A Car That Helped Heal - A Special MGC GT For A Special Gentleman

One of the greatest pleasures of what we do at The Forge is seeing our cars become part of our customers’ lives and stories. Today, we visited the Shrewsbury Classic Car Festival to catch up with Chris Nicholls, who purchased the absolutely stunning 1968 MGC GT from us earlier this year.

Seeing Chris proudly displaying the car among so many wonderful classics was a particularly special moment. Shortly after taking ownership of the MGC, Chris underwent open-heart surgery. Thankfully, he is now looking incredibly well, and it was fantastic to see him back doing what he loves most—driving, enjoying, and sharing his beautiful car with fellow enthusiasts.

Chris told us that the MGC played an important role in his recovery. Having the car gave him something positive to focus on and something exciting to plan for, with a busy calendar of events and shows throughout the summer.

As any passionate owner would, Chris has carefully developed the car to make it even more enjoyable to drive. Recent improvements include Spax adjustable dampers, which have transformed the ride quality, and electronic power-assisted steering fitted through our friends at Easy Steer. He has also upgraded the interior and exterior lighting, added a couple of additional gauges, refreshed the dashboard veneer fascia, and fitted a centre armrest and radio console with matching veneer, giving the cabin an even more elegant finish.

Most importantly, Chris says the MGC is running absolutely brilliantly and continues to attract attention wherever it goes.

One memorable outing was at Gawsworth, where Chris was supporting Andy Lee’s car storage business on a trade stand. Parked alongside the MGC was a truly extraordinary 1938 Darracq T23, a one-of-one machine that ultimately went on to win Car of the Show. Chris admitted he wondered whether the MGC might be overshadowed, but the opposite proved true. The car more than held its own and drew a constant stream of admirers throughout the day.

The accolades have continued to follow. At the MG Car Club North West Centre Annual Summer Gathering and Concours, Chris was surprised and delighted to be awarded the Trophy for Best MGB & C. He has since attended several other shows and festivals, with many more planned for the rest of the season, including the Wem Vehicle of Interest Show and the 40th Harrogate MG & Classic Car Club Show, where he has entered the National Northern Condition Competition.

As if that wasn’t enough excitement, Chris’s MGC has also enjoyed a little time in the spotlight. Recently, Practical Classics magazine invited owners of several cars that were famously “slated” by the motoring press when new to take part in a special photoshoot in the slate quarries of Blaenau Ffestiniog. Chris attended the shoot, and his MGC now features in the August 2026 issue, which is available now. A fitting appearance for a car that has proved just how wrong some of those early critics were.

Chris also recently enjoyed what he describes as his best event yet: Lymm Historic Transport Day 2026. Taking part in the parade through the village and engaging with the crowds lining the streets created memories he won’t soon forget. One black-and-white photograph captured by a professional photographer has become a particular favourite which you can view below.

Stories like Chris’s remind us that classic cars are about far more than polished paintwork and engineering. They create friendships, inspire adventures, and sometimes provide the motivation and joy that help us through life’s most challenging moments.

From everyone at The Forge, thank you, Chris, for sharing your journey with us. We are honoured that this beautiful 1968 MGC GT became part of your recovery story, and we look forward to seeing where the next road takes you both.

Safe travels, Chris, and enjoy every mile.