Alvis

When Alvis moved to Walsgrave Triangle, they started a division called Alvis Fenestration. This division made window frames from solid bronze extrusions that were used in the New Parliament Building. It was said that it would have been cheaper to hang a new Mercedes in the spaces instead of the completed frames.

Just to tell you I have written a biography of GT Smith-Clarke: 'Coventry, Alvis and the Iron Lung'. I recently spoke about him to the Coventry Society. A great man, sadly not honoured by his country.

Coventry Observer article about foxon's book.

As a pupil of Woodlands School in the 60s, I was in Smith-Clarke House. We were made aware of what contributions Capt Smith-Clarke had made to improve the health of others

A good capture of the old works - probably late 70's. There are surprisingly few of that spot from the era. I know we have some of Bridge Clock Motors on the Garage thread but I'm still yet to see a good shot including the petrol station that was opposite (just visible on the very right edge here). I used to look down on all this from the upstairs front left window of the no.23 on our weekly way in to town.

A smashing photo. I always like trying to work out the date of these photos from any vehicles in frame. My eyesight isn't as good as it was, but I think the estate car parked parallel to the Ford Escort van might be an Mk2 Vauxhall Astra. This car came out in 1984. I was trying to work out what the car is parked next to the SWB Land Rover. I think it might be a Metro or a Maestro, but I can't quite tell. The five door Metro came out in 1984 too. Can anyone with better eyesight help with identifing the cars?

I reckon it's a 5 door Metro which was launched October '84.

Good spots, gents.

Must be before 1990 because it was demolished then. Walked many times along the Chain Gardens behind the building to grandad's in Spon End.

Incidentally, those cobbles outside what is now the BMW dealer are still there today.

Any ideas where this might be and, importantly, what they are hiding on the trailer?

Not sure on that one currently, Ben, but they did make chopper engines, so Baginton possibly?

The airport is a good shout, looking at the space around them. I haven't come across a second image with another angle but if I do, I'll bear that in mind.

It's a 2 seater Slingsby Glider

Absolutely amazing, Annewiggy. Did you spot it right away?