MG Rover

[NickK]

It has been widely reported in the press that MG Rover is in administration and faces the distinct possibility of closure.As one of the many clay modellers dotted around the world who worked there,it is a sad day indeed.
Dave Cox rightly pointed out recently that many of us owe a debt of gratitude to John Shute and IAD for his vision and dynamism. Had it not been for British Leyland as it was then however,I would not have been fortunate enough to enjoy the opportunities I have had since.
Having worked in many studios all over the world, I still view my time at Longbridge as amongst the most enjoyable. The working environment, the people,the characters-who could ever forget working with Bill Broom
the cleaner,the way it was run, the modelling style of the time. It all made for a happy working day.
The commoraderie lived on even when the studio moved. A Christmas pint at the Hairy Hounds Pub was a fixture for many years after.

I still have friends and relations who still work "Up at the Austin"and wish them all the best in these trying times.

Nick

[JohnB]

It says a lot when our countrys government are prepared to watch our car industry basically die. I personally served my apprenticeship at Austin Rover Canley in Coventry, and what is it now ? Carphone Warehouse and McDonalds !! It is a shame that what was once a thriving car industry has all but disappeared. Where does this leave MG Rovers studio ? Another port of call to disappear ? Fingers crossed this can somehow be avoided !!!

[rats]

I agree Nicksan, We had some good times back then.
like Nick and John, I was an apprentice based initially at Solihull, working for "The Rover" until we were all moved to Canley under one roof.
The Rover gave me my start in the industry and i will always be grateful for that, I stayed there 7 years until the time was right to go contracting!
I did expect to one day go back and work for them either as a contractor or permie, but that does not look likely now.
Good luck to those who are directly effected by this situation that Rover is in.
Maybe there will be a way of keeping part of it going (MG) on a much smaller scale.

Regards all
Paul Ratcliffe

Nick, you Brummie buggers stopped us picking the trophy up in front of the 'Arse' at the 'Bridge' next week