Morris experts hand over restored Ital
A Morris Ital was handed over to its new custodian under the Classic Car Loan project during a special presentation at the BMC & BL Rally at the British Motor Museum.
Now project director, Bob Wilkinson, is hoping that clubs can get together to help run the scheme, which has 25 classics on its books.
The idea is to encourage younger enthusiasts to take an interest in older cars by loaning a vehicle for a year. The eet, supplied by clubs and individuals, includes an Austin Maestro and a Ford Model A.
The Ital was bequeathed to the Morris Marina Owners’ Club and Ital Register (morrismarina.org. uk) and has undergone substantial renovation, some of which was carried out during the Practical Classics Classic Car & Restoration Show at the NEC back in March.
Its enthusiastic new keeper, Dan Tomkinson, told Classic Car Weekly: ‘I’ve always loved classic cars. My uncle bought and restored a Series 2 Land Rover.
‘I picked the Ital from a list of classics potentially available under the Classic Car Loan project and absolutely love it. It’s a reminder of simpler times!’
Dan, from Warwickshire, will be taking the Champagne Beige classic to shows and other trips over the next 12 months.
Club chairman, Chris Weedon, said: ‘This is a great opportunity for the club to support young enthusiasts and we’re sure that Dan will have a lot of fun with the Ital.’
Bob Wilkinson said: ‘It’s great to see yet another car being loaned out under the Classic Car Loan Project.
‘Five years ago people were saying that it wouldn’t work but look at us today! I’m in my eighties now and am hoping that clubs might consider helping with the running of the project.’
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