Book launch tells the story of the 'Rochdale' Car

The 'Rochdale' Car

A book about the history of the 'Rochdale' Car will be launched at Touchstones Rochdale on Saturday 1 November between 11am-2pm. There is the chance to meet the author, Les Brown, who is the Secretary of the Rochdale Owners Club.

As an owner of a number of various Rochdale models this is a labour of love and a valuable record of an important part of Rochdale's industrial heritage as it tells for the first time, the complete story of Rochdale Motor Panels and the cars they produced.

Les will be there to sign copies of his book and members of the Rochdale Owners Club will be bringing along examples of the Rochdale cars for all to see. Many will remember the cars for taking pride of place outside the Town Hall on the day of the Olympic torch relay.

The book, Rochdale – Sports Car Pioneers, will be available to buy on the day but all are welcome to come along just to take a look at the cars and remember the old days when the Rochdale led the way in British sports cars.

The Rochdale was a fibre glass sports car made and developed by Rochdale Motor Panels between 1948 and 1973. The company was funded by Frank Butterworth and Harry Smith in a mill on Hudson Street and are best known for producing the Olympic Coupe between 1959 and 1973. By 1985, all F1 cars were built around composite monocoque shells – the Rochdale led the way having had theirs in 1959. Compared favourably against Blackpool's TVR and even the Porsche, the Rochdale forged a reputation for quality products and breathtaking design.

Julian Jefferson, Head of Arts and Heritage at Link4Life said: "The books tells a fascinating story of both the car and the company that made it. We are delighted to have been able to invite the author along to Touchstones for the official launch and are looking forward to welcoming him here in Rochdale."

Entry is free.