In memory of Jim Bruce

[275 GTB-4]

Old MG # One Debuts at Shannons Wheels 2003
(Canberra, Australia)
Sunday, 16th February 2003

A resident of Canberra, Australia - Jim Bruce passed away recently. Jim was constructing a replica of Cecil Kimber's first racing car (Cecil was the founder of the MG marque). When Jim fell ill and could no longer work on the car, a number of MG Car Club members worked long hours to have the car completed for Wheels 2003, in the hope that Jim could be photographed with the car.

Unfortunately, Jim passed away before the show but, the magnificent vehicle was trailered to the event for all to appreciate. The beautiful bright red "bull nose" MG, on display, was a credit to both Jim and the members of the club.

Posted without the knowledge of the MGCC but for the benefit and appreciation of a wider audience.....

[gfm]

Wow ... indeed a credit. I bet it could tell some stories.

[Peter Mallett]

I'd be interested to hear what was used as the basis of the car because IIRC the original was based on a shortened and lowered Morris.

The story of "Old Number One" is a bit cloudy because it was built as a trials car for Kimber after he'd started building cars as "Morris Garages" so really couldn't have been "Number One". However it does serve as a reference point. From the picture the efforts of Jim and his friends have certainly captured the car perfectly.

Thanks for sharing that with us GTB.

I can feel a few MG stories coming on.

[275 GTB-4]

Originally posted by Peter Mallett
I'd be interested to hear what was used as the basis of the car because IIRC the original was based on a shortened and lowered Morris.

Try contacting the MGCC in Canberra (click on the name Canberra on the map) http://www.mgcc.com.au/

The story of "Old Number One" is a bit cloudy because it was built as a trials car for Kimber after he'd started building cars as "Morris Garages" so really couldn't have been "Number One". However it does serve as a reference point. From the picture the efforts of Jim and his friends have certainly captured the car perfectly.

I have no idea what is to become of the car but the MGCC here may be interested in finding out more history ...

Thanks for sharing that with us GTB. I just felt it was a story that needed to be told.

I can feel a few MG stories coming on.

Bring 'em on!

[Peter Mallett]

Well what about the time that Tazio Nuvolari raced an MG? Forgive me for the lack of dates because I'm miles from any reference books but it was the Mannin Beg and he was driving an MG Magnette 1100 supercharged. He won of course but only narrowly beat another MG, a P Type(?).