When we worked like a Trojan car

11:07am Wednesday 1st May 2002

A new trust dedicated to a series of vehicles made exclusively in Croydon has been formed in a bid to establish a museum devoted to the cars, vans and machinery made by Trojan Ltd.

The Trojan Museum Trust is aiming to honour the Croydon-produced vehicles made in the borough for more than 60 years by collecting photos, documents and artifacts to eventually use in a museum showcasing the company and its achievements.

Trojan made their first car in 1910, which the Trust now owns, and continued to produce cars and vans right up until the early 1970s.

Starting with simple two-stroke vehicles, they were the first to fit diesel engines into small vans in the 1950s then went on to make Bubblecars, sports cars and McLaren racing cars.

Trojan's reputation is so synonymous with Croydon that it's products have been used to represent the town in various events.

Most recently, Croydon Council used the company's famous Bubblecar to symbolise the town in the official city status bid launch last September.

The Oxfordshire-based Trust is made up of enthusiasts who believe that Trojan made a significant contribution to the history of the motoring industry.

Trust spokesman David Hambleton explained: "Trojan made a very wide range of vehicles including vintage half-track military vehicles and RAF tenders as well as scooters, tractors and even camp beds and saucepans.

"They were a varied company and, unlike most British vehicle manufacturers, are still going today although they have ceased to manufacture."

The Trust is appealing for Heritage readers who remember Trojan, or former employees, to come forward with their memories, stories and photographs to assist them in their quest.

And they would also like help in tracking down rare machines and any other items which could one day be displayed in a museum.

For more details, or to enquire about the appeal for documents and photographs, contact David Hambleton on 01865 390124 or visit www.trojanmuseumtrust.org.

You can also write to the Croydon Guardian with your memories of Trojan in its heyday. Mark your letters Trojan Appeal' and send it to: the Heritage Page, 3rd Floor, 854 Brighton Road, Purley CR8 2UX.