Well, guys, it is that time of year again, Christmas is just once a year but does seem to occupy a longer period than any other as we look to what we want “Santa” to surprise us with or what we have to somehow get that extra special surprise for our loved ones and family, you would think with technology it would be easier but not so it just means the opportunity to explore a greater number of possibilities to hint at as a possible surprise present – well we have made it easier for our readers with our Xmas gift section, yes really, an open magazine at the appropriate page and left in full view could do the trick, “best of luck” with that.

As Christmas is a time to give thanks therefore as Andy and I are approaching the completion of our first full year with Retroford as Co-Editors and would like to thank the many Clubs and people we have come to know along the way in hopefully bringing you a magazine that you enjoy reading, we like to involve you in what we would call “our “ magazine.

So, what have we got for you in this issue, rallying with the Woodpecker and Round 7 of the British Historic Rally – Steve Saxty, writer of the “Cars you promised yourself “ and “Secret Fords” has given us an insight into the development of the Escort MKII “Brenda”, this is a very interesting read. Hot Rods still feature with their thrilling encounters. Readers Cars and Projects are a regular feature, so keep them coming, as are the Main Features, and we have a great couple of cars this month with a Zakspeed Tribute and a Sapphire 4×4. If you are following the “Not 2 Grand” story, we have Part 4, and things are moving on nicely with it. As to events, we have the Tennants Car Storage Yorkshire and Retroford Meet report and a Club Review featuring the Probe Owners Club. Something a bit different is an article by and involving Sarah Crabtree, “Driven Women,” a campaign highlighting the lack of women in the motorsport and automotive industry. This will certainly not be all we hear about how this is progressing, and obviously, we will always be interested to hear about women in motorsport.

Merry Christmas from

ANDY ELLIS & JOHN WAIDE

Co-editors.