Porter Press International - HCVA Founding Partner Ltd
              
HCVA-T0076
            

How did you either start, or join the business?

In the 20 years leading up to 2005, I had written about 20 motoring books for publishers ranging from the smallest to the largest. Early in the decade, I had got to know Stirling Moss very well as he had become Patron of the International Jaguar XK Club my wife and I had formed in 1997. I had always wanted to take the next step and become a publisher, and when I discovered Stirling had wonderful scrapbooks this was the catalyst.

I suggested these would make great books and he said, and I quote, 'I think you're crazy, but OK'.

We co-wrote four Stirling Moss Scrapbooks and became close friends which was amazing for me as he had been my boyhood hero. The first one led to the Graham Hill Scrapbook and that led to the Murray Walker Scrapbook. Murray, who would become another close friend, was, like Stirling, amazingly supportive for many years with signing sessions at Goodwood and elsewhere.

What has been your proudest moment in work?

That is a tough one as I have been proud of every single book we have published. We have been short-listed for a lot of awards and won quite a few. Our titles are regularly Book of the Month in the leading magazines. Above all, I am immensely proud of the team who are, I firmly believe, the finest in motoring book publishing in the world – that includes those based in our office and those working remotely. We enjoy long-term relationships with some very special, extremely talented people and all credit is due to them.

In your opinion, why should HCVA members use your services?

We strive to produce the very finest motoring books with every member of the pre-eminent team contributing brilliantly whether that be as the author, editor, designer or those involved in marketing, event organisation, admin or even packing which is crucial to make sure the books arrive in perfect condition.

However, I am biassed. All I would ask is, please read the reviews by professionals and customers. They are our best adverts.

What is the most valuable lesson your work has taught you?

To try and be patient! Working to the standards to which we aspire is a slow process. I have always been in one hell of a hurry all my life and so the slowness of the process, even today after all these years, can be very frustrating. But doing it right takes time and producing the best possible book is our paramount aim.

What piece of advice about your work would you give your younger self?

Try not to stress over delays. I have failed, by the way!

What is your favourite car that you have owned - and why?

That is another tough one. I bought most of my cars in the '70s when they were worth very little. I still have most of them. It has been a long-term love affair – with rather too many mistresses!

They all have their individual qualities. First and foremost, I love driving them. That, for me, is what it is all about. I am not one for polishing; I prefer pressing on.

Over the years, I have often thought I should reduce the number, especially as I spend most of my time working and I don't use them as much as I should. Then I think, 'Well, I couldn't sell that one, and definitely not that one, and...' and so it goes on. Will sanity ever prevail? I rather doubt it. I am too emotionally involved with them.

What is your least favourite car that you have owned - and why?

I suppose probably my Lotus Cortina that I had in period as my, supposedly, everyday car. Many years ago, I was quoted in Classic & Sport Car as saying, 'I walked more than I drove it'!

What is a great example of a future classic in your opinion?

We have owned a 1990 Lotus Elan for many years, originally as an everyday modern. People don't realise how good they are: fibreglass body (so no rust), unbreakable engine, amazing roadholding, open top with a very clever hood, great heritage and, above all, it was created during General Motors' ownership of Lotus and so had to pass all their durability standards. So, not a typical Lotus!

Our current modern car is a John Cooper Works MINI Convertible which the first owner spec'd to a high standard. I want to keep it forever. Great fun, the performance is superb. I also love our two F-TYPES – the first Jaguars I have wanted to own since the E-type and very likely the last.

What has been your favourite ever classic car experience?

I have been fortunate to go on many tours organised by our XK Club and E-type Club, including one to St Petersburg, but my favourite has to be our Round Britain Coastal Drive, supporting Prostate Cancer UK. I had had 'it' and wanted to support the charity. I came up with this idea. We ran it annually for four years and between us (and I stress this was very much a team effort) raised a quarter of a million pounds.

It really was a win-win-win because much of the driving was stunning, it was a great way of using our cars on fantastic roads and it was supporting an important cause. Our aim was not only to raise funds but also awareness and the publicity achieved that. About 4,000 miles, it lasted 18 days and I did the whole circuit twice, once in my Italian Job E-type and once in my XK 120 Fixed Head.

The camaraderie was terrific and we even had participants from the USA and, as with many events, it spawned some great friendships.

Why did you join the HCVA?

My company joined because I think the HCVA's aims are vital to securing the long-term future of our passion. Henry Pearman is a great friend of mine and I know he has worked tirelessly and endlessly, together with other key people I respect, to get this off the ground. He has my full support and the HCVA should have the support of every motoring enthusiast.

What do you wish we had asked you but didn't? And what's the answer to that question?

Why have I had a passion for historic cars, and motor racing, for many decades? In part, because most modern cars are so boring, lacking personality or individualism.

Throughout my life, whether it be racing airships, as Chairman of the Sherlock Holmes Society, flying hot air balloons or everything else, I have tried to do something different. For me, classic and vintage cars are just an extension of that. Also, although I embrace and actually love all the modern technology, I live in the past – or try to!