A design change

Having dropped Danny back at Salty Towers we returned to Westmead and began to loosen all the odd bits from the tub before removing the paint: the roll bar, seat belts and other assorted scrap parts. We are constantly revising our approach to the renovation by detailed modification, which should with any luck improve the cars’ appearance and construction. This was one of those moments that may potentially correct an on going problem; the fitting of the bonnet to the engine side panels. I suggested that by using a moulded rubber strip instead of the aluminium extrusion the two components would blend together seamlessly in a much more aesthetically compatible way. Chris enthusiastically agreed, immediately forgiving me for all the mis-sized screws, bolts and general poor workmanship that I had originally, clumsily plus extensively demonstrated on the car.   

For the first time we are torn between working late on the car or going to the Oak as usual.

Arriving at the Oak we were met by Carlos, Hippie drummer Alan and Jimmy the Axe, it is probably very easy to guess why Jimmy is called the Axe, suffice to say it involves his wife and a neighbour, no other detail is required. They were waiting for Andy Lewis, the bass player, before they moved on for their weekly rehearsal of their band, “The Awkward Squad”, again no explanation necessary. Along with various musical instruments they were also laden down with carrier bags packed with Stella and Guinness. They are improving as a band but I would not like to be around towards the end of rehearsal after the drink as kicked in. I would suspect that it may sound like a fire in a pet shop.

The ‘Hamon’ remained on the bar from last night but it was quickly accompanied by cured sausisse, pickles, chillies, olives and cheeses. This is the Doc’s way of pay back to Dave for bringing the ham from Seville as well as giving the guys in the vault an excuse for another splendid social evening grazing on excellent grub. It didn’t take long for the rest of the vultures in the pub to swoop on the tasty pickings. There is one very tall bloke who always claims that he is not very hungry yet still manages to clear any plate. I vividly remember one occasion when he repeatedly returned to scoff a full tray of gambas, with the feeble excuse that, it would be a shame not to consume them whilst they were still hot. My arse, he is just a greedy but polite bastard.