Producing a page called “about us” is somewhat like employing  “the Royal We” as “WIZARD classics” is a trading name for myself as a sole trader, occasionally assisted by a select group of friends and family members.
I first became interested in Rootes cars in the 1950s when my father bought his first car a Mark 7 Hillman Minx. This was followed in 1959 by a new Minx (a series IIIA) on which I learned to drive, later to be superceded by a Super Minx, Humber Sceptre and a Hillman Hunter. My own past Rootes Cars have included three from the Imp range - a Mark I, Mark II deluxe and a Sunbeam Stilletto, a series V Minx, three Sunbeam Alpines (all series Vs), a series I Husky and a couple of Sunbeam Talbot 90s. My current fleet comprises a 1965 Sunbeam Alpine series V and a 1971 Hillman Hunter GL automatic. In the mid 1990s, I obtained A Hillman Husky, rekindling my interest in Rootes vehicles after a few years in the wilderness. Unfortunately in 2002 I suffered a stroke leaving me with little or no use in my left arm and leg,, so now I can only drive a vehicle with an auto box, thus I bought the Hunter. The Alpine actually belongs to my wife and  is still in the “final”throes of an engine transplant.

Prior to the stroke I had started on a project scanning the manuals and parts lists for my own cars and those of friends. After the stroke, unable to continue with my previous work, this project was extended and became my raison d’etre which has gradually evolved into a business , also incorporating the other related activities detailed on  this site.

My engineering skills are mainly self-taught, although I am qualified in Electrical, Electronic and Electro-mechanical Engineering, which means that, unlike some extremely able Mechanical Engineers, automotive electrics present no worries to me. (Watch out in the future for my guide to automotive electrics).

Peter Chadbund
May 2008

To see information about my other design/I.T. Work click here (opens in a new window)