Donation of a TA 14 Jensen Woody by Adam and Clare Gilchrist

Donation of a TA 14 Jensen Woody by Adam and Clare Gilchrist

In an effort to support the Heritage Skills Academy, long term member of the AOC, Adam Gilchrist has generously donated his TA14 Jensen Woody for the next generation of Vehicle Restoration Engineers, so they can experience and gain the knowledge and skills needed to keep these vehicles alive.

The AOC should really be thankful that we have among us, a number of philanthropic members that put their money where their mouths are. One such generous individual and long-term member is Adam Gilchrist who has donated a ‘barn find’ Alvis TA14 Jensen Woody to the Heritage Skills Academy based at Bicester. The purpose is to provide a suitable vehicle for Heritage Apprentices to receive instruction on the ‘type’ which, being a TA 14, typically covers both immediate pre & post war design elements. The expectation is that the vehicle will be continually upgraded, but not over-restored, by the Apprentices during their Block Release program and eventually to be a flagship for the Apprentices by being the ‘face’ of the Heritage skills Academy. It will also provide event publicity and act as the Academy tow car. It will also be a tangible advert for the Alvis marque by being regularly seen at various motoring events.

The vehicle, as found, was complete with a set of ‘new’ wings included in the deal. It has not been on the road for at least 28 years and the engine has not run in the last 12 twelve. The original Jensen built coachwork is in poor condition from terminal woodworm infestation. However, the engine turned and is now running with most mechanical systems in reasonable condition and working. Further evaluation is still to take place before a final decision is to be made for the next step. Progress will be recorded and reported in future issues of the Bulletin and possibly an ongoing feature available on the history section of the AOC website.

Video of the donated TA14 Jensen Woody

Owen Swinerd

October 2023.