears we will have a new editor and also a new secretary I wish them both well on behalf or our area. Looking forward to our events from May onwards it looks quite promising. One alteration from dates published up to now is the Six Ashes Rally and Fete it is on the 1st of July not as published on the 8th. That’s all for now, All the best Bob Lloyd Diary May 6th: Sunday Stoneleigh Kit Car show leave Shrewsbury 8.45 am meet up with Mid-land Members 9.30am at Stonebridge Island May 20th: Rochdale Owners Club Show, Capenthorne Hall, Macclesfield, just turn up. May 27th: “Marches on Wheels” see John Simcock’s article in Flatout starts at the Down Inn, Bridgenorth. To enter contact John on 01743 884309. June 10th Welsh Border Run, ring Bob Lloyd for details June 22nd – 24th Summer Camp at Bakewell July 1st Six Ashes Rally and Fete, Bridgenorth Area, entry forms available or just turn up. July 15th Wem Classic Car show at Wem just turn up

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July 20th- 22nd Bob’s annual weekend in Wales phone up for details I need to know the numbers July 29th Black Country Museum, Club Members must book for this event, see Cliff August 19th Lupin Farm, Kings Bromley, just turn up see Cliff. Midland Members at the Vine, Kinver evenings, the third Wednesday of the month, see Cliff. Hi Folks As the early morning summer sun warms my aching back I open the creaking garage doors, the brilliant reflection off the paint-work temporarily blinds me, wood lice scurry into the gloom, spi-ders blink. She moves easily forward onto the concrete apron, I climb in, fire up and we are away into the highways and by-ways of Worcester, Hereford and Gloucester. “CUT!!” In reality its pouring with rain, she’s not firing, the battery is dy-ing, pains shoot up my back as I lean over to try again, but it’s nice to dream!!! Our summer programme is pretty full, so we are looking forward to a good year, Summer Camp included. Our team hope to see you on the road somewhere don’t forget to re-fuel at the Vine or wherever we happen to be on the second Sunday. Happy Motoring Cliff, Bob, Ray.

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EAST MIDLANDS (MID SHIRES) Report Can’t believe that the first quarter of the year has passed, and we are now into the new TAX year. Pity ‘he’ couldn’t have brought back the free car tax for cars over 25 years old. Ours would have just come into it’s own next year. We would like to thank Alan and Carol for all their hard work and all those that have helped them. The AGM was great this year, good hotel, good food, the comfortable rooms and only a short walk to the lovely shops. And, of course, great company. Hope we can go again next year. Perhaps if we buy some shares in Swallow Hotels, we might get some drinks on the house! The plans for Ireland this year look good and next year, the 20th Anniversary meeting in Belgium also looks a winner. Well done Alan and Carol (and Mary and Bill) for the time given to checking it all out. The Mid Shires have not been so quick to publish their programme of events this year. It has been a case of ‘wait and see’ what else is going on in other areas this year. We changed our venue for the first Spring evening of the year and all met up at The Black Horse at Walcot, near Lutterworth on April 3rd. Some of us enjoyed a Thai meal which was excellent and very good value. On tap were 14 Real Ales, which went down very well with one or two of our members! As we are still deciding on which venue to finally end up with, we would suggest anyone wishing to join us ring us first on 01536 724512 to check. Mid Shires Events 2007 April 22nd will see us taking a ride out to Leamington Spa for Sunday

Lunch and to have a look round May 5th will be Rushden Cavalcade which is on over the first Bank Holi-

day in May. May 6th Club Stand at Stoneleigh May 13th Visiting Coventry Transport Museum, May 26th/27th Lamport Hall, Northamptonshire. June 5th Evening meeting at The Black Horse, Walcot. June 9 Lincolnshire Bubble Care Weekend, Sleaford June 22/24 Summer Camp, Derbyshire. July 3rd Monthly meeting. Check venue with Jim July 8th Hollowell Steam Fair, Northamptonshire July 21/22 Running Board Rally Henley on Thames Aug 25th Holcot Steam Fair, Northamptonshire Aug 26th Little Gransden, Cambridgeshire. More to follow next flat out. Jim & Joy Barry

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LETTERS

Oil News On visiting my local Halfords to buy their 15/50 motor oil, that I have recommended for our specials (spec API SJ ACEA A2 B2) only to find that it has been discontinued! Panic! But a few phone calls found 15/50 by Autocarg (Telephone 01274 870241) with a higher specification of API SL/CF: ACEA A3, B3, B4 at only £11 for five litres. Find it in your local independent garage. Peace once more in my life! Anthony Shelton Member No. 230 (Lomax Pilot) Fuel As a follow up re condensation in fuel, I left my aircraft full where possible as most pilots are taught to where possible. I also leave my meteor and triumph likewise. During the war years and after, when a lot of Ford V8 engines were about, if an air filter was fitted, sling in, and an egg-cup of petrol down its throat and it started straight away. 1st Jan this year about 08:00, I went for a 50 mile run to Matlock and back. To start it, a little fuel down its throat and off it goes. Now Anthony is going to tell me to fit a non-return valve so I had better do it. !0 out of 10 for the hand-book – my first bit of typing, so excuse. Thanks a lot Chas Middleton Member 1512 More on Carb Jets Further to my recommendations for a primary jet size of 1.20mm, with the ad-vent of Shell ‘V’ Power, petrol availability now, I am now running with a 1.10mm primary jet in my Solex twin-choke carb on my Lomax – and saving a bit of petrol. Even with this smaller jet, it is still bigger than the original which was 1.00mm (on the 18/26 choke size carb). I still run a 1.00mm main jet as opposed to the standard 0.90mm Anthony Shelton Member No. 230 (Lomax Pilot)

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Hidden Toolbox Run out of room for a toolkit on your Lomax after packing for a trip? – “Must take this just in case” scenario? What about the space under the boot floor? On a 223 that the space opposite the swing arm. Use this empty space!

Obtain a 5ltr (1 Gall) plastic bottle from oil, distilled water, orange juice etc, hold it in place with a ‘T’ hinge, meant for a shed door. Just cut a flap door in the plastic can, fill it with ‘stuff’, bend the hinge to fit (add a cross piece sup-port to stop contents falling out. See diagram Anthony Shelton Member No. 230 (Lomax Pilot)

Scalleywag ready for loading up

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North West Section Notes

My Name is Richard Williams and since I joined the Citroen Specials Club six or so years ago after buying my Lomax there has not been any activity in the North West section of the club, at the recent Harrogate AGM – I foolishly mentioned this and for my sins I was elected as the new area rep. Along with Malcolm Hopwood – Pembleton builder and owner we belong to the Nutcracker Car Group a group of Kit Car Enthusiasts, we meet monthly on the second Saturday of the month at 1.30 at the HINDS HEAD – on the B5250 at WRIGHTINGTON close to the M6 Junction 27. Other owners clubs use this as their monthly meeting – notably the Marlin Own-ers Club. We would also like to use this meeting for the Citroen Specials Club as we al-ready have 3 or 4 cars that qualify plus all the others that attend. We also go to some of the local events (See Forthcoming Events) If you would like to join us then just turn up at one of our meetings or you can contact myself or Malcolm for further details. Richard Williams – 1210 – 01772 628470 – Tibetans@lycos.co.uk Malcolm Hopwood – 1591 – 01253 854363 Forthcoming Events North West Classic Car & Motorcycle Show Cholmondeley Castle – 13th May and 2nd September Cheshire Kit Car Show Capesthorne Hall – 20th May – Free entry for Kit Cars Lancashire Classic Car & Motorcycle Show Hoghton Tower – 15th July and 9th September Woodvale Rally – 4th/5th August We also hope to participate in the Lakes 2 Run in October. There are many other Car Shows – Autojumbles and Steam Fairs Etc in our area plus plenty of opportunities for runs around some of the most beautiful and interesting parts of the country. Richard

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Cotswold Chat We’ve just got back home from our first AGM weekend in Harrogate and what a good weekend it was and much to the surprise of some people – no names – even we joined in with the fancy dress!!!!!! (Gordon’s first time in 25 years.) Sev-eral of us ventured up to Harrogate for the AGM although not in the little cars. Thanks to everyone involved in the organisation. Many thanks to Bill & Mary for their efforts over recent years as area reps – don’t think you can finally retire though; we’ll be calling you at regular intervals! Just hope we can do as good a job as they have. It’s been a quiet time recently – the weather hasn’t really been kind to those of us who don’t have the luxury of a hood! (Or are too namby pamby to brave the weather). Our monthly meetings at the Anchor Inn are quite well attended but it would be nice to see some new faces. If you feel that it is too far for you to travel we could consider varying the venue throughout the year. There are a few dates below for your diary – Black Country Museum, Six Ashes & Lupin Farm taken from the West Midlands section in case you have missed them there. All well worth the effort. Defford Airday on Saturday 9th June is well worth a visit – plenty of cars and air-craft flying in (the aircraft that is not the cars). If you know of any others please let us know. All too often we hear of events after they have happened. Our camping weekend has moved to July 13th but don’t be put off just because it happens to be a Friday!!! Hopefully the weather will be a bit kinder than last year. More details in the next issue or you can phone/email for more info. One final note - Congratulations to Ian & Ranah Kelly on their Marriage on Easter Saturday. Well that’s all for now contact us if you have any suggestions or need more info. Gordon & Allyson Burch Cotswold Section Forthcoming Events Saturday 9th June Defford Airday 11.00 a.m. Light aircraft and vintage cars. Free entry. Dona-tions in aid of Mission Aviation Fellowship. Friday 13th July – Sunday 15th July Cotswold Camping Weekend – By popular request a return to Greenway Farm, Drybrook in the Forest of Dean but a change of date after last years Rain!!!! The

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facilities have all recently been refurbished - new showers etc. £9 per unit of two or £4.50 for single per night. On site cafe. Ring or email for more details - we would like to have an idea of numbers. Sunday 1st July The Six Ashes Vintage Vehicle Rally and Village Fete – Free Entry – ask for details Sunday 29th July Black Country Vehicle Rally Black Country Living Museum A unique gathering of cars, motorcycles and commercials built in the Black Country. Over one hundred vehicles including such well-known marques such as AJS, Bean, Star, Sunbeam and of course LOMAX. Booking required – ask for a form - free entry Sunday 19th August Lupin Farm Gathering, Orgreave Ask for details August - Probably Bank holiday weekend Greyhound Inn, Eldersfield 12.00 noon - 4.00p.m. Classic cars, steam engines etc in aid of County Air Ambulance.

Raid ‘Tan Hill’ - January 2007

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IMPORTANT NOTICE

2008 ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS

The 20-year Anniversary Celebrations will take place in the Ardennes area of Belgium centred at the Petite Suisse Campsite near Douchamps, from Friday 20th June to Friday 27th June 2008. Put these dates in your diary now you won’t want to miss this one.

This site has all the facilities that we need. It is situated on the side of a valley with beautiful views. The campsite staff have been very helpful and are looking forward to meeting us all. The management have offered us very good discounts and are keen to help us in any way that they can.

This is a very picturesque area and we will be planning some lovely days out. There will be a banquet in the local hotel just 500 yards from the campsite and we are also planning a lavish BBQ. For anyone who has yet to venture onto the continent with their special this is the ideal first event. The Campsite is very easily accessible being only 158 miles from Ostend, 185 miles from Dunkirk and 210 miles from Calais and the Chan-nel Tunnel for those who don’t like ferries. We do not yet know when we will have to book the accommodation and place our deposits, it may be sooner than we might expect. If you have not already let me know of your intention to take part please do so now. I will then keep you informed as things develop, and you will be able to place your booking via me at the earliest opportunity. Alan Peacock – Chairman Citroen specials Club. Telephone: 01727 862971 E-mail: alan@hmdev.fsnet.co.uk

Yet another Norah Batty

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North Thames Gas

At our last Sunday lunch at the "Cowpers Arms" 18 members at-tended and we presented Sue, the Manageress, with a bouquet of flowers for her hospitality over the last eleven years. She was quite surprised and really appreciated them. I have created a list of events which we hope to attend this year and passed it around to our regulars at the last lunch for them to indicate who could attend. I have produced the list below (some events have already been listed in March/April magazine). In fu-ture area reports I will confirm certain dates which are yet to be determined by the event organisers. At some events the number of vehicles entering will determine if it justifies a Club area. I also asked at the lunch if it was: too many, just right or too lit-tle. The concensus was "just right". APRIL: 8th, Sunday. Medway Festival of Steam & Transport, Chatham

Dockyard, Kent. MAY: 6th, Sunday. Bedfordshire Classic Motor Show. 13th,Sunday. Battlesbridge, Essex. Pre-book individually one

month beforehand - free. 20th, Sunday. The Chiltern Hill Vintage Vehicle Rally, Aston Clin-

ton.(New to us) Pre-book individually - £4. On the day £5.

JUNE: 3rd, Sunday. Museum of Power Summer Show, Nr. Maldon, Es-

sex. Pre-book individually - free. 10th, Sunday. Luton Festival of Transport. Pre-book - free, Club

area. 17th, Sunday. Weald Park Country Festival with Classic Show,

Brentwood, Essex. Pre-book individually - £1 donation on the day, possible club area.

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24th, Sunday. Leighton Buzzard Railway. Pre-book individually - free. Note: Same weekend as Club Rally in the Peak District.

JULY: 15th, Sunday. Barleylands Showground, Billericay, Essex. (New to

us) Pre-book £2 one month beforehand. Club ar-ea.

22nd, Sunday. Chiltern Open Air Museum, Chalfont St. Giles, Bucks. Classic Vehicle Show. Pre-book individually - free. Club Area.

AUGUST: 19th, Sunday. Charity Event. "It's Showtime", Althorne, Nr. Burn-

ham-on-Crouch, Essex. (New to us) Pre--book indi-vidually - free. Club area.

26th, Sunday. Little Gransden Air/Car Show, B.B.C. "Children in Need" appeal, Cambs. Pre-book individually and pay £5 on the day.

27th, Monday. The Enfiield Steam & Country Show. Pre-book in-dividually - free.

SEPT: possibly 16th, Sunday. Milton Keynes Museum. Just turn up -

free. Club Area. 30th Sunday Battlesbridge, Essex. Pre-book individually one

month beforehand - free. Walton Hall Museum of Memorabilia, Stanford-le-

Hope, Essex - (new to us) Date to be determined. I have received information on a London to Brighton Kit and post 1982 Sports Car Run on the 10th June, Entry Fee £75.OO. The start is from Hampton Court Gardens and cars start leaving at 0800hrs. at 30 sec. intervals. The finish will be Madeira Drive, Brighton - anybody interested, contact Greenwood Exhibitions, Tel: 01527 871150, or www.classiccarrun.com Please note this is the same day as the Luton Festival of Transport. Vic and Denise

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Not So Wild West Hi everybody – we have a new rep in the Wild West as Jim and Carol have expressed a wish to give up their role as area Representatives and I (rather foolishly) said that I was prepared to give it a shot. Firstly, I should like to say “thank-you” to them both for all their hard work over the past few years on our behalf, their efforts have been very much ap-preciated by us all. Now, I’d better introduce myself… I’m Ron Bishop (“Bodger” to some of my close ac-quaintances) and I built my faithful Lomax “Lucy” back in 1992. Over the years, she’s been modified bodily due to an unfortunate shunt and has been the subject of various mechanical mods which seem to continue year on year ‘cause some people must keep fiddling! My wife Janet and I still get immense pleasure from the car and for us the club has enabled us to make lots of new friends and opened up a world of adventure which we hope will continue for some time to come. For those unfortunates who turned up at the ‘Live and Let Live’ on Monday the 19th March and found it closed, please accept my apologies. I have since learned that it was closed with-

out any real notice for refurbishment, but Derek Andrews, who tends to or-ganise these gatherings, tells me that the pub should be up and running again in time for our next meeting on the 16th May. I’ll try and keep you in-formed as to progress. I regret that I am not “Computer Lit-erate” at the moment and, being a bit slow on the uptake, it may be a little while before I get to grips with the technology. In the meanwhile, howev-er, I hope you will not mind other means of communication – I do have quite a large stock of pigeons!!! Before I close, I’m please to say that Ken Edwards recently had his long-awaited heart operation and last re-ports indicate that he is progressing well. Best wishes to you Ken, from all your friends in the South West and we look forward to seeing you out and about in the not too distant future. Janet and I can not wait for the weath-er to warm up a bit so that we can get the cars out, organise a few runs and share with you the enjoyment of the open-top experience one more. Ron and Janet Bishop (Member No. 847)

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At the planning meeting held on 4th February it was agreed that, as the Stode Arms had been poorly attended during October – March 06, it would now be a regular meeting place only during the period April – September when it was hoped that a short run or a specific topic of interest could be included. These meets would continue to be held on the 2nd Monday of the month. Runs organised by members – May 10th Thursday – Janet and Peter Ellis – Over the bridge for a run and visit to Hopewell Colliery June 10th Sunday – Ron and Janet Bishop – Another mystery tour ‘Cause we al-ways get lost’! July 15th Sunday – Ray Harris – Trip to the Black Mountains and Hay on Wye September 20th Thursday – Jim Caldwell and Peter Taylor – Fovant Badges and area. Social Events August 5th Sunday – Leo and Vannessa Smith BBQ Date to be advised – Boules match with Avon Racing Tortoises Other events where we hope to have a presence July 1st Sunday – Classic Vehicle Show, Friends of Calne Museum (free entry to museum) July 7th&8th Sat/Sun – Heddington Steam Rally & Country Show July 25th Wednesday (Evening)”Nosh & Natter” The George, Longbridge Deverill (Classics Evening) More details as and when they become available. On Sunday 4th March about 16 of us joined Janet and Peter Ellis at ‘The Belfry’, Little Dean, for a very enjoyable Sunday Lunch. Afterwards, we went back to Janet And Pete’s for tea and cakes and also had an opportunity to appreciate and congratulate them on all the work they had done both inside the house and in the garden. What a transformation! It was a reasonably nice bright day but unfortunately, no-one braved it in their Lomax. Just as well, as by the time we left, the weather had turned and it was quite overcast and chilly.

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Classified Ads

For Sale Citroen GS bits from an abandoned Lomax project. 5 Spd box with bellhousing quill shaft. 2 brake callipers & new pads 1 pair of half-shafts, outer bearing housings & wheel drive flanges 1 Solex twin-choke carburettor & filter rubber adaptor 1 starter motor 2 steering rod ends. D Cawstor, Member No 403 Field View Cottage, Green Lane, East Cottingworth, York, YO42 4TT (01759) 319068 For Sale: Pembleton LWB chassis No. 16. BRG. Stainless pipes and ‘Brooklands’ Silencers. Aero Screens, zipped tonneau cover. Current Tax and MOT. Well sorted reliable car, has toured continent without problems. Also spare engine/gearbox reputed to have only done 28,000 miles. I was going to fit it but the existing one goes so well I nev-er got round to it. £2,750 contact Bill Avery on 01694 723354 (Shropshire) Wanted: New member seeks good quality, imaculate 3-wheeler,lomax,Bra,Avion etc.Must have MOT, history, SVA etc,etc. Prepared to travel in the East Anglia, East midlands,Lincs area, for the right one. Cash waiting!! E-Mail hickorytoc@tesco.net or 01692 409370 (work) Many thanks Niel For Sale:

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Vortex American designed 3-wheeler. Mid-mounted Peugeot 1360cc engine and 5-speed gearbox. £1400 ono

Contact Mr E Stone, 106 Whitehart Lane, Portchester, Hants, PO16 9BE Tel: Fareham (02392) 389381

Craig Asbridge - AK

A Norah Batty

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Scotland Frozen North A very short blether this time, as our events will start in May with the Great Glen Run.

Fifteen members joined everyone for the AGM weekend at Harrogate, and as has been done before, distinguished themselves in their fancy dresses. I could-n’t make the weekend but have seen the photos and heard the gossip. It looks as though Craig & Leslie as twin Nora Battys were in the running for the ‘Belle of the Ball’, and ‘Compo’ Chris looked the real thing – very much in character! I heard ‘Nora’ Craig and ‘Compo’ Chris were first on the floor when the dancing began and there’s a photo here to prove it! Hope to see you all at the summer camp Jennie Events *May 4th – 7th Great Glen Run” – Fantastic run and three nights bed & break-

fast – Iain & Janet MacRobert 652J 01313191558 Book early as places may be limited

June 3rd Historic Motoring Extravaganza – Thirlstane Castle. Jennie - 01387370291 June 22nd – 24th Summer Camp, Bakewell Derbyshire – Booking form. July 15th Wheels of Yesteryear, Lennoxlove East Lothian – Jennie *July 20th – 22nd “Dam Run” Sat. run up hills – Across dam and round lochs in

the borders.Camping or B & B. John McDonald 1537J 01721723452

August 19th Chatelherault Classic Automobile Rally – Jennie August 31st – Sept 3rd Ireland Expedition – Contact Alan Peacock and look out

for more information. *September 14th – 16th Selkirk Veteran & Vintage Show – Jennie *October 5th-7th Lakes Run II. Camping probably in a camping barn and not to be missed. Craig & Leslie Asbridge. 1588J 0122854910

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‘EAST COASTER’S’ The January Monthly Meeting came and went with the blink of an eye with only 7 members present at the ‘Aston Arms’. A difficult month for attend-ance at the best of times especially with the meeting being preceded earli-er with our ‘New Year Meal’ and very often not enjoying the best of weath-er. Into February and the Monthly Meeting is traditionally combined with the Planning Meeting. In addition to the setting of the event programme for the year, the opportunity was taken to discuss the direction that the Group should be taking for the next few years. This was prompted by the fact that during the latter half of 2006, my attendance at Meetings suffered due to work and home commitments to the extent that I had decided to invite someone else to take on the custodian-ship of the Group. I considered that not being able to attend as many of the meetings and events as I had done in the past, did not project an ideal image for someone who ran a Group of automotive enthusiasts. Nobody came forward and so I was persuaded to look for a compromise. After some discus-sion, I will be continuing to administer the Group, compile our Newsletter and write our monthly report for ‘Flat Out’. The part of group work which was taking up too much of my time, the planning and coordination of out-ings and events has been taken over by John Davis. This has allowed me to retreat somewhat and concentrate more on the general administration of the Group and to attend what events and outings I comfortably can. So, it is business as usual for the East Coast-

er’s’. On the technical side, one of our members, Stan Dent, has been quietly beavering away on a new project. Stan had a stable of cars: a Lomax 223, a Triad and a BRA, both of which had Mini ’A’ series engines fitted. The Tri-ad has recently been sold and the BRA has formed the basis of his new car. Stan has used his BRA as a starting point and fitted a Citroën Visa 650 en-gine. None of the 2CV suspension is used and the car now has coil and shocks all round. One problem which has beset Stan is the siting of the al-ternator which has proved difficult due to differences on the Visa engine and the chassis frame getting in the way. We await further developments on the car with interest. Paul Turner continues to battle with his ailing engine which although working fine for the MCSVA test, has since failed to run properly. There have been discussions between several members about the problem ranging from enlarged jets being required, a faulty fuel-pump, timing or mixture. In addition, the auto-electrician/mechanic who built and fitted the wir-ing loom, came back to check the mix-ture and timing which he claimed were all satisfactory. Paul had already re-placed the fuel-pump and, because the electrician was uncertain about the compression figure on one of the cylin-ders, Paul decided to strip the engine and have a look inside. Bearing in mind that the engine was de-coked thor-oughly during the build, you would not expect to find that both cylinder heads were as black as the ace of spades,

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however, that’s exactly what Paul found. The pistons and rings were all fine so there must be something wrong with either the timing or mixture. Easy to isolate you would think, however, Paul’s engine has the ’123’ Electronic Ignition system fitted. It was suggested to Paul that it would be unlikely that the mixture setting had changed if no-body had touched it, which then points to the timing being out. Assuming that the static timing was set up correctly to start with, it starts to point the fin-ger of suspicion at the ’123’ Ignition’ system. The next step is to temporarily remove the ’123’ system and fit a con-ventional points box ignition properly set up to see how that affects the en-

gine. The Group continue to meet at the ‘Aston Arms‘, Market Place, Market Rasen (just over the road from our still closed pub, ‘The Chase’) and will be doing for the foreseeable future. Finally, due to the installation of a new computer suite and change of ISP at ‘East Coasters HQ’, my new email address for any who have me in their address book is: davidfield344@btinternet.com David Field

SUMMER CAMP 2007

As you may have read in the last issue of Flat Out this years summer camp is being held at Greenhills Holiday Park, Bakewell, Derbyshire from the 22nd to the 24th June. The campsite is located on the outskirts of Bakewell right in the centre of the Peak Dis-trict. The site is well equipped but unfortunately there are no static caravans for hire. However, the area is well supplied with B&B, Holiday Cottages and Hotels of all sorts, details of which can be found on the Peak District web site: www.visitpeakdistrict.com . We have arranged a trip to the Crich Tramway Village for Saturday which will be follow with a Hog Roast and a Barn Dance in the evening, the optional fancy dress will be Coun-try and Western. Because there are so many attractions in the area we are not planning to arrange any events for Sunday but I will make enquiries about party bookings for Chats-worth House, which is only 15 minutes drive from the campsite and well worth the visit.

If you need anymore information or if we can be of any help please feel free to ring or email us, our home phone number is 0115 9306144 and the email address is ste-phen.spence@virgin.net. We are looking forward to seeing you all in the summer. Stephen and Janet Spence.

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Committee Profile Name: Vic Braybrook First Special Build: Lomax in 1991 Current Specials(s) Lomax What year did you join CSC? 1991 How Long a committee member? Since Jan 1994 How did you hear about CSC: Colleague who was a

club member Committee Post: Area Representative North Thames First ever car and when: New Austin Mini in 1960 Favourite Special Teal (Pre-war Bugatti type) Would you build another car? No – getting on a bit now What changes would you like to see in CSC A younger membership to take over from

some of us oldies Hobbies: Dancing, Rambling, Antiques Music Preferences: Easy Listening Favourite Holiday destination: Lake District Favourite Food Lamb Shanks Most embarrassing CDC moment: Leading 10 cars in the wrong direction.

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MONTHLY MEETINGS

Regular local meetings not listed in the main diary: South: The Cricketers Arms pub, Chestnut Avenue, Chandlers Ford (Eastleigh), Hants.

Last Sunday of the month, 12 noon. Bat and Ball pub, New Pound, Wisborough Green, Billingshurst, West Sussex.

2nd Sunday of the month, 12 noon. South East: The Harrow Hill Hotel, Warren Street, nr Lenham, Kent. Last Friday of the

month, 8.00pm. South West: The Strode Arms, Cranmore (off A361 opposite East Cranmore Railway, 01749

880450) 2nd Monday of each month. The Live & Let Live, Frampton Cotterell, Nr. Bristol 3rd Monday of the month.

Details: Derek 01454 250 959. The Borough Arms, Bodmin, 2nd Monday of each month. South Wales: None at the moment. Cotswolds: The Anchor Inn, Eckington 1st Sunday of the month, 12 noon. East Midlands (East Coast sub-group) We are temporarily without a permanent Monthly Meeting venue due to closure

of 'The Chase'. Meetings continue at 12 noon on the last Sunday each month, however, please contact David Field (Tel: 01522 753372 or John Davis

(Tel: 01652 655351) for venue details before travelling. East Midlands: (Mid Shires Group) 1st. Sunday of the month, 1.30—2.00 pm The White Hart, South Kilworth, Leics,

LE17 6DN.

Starting April 3rd., 1st Tuesday of the month 19.00, venue tba

Jim or Joy 01536 724 512.

East Anglia: The Flixton Buck, B1062 Bungay to Haverhill Road, 2nd Sunday of the month

12.00 noon North Thames The Cowpers Arms. Letty green, Herts. 1st. Sunday of the month, Oct. to Apr,

from 12 noon

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Membership Secretaries Report

Its renewal time – have you sent off yours? If I do not get your renewal before the end of April you will not get your May magazine (and consequently would not be reading this – unless some kind soul has let you read theirs!) We are still getting some members who are only paying £12 on their standing orders, please would you check your bank statement to make sure it has been changed to £15.00, if not , please contact the Treasurer, Peter Chitty as you owe for your handbook and top-up for this year. Well we have had a record number of renewals for this time of the year; per-haps it was the bribe of the new handbook. Have you got any pages missing? They are all numbered and I found some over when Peter and I had finished filling the folders. Also if you are one of those members who had an empty binder from me last year, I would be grateful for it back sometime, as they are needed for new members. If you have any amendments or updates for the handbook, please remember Jim Barry is in charge of the information pages and any membership listing changes or updates come to me. I am down on my knees in humble apologies for losing Northern Ireland from the handbook in a reshuffle!!, and giving the North East Area the wrong repre-sentative, this should have been of course Dr John Fowler who provided us with an excellent drive over the Yorkshire Moors at the AGM weekend. Carole (and Peter)

The Pirates of Harrogate…

?

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Down South Peter Hill is off to the Vandee not Brittanny during the school break as report-ed in the last magazine. Due to pressure from other areas the New Forest Camp is now to be in July (Only joking, well we all really look forward to it then but had to blame someone). We could almost be camping every weekend. I am going to try to book a visit to Exbury in May but as Peter & I are away in France from the end of May to early June we may have the wrong time for the Rhododendrons. There is a classic car ‘Breakfast’ at the Goodwood Café on the 2nd Sunday of each month. Perhaps we could arrange to visit this during the Bat and Ball Camp that Paul is organising. The bat and ball is under new management but they have promised our usual free camping if we eat in the pub. They can also cater for breakfast if you wish. Please let me know if you would like to go somewhere as a club and I will book the event. Carole Chitty. Forthcoming Events: July 6 – 8 Ardingly Steam Fair and Classic Car Show Contact: Paul

Leaney Memb 58 July 20- 22 Runing Board Rally, Henley. Application forms from (date tbc) Carole or just come for the day, Fun and Games. Treasure

Hunt, Quizzes, Concours. July 27th –29 New Forest Camp – Trips out and about – Contact Steve Parrish

Memb104 Aug 11 - 13 Camping weekend at the Bat and Ball, Wisborough Green – Trips

out and about – Contact: Paul Leaney Memb. 58. Aug 18 – 19 Purbeck Show, Dorset Aug 25 – 27 Evelyn and Brian’s Bank Holiday Weekend Do – A whole weekend of events or just come for one of the days - Sat 25 - Evening Barbeque – bring your own meat to cook - Sun 26 - Romsey – Pageant of Motoring, ticket entry only – please

contact Carole C. asap - Mon 27 - Gosporteers Event at Leigh on Solent please let Carole C.

know if you are likely to come. Aug 30-Sep 4 Northern Ireland Trip Contact Allan Peacock

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DETLING KITCAR AND BUILDERS SHOW April 14 15 2007

Congratulations to the organisers of the Detling Kit Car and builders show. What a start to the Kit Car and Special season! Because of the committee meeting held on the Saturday, Peter and I could only go on the Sunday; we had set off on in our Lomax 223 from Fleet in a misty haze and had an excel-lent run round the M25 onto the M2, arriving at the showground in beautiful sunshine. There was a marked parking area for Citroen Specials Club and we set up our banner to await hopefully the local club members so that we could say hello.

First to turn up was Alan Bradford of Silly 2CV in his BRA shortly followed by soon to be new members Peter and Sandy Hewlett in their Blackjacks – yes in the plural - Sandy driving a yellow Avion with blue trim (clone of the first build) purchased from ebay and Peter driving the Zero demonstrator pur-chased at Exeter last year. Absolutely delighted with their cars and looking forward to joining in events when pos-sible as they are about to take the Ze-ro down through Germany with their motorcycle club and also spend a lot of the summer in France. Sandy told us there were quite a few members the day before; we were sorry to miss them as we really need a contact or liaison Representative in the South East and I was going to try out my usu-al powers of persuasion.

We had an interloper in the shape of a red 2CV who thought there was a 2CVGB stand there (at a kit car show!!! mmmm!) but we were able to show visitors how our cars started off.

A couple of visitors took away mem-bership forms and of course I gladly took fees from Sandy and Peter and welcome them to the South Area groups. We had several members visit on foot (chickens! Frightened of the M25), perhaps they will do better next year and Derek Smith taking time out from another build project – both house and car. Harry Hall was there with his Lomax 223. Later we had a flying visit from Anthony Shelton and Pat Chambers from Ramsgate, his well travelled Lomax still going strong.

Kent Kit Car Club was to the fore in a prime location both outside and with a stand inside the hall. I said to their president Terry, that it was a change from the usual situation at Stoneleigh and that I was feeling quite lonely. John Nash has added a fantastic trailer to his Renault special making a very smart outfit. He told me he could actually get into it as he had to climb in to sort out the catches from the inside. Those of you who know him and have seen the trailer may find this hard to believe, as it looks so small.

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Ex member Maurice Bennie send his regards to old CSC friends, he may be moving down to the Bristol Area and if so will come back into the fold. Also another ex-member, Spike Collins had his 2CV special on the Kent Kitcar in-door stand – it really is a good build. There was an interesting kitcar on the stand next to us, not the kit itself but the set up for the young disabled driv-er, Anthony. The kit is an NJ (7 style) but he had fixed a wheelchair lift onto the back to get him in and out of the driving seat. The chair itself had the all terrain attachment and this with the chair was put onto a frame, similar to a bike carrier, on the back. He has fitted servos on the pedals to help the loss of power in his legs and is now looking at power steering. (If anyone has any ideas on this, please let me know and I will pass them on as Antho-ny is going to come and visit our stand at Stoneleigh.) In the halls, Mike Richards was show-ing two new 2CV kits one a Hot Rod style and the other a cabriolet, both from their European agent Mr Danny Blaauw of Holland who has also de-signed a trailer that conforms to EU regs. As well as their Dauville Classic open four seater cabrio, based on the 2CV, they had an extended one as a limousine and dressed for a wedding also their newer Dauville Canjito Four Seater 'MUTT' style jeep, obviously ap-pealing to the younger element. So look out for them at Stoneleigh. They had some handouts for the new cars and I expect the new cars will be on the website soon. I will try to get some photos for those who cant get to Stoneleigh. Had a chance to chat to Steve Hole of totalkitcar.com and the Features Edi-

tor of Complete Kit Car (new name for Which Kit) There were the usual suppliers stands, a very helpful lady from M & M of Bourne who gave us advice and sam-ples of carpet and tonneau material for our own chocolate and cream Super Tourer. Peter came away happy as he had bought some of the bits he needed

and I came away knowing that I would soon expect delivery of a three-seater swinging hammock (ah bliss), now how can I get that on our Lomax? It was a shame that Bob Bousell (Lomax Bob) was not there to show ‘ Lomax Marque’ as the visitors to the stand were asking about the kits. Hopefully he will be at Stoneleigh. Carole Chitty From the Deauville Website:

Deauville European agent Mr Danny Blaauw has produced a lightweight trailer to tow a Deauville car behind a motor camper, unbraked and an all up weight of car and trailer of under 750 kilos, this is in line with E U regula-tions as A frames are forbidden on the continent.

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CSC Trip to Northern Ireland 31 August to 3 September 2007 Never been to Northern Ireland before? If you haven’t, then you are in for a treat. At the time of writing, approximately seventy-five members (40 cars) have indicated that they wish to come. If you are thinking of coming but haven’t registered, please do so as soon as you can as the ferry companies will still be busy at this time of the year. Alan Peacock and Gordon Burch are negotiating a group discount with Stena Line. Other Ferry Compa-nies include: P & O Ferries, The Norfolk Line, Irish Ferries and Sea Cat. We have come up with a few ideas to make your trip to ‘Norn Iron’ a memorable one. These include: A photo shoot and tour of Stormont Buildings Trips to: The Silent Valley in the Mountains of Mourne The Giants Causeway/ Bushmills Distillery (oldest in the world) The Ulster Transport Museum Last, but not least, a trip to a place of Motor Racing History. The RAC International Tourist Trophy Race at Ards Circuit (Ards TT) From 1928 to 1936 Northern Ireland staged one of the most spectacular motor racing events in the world – The RAC Tourist Trophy races, run over the world famous Ards TT Circuit. The total distance was 479 miles, 35 laps of the 13.7 miles circuit which was roughly triangular in shape. The apex was the noted hairpin bend at Dundonald on the outskirts of Belfast, with the towns of Newtownards and Comber forming the other cor-ners. The event was known locally as ‘Round the Houses’, and had a ‘Le Mans’ type start with the driver being accompanied by his mechanic. You may not believe this but the cars were refuelled from milk churns. Each year it was estimated that 500,000 spectators congregated around the circuit which was the largest number of spectators at any sporting event in the British Isles. This honour is now held by the ‘North West 200’ Motorcycle Races on Northern Ireland’s north coast. It is the fastest road race in Europe and co-incidentally also triangular in shape. In fact, the race is run round the towns of Coleraine, Portrush (The Port) and Portstewart and the whole area is known as ‘The Triangle’. The Ards TT which attracted the fastest racing cars in the world was discontinued in 1936 after a horrific crash in which a car skidded near a railway bridge in Newtownards, which then mounted the pavement on which spectators were standing. Our trip around the circuit will start from the ‘Pits’ at Quarry Corner, Dundonald and we will then head through Newtownards to Comber where we may stop for a bite of lunch at the TT Lounge Pub/Restaurant. From there we will head towards Dundonald thus com-

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pleting one lap of the world famous Ards TT Circuit. Keith Bomber is negotiating a discount at the very well respected ‘Pier 36’ restaurant in the Port of Donaghadee, Co. Down for one of the evening meals during your stay. Inci-dentally, Donaghadee was the main port in the northern part of Ireland at one time and established long before Belfast or Larne. A Blue Badge Guide, who works at The Ulster Folk and Transport Museum has offered to lead a tour of the Donaghadee Port prior to the group evening meal at Pier 36, should members wish. This would last about an hour and will help to hone your appetite. On the subject of meals and food, there are a few local dishes which you should try dur-ing your visit. Namely, an ‘Ulster Fry’, a plate of ‘Champ’ and one which is usually only available from a chip shop – a ‘Pastie Supper’. We are aware that some Club members are planning to stay longer than the four days and if more information is required or suggestions regarding further places to visit we are only too happy to oblige. However, please make your requests before the CSC Club Trip so that we can have the information to hand on your arrival. If you intend to arrive in Ulster before the Club Trip dates, we can post the information to you. Ray Lloyd & Flapdoodle

AGM diners

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The Car’s The Star In a very remote corner of Britain, one of our club members has been beavering away in his garage building his own unique Cit-roen special. With little background in cars never mind the idiosyncrasies of a 2CV, Topher Dawson has used his skills as a boat-builder to create a very unique and special ’special’

Some of you may recognise the name from the CSC forum, where Topher has been known to pop-up and ask for technical in-

formation with regard to the running gear of his car, but no-one will be able to help him when it comes to aspects of the bodytub. Topher has built his own bodytub, the only way he knows how - using traditional boat-building skills. This has led to the creation of a most beautiful ‘hull’ made of birch ply epoxied onto a pitch pine framework and incorporating a tubular steel frame which makes up the windscreen frame, sills and roll-over bar. The lower half of the car, is a modified 2CV chassis with flexible rear brake pipe, allowing a torsion bar to run through the rear axle, utilising both rear suspension springs. The front-end has a standard 8.5:1

motor and box, all fitting quite comfortably within the handcrafted clinker-built bonnet. The car boasts full-sized doors with open-ing windows, all beautifully cut into the flanks of the car, and almost invisible when closed. A fiesta windscreen provides pro-tection, making the bodytub unusually wide, but allowing a surprising amount of space inside.

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To prevent the need to cut a hole in the bon-net, a scoop is being designed, which will duct air from under the car and into the en-gine area. Headlights are built inside the bonnet with a polycarbonate ‘window’ al-lowing the lines of the bonnet to be un-spoilt.

Even the rear lights, are going to be mount-ed behind the drivers and passengers heads, inside the car, and shining out through a transparent polycarbonate ‘chine’ running from the back of the door to the ‘stern’.

Topher has built this car with the SVA test in mind from the beginning. However, the DVLA are now not sure whether a SVA will be required, or whether a simple MOT and inspection will suffice. If the SVA is

required, the car can be driven to the nearest testing station, in Aberdeen, with no num-ber plates. This will be a round trip of about 320 miles. I’m willing to take bets as to how many times he’ll be stopped by the ‘boys in blue’ en-route! In early April, the car was driven out of the garage for the first time under its own pow-er. Not satisfied with driving up and down his drive, Topher towed the car to a private estate road and was able to try it out on a four-mile stretch to iron out any problems. Although the car is now drivable, the interi-

or is currently held together with G-clamps and gaffer tape. He’ll have to get cracking, as he’s bought the ferry tickets for the 2CV international in Sweden in July and is in-sistent that he’s going to drive the car over there! There’s one thing for sure, when this car goes past you, you’re not going to mistake it for anything else. .

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