"Photographed at a vintage car run in Lancashire, UK, circa 1968."

"I think the photo is March 1959 although the date of printing appears to be March 1960. I am the young one at 14 years and the other is John Ambrose who owned many Bentleys at that period. The car was with him for repairs of some sort.

The one taken with flash, although not very good does show the number plate which in the original photo (left) is rather more difficult to see. I will endeavour to have a much better copy taken for you but do not 'hold your breath' as this might take some time for me to get round to it."

"Still standard in appearance, and very largely in specification, KR 7989 was one of the last 4½s to be built: first registered December, 1930."

About photograph on right:
"What, no BDC badge? But Gurney Smeed (left), the Bentley's owner, is an active member. Bill Short (right) who mothers KR 7989, has some of the finest vintage Bentleys in captivity including the ex-Marker Bentley-Jackson, which he hopes to convert to a road car."

The first 25 production Supercharged 4½ Litre cars where Chassis Nos. SM3901-SM3925, all with "smooth-case" blowers. The next 25 were Chassis Nos. MS3926-MS3950 and had "rib-case" blowers.

Production Blower Bentleys had handbrake handles made from rectangular stainless steel, whereas the five 4½ litre race cars for Tim Birkin had the "H" section handle, but were drilled for lightness.