A Bentley log book saga

Sir,

I am prompted to write to you following my sad experiences with my local Motor Taxation Office atter requesting the re-issue of an original log book for my 1930 4 1/2–litre Bentley.

I purchased the car in a very incomplete state, with no log book available, in August 1975 and have since acquired all but a few of the parts required to restore the car as a replica of one of the short chassis team cars.

After a careful examination by the Chief Assistant at the Worcester office, I was informed that a duplicate log book would not be issued because the original coachwork happened to be a Freestone and Webb saloon which would have borne no resemblance to the partly original touring four-seater body I have rebuilt.

Despite an extended argument with these people, they remain adamant that they will not issue a log book. Admittedly there is still a lot of work to be done in re-assembling the car, but as the rightful and lawful owner of the vehicle I feel I should be entitled to a log book and equally entitled to fit what bodywork I choose.

I have emphasised to them, in a reply to their letter, that the coachwork on such cars as the Bentley were made to the customer’s wishes, were not an integral part of the running gear and consequently were often chopped and changed in subsequent years. The Motor Taxation Office Chose to ignore that letter.

It makes me.angry’and disappointed that while thc hooligans of this country are treated with a consideration they rarely deserve, healthy enterprise is crushed by the small-mindedness of our parochial bureaucrats. My advice to Vintage owners, living in the Worcester area, having log book problems, is to either sell your car or move; and it you’ve any sense you will do the latter.

London SE1 TIMOTHY HOULDING

(More bureaucratic nonsense! Can anybody Offer advice to Mr. Houlding, particularly BDC members? -Ed.)