Date first registered 13/05/1970: Registration DPG 290H: Original invoice of sale from Dagenham Motors Ltd FORD Main dealer. Extras Seat belts, wing mirrors, overriders under sealing. Total price £1123 7s 15p also in total a price full tank petrol £3 1s 9p.

This classic Cortina 1600E was part of a private collection owned by a local business man in Hastings. I was informed by a friend that the car was up for sale and that I was looking for one. I had always wanted a 1600E. He had owned the car for 22 years, and only covered 1000 miles in that time, the car has only 69000 miles to date with all old MOTs and TAX discs. In 1980 it was re-painted totally by Coombs motors of Western Road, St Leonard's in Carnelian red, I purchased the car as a retirement project and needed to occupy my time. The engine & gearbox was removed, then the engine bay could be degreased cleaned and prepared for Steve Parker at Ninfeild Autos to paint in the new colour. Ancillary items were then removed to be cleaned. Then it was my job to repaint engine and all other parts. Engine rebuilt with all new gaskets and new set of nuts and bolts, gearbox overhauled and repainted fly wheel & ring gear along with new clutch assembly, gearbox mountings all replaced with new parts. Rear brake cylinders replaced new brake shoes fitted. Front callipers rebuilt with new pistons, seal kit and brake pads, new brake pipes, new stainless steel exhaust, wheels refurbished shot blasted etch primed and re-sprayed. Engine & Gearbox re-fitted at home along with flushed, repainted radiator, cleaned, polished, grill lights and headlight bezels. With the help from my Wife. It is a fine example and originality. I have thought of changing it back to its factory colour light orchid however, most people comment on the colour and seem to prefer it as it is at the moment.

Phil & Gaynor Lewry.