RIP Frank Collins Fairthorpe `works` driver.

[kartman24]

I am sorry to have to report the death of my father Frank Collins who was known to several members of this forum. He passed away peacefully in hospital on Wednesday after a battle with cancer and more latterly lung fibrosis bought on by the chemotherapy. Dad started competing with the Harrow Car Club in the mid 50s with a Frazer Nash BMW, taking part in rallies, autotests and races including the annual 8 clubs meeting at Silverstone. He moved on through various cars including a BMW 700, Jowett Jupiter, Fairthorpe Electron Minor, Ford Anglia fitted with a Lotus Twin Cam, and an early Mallock U2. He won a few trophies over the years particularly in the Fairthorpe and the Anglia, he was one of the three original Fairthorpe `works` team drivers along with Peter Butt and John Green. In the 70s he bought the ex-Westune Racing Ford Anglia and fitted a twin cam engine that he bought from his old friend John Green, who by then was building the Daren Sportscars. The Anglia was used to good effect in sprints and race meetings, again he became a regular at the 8 clubs event which he loved. Frank has been the Vice President of the Fairthorpe Sports Car Club for many years, a post he was most honoured to hold. I was lucky to be able to find and purchase the Fairthorpe he built and raced - registered 789 ERO - some years ago and restore it so he was able to enjoy doing a few Classic car runs in his later years, taking his last drive in it on a beautiful sunny afternoon only four weeks ago.
..................Martin Collins

[Russwhitehouse]

Is it me, or is it incredibly sad and indeed insensitive that no one has even had the courtesy to acknowledge this mans post on the loss of his Father? Anyone involved in our mutual passion at least deserves some recognition when they depart this mortal coil for pastures greener. Gents, we should all be somewhat ashamed.