Classic Cars, Music and Memories

I’m often asked about the three classic cars that quietly appear in the background of so many photographs taken at Forge Prees, sitting proudly on the upper deck of our showroom. To some, they’re beautiful machines. To me, they’re something far more personal.

Those three cars were my Dad’s pride and joy. They formed the heart of his classic car collection, and today they remain with me — treasured beyond measure and forever keepers for our family.

The collection includes a 1953 Austin Healey 100/4 to “M” Spec BN1, registration OAC 856; a 1954 Triumph TR2 “long door” in Wedgewood Blue, registration DGR 470; and Dad’s absolute favourite, a 1964 Triumph TR4 fast road spec in Racing Green, complete with its white factory hardtop, registration AKP 678B.

The Austin Healey and TR4 were acquired through Charles Smalley then of Sherwood Restorations in Nottingham, while the TR2 came via James Szkiler of the Classic & Sportscar Centre in Yorkshire — both of whom remain good friends to this day.

Since Dad sadly passed away, the cars haven’t seen as much use as they deserve. But every morning, when I walk through the doors at Forge Prees, they’re the very first thing I see. More often than not, there’s Johnny Cash playing quietly in the background — another of Dad’s great loves. Standing there, looking over the cars while listening to that familiar music, brings back a flood of memories filled with happiness, laughter, and time well spent.

This year, I’ve promised myself — that the cars will come off the ramps. They’ll get a proper check-over, a thorough clean, and finally return to the road, right where they belong.

I’m looking forward to making new memories this summer, sharing those drives with my boys, and maybe having a little Johnny Cash on the radio to keep those special moments alive.

Miss you more than ever, Dad.