Motoring history 76 years in the making as classic car finds its way back to original Hendy dealership

A classic car is back home at the Hampshire dealership where it was first sold 76 years ago after a recent auction.

The 1949 Ford Anglia E494A, originally sold by Percy Hendy Ltd, was returned to the family-run Hendy Group after featuring in South Western Vehicle Auctions’ (SWVA) autumn classics auction in Poole last October.

Purchased for £319, 16s and 8d by its original owner, Mrs L Cull, the car came with a full suite of documentation – including registration papers, purchase invoice, warranty, official handbook, logbook and even correspondence with the dealership’s salesman.

The provenance caught the attention of the media, sparking interest from the Hendy family, who continue to operate over 60 dealerships across the South.

Jo Legg, Sales Director for SWVA, said: “I received a call from Rebecca Hendy, who had seen the article online and wanted to register interest in the auction.

“During our conversation, she shared fascinating stories about the Hendy family’s history, including how Percy Hendy established the UK’s first British Ford dealership in 1910 after being sent by his father to greet American business magnate Henry Ford, the founder of the Ford Motor Company at Southampton docks.”

Paul Hendy

Moved by the connection, Paul Hendy, now chief executive of the group, decided to participate in the auction.

Their successful bid brought the historic vehicle back into the Hendy fold.

Paul’s wife Rebecca, who chairs the Hendy Foundation, added: “My husband represents the fifth generation of the Hendy family in the business, and our three children, the sixth generation, are all involved too.

“When we learned about the car’s history, we knew it was something we had to pursue.

“The outpouring of support from friends and customers was heartwarming, and we’re thrilled to have secured this remarkable vehicle.

“After a service and valet, it looks spectacular once again.”

The Hendys have yet to decide on where the car will be showcased, but hope it may be within one of their Southampton or Portsmouth showrooms.

SWVA’s winter classics auction takes place on Thursday 30 January, bringing 50 classic vehicles to their auction house in Holton Heath, Poole.

• swva.co.uk
• hendy.co.uk