1970 Triumph Herald 13/60 Convertible

Lot details
Registration No: WRH132J
Chassis No: GE56874CV
Mot Expiry: None

Used by Thora Hird in Last of the Summer Wine

Standard-Triumph launched the Herald in 1959 as a replacement for its ageing Standard 8/10 models. It bucked the trend towards moncoque construction by featuring a separate chassis to which the main tub was bolted. The one-piece front end folded forwards to provide optimum access to the engine and suspension, while all outer panels - including the roof - could be unbolted for easy repair. The design made for the ready adoption of alternative body styles and Saloon, Coupe, Convertible, Estate and Van derivatives were all offered during the model's 12-year reign, over which production numbers exceeded 300,000. The distinctive 'razor-edge' styling was the work of Michelotti. The Herald's final incarnation was the 13/60 introduced in 1967. The newly-styled front end was reminiscent of the Vitesse and the power increased to 61bhp courtesy of the engine being enlarged to 1296cc.

The Red 1970 Herald 13/60 Convertible on offer will be immediately familiar to the many fans of Last of the Summer Wine - the world's longest running sit-com that was screened by the BBC from 1973 to 2010. The Triumph belonged to Edie Pegden (played by the inimitable Thora Hird DBE); the wife of Wesley and mother of Glenda. It's fair to say that Edie was not a natural driver, taking three goes to pass her test and still struggling with the controls thereafter; blaming Wesley for 'moving things around' whenever the long-suffering Herald got the better of her. Edie and the car were written out of the series following Hird's death in 2003. We understand the Herald was extensively restored during 2005/2006 but has lain unused since. The vendor describes the engine and transmission as "good" when last run in 2006 and the coachwork, paintwork and interior trim as "good" now. A unique opportunity to purchase a true TV star.

PLEASE NOTE: We have been informed that the brakes on this vehicle do not work.