The Lotus Grand Tourers

Sad news, I had the pleasure of meeting Olly several times at the NEC when he visited the stand. He was always very approachable and happy to discuss his long and varied career. A true gent.

Our family of cars are hugely significant in the history of Lotus, taking the company into new markets and seeing the business through some very tough times. Olly's styling input was a big part of that story, and it must have given him some satisfaction to see the wedge design gaining more fans in recent years as classics from the 70s and 80s have grown in popularity.

Best wishes to his family

John

Where did Oli live, I was thinking (I know thats dangerous) if we cant do a sound off for him what about having a national memorial meet up near to where he lived when things settle down to show his family the regard that we all had for him.
Bash

I don't know, but I'd be up for such a meeting.
Tony

Norwich way, but his sister lives in south Leicestershire, so not sure which end would be suitable.

I know the local pub at his sisters where he spent a lot of time in the last few years. Might be a lockdown release meet point?

Definitely if there is the opportunity to form an honorary parade we should do it.

Cheers Richard

Count me in sounds like a good idea
Bash

I would be up for this also - it would be a great salute to him.

Likewise I would also up for some form of send off at the right time.

I have a fond memory of him signing his book for me. He asked me what I wanted written with the autograph at donnington festival. I replied “I am just a simple man write what you wish”

Oliver proceeded to sign the book with dedication “to a simple man with regards”

igg-hiss wrote: Sat Nov 14, 2020 18:39 Likewise I would also up for some form of send off at the right time.

I have a fond memory of him signing his book for me. He asked me what I wanted written with the autograph at donnington festival. I replied “I am just a simple man write what you wish”

Oliver proceeded to sign the book with dedication “to a simple man with regards”

Love it!

BTW. on the point of the right time, how about early spring?
In my book there is something even more special about respect served cold.

Here is a great tribute to Oliver from Mike Kimberley on the Lotus Cars blog:

https://media.lotuscars.com/en/blog/oli ... -2020.html

igg-hiss wrote: Sat Nov 14, 2020 18:39Oliver proceeded to sign the book with dedication “to a simple man with regards”

He signed mine "Keep Excelling"!

I would be up for some kind of memorial get together. If it involved Oliver's favourite pub then all the better!

Id be up for the springtime meetup but I suppose we will have to hope current events dont continue, it will no doubt have to be socially distanced.... if thats possible. I went on a couple of local drives with my local motor club after the last lockdown which were centred around being outside at the end of a local scenic drive ( yes there are some in south yorkshire / lincolnshire ), usually in the car park with some rehydration from the pub. Perhaps that would work
Bash

Oliver’s funeral is at 12.00 midday on Thursday 3 November at Wymondham Abbey. Unfortunately it is the last day of lockdown so the restriction of 30 guests applies. I have been invited to attend and will be representing the club.

I hope to go in my Elite and have looked into the possibility of having more cars there but apparently vehicular access around the Abbey is limited. The family may decide to hold a memorial service next year once all the current silliness is over, so that would be a good opportunity.

Following the suggestions made here, maybe we should inaugurate a ‘Winterbottom Run’ to be held each year on or around an appropriate date - maybe ending up at Wymondham with 2 or 3 rendezvous points serving different parts of the country. All ideas welcome!

Cheers, Richard

He means December, of course!

Pete