David Brown Restorations

WHAT’S YOUR HISTORY?

Having been in the mechanical and engineering trades all my working life I started on my own 28 years ago, developing my hobby of restoring and repairing vintage and classic vehicles. This soon became the main business, attracting customers from all over the UK and Europe, and we currently employ 10 full-time staff. We’re still expanding and are now building new premises nearby. The extra capacity will allow us to develop the business further and into sales, etc.

WHAT’S YOUR RANGE OF SKILLS?

We’ve invested substantially, equipping our workshop to enable us to offer a full range of restoration, engine rebuilding and mechanical repair services. All aspects of coachwork, timber framing and panel work are completed in house, plus paintwork and refinishing. We also offer specialist engineering and one-off parts manufacture, and interior trim and weather equipment refurbishment and upgrades.

DO YOU HAVE A SPECIALISATION?

Rileys (such as the recently restored Riley Roadster top) are my personal favourite, as I’m active at club level and in the VSCC we’re quite well known. We also work on many Alvises, MGs and classic vehicles such as Jaguars and Astons.

WHAT’S IN THE WORKSHOP NOW?

Various Rileys, an Alvis, an MG and an Aston Martin DB5 undergoing a major restoration. We’re building a couple of Riley specials, and there’s also a pre-war Sunbeam in for major repairs. Nearing completion are a 2-litre Lagonda, a Lotus Cortina, a P1800 Volvo coupe and even a little Austin 10, all having had full restorations or major repairs.

WHAT PROJECTS ARE YOU PROUD OF? Everything we do. We always aim to duplicate all original details precisely and ensure our work is first class. The team shares the passion of the customer whatever the vehicle, from the most prestigious to the most humble.

GC was talking to David Brown
www.davidbrownrestorations.co.uk