2009 1006 MGOC Arundel Gathering

The sun shone once more this year at Arundel after the rain showers that we had in 2008. As I write on a dull Easter Sunday I think to myself how lucky we were to have enjoyed the previous weekend!

This year there was heavy competition from other classic car events such as at the nearby Amberley Chalkpits Museum, the Goodwood Breakfast meet in Chichester and of course at Brooklands. However, Arundel still proved a popular event, by managing to attract 210 MGs of all ages and types. Many southern clubs were again well represented, and I think that I mentioned in a previous Arundel article that the MGF and TF are now as popular with owners as is the MGB. It was also nice to see a large array of more modern saloons such as the ZR, ZS and ZT, possibly a classic of the future?

Perfect setting for an MG gathering

Jim Collier’s 1933 MG J1 Salonette

847 cc power unit with twin SU carburettors giving 36 bhp

But without a doubt one of the stars of this year’s event was Jim Collier’s 1933 MG J1 Salonette one of only approximately 50 made. The J1 was the four seater car in the 1930s J-Type range. The engine was the 847 cc unit previously seen in the C-type with twin SU carburetors giving 36 bhp. When new, the car cost £220 in open form and £225 in Salonette form. Jim is only the third owner, he has owned it since 1976 and restored the car himself. I would say that this is rarest and oldest MG I have ever seen and we were most privileged to have Jim’s car at Arundel this year.

As always it was nice to have the traditional lunchtime picnic by the cars and enjoy the lovely surroundings that make Arundel Castle such a stunning setting for this annual event. After a spot to eat, it was very nice walk around the grounds of the Castle, and view all the cars and owners that had made their way to Arundel; this is a pleasure as we always see someone that we know and it is good time to catch up with all the car gossip. As always time does rush past and before long it was time to pack up our cars and head off for home. But never mind, another enjoyable event is never far away with the Pride of Longbridge event just two weeks away. The 1006 will be sending up a convoy of cars to this spectacular event.

Jamie with his BGT

TD Mark II and MGA on the Vectis display

Andy Harris event organiser and Nigel Hedges 1020 Regional Secretary

MG ZB Magnette Varitone

Y-type saloon

Finally, thanks as always must go to Andy and all the 1006 Club members who helped with the organisation and ensured that all vehicles went to their designated places safely. Again, big thanks to the Duke of Norfolk and his staff who gave us the usual very friendly welcome and such a very enjoyable day. Once again, I am sure that next year will be just as enjoyable with even more cars and I hope you have already ordered a sunny day again Andy.

Jamie Brown