Interesting Postcards

1972 Outspan Orange

The National Motor Museum

Beaulieu, Hampshire

'Outspan commissioned six of these advertising vehicles in the early 1970s and they were used extensively both in this country and abroad. The engine of the car is from a Mini, though a specially fabricated chassis is used'. 

I'll bet this provided a fantastically embarrassing driving experience, as well as causing whiplash injuries wherever it went as heads snapped around to watch its progress. My only comparable experience is from when I was in the village of Bournville and a Cadburys Creme Egg car from nearby 'Cadbury World' drew up alongside us at the lights. It was the only time in my life when I have literally rubbed my eyes in disbelief. I was so shocked, in fact, that I had to pull over for some chocolate. 

Interesting Postcards

Ullapool Mercury Motor Inn,

Rosshire, Scotland,

Telephone: Ullapool 2314

Ah, Ullapool, gateway to the Outer Hebrides.  If you should miss the Isle of Lewis ferry, however, you can always stay the night at the Mercury Motor Inn* although please be aware that getting pissed on Youngers Tartan Ale the night before can seriously impair your sea going experience.

* Please note: this hotel is now called the Morefield, and its number is 01854 612161.

Interesting Postcards

The Viking Ship and Hovercraft,

Pegwell Bay,

Ramsgate,

Kent.

At first this looks like a tremendously exciting race between three very different modes of transport with, ironically, the most archaic just in the lead. Then you realise that the Maxi and the longboat are parked, so the hovercraft is going to wipe the floor with them. I travelled to France on a hovercraft once. As I recall it was like riding a spinning washing machine over a ploughed field. They look great though, don't they? And so much faster than stationary vehicles.