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More than 50 years of Triumph car production in Coventry came to a quiet
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Memory Lane
More than 50 years of Triumph car production in Coventry came to a quiet
More than 50 years of Triumph car production in Coventry came to a quiet and un-ceremonious end today when the last Spitfire left the No 1 track at Canley. Although most of the Spitfires were left-hand drive models, the last sports car- a yellow spitfire with a detachable hardtop - was significantly a British specification version which could well end up among BLs collection of historic cars. the Spitfire was first launched in October 1962, and 276, 459 have been made. BL made no public fuss at todays sad end to car assembly at Canley. They refused us permission to photograph the men finishing the final car, but allowed us to visit the factory last night after the men had finished their shift. But the men got the message over. On two pieces of cardboard stuck to the last Spitfire were the messages: " Give back jobs, Michael" and " The End."
25th August 1980
Coventry Telegraph Archive
Mirrorpix
Coventry
West Midlands
England
Media ID 21577564
© Mirrorpix
Assembly Line Coventry Factory Motor Industry Motor Vehicles Spitfire Sports Car Track
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End of an Era - Triumph Car Production in Coventry Comes to a Quiet Close
EDITORS COMMENTS
. In this poignant photo print, we witness the bittersweet moment when over 50 years of Triumph car production in Coventry reaches its unceremonious end. The last Spitfire, a vibrant yellow sports car with a detachable hardtop, rolls off the No 1 track at Canley, marking the conclusion of an iconic era. As we delve into the details surrounding this historic event, it is revealed that most Spitfires were left-hand drive models; however, this final masterpiece proudly represents British specifications and may find its place among BL's collection of esteemed classic cars. Interestingly, despite the significance of this occasion for both workers and enthusiasts alike, BL chose not to make any public fuss about today's somber milestone. They denied permission to photograph the men completing their final creation but allowed access to the factory after their shift had concluded. Yet even without explicit words or grand gestures from management, these dedicated workers found a way to convey their message loud and clear. Two pieces of cardboard affixed to the last Spitfire bear powerful statements: "Give back jobs, Michael" and "The End". This evocative image captures not only the physical end of an assembly line but also serves as a testament to an entire industry's transformation. As we reflect on this snapshot frozen in time on August 25th, 1980 - amidst factory walls filled with memories - we are reminded that change is inevitable but never devoid of emotion or impact.
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