Mike Foster

1927 Originally a Maythorn saloon re-bodied as  DH Coupe by Southern Motors GXL64

Currently owned by Michael Foster of Leicestershire

This is a 'Touring' motor car, in the quite literal sense. That is she is used to tour the highways and byways of our beautiful country, visiting friends and family, giving pleasure to all who ride in her or see her. She is not a show car or a concours car. My aim is to restore her to as near mechanical perfection and reliability as I can.

She was conceived on the 9th November 1927, born on the 12th January 1928 and first registered on the 19th February 1928. She is a 20hp Rolls-Royce, LA Series, chassis GXL 64, engine No. V-9-G and registered RO 9189. Her guarantee number is 2470, effective from the 24th March 1928.

Her original body was a saloon limousine by Maythorn Ltd of Biggleswade, Herts. However, as was a common practise in the 1930s, this beautiful new drop-head coupe body was fitted by Ranalah Coachworks Ltd of Merton, South London, for Southern Motors Ltd. In fact, she was the twelfth such car so built. She was sold on the 23rd August 1936 to Mr G Appleton of Caldy, Cheshire, for £410. Various owners have tended her over the years until her current owner found her in a neglected state in a garage in Baglan, Port Talbot, Glamorgan. He purchased her on the 30th September 1964 for £220 when he was unmarried and only 23 years old.

After almost 40 years of tender loving care he had her stripped, rebuilt, and has tuned her and polished her to this current state. Yes, she is over 75 years old, but mechanically superb. I am sure you will forgive the odd blemish. I will never stop tinkering, repairing and polishing her. Provided her oil, water and petrol stay in their respective compartments, all will be well.

She is to be driven, to meet and have fun with friends old and new. May she always give pleasure wherever she goes.