Triple M Yearbook ’18

This is the first major reprint of the MG War Time Activities book and is now produced in glossy artwork paper complete with additional pictures and information. The book was originally produced after the War and given to some members of the work force as a memento of the great work they had done during the dark years of the Second World War. Originally the author was unknown, but due to a chance phone call from Peter Watson to the Club offering to donate some MG memorabilia, it was discovered that his Grandfather, George Propert, General Manager of MG during some of the war years, was in fact the author of the original book. This has now been credited to him and the reprint is now produced with the full permission of Peter.

For those who have not already read a copy of the photocopied reproduction, the book covers each year at the factory during the war. They had to deal with some insurmountable problems which the diligence of the workers and the initiative of management saw them through. An example of this was the building of the Albemarle fuselage (the main fuselage of a relatively unknown medium bomber). The time taken in testing all the circuitry took days, but due to the initiative of two radio technicians working at the factory, a test rig was built which not only cut the time to test the system, but did it far more accurately. This is just one example of how difficulties were overcome.

Britain’s most popular sporting marque, MG has emerged as one of a handful of British motoring names to survive into the 21st century. From the quintessential open two-seater MG Midget, through the booming post-war years and the emergence of MG as a provider of sports cars for the world, Jonathan Wood provides an in-depth analysis of the rise and fall of a motoring legend. Examining the various models in detail, the author covers the financial and corporate traumas which afflicted the company, its brief resurgence in 1995 with the release of the MGF and the final sad chapter which saw a British icon sold off to foreign investors. As production begins again at the Longbridge factory after a three-year hiatus, this is an informative and at times touching glimpse into the history of one of the world’s most recognisable sports cars.

Having this book in your pocket is just like having a real marque expert by your side. Benefit from the author’s years of MGA ownership, learn how to spot a bad car quickly and how to assess a promising one like a professional. Get the right car at the right price! Judged by many to be the most attractive MG ever produced, the MGA is not only good-looking, but also fun to drive, coping very well with modern traffic demands. In this book you will find advice on choosing the right model, and discussion about potential ownership costs. Practicality and comfort are considered, allowing you to assess suitability for touring, and issues of legality, originality and roadworthiness are also raised. With information for a quick and easy condition evaluation, leading if required to a more serious one with a unique marking system, plus 100 colour photographs, this is a must-buy for anyone thinking of purchasing an MGA. Features: * See through the eyes of experienced MGA owners, and bring 40+years of expertise to your search for the perfect MGA * Full coverage of all 1500, 1600 and Twin Cam roadsters and coupés * Where and how to buy an MGA * Advice on choosing the right model and condition * Key checks how to spot a bad car quickly * Comprehensive inspection guide * In-depth analysis of strengths and weaknesses * Discussion of desirable upgrades, as well as modifications to avoid * Market and value data predicts which models will become collectable * Details of club back-up and support organisations

Here, from the memories of many men and women, is an intimate account of what it was like to work in MG’s Abingdon factory.

From tea trolley to production line and from apprentice to manager, this book includes memorable events, romance, tragedy, humour, motorsport, and the lead up to factory closure.

MG was a home-grown concept that became an international success, bringing the small market town of Abingdon onto the global map. MG – Made in Abingdon recounts the inside story of the famous factory, recognising that the most important aspect of MG’s success was its team – the tea-boys and girls, the shop floor workers, the engineers and racers, the apprentices and management. From memories of the production line to recollections of racing incidents, the untold story of MG from the men and women who worked in the Abingdon factory is revealed for the first time in a book that is both nostalgic and historically important.

Period Covered:
1929-1980