1952 Humber Pullman MkIII 4.1-Litre Shooting Brake
Registration no. FJT 535 (not registered with DVLA)
Chassis no. A9000722HXO
Engine no. 8060584

It is understood that this interesting car was despatched as a chassis on 5th September 1951 to Humber distributors, Messrs Holmes & Smith of Westcliff-on-Sea, Essex. The original purchaser's identity remains unknown despite research by previous enthusiastic owners over the years. However, the chassis was clearly despatched to Tilleys of Kings Road, Dorchester, long established motor dealers and coachbuilders, with a brief to design and construct the distinctive Shooting Brake body with opening tailgate. The coachwork's construction was clearly a major project for Tilleys, and the car was not first registered until 12th September 1952, one year and one week after despatch from the factory. Distinctive and typically period features are the bench seats front and rear (accommodating six passengers); the sliding side windows; and a large luggage carrying area to the rear. Accessed by a horizontally split rear door, this load carrying area is eminently suitable for transporting the shooting party's guns and picnic hampers.

The car is finished in the beige colour scheme so favoured by Humber and which was chosen by Dinky Toys for their Humber Woodie model of the 1950s. Although its early history has not been recorded, it is noted in a previous auction description on file that this car was in preservation in the hands of R Neilson of Coventry in the 1970s; later belonging to a Captain J R Hubbard of Banbury from 1979 to 1986; and subsequently (in 1987) to B G Midgley of Southwell. The car later enjoyed a brief sojourn with a major collector in the USA before the previous owner tracked it down and repatriated it.

Acquired by the owner at Bonhams' Harrogate sale in November 2008 (Lot 624), it has since been on static display. At that time it was stated that tax discs on file indicated continued use in the UK between 1994 and 2000, while MoT records indicated that the car had covered only 1,500-or-so miles in the period 1976 to 2002. Unfortunately, it appears that these records have since been mislaid. The only paperwork available now consists of copies of the 2008 auction invoice, and a scan of an overseas title. Having been on static display since its purchase in 2008, the Humber will require recommissioning prior to road use. The ideal family car - or support vehicle - for the annual pilgrimage to the Goodwood Revival Meeting.

Please note that if this vehicle is to remain in the UK, it will be subject to Import VAT at the reduced rate of 5% on the hammer price. It will also require a NOVA (Notification of Vehicle Arrival) and an additional fee of £250 (plus VAT) will be charged on the Invoice to prepare the NOVA. If you have any questions regarding customs clearance, please contact the Bonhams Motorcar Department or our recommended shippers.