Breaking News: Iconic Rolls-Royce 100-Year-Old Classic Recovered After Being Stolen in Essex
In a development that will excite classic car enthusiasts and others alike, a priceless Rolls-Royce 100-year-old classic car, celebrated by its owner as “irreplaceable,” has been successfully recovered following a dramatic theft in the British county of Essex. The Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost was stolen on June 26 while its owner, 82-year-old Brian Fitton, slept at the Four Star Hotel Orsett Hall. The car, valued at £300,000, was en route to Helsinki and the Baltic states.
Public Campaign and a Reward Yielded Results
A widespread public campaign coupled with a £2,000 reward led to the vehicle’s recovery. A young boy spotted the car inside an old shed and alerted his father, who had been following the news. “The car was found intact,” Fitton confirmed, breathing a sigh of relief. “The vehicle survived Hitler and World War II, and now it has survived a trip to Essex. I’m delighted it has been recovered.”
Historic and Irreplaceable
The Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost, originally bought by Fitton through a Bonhams auction, is a cherished piece of history. Fully restored and brimming with “irreplaceable” parts, it retains its original “Spirit of Ecstasy” figure on the grille. Fitton, a passionate classic car enthusiast, has traveled extensively with this beauty through Europe, visiting countries like France, Italy, Poland, Germany, Portugal, and Spain.
A Blow Mitigated
The theft was especially painful for Fitton as it occurred just before the car was due to be shipped from Tilbury docks to northern Europe. “It was simply terrifying that it was stolen in Essex,” he expressed. The owner’s sentiment resonates deeply, given the significant reduction in vehicle thefts in Essex, relative to the past year.
Protecting Our Vehicles: Tips from Experts
Vehicle theft can be a traumatic experience for owners, said Shaun Kane, superintendent of Essex Police, who commended the efforts in reducing such crimes. “The theft of vehicles is not a crime without victims. It causes real anguish to the owners and disturbs their daily lives and businesses,” Kane noted. Here are some practical tips to keep your vehicle safe:
- Always lock your doors and roll up your windows.
- Park in well-lit areas and consider using anti-theft devices.
- Never leave your keys in the ignition or in the car.
- Consider a GPS tracking system.
The recovery of such a historic and irreplaceable vehicle is a testament to the power of community involvement and persistent efforts. Brian Fitton expressed his gratitude to the boy who found the car and hoped the reward would serve as a source of inspiration. “I hope the reward is a small fortune for the young man who found him, and that he understands what doing the right thing in life is worth it,” Fitton said.
For more on this breaking news story and future updates, stay tuned to archyde.com for the latest on classic cars and auto theft.
