Edward Hobson, an MG enthusiast and ex-seaman from Moretonhampstead had a visit from Torbay MG Owners Club (MGOC) in what can only be described as monsoon conditions on Sunday.
Tristan, Edward’s son, wrote to the MGOC head office asking if a local club could surprise his father, and Torbay MGOC branch duly obliged, turning up in the most dreadful weather with a dozen of their older TFs and Tds.
Out of all the classic cars, Simon and Sara Bennett’s TC took Edward’s eye, as he had a TB in the ’50s and did all his courting days in it. Edward recently lost his wife of 60 years, and Tristan thought he could do with a nice surprise.
Area secretary Alan Perrins said: ‘LYA 188 is the oldest car in Torbay MGOC, but that didn’t stop the old girl battling through the puddles of water climbing the hills across Dartmoor to come and visit Edward, who is 85 years young and very passionate about the MGs.
‘He went out for a run in Simon’s car, with the top down all the way despite the rain. He said as an old sailor he wasn’t worried about a bit of water!’
Yvonne Daniels, organiser from Torbay MGOC said: ‘We were only too happy to help and make Edward’s day – apart from the weather it was a great afternoon out!’
The club members are hoping the weather will be better for their summer highlight – the Giant Pasty Run.
On the August bank holiday weekend more than 100 MGs are expected to meet for a scenic tour around Devon, and then park up on Teignmouth sea front to munch on pasties from the town’s Mini Heaven Bakery.
Jamie Theobald, club chairman, said: ‘We are a great friendly club, always willing to help others, and new members are always welcome to join us at Dainton Golf Club, Newton Abbot on the first Thursday every month. Find us on Facebook @torbaymgoc.’