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This is the worldwide club for all owners and enthusiasts of Standard Cars

"Dedicated to the preservation of Standard Cars 1903-1963"

The Standard Motor Club visits Standedge Tunnel

Lineup of cars at Standedge Tunnel

A leak in a water feed pipe certainly didn't prevent the occupants of nine classic cars enjoying the delights of Standedge Tunnel & Visitor Centre at Marsden, about 6 miles from Huddersfield in Yorkshire . The attraction was the highest, longest and deepest canal tunnel in the UK , and for those curious to look down it, the tunnel stretches 3.25 miles through hard millstone grit.

Setting of from group ‘headquarters’, the Albany Hotel in Heywood, the cars took the route up the Pennines, along some narrow country lanes and climbed to the top of Roebuck Low (called “low” when you are actually high up!). This provided some great views over Manchester and Stockport , and we proceeded after the long hill climb to successfully arrive at the 'helicopter pad' outside the visitor centre. Two more local members joined the group, and the cars put on display were a Standard Flying 10; 3 Standard 10’s; Standard Vanguard Vignale; Triumph Roadster; Triumph 2000; Triumph Herald soft top; Triumph Dolomite 1970’s; Morris 8; and a VW Golf Mk1 convertible.

British Waterways had advertised our Manchester Standard and Triumph Group show in the Huddersfield Examiner and so this, along with the attraction of the tunnel, brought in a large number of visitors. Unfortunately due to the water leak and pump problems (familiar to classic cars owners) , the anticipated boat trip into the tunnel had to be cancelled, but all agreed it was a great day out  blessed with some good weather. Thanks to Simon Henry at British Waterways for allowing us to use their facilities

Our next run is to the Jodrell Bank Telescope in Cheshire on 11th October 2009, and all are welcome fo course. Please contact Dr Bryan Jones on Bedabrammerjones@aol.com or telephone 0161-483 7121

Report and Photos by Andrew Davies