To search for a word or phrase hold down the "Control" key and press "F".

06.01.09: This morning I have completed the latest set of updates. You will find a lot more Smiths information added to the TECHNICAL ELECTRICAL section as well as an embryonic new section entitled BMC PRODUCT PRICING. I do have a few more price lists to add, but any submissions would be very much appreciated.

05.01.09: I have just completed the first part of a major new year upload of new material. You will find a very useful guide entitled CARE & MAINTENANCE OF SMITHS INSTRUMENTS in the ELECTRICAL TECHNICAL section. You will also find a few new companies added to the TUNING archive. These include JACK BRABHAM PERFORMANCE EXHAUSTS & BUTLER, the manufacturer of the Flex-Lite. I have also added a great deal of new material to the JANSPEED section. I have also added material on PECO exhausts & JOHN SPRINZEL, further items have also been added to the STEERING WHEEL ARCHIVE, the TAURUS section, and the PADDY HOPKIRK section. I still have more to come, so check back soon.

22.12.08: 14 New steering wheels added to the STEERING WHEEL PROJECT today. Thanks to Paul Lips in Italy.

17.12.08: I have added 4 absolutely brilliant images to the site today. Two to the DOWNTON PEOPLE & PLACES section and 2 to the COMPS DEPT & ST PHOTOS section. These are from a new contributor, I will be doing a totally new section in the very near future.

10.12.08: I have continued to tidy up the site. The latest changes are that various pages that were made up of unwieldy individual JPG images have been consolidated as PDF's. These are easier to read & follow. Some of the MONTE CARLO RALLY 1966 stuff has had this treatment as has the entire HOMOLOGATION Paper archive.

09.12.08: Over the last few days I have been overhauling the look of some of the more popular areas of the site. You probably won't notice most of the changes, but I hope that they will make the site easier to follow in general. A have however totsally re vamped the ALEXANDER ENGINEERING section to make it more readable and interesting. I hope you like the changes. I have also added a number of new items to the TAURUS section, courtesy of Paul Lips. Thanks Paul.

08.12.08: Today I have added a copy of a brilliant promotional booklet to the BMC ARCHIVE. Entitled "THE INCREDIBLE AUSTIN SE7EN" It covers all aspects of the smallest BMC model. I have uploaded it as a complete PDF file, I hope you like it. I have also added some SU carb specifications to the CARB TECHNICAL section. Courtesy of Mark Featham.

05.12.08: I have just added a couple of new steering wheels to the STEERING WHEEL archive, there is a John Rhodes wheel, and the smallest Moto-Lita ever seen. I have also added a brilliant little brochure to the COOPER CAR CO section. This is entitled "Golden Years 1959 - 60" and is a promotional brochure published by Coopers. Thanks to Mark Featham for all these items. I have also added a new photo to the BMC PRESS PHOTO section, this is a US press release picture for the Cooper S. Thanks again to Karsten. I have also added BROWN & GEESON to the TUNING ARCHIVE. Finally I have had a bit of a sort out of the TAURUS section and added a new flier for the MG models. Finally, today I have added a new Morris Minor flier to the ALEXANDER BROCHURES section.

04.12.08: A few interesting additions today. First we have the addition of a technical specification sheet for a No: 51 Touring conversion for a MG 1300 GT, this has been added to the DOWNTON ARCHIVE. Also I have added 2 more pics of NWL 176 to the DOWNTON PICTURE archive. Finally I have added a new picture to the BMC PRESS PHOTO archive. Thanks to Will Grant & Karsten for these additions. Finally, I have just added a couple of new images of the Ogle SX 1000 to the VARIANTS section, these are from the US brochure for the SX 1000, thanks to Paul Lips for these.

28.11.08: More steering wheels & some literature added to the STEERING WHEEL ARCHIVE. Thanks to my good mate Andy B.

27.11.08: I have embarked on my first completely new page for some time. Tucked away in the CLASSIC TUNING section, you will find a link to the ALL NEW MK1 STEERING WHEEL archive. The idea of this section is to display some of the classic steering wheels offered by companies that have long gone. To keep it simple I am limiting this to wheels made to fit BMC cars, Minis, Sprites & Midgets, 1100 / 1300's etc. It is a work in progress if you would like to submit any images and text, please e-mail them to me at the usual address. Decent pictures 450 x 450 pixels are preferred.

26.11.08: Today I moved the stuff on ENGINE COLOUR from deep within the "Body" section of the Technical dept and put it somewhere people can actually find it. The reason it started life in such a stupid place is that at one time the "Technical Body" section was called "Paint". Anyway, now it has its own heading within the general TECHNICAL section.

21.11.08: New material added to the DERRINGTON section today. Info on their 850 conversion & a range of approved accessories.

13.11.08: I have just finished updating the DOWNTON FOR SALE section. Amongst the items on offer are the VERY, VERY Last of the Downton Reunion 2006 key rings MK1 Performance Conversions were the sponsors of this event, these key rings were commissioned as a limited edition batch done for the attendees of the first Downton reunion. I have about 6 left and once these have gone, they have gone forever. Now is a great chance to get you hands on a genuine bit of Mini history. There are also a number of other items that I am sure will be of interest to the Downton fan.

12.11.08: One item added to the backwater known as the OLD CURIOSITY SHOP today. Not much but it is quite amusing. Or at least I think it is.

11.11.08: Well for the first time in months I had a really concerted effort to add some new content to the site, and boy, was my scanner working overtime last night. In the TUNING ARCHIVE you will find 2 major new additions. COSMIC ACCESSORIES & DON MOORE. Cosmic were major players in the accessory market and Don Moore was one of the most influential tuners of the early 1960's. I have also added material to the NERUS & JANSPEED sections as well. Finally I have added an internal BMC Telex to the BMC DOCUMENT section. I hope you enjoy the new material I have added. I would like to say a big thank you to David Ross for supplying most of the content of this update.

10.11.08: Today I have added a new company to the TUNING ARCHIVE collection. CONVERSION & TUNING were one of the more successful tuning houses of the late 1960's & 1970's. I have added a copy of their Tuning Manual to the New C&T section.

03.11.08: A really interesting update today. I have just added a number of press photos of the Bertone Mini VIP to the NON BMC VARIANTS section. This was Bertone's take on a coach built luxury Mini. Very unique. Thanks to Paul Lips for the pics.

22.10.08: Just one small addition today. If you check out the TECHNICAL MECHANICAL section I have added an article from CCC On how to build your own Hydrolastic system evacuation tool. I hope this comes in handy for those people who have hydro cars.

13.10.08: I have begun a major revamp of the SHORROCK section & hope to be adding a lot of new material very soon.

01.10.09: Just a bit of housekeeping recently. Clearing out old links and having a bit of a freshen up. Hopefully I'll have some new stuff to add soon.

10.09.08: I have added a couple of Accessory companies Styla & Raydyot to the MK1 TUNING ARCHIVE. Not strictly tuning companies these two sold some of the most sought after accessories from the 1960's.

04.09.08: Very slight update to the PAINT CHIP CARD section today, I have added a paint chip card covering the mid range Austin colours.

02.09.08: New article on the demise of ALEXANDER ENGINEERING dated Feb 1975. Thanks to Russ Filby. It can be found at the bottom of the page. Also a nice picture of Bunty Richmond at Wiscombe from 1960 has been added to the DOWNTON CARS NON MINI section. Thanks Paul C.

01.09.08: Well I'm back after a weeks holiday and thanks to Steve Entwhistle I have made the first new addition. I am particularly pleased with this one. It's always a pleasure to be able to post some tuning literature that doesn't come from the UK. Steve has sent me a very nice Les Leston type brochure for a French company called RALLYE AUTO SPORT. If anyone can tell me more about this company, I would be very pleased to hear from them. You will of course find this new brochure in the TUNING ARCHIVE section.

21.08.08: I have just added 3 new Speedwell catalogues to the SPEEDWELL DOCUMENTS section. The first 2 date from around 1965 and are for the full range of Speedwell exhaust systems & manifolds & the full range of Speedwell instruments & accessories. The second could be described as Speedwells final fling. The original Speedwell Performance Conversions went into liquidation in 1969, this was closely followed by Speedwell (1969) Ltd. Later that year a new company was formed Speedwell of Chesham Ltd. Graham Hill was still Chairman but the managing director was Colin Hextal, under colin's management the emphasis changed from high performance tuning products to more the bolt on accessory end of the market. Undoubtedly a wise move as true Tuning was dying by 1971, but a shame to see so many good products disappear. The Company continued under various management structures until Graham Hills death in 1976, but Speedwell never really approached their hey days of the early to mid 1960's. All 3 of these documents are from my good friend Andreas Klein who was kind enough to let me have copies of these rare little brochures. Thanks Andreas.

07.08.08: Girling flier added to the TUNING ARCHIVE.

06.08.08: This morning you will find a new brochure for an Alexander "Knock on Wheel Conversion" added to the ALEXANDER BROCHURE section. I'm not sure this was the best idea they came up with.

02.08.08: Just a small update today. I have added a couple of rather interesting poress releases to the BMC archive today. The first is from 1966 & is entitled BMC Sales Development in France. This gives a break down of BMC's performance in France in 1966, you can find it in the BMC FACTORY DOCUMENT section. The second is probably more interesting and is entitled BMC Competition successes in 1966. This gives a partial breakdown of some of the well known & not so well known outright & class wins for BMC Race & Rally cars in 1966. You will find this in RALLYING SUCCESS & FAILURE.

By the way, some of you may have noticed that MK1 Performance Conversions was featured in Mini Magazine this month. I had a real laugh with Gerard Hughes the day he came to see me & I was quite horse with too much talking that day :-)

22.07.08: A massive update to the MINILITE section today. I have just uploaded the majority of a sales pack for 1967. The most comprehensive on line archive of Data on 1960's Minilite wheels available!

18.07.08: I have just added a massive amount of material to the COLDWELL section. I know you have probably never heard of Coldwell before, but the 1 off Twin Cam A series developed by Bill Needham of Coldwell has to be seen to be believed! I would like to thank Nick Rogers of MIN-E-BITZ in Sheffield for sending me the pictures and info. I would also like to thank my good friend Paul Curotto for the CCC article reproduced on the Coldwell page.

16.07.08: I am very pleased to be able to announce the opening of a fantastic new web site www.minisprint.eu.

Minisprint.eu is the home of the original Neville Trickett designed Minisprint. It is packed with information on the original 1960's sprints, as well as an official History section that has been written by Neville Trickett himself. As well as this you will find a massive archive of original Minisprint material. All this info is free. But best of all, you can find all the details you will need to purchase your own original Neville Trickett Minisprint. That's right, for the first time in over 40 years Neville Trickett himself will convert your Mini Shell to full sprint specification. This has to be a very rare chance to have your bog standard mini become a genuinely historic vehicle. For full details visit Neville's new site. . .

www.minisprint.eu

2.07.08: Well only a week or so after I said that I would not be adding anything to the Downton section in the foreseeable future, what comes along? Another great press article that's what. In the DOWNTON PRESS ARTICLE section you will find a new review published in "The Times" in June 1968. Thanks to Marshal Peters for sending me it.

25.06.08: I have just added COLDWELL ENGINEERING to the TUNING ARCHIVE. I have been meaning to add this little remembered Sheffield based engineering company to the archive, but have been hoping to be able to find more info before I do. Unfortunately I have not been very lucky to this end & hope that adding a very small amount of info will encourage someone who knows the Coldwell story to contact me (Nick Rogers). In the meantime, I hope you enjoy what there is. I have also added a new addition to the NON BMC VARIANTS section, you will now find THE MINI-MARTINI a very pretty little GRP special that was built in Germany.

23.06.08: I have just added a new quotation & letter for an 850 Full race engine to the DOWNTON LITERATURE archive. This will be the last addition to the Downton section for the foreseeable future. Over the last year or so the Downton section of the mK1 site has become disproportionately heavy, this combined with the very disappointing lack of any copies of new material whatsoever offered to the site over the weekend of "Come Home To Downton", has made me decide to concentrate more on some of the other tuning companies to try and regain some of the balance that has been lost.

Although Downton played an important part in the Mini & A Series tuning story there are many, many other good stories to tell from other companies & sources. Watch out for more info on Alexander, Taurus, Aquaplane, Barwell & the like over the next few months. I will also be selling some of the duplicates in my Downton collection before long, so as they say. Watch this space.

13.06.08: Today I have added 3 new press pics to the BMC PRESS PHOTO section. Two depict Issigonis, one in the drawing office & one standing by a MK1 Mini. The second is a picture of one of the original orange box prototypes. Thanks to Josoa from France for sending me them for inclusion.

12.06.08: Just a quick heads up today. If you find yourself with an hour or two to kill, I couldn't recommended a better place to visit than "Historic Racing.com" A superb free site on all aspects of historic racing.

11.06.08: I have just added a large amount to the TAURUS tuning section. Taurus have always been one of my favorite tuning companies mainly because they were so large & so successful in the 1960's but have now more or less disappeared off the face of the planet. Although I did get an e-mail from the Daughter of the founding Director Mr. Marchant, who I'm told is still well and living in retirement. Amongst the items added to the TAURUS section are a large number of new brochures & price lists as well as the full 1968 / 69 CATALOGUE, page by page. I have also added a brief history of BMC to the BMC DOCUMENT section, this is a 20 page PDF file.

10.06.08: I have just started a new section regarding the MINISPRINT. There is just a bare bones of a page with a bit of background to it. I will be adding to this in the near future. I have also added a new giveaway to the MK1 site, if you follow the link below you will find the FREE MK1 Aeroplane. Its an original giveaway from the KLG Spark Plug Company from the 1930's. Print it out on a sheet of thin card and off you go. I hope you like it.

PAGE 2

Finally today, I have added a copy of a fantastic letter from the Cooper Car Co regarding the competition tuning of a 1275 S. This letter dates from 1964 and makes a fascinating read. Thanks to Ian Garmey in NZ for sending me a copy. You will find this letter in the COOPER CAR CO section.

5.06.08: Well its quite a decent update today. Thanks to ebay I can add a number of items; First, we have a new addition to the 60's TUNING ARCHIVE. No other than PADDY HOPKIRK PRODUCTS. Not really a true tuning company as Paddy Hopkirk's outfit specialised in the less interesting (more profitable) end of the car market selling chequered tape & driving gloves as opposed to true tuning equipment. This company deserves its place here though purely on the strength of Paddy Hopkirk's 1964 Monte win alone. In addition you will find a lot of new stuff has been added to the ARDEN ENGINEERING section, this includes pricelist's, spec sheets & a very nice promotional folder from 1965. Finally, there is another spec sheet that has been added to the BROADSPEED section, this one covers the MG Midget & AH Sprite. I hope you like them!

4.06.08: Well that's the longest break I have had for a while. I have been concentrating on things other than the web site that I will expand on some time in the future. I have just added an interesting promotional First Day Cover to the BMC DOCUMENT section. Thanks to Simon Wheatcroft for sending me the copy.

9.05.08: I am very pleased to be able to announce the addition of what is hopefully a very interesting update to many people. In the COOPER CAR COMPANY section, I have just added a PDF download of a complete Parts list for the Cooper Car Co. Formula Junior single seaters of the early to mid 60's. This list covers all models from 1960 through to 1964. Thank you very much to Ian Garmey in NZ for sending me this excellent info. Thanks Ian.

7.05.08: I have added a few interesting items to the site this morning. First we have a copy of a letter from a very angry Daniel Richmond after he was accused of cheating at Wiscombe hillclimb. This is an excellent insight into Daniels personality. You can find the letter in the DOWNTON LITERATURE section. I have also added a series of pictures taken by Tommy Jagerwall at the 1968 racing car show. These excellent colour pictures depict both the last of the Cooper Car Co racers and the first of the yellow Britax Downton Coopers. These pictures are in the DOWNTON PICTURE ARCHIVE. Finally there is an image of one of the Britax cars after it moved to Sweden in 1970. I would like to thank Tommy for allowing me to use his fantastic images.

6.05.08: I have just uploaded 5 new factory showroom posters to the BMC POSTER section. None of these are specifically Mini posters but they are all really nice examples of the artwork produced by BMC throughout the late 50's & early 1960's.

6.05.08: I have just returned from the first "COME HOME TO DOWNTON" event. A celebration of all thing Downton attended by many original employees, original cars and of course fans. If you would like to purchase a copy of the commerative brochure CLICK HERE for details. These are not available through the MK1 site. Sorry.

A full report on CHTD 2008 will however be posted here shortly.

29.03.08: I have just added a fantastic set of pictures taken on the 1963 Targa Florio. These mostly depict the famous Downton Targa car 176 NWL. I would like to thank Karsten Stelk for submitting them and the original photographer Enzo Manzo. These superb images can be found in the DOWNTON CAR PICTURES section.

19.03.08: As part of the up and coming "COME HOME TO DOWNTON" Celebrations, I am updating some of the existing DOWNTON section. I have added a new introduction and have also added a number of new pictures to the DOWNTON WORKS & PEOPLE section. There should be more new stuff to follow soon.

14.03.08: Just one small addition today. I have added a copy of the accessories brochure AKD 2217 to the ACCESSORIES & WARRANTIES section today. Check out those funky seat covers man!

13.03.08: I have started to add some of the DOWNTON MEMORABILIA I have managed to accumulate to a new Memorabilia section. This is only very small at the moment, but I will be adding to it very soon. And just to prove I haven't become totally Downton obsessed, I have just added a very nice copy of a German home market Mossis Cooper S brochure to the NON UK BROCHURE SECTION. Now that a place I haven't been in a while! I have also added a very nice image of a GRP prototype Mini to the PRESS PHOTO SECTION. Thanks to Simon Wheatcroft for the image and text. There is also a new addition in the SPEEDWELL DOCUMENTS section. Its a complete price list from 1966 for the supply of new BMC cars fitted with a range of Speedwell kits. Finally for today I have added a couple of items to the COMPS DEPT & ST section. There are some fairly grainy, but very interesting shots of some of the display carried by Special Tuning in the late 1960's & early 70's and a couple of pics of a C-AJJ 8835 which is a Special Tuning dual circuit brake system kit.

10.03.08: Two documents added to the COMPS DEPT & SPECIAL TUNING section this morning. A copy of a letter from Basil wales about stage 1 kits and a copy of the Stage 1 Kit flier.

06.03.08: I have just added 4 fantastic PDF files to the BMC DOCUMENTS section. These are a set of Austin Service Memos from the begining of MK1 production in August 1959 through to 1961. I would like to say a massive thank you to Martin Bell who took the time to scan these in for me to add to the MK1 archive. He has also sent me a really interesting set of pictures of the Orangebox & XC 9003 prototypes allowing me to expand the BMC PRESS PHOTO section to include a subsection dedicated to Pre Production & Prototype models. Thank you Martin!

05.03.08: On Tuesday the 4th of March Barry Hawkins was interviewed by BBC radio about "Come Home To Downton", you can here the interview on the COME HOME TO DOWNTON page. I have also received a couple of interesting e-mails this week from Tony Clevely of the MIDLAND MINI CENTRE one of the longest established of all the remaining Mini companies, who has the distinction of being one of the few companies to have fought BMW over his company name and has actually won! Why not visit his site by following the link.

28.02.08: I have just added a fantastic set of pictures taken at Downton in 1968. These are by far the best images I have ever seen, showing parts of the Works that rarely saw "the light of day. You can find them in the DOWNTON PEOPLE & WORKS PICTURES section.

08.02.08: I'm afraid there has not been much happening recently. I am preparing a whole load of stuff for the "Come Home To Downton" event that has been arranged for the wekend of the 3rd & 4th May & will be adding a lot more info very soon. In the meantime, I have added a very nice colour brochure to the bottom of the BMC DOCUMENTS section that has everything about the Cowley plant you would ever wish to know.

29.01.08: Today the nly upload is a copy of a newsletter from Alexander engineering to their agents and distributors with lots of good references to the new products for the Mini Cooper. You will find it in the ALEXNDER BROCHURE section. I have also added 4 very nice colour press photos of MK2 cars to the BMC PRESS PHOTO ARCHIVE.

23.01.08: Download a fantastic free copy of this BMC Poster . All you have to do is click the image which will take you straight to the download page.

While you are at it, you may like to visit the NEW MK! FORUM. A friendly forum for anyone interested in early Minis or A series tuning.

22.01.08: I have just added a new letter to the DOWNTON LITERATURE section regarding the conversion of an Austin 1300 Mk2. There will be more details of this car soon.

18.01.08: I have just added 3 more pictures to the Variants section in the PRESS PHOTO ARCHIVE. The NEW MK1FORUM is really taking off fast. Over 40 members aleady and a few interesting threads running. Why not drop in and have a look round. You would be very welcome.

16.01.08: I have just added a PDF of the Special tuning data Sheets AKD-5096 for the Mini Cooper S to the COMPS DEPT & ST section. I hope they are of interest. Also, I am pleased to see that the new MK1 BULLETIN BOARD / FORUM is already attracting a respectable number of hits. This is one of the few internet based boards that is unashamedly concerned with all aspects of pre 1970 Minis, their history, & the tuning of A Series powered vehicles in general. It is a friendly INTERNATIONAL board where all contributions are welcomed, why not drop in an give it a try.

15.01.08: Thanks to Iain Crockett I have been able to start a new section I have been meaning to get round to for a while. In the BMC ARCHIVE section there is a subheading called COMPETITION PICTURES. This contains a number of original BMC press department pictures of the Works Race & Rally cars taken throughout the 1960's. I will of course be adding to this again in the near future, and sorting what has already been posted into a more logical order too. In addition to this I have also been able to add an excellent selection of additions to the BMC PRESS PHOTO sections. I hope you like the new arrivals. I would also like to thank Iain for taking the time to send me this excellent selection of pictures.

ITS BACK! After much discussion I have decided to have another go at running a MK1 PERFORMANCE CONVERSIONS BULLETIN BOARD. Its a little ropey at the moment, but please think of it as a blank canvas. All mini fans are welcome to post anything on there as long as its legal, decent & honest. Feel free to post questions, comments or whatever! I look forward to hearing from you soon. This will inevitably be slow to start off with but with a bit opf luck it will grow into a vital friendly community of people who are interested in similar things. Mark F.

14.01.08: Well it's a new year and I have been driving my scanner to destruction again. If you check up on the BMC DOCUMENTS page, you will find two new additions. Both are the same, but different. I have reproduced all the early SERVICE MEMORANDA produced from the start of Mini production through to October 1960. These documents were distributed around BMC and its agents & detailed faults and fixes for any given range of cars. I have condensed all the Mini ones here. So if you want to see what BMC Recognised as "faults" with the Mini in the first year of production these documents make a facinating read. They also offer a few good, sometimes a bit home made, solutions to recognised problems that still occur today. I have seperated out the section on WATERPROOFING as this section is particularly large and will be of particular interest to those people who are restoring cars that have been dipped, as all this gunk will come off during the proces, this is a good guide as to where it should go back one. Both these documents are in PDF format but are only a meg or so in size.

10.01.08: I have just uploaded 5 fantastic photos, all of which were submitted by Toby Slebe. Four of the pictures depict the MK2 Cooper S and can be found in the BMC PRESS PHOTO section. The other is truly remarkable and is the most detailed underbonnet shot I have ever seen of a works 8 port on slide throttle injection, this can be found in the COMPETITIONS DEPARTMENT & SPECIAL TUNING section. Thanks Toby. I have also added another excellent photo sent in by long time Speedwell employee John Poole of his very potent Rally Cross Cooper S, not the cleanest car I have ever seen but a superb picture, this one can be found in the SPEEDWELL DOCUMENTS section. Thanks John. Finally today I have added a couple of really nice pictures from my own collection. First we have an image of Issigonis, John Cooper, Daniel Richmond & W V Appleby discussing the latest developments in engine design, this was taken somewhere at Cowley around 1963, you will find this picture in the DOWNTON PEOPLE picture section. Second is a superb photo of Mick Clare the successfull Alexander sponsored driver with his Mini Cooper MC 58, this can be found in the ALEXANDER PICTURES section.

09.01.08: I have just added more pictures and info to the BOB SOPER section. There are more & better images as well as a full brochure. I have also added a few more pictures of Jeff Goodliffes Vita-Min hilclimb car to the VITA-MIN page. The stuff you will find on my site about BVRT is only a fraction of the stuff available on my mate Paul's site MOUNTGREEN.CO.UK

07.01.08: HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Well after a couple of weeks off for the Christmas & New year holidays, I am pleased to be able to post some interesting pictures I have had sent to me. The first is BMC Negative number 86637 and is another official press photo depicting the Minis A Series engine. This picture was sent by my good friend Karsten Stelk in Germany. The second 2 were both sent from Josoa in France and depict the BMC Team that ran in the Monte Carlo rally in 1964, one photo was taken before they set off the second was taken at the Hotel des Paris during the inevitable celebration after Paddy Hopkirks vistory. The engine pic is in the BMC PRESS PHOTO section, the Monte pictures are in the BMC ARCHIVE COMPETITION section.

19.12.07: I went to visit my mate Rich Hawcroft in Hospital last night and am pleased to be ablr to report that he is making good progress. He weights a bit more than he used to due to all the metal that has been used to screw him back together. But all things considered he is making a good recovery after his recent accident. I would like to thank all those people who have contacted me to wish Rich a speedy recovery.

On a different note, I have spent the last 2 nights cleaning up the site and getting rid of dead links and redundant images. You shouldn't find any pages that don't work now. I have also added material to the DOWNTON PICTURES section, the DOWNTON MINIS section as well as bits and bobs in other places. I have also split the DOWNTON PICTURE archive into two sections as the original was getting a bit big, I hope this makes it easier to navigate. Finally, I would like to wish all the visitors to the site a Happy Christmas and a Prosperous 2008. All the best, Mark F.

12.12.07: Many regular visitors to my site, my friends and people who used to visit the now non existent MK1PC Yahoo group will know or know of my closest friend and fellow Mini conspiritor Rich Hawcroft (aka "The Guru"). I'm very sorry to report that on Sunday night Rich was involved in a very serious car accident. He is currently in hospital suffering from multiple injuries. My thoughts and very best wishes go out to his family at this very difficult time.

Should you like to send Rich your wishes I would be very happy to pass them on. I can be contacted HERE.

As soon as I have some better news on Rich's condition I will post it here.

11.12.07: I have just finished re-doing the BMC ARCHIVE. I have broken this very popular section down into more digestable chunks. Hopefully, this will make it easier for visitors to see what is on offer. I hope you like the new format. The only slight drawback is that some of the very old links from this whats new section will no longer work. I will try to re connect these but as they are very old, it could be hard to find them. Any tips as to what links don't work would be appreciated.

03.12.07: For those of you interested in such things. This site has now received over 1.1 Million hits since I started using my current page counter in July 2005. That averages out at around 36,000 hits a month or an average of 1,200 per day. The highest single day I can remeber was just over 3,000 and around 90 people a day are returm visitors. I don't think there is a part of the world that I haven't received hits from.

I would like to thank all the people who visit my site & find it useful or interesting. I would also like to remind you that I am always happy to receive e-mails from visitors to the site, be it with a question, a suggestion or even info on an aspect of the site that doesn't work properly.

On a final note, I still receive mails from people who miss the old MK1 Perf Cons bulletin board. If you would like me to re-introduce such a free facility be it a BBS (bulletin Board), mailing list or whatever I would like to HEAR YOUR SUGGESTIONS.

Anyway, thanks again for visiting my site.

Regards,

Mark F.

3.12.07: New Exhaust brochure added to the FORSPEED section.

30.11.07: Another new press review added to the DOWNTON PRESS REVIEW section today, it's another take on a Downton-ised Allegro. Thanks to my good mate Graeme Farr in NZ. On a seperate note, I upgraded the amount of web space I purchased for the site again today, the space available has doubled to 1 Gig. This will allow me to post a lot more stuff than previously and in higher definition. Keep coming back if you want to see more. Regards, Mark

Also, an exciting development for christmas. I am able to offer a limited number of the BMC Monte Carlo 1967 posters, please see details below.

PLEASE SCROL PAST AD FOR ALL PREVIOUS UPDATES

29.11.07: Newly uploaded this morning is a complete copy of the SALESMANS GUIDE to the Austin Se7en. The entire publication is available as a high quality PDF by following the instructions on screen.

28.11.07: Another new addition to the BMC ARCHIVE today. I have just uploaded a brochure entitled THE LEADING SIX this "lavishly" illustrated brochure was produced by BMC in early 1960 for the relaunch of the Mini. It is currently available in 2 forms the usual clickable HTML page and a downloadable PDF. This is a cracking 20 odd page brochure. I hope you like it. I have also added a couple more posters to the POSTER section.

27.11.07: Another addition to the Downton press rerview section today. I have added a review of the Stage 2 1750 Maxi to the Downton PRESS REVIEW section. Thanks again to Ian Nicholls.

21.11.07: I have just added details of a Downton modified Marina to the DOWNTON PRESS REVIEW section. Thanks again to Ian Nicholls. I have also received exciting news of a number of original Downton tuned vehicles that I hope to be able to add more details of very soon.

30.11.07: The US PRESS PACK has now been uploaded to the BMC ARCHIVE section. I have also just finished uploading a copy of the original pre launch press information pack for the MK1 Austin Countryman this can be found in the BMC BROCHURE archive, ESTATE section. Finally for the moment, I have just added a couple of new press release photos to the PRESS PHOTO section.

19.11.07: I'm afraid the free poster download has now finished. Don't bother trying to find them, as the files are now no longer on the server.

To say I was surprised at the reaction is a bit of an understatement. While most people who contacted me seemed to like them I was more surprised by the number of people who felt the need to mail me and for one reason or another grumble about it. Due to this I have decided to end what was always going to be a bit of fun, for a limited period early. As over this weekend both posters have been downloaded in excess of 1,500 times these images are now well and truly in the public domain am sure they will be fairly easy to find somewhere on the net. If you are really desperate go to the Minimania forum where some kind individual is offering to e-mail them to anyone to save the hassle of coming here to do it.

On a more constructive note, I spent the weekend scanning the entire 1960 USA launch press pack, as well as the Pre procuction brochure, folder & specifications for the Austin Countryman. I will be posting these to the respective sections today or tomorrow. I hope you like them. Regards, Mark.

15.11.07: Large update to POSTERS section today. I have added about another 10 BMC showroom & educational posters to this section. I hope you like them. Copies of all these posters are available, Contact me for details. For a bit of fun & for a limited time only, there is a hidden link on the poster page that allows you to download a complete file of one of the posters on that page. The download has no mk1-performance-conversions.co.uk spoiler on it, so if you want to download the file and get it printed by someone with a large format printer, be my guest. I hope you like it. PS. You never know, there could even be more than one :-)

Oh and while I think about it. If you are particularly interested in the very early Minis of 1959, make sure you pay a visit to the 1959 MINI REGISTER site. There is a wealth of information on there that is of specific interest to those people specifically interested in the 59s, but I am sure that most MK1 Mini fans will find something to tickle their fancy.

02.11.07: New info and pictures have been added to the BARWELL section today.

24.10.07: If you check out the WORKING AT DOWNTON section, you will see a new link giving more info on MARTIN GOODALL, a former downton employee who went on to be one of the most famous Mini drivers of the 1970's. Who remembers "Martin's Marvolous Mini" in Tiger magazine. I know I do :-)

10.10.07: I have just updated the SPEEDWELL DOCUMENTS section with new thumbnails.

05.10.07: I have just re done the entire DOWNTON LITERATURE page. It now features thumbnails of all the images available. I hope you find this layout better than the previous one.

03.10.07: Just a bit of house keeping today really. I have tried to sort out some of the DOWNTON LITERATURE & DOWNTON BOLT ON KITS sections. Both these are extremely unwieldy and difficult to navigate. I realise what they really need is a total redesign butI am afraid I am lacking both time & inclination at the moment. In the meantime I have added a price list for June 1970 and a letter regarding the modification of a 1300GT to these sections respeclivley. I'll try and sort these out soon, but don't hold your breath.

24.9.07: I have just added another article about Downton to the DOWNTON PRESS ARCHIVE its entitled "Rural Developer". Thanks again to Paul.

18.9.07: Check out the DOWNTON PICTURE section for a new image of 777 MCG and the DOWNTON PRESS ARCHIVE for a really interesting article by Daniel Richmond. Thanks to my good friend Paul for both items.

14.09.07: New items for today are some additions to the variants section, these can be found on VARIANTS , in the BROCHURE ARCHIVE. Freshly added are some of the wackiest & not so wacky variants you have ever seen. Thanks to Dave Shreeve for submitting the images.

11.09.07: I have just added a wealth of new items to the Downton Section. Amongst these are spec sheets for the Austin A35, A40 & Morris Minor 1000, as well as price lists for amongst other things the Lotus 7A. All these can be found in the DOWNTON BROCHURE section. The most interesting is probably the Lotus 7 price list, Downton were only involved with Colin Chapman for a while, and briefly they became the "Lotus Centre" for the south west, but once Champan bbecame involved with Ford, Daniel Richmonds "Fordphobia" meant that all links were severed. There is also a new letter in the DOWNTON LITERATURE section signed by Valentine Gardner, dated 1963, concerning tuning products available for the 1100 BMC engines. I have also added a large amount of material to the SPEEDWELL DOCUMENTS section. Including a nice picture that was taken 1972, at the opening of a new Robin Sturgess Accessories shop in leicester. Robin Sturgess were Speedwell agents and also sold a fair bit of other gear including Mangoletsi and Downton. Thanks to Will Grant for sending me this picture. There is also a full accessories brochure for the A35 & A40 as well as all their Sprite & Midget accessories. there is a new review given away by Speedwell of one of their "Sprint" kits and a one page flier for their "New" Supertone exhausts.

I have also made a new entry in the list of 1960's tuning companies on the TUNING ARCHIVE page. YIMKIN engineering were successful London based tuners with possibly one of the most prestigous addresses ever for a tuning house. The information I have added all dates from the early 1960's but the company continued trading at least until the late 60's. I will add more info as I find it.

Some material on Radford, Wood & Pickett and a couple of new 1960's non BMC variants coming very soon!

03.8.07: I have modified the look of the Brochure Archive SALOON section and added a full scan of both sides of the original PRE PRODUCTION (P2) Austin Mini brochure, I hope you like it.

30.7.07: corrected link to "Tiger Tim" article below.

24.7.07: Newly added are a couple of very interesting brochures from Derrington. Both date from the late 50's. The first is a full catalogue feasturing many of the items offered by Derrington's, one of the very first tuning companies. The second is a Tuning guide refering specifically to the A series engine. Both these interesting items can be found at the bottom of the DERRINGTON page. Thanks to Andy B for copying them for me.

23.7.07: I have just added a collection of item dating from 1973 to the DOWNTON ARCHIVE. Amongst these are a complete PRICE LIST dated April 1973, a specification for the obiquitous NO's 4 & 5 Touring conversions, as well as a very interesting hand typed price list for the SPECIAL TOURING CONVERSION (Page 2). This is the conversion that was reviewed in Motor in 1970, read the review HERE. The Bronze yellow demonstrator was called "Tiger Tim". The covering letter is of particular interest (to Downton Annoraks), as the usual header, now has the postcode and "new" telephone number and is in very, very dark green, maybe even black ink, as opposed to the regular bright green.

20.7.07: I have just added a new picture of 860 MW to the bottom of the DOWNTON PICTURE ARCHIVE. This was taken in 1962 during the Brighton Speed Trials. Thanks to Ian Nicholls for the picture.

19.07.07: I have just re arranged the DOWNTON CARS section. I have split it into MINI & NON MINI sections. I have only done this to stop the page becoming to large & unwealdy. I have also added details of a very interesting Allard J2 that was worked on by Daniel Richmond in the late 50's, this car was actually owned by a good friend of the Richmonds Mr Peter Farquharson. This car was driven by Bunty Richmond at a number of Hillclimbs & Sprints during this period. It is not currently clear if this car is in fact Buntys Allard J2 called Butch that she owned in the early 1960's. Check out the DOWNTON CARS (non Mini) section for more details and previously unpublished pictures. I would like to thank Mr Roger Murray-Evans for sending me the details of his beautifully restored Allard J2.

09.07.07: Following the success of the reunion of former Downton employees organised in 2006, a further event is being considered for 2007. For the latest details visit the virtual DOWNTON SOCIAL CLUB. This event is exclusivley for people who were employed by Downton Engineering Works Ltd. Between 1947 & 1976.

06.07.07: I have just added a rather poignant article to the DOWNTON PRESS REVIEW section, it's taken from the December 1975 issue of Motor, and is entitled "GOODBYE DOWNTON" it is a single page report on the decision made by Bunty Richmond to sell Downton Engineering Works. It details some of their history and successes and mourns the passing of the greatest Mini tuner of them all. Sadly the sale was never completed and the works closed and contents were sold off in 1976 after the untimely death of Mrs Richmond.

Coincidental in the same issue dated December 4th 1975 there is a report on the sad death of Graham Hill, the former Grand Prix World Champion and Chairman of Speedwell Performance Conversions.

04.07.07: Following my recent run in with fake Downton items offered on ebay, I have decided to offer a selection from my own collection for sale via this site.

All items unless clearly stated otherwise will have been originally supplied by "Downton Engineering Works Ltd" the company that was founded and run by Daniel & Bunty Richmond in the Wiltshire village of Downton. There are only a few parts listed at the moment, but depending on the amount of interest, I may offer further items from my own collection in the future. You can find this new DOWNTON ITEMS FOR SALE section via the main DOWNTON INDEX page. Needless to say I am always interested in purchasing or swapping original Downton items of any sort.

28.6.07: I have added a very interesting letter written by Daniel Richmond regarding his Lagonda Rapier to the DOWNTON CARS section. This letter makes fantastic reading, I hope you like it. Should you have any information on Mr Richmonds Lagonda Rapier. I would be very pleased to hear from you. Thanks, Mark.

21.6.07: Well, it happens to us all occasionally. I have had my leg well and truly lifted by one of the most well known fakers of all time. Mr. Greg Hales (ebay ident h1275) of Cookhill in Warwickshire is at it again. Offering fake "Downton" items to unsuspecting Mini fans. Please read the whole sorry tale in the ROGUES GALLERY section and hopefully you will avoid having your pants pulled down like I just have.

I am seriously considering changing the name of this section to the GREG HALES SECTION!

18.06.07: The MK1 Performance Conversions Yahoo group is no more. I have decided to close this group down through lack of activity. I feel I am better off directing my interest elsewhere. I would like to thank those people who took the time to post there and would like to assure all former members and readers of this site, I will always welcome e-mail enquiries. Please direct these to mark@mk1-performance-conversions.co.uk

04.06.07: I have just added a copy of a credit note to the DOWNTON LITERATURE section. The interesting thing to note is that it is made out from "Downton (London) Limited, Not Richard Miles (Downton) London Limited. The directors are also D. & V. Richmond. Richard Miles had by 1970 decided to part company with the Richmonds and go his own way. I have also added 3 Homologation variation forms to the BMC ARCHIVE section. These all adte from very late in the Cooper S's life and include the re homologation of the Rubber cone suspension for the Cooper S, the "new" 12G940 cylinder head and the Weslake "iron" 8 port head.Thanks to Will G for the copies.

17.05.07: New additions to the BARWELL MOTORS sectrion.

15.05.07:I have just added a wealth of new stuff to the ALEXANDER LITERATURE section as well as another letter to the DOWNTON LITERATURE section. All thanks to my good friend AndyB.

09.05.07: I have just added a little more information to the story of Daniel Richmonds Bugatti Atlantic which I have received recently, The car was rebuilt in the UK as an open Tourer in the style of Corsica coachworks. It now lives in the US with a collector. The car did not have a factory Atlantic body but one made by Corsica for the owner from new. You can see a picture of this car in the DOWNTON PICTURES section.

08.05.07: I have a horrible confession to make. The information I gave in the TECHNICAL BODY section regarding the colour of BMC Engine paint WAS WRONG. I can now confirm with 100% certainty that the colour used on BMC engines was BS Middle Bronze Green (BS 223). Not Brunswick Green as previously stated.

12.04.07: I have just added two new items to the DOWNTON LITERATURE section. These are a letter regarding cam choice on a 1275 S as well as the first half of a camshaft data sheet. Both these items have been submitted by Mr. John Astill.

4.04.07: I have made a few alterations here and their, mainly tidying stuff up today. I have also added another review to the DOWNTON PRESS REVIEW section.

28.03.07: A copy of the specification sheet for Broadspeed Road going Cooper S conversions added to the BROADSPEED section today.

27.03.07: I have added some more original BMC press release pictures to the PRESS PICTURES section today. Courtesy of Karsten Stelk in Germany.

19.03.07: Another Downton article added to the DOWNTON REVIEWS section this morning. Thanks to Graeme Farr in NZ for this one.

16.03.07: Please visit my new improved ebay store where I am pleased to be able to offer a few bits and pieces that you may find useful or interesting. As I am sure you are aware, the MK1 Performance Conversions web site is totally non money making. It does however cost me a few bob to keep up and running. If you purchase anything from my EBAY STORE it will go towards keeping the site running & free. Thanks. M.

15.03.07: A couple of new additions today, neither of which are directly related to the MK1 Performance site. First, I am pleased to be able to promote what I consider to be one of the best new web sites in years.

MOUNTGREEN.co.uk

MOUNTGREEN.co.uk gives a full unabridged history of the very famous racing team that was variously known as BRT, VitaD, as well as what is its most famous incarnation BRITISH VITA RACING & TUNING (BVRT). As you will probably already be aware BVRT very deeply involved with motorsport throughout the 1960's eventually running a 3 car team for BMC in the European Saloon Car Championship. The team founder and guiding light throughout the 1960's was my motoring hero Harry Ratcliffe. This site gives a blow by blow account of Harry's involvement in motorsport from his first race to his retirement in the early 1970's. If you are a fan of Mini tuning or 60's saloon car racing this is a site that can't be missed. Packed full of previously unpublished photos and articles from the British Vita in house magazine "Bubbles" this site is a true insight into what 60's motor sport was REALLY like.

Next & by no means least, I have added a page entitled

"THE STANWORTH COLLECTION".

This gives details of one of the most important collections of ex works cars and Competition Department equipment ever to be offered for sale. I am sure that many of you will have seen Pauls beautifully restored "WORKS BUS" at some of the more prestigous motorsport events over the last few years. Well due to a change in plans, he has decided to part company with his ex works collection to concentrate on his primary love BROADSPEED.

MK1 Performance Conversions is in no way benefiting from this sale, and I am only hosting the pictures and descriptions as a favour to Paul. If you are interested in any of the items detailed, or would like further information, please CONTACT PAUL DIRECT.

Thats about it for this week.

Thanks, Mark.

12.03.07: I have just added a new picture to the DOWNTON PICTURES section as well as a reminissence from Dale "Clem" Clement in the WORKING THERE section. Dale worked at Downton in the early 60's and has kindly re told the story of the 1963 Nurburgring 6 hour race that he attended with the Richmonds when servicing "Sophie" the Downton 1275 S race car.

07.03.07: I have just added a new section to the ROUGES GALLERY. Another item sold as "Original Downton" on ebay, for a huge amount of money that is currently available from the latest incarnation of "New Downton"at what can only be described as a very reasonable price. I don't imagine my little rant here will bother the offending ebayer but it makes me feel a bit better. I urge anyone who is interested in Downton to read the BUYING DOWNTON & ROGUES GALLERY sections of the site as well as visiting the new incarnation of Downton to see what is what before parting with WAY too much money for something that is not all it apears to be.

27.02.07: New review of Downton MG 1300 added to Downton PRESS REVIEW section.

23.02.07: I have just fixed all the broken links on this page. I didn't know they were there until I did a test earlier today. I will probably have missed the odd one as I had to find and fix them all by hand. Still, its done now.

22.02.07: I have just uploaded 2 pictures of the Cooper Car Company stand at the 1969 racing car show to the COOPER CAR COMPANY section.

12.02.07: New copy of SPEEDWELL NEWS added to the Speedwell section. This marked the launch of the most sought after VW parts range.

08.02.07: I am afraid that updates are a bit thin on the ground at the monent, this is mainly due to me spending allmy free time working on the Racer. As soon as I have a bit more free time I will be posting a lot more info about it, but for the moment the practical stuff has to take precedence. In the meantime, I have added a number of original press release photos, both of the 850 & the 997 Cooper to the PRESS PHOTOS section. I hope you like them. I have also added a couple of new Alexander Engineering brochures to the ALEXANDER BROCHURES section.

22.01.07: A couple of items added to the SPEEDWELL DOCUMENTS section this morning. A letter c/w a nice Peter Eva signature and a Copy of the Speedwell Custome News letter from August 1964.

19.01.07: New tuning company added to the CLASSIC TUNING archive. MOTORPLUS, if you know anything about this company, I would really like to hear from you.

17.01.07: New picture of the Austin Beach Car along with a description added to the bottom of the BMC PRESS PHOTO section.

16.01.07: More stuff added to the REBUILD of the racer.

12.01.07: I have just added the latest update on the racer to the site. To check it out go to the RACER PROJECT section and click on REBUILD.

4.01.07: I have just added 2 new sections to the CLASSIC TUNING section. The first is a full catalogue & price list for Minilite Magnesium wheels. This dates from the late 60's or very early 70's, and probably gives the best overview of this very famous wheel manafacturer at the height of their business. The second is a huge amount of info regarding Wooding the main BMC / ST stockist in Germany during the 60's & 70's. Both these very interesting items were sent in by Christian Fritz.

3.01.07: HAPPY NEW YEAR!

After a bit of a lay off over the holidays, I have returned with another bumper update. You will find addition of information on the Downton No's 10 & 11 conversions for the MG B GT in the DOWNTON CONVERSIONS section, as well as the fitting instructions for this kit in the DOWNTON LITERATURE section, the last Downton MG B item is a press review of the fitted kit, this is available in the DOWNTON PRESS REVIEW section. I have added an original Speedwell press release to the SPEEDWELL LITERATURE section, and a BLMC press release to the BMC ARCHIVE. I have also once again made numerous corrections here and there that you need not know about. More to follow soon. I would like to thank Paul Latham for the MG B material, and my old friend Karsten Stelk for the press releases.

19.12.06: A very small addition today. I have added an instruction / fitting sheet for the Speedwell High Capacity oil pump to the SPEEDWELL DOCUMENT section today. I am always amazed by the quality of the Instructions Speedwell gave with their kits. Much better than anything offered today! I have also added the mythical 4th page on the ARDEN racer that has been missing for some time. And finally for today I have added another review of a Downton tuned Maxi to the DOWNTON PRESS REVIEW section. These second 2 articles are courtesy of Graeme Farr in New Zeland.

11.12.06: I have begun to updat the WORKING AT DOWNTON section with some of the stuff gleaned at the recent reunion. This is very much a work in progress and I will add more soon. For the more observant of you, I admit to having cocked up and accidentaly uploaded an old version of this page. I have possibly missed som of the updates that were previously present, I will try not to do it again.

10.12.06: Check out the new article writen for the site by Mini Racing legend Gordon Spice. Gordon was a Downton employee in the mis 60's as well as a driver for the legendary Britax Downton Cooper team in the late 60. Gordon has been very kind to give me permission to pubish an extract from his forthcoming autobiography here. Read GORDON SPICE's story here first.

23.11.06: I have finally managed to grab a few minutes to post what is probably an over wordy article on the relationship between Downton & BMC. This is something that coelesced during the reunion, for the first time I realised that the relationship between the two companies wasn't all good. It seemed to have a draker side too. Read more by visiting the DOWNTON & BMC section.

22.11.06: Read the latest news on the 1071 RACER

15.11.06: Read the latest news on the 1071 RACER.

14.11.06: I have finally begun my new 1070cc Historic racer project. See the first installment in this exciting (he says) new section. MK1 RACER PROJECT. I have also added a couple of nice MK2 press pics to the BMC PRESS PHOTO section.

09.11.06: A few more minor adjustments to the ALEXANDER ENGINEERING pages this morning.

08.11.06: Check out the new additions to the ALEXANDER ENGINEERING section. Including a nice picture of Michael ALEXANDER Christie the founder & chairman of the company. I hope to be able to add lots more stuff to this section soon. I have also added a review of the Alexander Cooper S to the bottom of the ALEXANDER PICTURES page.

07.11.06: A new review in the DOWNTON PRESS REVIEW section this morning. Thanks to Ian Nicholls again.

06.11.06: First up today, in the DOWNTON LITERATURE section is a reference written for a Downton employee in 1966. I would like to thank Sean Wiles for supplying me with a copy of this very interesting documnet.

01.11.06: Take a tour around the Downton Engineering Works, circa 1968. This new section of the DOWNTON ARCHIVE is currently a work in progress, but I hope you will find something of interest now.

31.10.06: I have just uploaded a really rare piece of BMC history to the BMC archive. If you hunt around you will find a new section called "Experimental Department". In it you will find all the wierd & wonderful things I have come across that came out of the Morris Engines Experimental department. Some of which were previously in the CLASSIC TUNING section, but this new home seems more suitable. The latest addition is a copy of the original report published by British Aluminium for BMC regarding the All Alloy A Series project. Thanks to Pete Crudgington for this latest fascinating addition. Check out the BMC ARCHIVE now.

30.10.06: First thing today are a fantastic set of pictures from the hey day of Alexabder Engineering. These feature the Alexander Cooper S driven by Tony Lanfranchi, as well as some of the notable faces from Alexander in the mid 60's. You will find them in the NEW ALEXANDER PICTURES section. I would like to thank Anthony Hewlett a formenr Alexander employee for supplying the pictures and Russ Filby of the TURNER REGISTER for contacting me about them. Russ's site is a mine of information on the classic English Turner sports car. I would highly reccommend you pay this site a visit.

In the DOWNTON BROCHURE section you will find another very early addition. This is as far as I can tell the very first brochure Downton ever published for the Morris Mini Minor & Austin Se7en, dating back to early 1960. It is the first one in the 850 mini section. I would, once again like to thank Andy Barras who has been a regular contributor to the site and a good friend for some years now. Andy recently found me a large number of original Downton brochures & fliers, and very kindly passed them on to me! Thanks again Andy.

27.10.06: Just one addition today. Bryan Slark has very kindly sent me an image of an experimental 8 port head based on the old 163 pattern, you will find it in the CLASSIC TUNING section.

26.10.06: I have just finished uploading some of the stuff that has been waiting while I have been involved in the Downton reunion. Today there are a few very interesting bits to have a look at. First I have added a superb collection of original 1960's crash helmets to the bottom of the CLASSIC TUNING section, there are examples from the Works as well as a variety of very well known competitors. While in the RESTALL BROS section you will find a couple of pictures of a couple of very rare seats indeed. These were special hand made Competition seats. Although these were expensive, money wouldn't buy them. The driver in question would have to turn up at the works and would be measured the frame would be built to suit him. These were only ever available to those drivers who knew the right people!

25.10.06: I have just up loaded a series of pictures taken by Ted de la Riviere. Ted worked in the workshop at Downton between 1962-3. I would like to sincerely thank him for allowing me to reproduce his pictures on the site. You will find them at the bottom of the DOWNTON PHOTOS section. As this section is becoming so large I am planning on sub-dividing it in the near future, so watch out for a change in format there. Just to show that I haven't become totally Downton obsessed I have added a new company to the CLASSIC TUNING archive today. Check out PADDY GASTON limited. The stuff I have added is all Sprite related, but they did Minis too. Finally for today, you will find a couple of new BMC / BL press releases regarding the deal BMC did with Innocenti in 1959 and another introducing the new Clubman range in 1970. If you hunt around the BMC ARCHIVE you should find these. Finally for today, I have just added a couple of new fliers to the ALEXANDER FLIERS section of the site. One covers the Alexander Turner Sports car, a 7 port A series powered sports car. As well as that on the same page are another couple of fliers from Alexander, one is a price list, the other a specification sheet on the Alexander / Stromberg carb conversion. That REALLY is it for today. More to come soon though!

24.10.06: Well, I can finally let on as to why there has been so little activity on here for the last month or two.

I have just returned from the first official Downton Engineering Works reunion which was held over the weekend of the 21st October. I was very pleased to have been involved in the sponsorship and organisation of the event that was attended by over 50 former Downton employees. Most of whom hadn't seen each other in over 30 years. I will of course be adding lots of new material to the Downton section over the comming days. But just for starters you will find a couple of new pictures added to the DOWNTON PICTURES section, in explicably one can be found at the top, the other at the bottom. Also, courtesy of Dr. David Blacklidge some new paperwork including a Downton Christmas card in the DOWNTON LITERATURE section.

David bought his very original 1275 S from Downton in 1964 and has been its proud owner ever since. Not surprisingly, he has received many offers for this fantastic car, but needless to say IT'S NOT FOR SALE!

I have also just uploaded a copy of a very rare item indeed. In 1964 The Richmonds did an interview with Southern TV's Jack Hargreaves. In it they talk about their early days and how Downton Engineering has progressed. The original Video of this interview was lost many, many years ago, but I am pleased to be able to report that thanks to John Coundley a long time friend of Downton & original member of the "Downton Social Club" an audio version of this interview has survived. This version was prepared for the Reunion and has now been added to the MK1 archives to fill in a bit more of the "Downton" story. I'm afraid the quality is very poor, but it was recorded over 40 years ago using a reel to reel machine with a microphone in front of the speaker. I would like to sincerely thank John for allowing me to reproduce the interview here. Now you can actually hear Daniel & Bunty Richmond in their own words! You will find the DOWNTON INTERVIEW link in the main DOWNTON ARCHIVE section.

Also in the main DOWNTON ARCHIVE, if you go to the bottom of the page I have started a new section called "Memorabilia". I was very fortunate in that during the reunion, some of the people who attended brought in memorabilia from their days working there. As I sort through this stuff, I will add details to the site. To begin with, you will find a very nice image of a genuine Downton badge, this is in fact from my own collection, you will also find a keyring and some name badges that Ray Shepherd brought in. Ray was Forman in the experimental shop and worked for Downton from the late 1950's through toi its closure in 1976.

14.09.06: Details of the early MK1 Oil cooler added to the MECHANICAL TECH section.

06.09.06: I have just added another impossibly rare experimental part to the bottom of the CLASSIC TUNING section. I have also added a picture of the Mini-minor that Ken Lee drove before he ran his famous Speedwell Cooper. The link is in the SPEEDWELL DOCUMENTS section. If you check out the VARIANTS section, you will find a new advert for the Buckle, this is courtesy of "MadMatt" Read. As well as the above, you will find new pictures and descriptions added to the DOWNTON CARS section as well as some new pictures and text added to the AFTER DOWNTON section. The details of the nice Downton-ised MK2 are from Nick Hunter and the pictures of Daniel & Bunty Richmonds home are from Barry Hawkins.

31.08.06: I am very sorry to have to announce this but due to a number of people who seem to use my site as a free resource of text for their ebay listings I have had with very great regret decided that I will have to encrypt the MK1 Performance Conversions web site. I deeply regret having to take this decision, as MK1 P C has always been based on the principle of sharing free information with like minded people. I always hoped that this principle would be shared by the vest majority of the readers, but the actions of the few have spoiled it for everyone. From now on, no readers will be able to download pages by simply right clicking as has always previously been the case, but if you would like a downloaded copy of a page or article, please feel free to contact me direct and I will do my best to help.

As I say, I deeply regret having to take this action, but my site IS NOT A RESOURCE FOR EBAY SELLERS!

17.07.06: I have spent a lot of time correcting a myriad of small mistakes recently, names, dates, typo's etc. Hopefully you won't notice any of them, but I'm happier knowing they are correct.

15.06.06: I have made a few more alterations and additions recently. The most major of which is a contact page for FORMER DOWNTON EMPLOYEES, their friends & coluagues. There is a plan to organise a reunion later this year and we would be very pleased to hear from anyone who thinks they should be invited.

PLEASE NOTE! This event is strictly for former Downton employees & their friends who were former members of "The Downton Social Club" .

06.06.06: A frew bits added to the Site today, there is a picture of some Alexander inlets for a Frogeye Sprite in the ALEXANDER SECTION, I have also added another "timeless classic" to the OLD CURIOSITY SHOP section. Thanks to long time contributor Karsten Stelk. Thanks Karsten.

23.05.06: A large amount of reworking of the ALEXANDER section today, with additions of a lot of Alexander fliers, thanks again to AlexanderSchallenberg.

26.05.06: I have added a large number of brochures to the ALEXANDER section today, these are courtesy of Alexander Schallenber again. I will be re working this section shortly, with more thumbnail images and text, so watch out.

25.5.06: I have done a bit of Monkeying about all over the site in the last day or two, some of the layout has changed but most of the content is unaltered. Any additions I have made are really to minimal to note. I am becoming seriously concerned that the layout and design of the site is getting a bit long in the tooth. But with over 250 pages and 2,000 images I don't really know how I can change it without making a hell of a lot of work for myself. As you are probably aware I am a bit lame when it comes to web design, any suggestions as to how I can update the look without having to start from scratch would be much appreciated. M.

4.05.06: This morning I have added a bit about Daniel Richmonds Lagonda Rapier to the DOWNTON CARS section. This fantastic vehicle was prepared by Downton in the 60's and was regularly hillclimbed by Daniel Richmond. It is now owned by Mr Tony Garner, who competes with it in VSCC events. Tony is very keen to fill in the many gaps in this beautiful cars history, so if you have any information that you can share, both Tony and myself would be very pleased to hear from you. I can be contacted at the usual address. Thanks, M.

23.05.06: I have added some new Alexander items to the ALEXANDER section today. Thanks to Alexander Alexander Schallenberg for the images.

22.05.06: This morning I received a full set of Specil Tuning Data sheets from BMC Australia. These were sent by my longest serving contributor Karsten Stelk in Germany. As I have observed many times before it is not only the mini variants produced in non UK plants that are a better quality, even the "Hone market" produced literature was a much better quality as well. You can find a full copy of these sheets in the SPECIAL TUNING section. Thanks again Karsten.

17.05.06: Today I have uploaded a complete set of instructions for the fitting of the competition version of the TJ Petrol injection system, this is in PDF format so is very easy to read if you are attempting to get your own system up and running. These were sent in by Malcolm Clark, and annotated by myself. You will find them at the bottom of the CARB TECHNICAL section. Thanks Michael! I have also added the details of another very genuine Downton prepared car to the DOWNTON CARS section.

16.05.06: I have been contacted by another former Downton employee, Peter Styles, who has managed to add a few more names and details to the WORKING AT DOWNTON section.

15.05.06: New DERRINGTON section added today.

09.05.06: A few new pictures and stories added to the DOWNTON sections today, all thanks to Barry Hawkins. Amongst these are a short (and amusing) story about Bunty Richmonds pride and joy, her Ferrari 250GT, FX 9. I have also aded "Martin Goodall" to the Downton employees list. If anyone can scan me a picture of "Martin's Marvelous Mini" from Tiger comic in the late 70's or early 80's it would be much appreciated and would be added to the site, this story was based on Mr Goodall and his Mini.

05.05.06: Check out Barry Hawkins' story of how he aquired a brand new 1800 to tow his race car. This was all thanks to the cars designer! WORKING FOR DOWNTON.

26.04.06: I have just added two more items regarding TJ Fuel Injection to the TECHNICAL CARB section, they are both from Richard D. Atkins a main agent for TJ during the 1970's. Also, the "BMC Engine Green" controversy has finally been solved! Check out the BODY technical section for all the details.

25.04.06: More re jigging and additions to the Downton section today. As it has grown so much and is receiving so much attention, I have given it a link on the MAIN INDEX page. In the DOWTON INDEX page you will see that the "Downton Articles" page has been replaced with a page on DOWNTON & BMC. The items in the articles page are duplicated elsewhere on the site and this most important relationship deserves a page of its own, as usual its thatnks to Barry Hawkins, that I have the information to post. There are also a variety of smaller additions and ammendments for you to spot throughout the Downton section.

21.04.06: I have added a vast amount of new items and information to the Downton section tonight. Most of which is thanks to Mr. Barry Hawkins, Mr. Brian Rivas & Mr. Sean Wiles. 3 former Downton employees who have very kindly taken time to help me with my site. There are multiple additions to the whole DOWNTON section, too numberous to mention really. But I would suggest that if you are interested in Downton even a little bit, you pay particular attention to the DOWNTON PICTURE section and the WORKING FOR DOWNTON section in particular.

12.04.06: Another pretty varied update this morning, there are a few new pictures in the DOWNTON PICS section, a few alterations to the text in the WORKING FOR DOWNTON section, as well as a very entertaining entry from another former DOWNTON EMPLOYEE Mr. Brian Rivas. All the information added today is courtesy of either Brian or Barry Hawkins.

11.04.06: I have added details of a very nice 1293 Downton Social Club Racer to the ORIGINAL DOWNTON CARS section today. There are some pictures, a short description but most interesting of all the original build sheet, for this more or less state of the art racer from 1967. Thanks to Barry H. I have also added a couple more of Barry's photos to the bottom of the DOWNTON PICTURES section. There is more excellent stuff to follow very soon.

10.04.06: A few additions and ammendment made to the Downton sections this morning.

04.06: More additions to WORKING FOR DOWNTON section today. This section is simply a rough draft at the moment, I will be doing a much more comprehensive section in the near future with better layout. The amount of information sent to me by Barry is astounding and it will take a while to organise. I have uploaded it in this rough form because I am sure that folks will be anxious to read it. The latest new page is entitled DOWNTON BOLT ON TUNING KITS on it you will find the original Downton specification sheets formerly found in the Downton literature section as well as a detailed overview of how these kits were developed and the people who actually did the work. M.

6.04.06: I have just added a wealth of fine information and pictures to two of the Downton pages. This is all courtesy of Barry Hawkins a long tome Downton employee. You will find a wealth of additions to the DOWNTON PICTURES section as well as the WORKING AT DOWNTON section. I would once again like to thank Barry for the time and effort he has put into finding items for the site.

3.04.06: A few interesting additions today. First there are a few more pictures and text added to the DOWNTON PICTURES section, this is all (once again) courtesy of Barry Hawkins. I have also added 2 pictures to the SPEEDWELL HISTORY section. One is of 7 Accommodation Road, John Sprinzell's flat where Speedwell was born, and another of 763 Finchley Road, the Speedwell "Centre" as it looks today. The original building was demolished in the early 2000's. Thanks to Seth Kennedy for these very interesting pics. I have also added a brand new page to the Downton section, entitled WORKING FOR DOWNTON. This is a page reserved for the remeniscences and pictures from former Downton employees, although, of course anyone interested in Downton will, I'm sure find it very interesting. Any contributions are greatly appreciated. While I'm at it, I have just discovered a section I started ages ago, but for some reason never uploaded. Check out a selection of ORIGINAL DOWNTON CARS, with coments by their owners. There is more to follow in this new section soon! M.

31.03.06: I have recently been contacted by Mr. Barry Hawkins, a long time Downton employee who has very kindly taken the time to dig out some pictures and momories of his time at Downton Engineering. The first things I have had time to add, are 3 super photos, these can be seen along with descriptions in the DOWNTON PICTURES section. I will be adding more in the very near future. I would like to take this opportunity to thank Barry for taking the time to help me add to this site, its the additions that come from first hand "Downton" people that (IMHO) make this site the best Downton reference anywhere. THANKS BARRY!

30.03.06: Thanks again to Josoa, there are 2 more nice pictures added to the PRESS PHOTO section. One of a MK1 Cooper S the other is an unusually arty number that I suspect was taken at the Chobham press day in 1959.

29.03.06: Today I am pleased to be able to say I have added 3 new very rare and (hopefully) interesting pictures. There are 2 of the most rare of all variant. The Mini Beach Car. This was produced in very, very limited numbers in the early 60's a couple of them are still known to exist of the dozen or so that were built, you can find the pics. in the original PRESS PHOTO section.. Secondly there is a really nice press photo of the Radford Mini Deville in the VARIANTS section. All three of these pictures are courtesy of Josoa in France. Captions will be added to the pictures soon. M.

24.03.06: I have just uploaded a copy of the instruction manual for the "TJ" Tecalemit Jackson Fuel Injection System MK2. This is the setup used on a lot of the 8 port Minis prepared by Arden Engineering. You can find this very interesting manual in the CARB TECHNICAL section.

23.03.06: Thanks (yet again) to Karsten Stelk. I have just finished uploading 5 new previously unpublished photos of early Downton Minis competeing on the Targa Florio in the years 1962 & 1967. You'll find them in the DOWNTON PHOTOS section.

17.03.06: A bit added today. There is a really interesting letter from Alexander Engineering added to the ALEXANDER ENGINEERING section, and copies of most of a flier from Aquapland added to the AQUAPLANE page. I have also just done a massive re vamp on the entire Taurus section, with much more text and a lot more images. Most of which are from the really early period when Taurus were at the top of their game. Needless to say, you'll find them in the TAURUS section.

3.03.06: Read more about the original Special tuning Limited Slip Differential HERE.

28.2.06: I have just uploaded a pic and a bit of blurb to the bottom of THE OLD CURIOSITY SHOP section. Another interesting device for Paul Stanworth, another regular contributor. Thanks Paul.

14.02.06: I have just added another review of a Nerus tuned car to the NERUS section. Thanks AndyB.

9.02.06: This is my first really big update in ages, and its all thanks to Karsten Stelk who has sent me a huge pile of new stuff to include in the site. First theres a mass of stuff about RESTALL seats, including original price lists, spec sheets etc. Then theres a really good review of the Works Twini, its at the bottom of the VARIANTS page, and finally a really good contemporary report on the preperation for the 1966 Monte, this is at the bottom of the SPECIAL TUNING section. There is more stuff to come, so watch this space. M.

1.02.06: Sorry about the lack of updates recently. Too many fish to fry. I have however received a translation of the cover text on the AUSTIN ENGLISH LESSON in the BMC archive section. I would like to thank Paul Evans for taking the time to translate it for me.

9.12.05: I have added a picture of the Bull hotel in Downton taken in 1967. This was the favourite "watering hole" of Daniel & Bunty Richmond as well as the home of the "Downton Social Club". You will find it in the DOWNTON PICTURES section.

23.11.05: I have reluctantly decided to sell my Speedwell wheels, these are currently on EBAY, if you would like to see some bigger pictures go HERE.

17.11.05: A full set of fitting instructions for the Special Tuning H4 Carbs has been added to the CARB. TECHNICAL SECTION today.

16.11.05: Check out the bottom of the CLASSIC TUNING section for a superb picture and some info on the very rare and sought after Works Injected 8 Ports.

11.11.05: I have just added a lot more detail to some of the fliers in the NON BMC VARIANTS section.

04.11.05: I have just rewritten the SPEEDWELL HISTORY section with the kind help of John Sprinzel. John was one of the original 3 founders of Speedwell Performance Conversions and very kindly put me right on a few details, some minor, some unfortunately major. I would like to thank John for his very helpful input!

02.11.05: I have finally finished uploading the new ADVERTISING BLANKS section, this contains examples of some of the advertising printing plates that BMC would supply to their dealers at a reduced cost. This helped dealers stretched advertising budgets, and helped to maintain a recognizable corporate image throughout the BMC group. I have also added a better copy of the first flier to the NERUS section.

27.10.05: I received an interesting mail from a guy named David Cooper yesterday, he assures me he's no relation to the sainted JC. He likes the site and asked for a link to his. Well here it is, I have had an interesting last few minutes reading his musings on various topics, if you want a go too, here's the LINK. That's about it for the moment, apart from a superb article on the original Twini Mini, you will find it in the VARIANTS section.

25.10.05: Today I have added a very interesting document to the SPECIAL TUNING section, it is a very early specification for tuning modifications to the early MK1 850. This very interesting bit of history was submitted by Tom Palmer, who needless to say, I am very grateful to. Thanks Tom!

21.10.05: Review of the Downton MGC conversions added to the bottom of the DOWNTON PRESS REVIEW section.

18.10.05: New copy of a Taurus flier for the Cooper & S models added to the TAURUS section.

10.10.05: I have just added a copy of the Speedwell flier for the Riley 1.5 to the SPEEDWELL DOCUMENTS section.

02.10.05: Newly added this morning, a copy of a very, very early review of Downton Engineering Works and the cars the converted dated August 1958. Thanks again to Paul Curotto. You will find this at the top of the DOWNTON PRESS REVIEW section.

30.9.05: A new picture of the ORIGINAL Downton Engineering Works has been added to the DOWNTON PICTURES section. I have also added a picture of a variation Weber 45 manifold to the BUYING DOWNTON section.

28.9.05: Another Theo Page drawing added to the THEO PAGE section.

26.9.05: Speedwell Flier for their Austin A40 Conversions added to the SPEEDWELL DOCUMENT section.

22.9.05: I have been contacted by the former manager of Speedwell (of Chesham Ltd.) and have been able to correct some inaccuracies and omissions on the SPEEDWELL HISTORY page. I would like to thank Colin Hextall for contacting me and adding some very interesting info to this much read section. These latest additions are a perfect example of why this site is never finished and why I ALWAYS say that all info is given in good faith. Its right to the best of my knowledge when written, but I'm human and if I get something wrong, I am always happy to correct it, and give full credit to the person who puts me right.

21.9.05: I don't know, updates are like busses aren't they. Nothing for weeks and then a few crop up one after another. I have added a few more pictures to the PRESS PHOTO section. There's one on XC9003 one of the early prototype Minis in the MK1 section and 3 nice Moke ones at the bottom of the page.

20.9.05: There have been a number of addition to the Press photo section these include some very nice under bonnet shots of both the 1959 car and the pre production Cooper S. You can find these in the PRESS PHOTO section. I have also added a couple of very interesting pictures of a BMC developed Alloy block to the old tuning parts section. These pictures were very kindly submitted by Brian Davage. See the amazing BMC ALLOY BLOCK at the bottom of the page. If you have any further info on these very interesting blocks, both Brian and I would be very interested to hear any info you may have. Thanks M.

06.09.05: I have just added a copy of the Restall flier for the Van rear seat conversion. One of the more unusual BMC accessories offered during the 60's. You can find it in the RESTALL section.

30.8.05: There are 2 new photos of Ken Lees "Speedwell Mini" in the Speedwell section, you can find them HERE. These have been very kindly donated by Ken's Daughter Angie. I would like to take this opportunity to thank Angie for taking the time to find the pictures for me and giving me permission to reproduce them on the site.

27.7.05: I have just added a Flier for the Speedwell Sprite to the SPEEDWELL DOCUMENTS section.

26.7.05: I have just uploaded some new pictures of Karsten Stelk's Austin Cooper S competing on the 1967 Targa Florio, you can find them on KARSTEN's page. I have also drastically reduced the content on the links page, this was always very troublesome to maintain as site addresses had a nasty habit of changing without me being aware of it. I have only left the really useful ones on there like Heritage and the DVLA. I am also not convinced that LINKS pages are worth it nowadays as most people simply Google what they are after.

10.7.05: A new Speedwell brochure added to the SPEEDWELL DOCUMENTS section. This is one of the single model fliers produced before the big 1964 catalogue came out.

22.6.05: I have just uploaded a really good article on the early days of Janspeed to the JANSPEED section. Thanks Paul C.

24.5.05: Well everything seems to be working OK again after all last weeks server problems. So to celebrate I have uploaded 2 really good additions. The first is a copy of the press release announcing the introduction of the "New" 1275 GT model in October 1969, this can be found in the BMC ARCHIVE section. The other is a really nice early Speedwell flier in the SPEEDWELL ARCHIVE section regarding the accessories and tuning kits available for the BMC B Series engines cars of the very early 60's.

23.05.05: I have been suffering some major technical problems on the site, as you may have noticed, to solve these I have had to change all the file extensions from htm to html in doing so it means that any bookmarks you may have and all my google listings will have to be updated. I can only apologies for the hassle that this has caused but it was not down to me, it was a server related issue. I hope that this hasn't spoilt your enjoyment of the site too much.

10.05.05: I have just added a new Downton article to the bottom of the DOWNTON PRESS REVIEW SECTION, thanks Paul.

03.05.05: I have just added a copy of the Speedwell Catalogue from 1969, you will find this in the SPEEDWELL DOCUMENT section.

07.04.05: I have just opened the new MK1 Performance Conversions "SPEEDWELL SHOP". In which I will be selling a variety of genuine Speedwell tuning parts and accessories. Only the page has been added so far, I will be adding the content over the next few days.

06.04.05: Works H4 SU data added to the CARB TECHNICAL section.

05.04.05: Freshly posted today is a new section regarding the Solex / Stromberg CD carburetor. These were a popular after market carbs on many 60's cars including the Mini. Alexander Engineering amongst others sold many Zenith / Stromberg performance kits. I have added the information to the bottom of the TECHNICAL SECTION. I have also radically modified the Technical section to hopefully make it easier to search. Please let me know what you think.

23.03.05: I have just added a copy of the fitting instructions for the Speedwell Weston Tachometer to the TECHNICAL SECTION.

14.03.05: 3 New Downton specifications added to the DOWNTON LITERATURE section. There are another 2 that are variations of ones already posted namely the 850 conversions and the No's 4& 5 Touring Conversions. The other is a very nice review of a Downton tuned Sprite c/w with a picture of Daniel Richmond competing at Prescott Hillclimb. I have also added details of the PEARSON 8 PORT to the tuning archive.

01.03.05: Better late than never, I have added a brief historyof my Shorrock Supercharged Traveller to the INTERESTING CARS section. I have only got round to doing this now as I found some old photos of it at the weekend, the only ones I have. If by any chance you ahve a picture of this car on the Mini Cooper Register Stand at Mini40 I would greatly appreciate a copy. While I was at it, I have also added a bit more info and pictures to the Alexander Moke page and the MK3 S page in the same section. I have also totally revamped the DOWNTON LITERATURE section to make it easier to naviagte.

23.02.05: I hav