Skoda Owners' Spring

Škoda Owners 215 - Spring 2016 Magazine of the Škoda Owners’ Club GB www.skodaowners.org

Contents25 years after the fall of the communist regime and the Contents 04 - Club News 14 - Millionth Octavia subsequent Volkswagen takeover of Škoda, we look 06 - Section Updates 14 - Your Škodas back this issue on what has been achieved in those 07 - Dear Editor 22 - Archiveyears. Few other brands in history have so successfully 08 - Events Calendar 24 - Technical managed the transformation that Škoda has gone 10 - Charity Update 27 - 25 Years of VW through. But then, no other brand is so Simply Clever! 11 - Club Shop 28 - Škoda Kodiak What are your thoughts on the past 25 years - write to 12 - Event Reports 30 - Motorsport us @ [email protected] Website Workings Closing date for the next issue:The website continues to gather a 20th July 2016lot of interest and publicity for the Commercial Advertisements: Commercial advertisements are accepted on request.Club, with a high rate of incoming While commercial advertisements are taken in good faith, the Club is not responsible for poor quality goods, or disputes that may arise between Clubtraffic, enquiries and members and advertisers. Commercial advertisements are only accepted at the discretion of the thememberships as a result of our Škoda Owners’ Club GB. For rates, please contact the Editor.website. Member’s Names and Addresses: The publication of the names and telephone numbers of correspondents inA growing number of members the Magazine is intended to allow other members to contact the writer. Asare choosing to renew online too such, these names and telephone numbers are privileged information andwhich offers quick, fast and must not be made use of for any other purpose.secure online payments via The Club does not share any personal details with any third parties.PayPal. Members can then also Any names and addresses held by the Club are pursuant to the Dataupdate their person details online. Protection Act 1998.We’re reaching the point of dealing with our first online renewals now Disclaimer:too and are still looking at the process and seeing how we can gather The Škoda Owners’ Club GB is in no way affiliated to Škoda Auto or anythe most efficiency from it. Stay tuned for updates. trading names therewith.The system is not without faults so I must thank everyone for their Copyright & Editorial Disclaimer:patience. If you do come across an error or fault please report it The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the various authors in thisimmediately using the “contact us” tab. magazine do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of the SOCGB or official policies of the SOCGB.We also have a new website to deal with enquiries: The author of each article published in this magazine owns his or her own words. The articles may be freely redistributed in other media and non- [email protected] commercial publications as long as the following conditions are met: Ÿ The redistributed article may not be abridged, edited or altered in any way without the express consent of the author. Ÿ The redistributed article may not be sold for a profit or included in another media or publication that is sold for a profit without the express consent of the author. Ÿ The articles in this magazine may be included in a commercial publication or other media only if prior consent for republication is received from the author. The author may request compensation for republication for commercial uses.2 www.skodaowners.org

Section contacts aCnludboOtfhfiecriaclsluanbdoCfofnictiaaclts The official magazine of the Hail stones welcomed me as I drove across the M42 Škoda Owners’ Club G.B. this morning. Radio 4 reported that this is the first timeFounded in 1962 by Roy Desborough we’ve had snow in the UK in April since 1981 - what global warming? Still, I’m sure Spring is here, and Published in February, May, August & November regardless of weather, the show season is warming up. Printed by: The Lavenham Group Whatever you do this Spring, make sure you’re at Škoda Owners' Club GB Stanford Hall on May 29th for Škodafest. Annoyingly I APT 3197 will actually be at work but the event promises to be bigger and better than ever before and I will be sorely Chynoweth House envious of everyone present! We’re fund raising for Trevissome Park BulliesOut too and hope to beat last year’s efforts. Find out more on page 10. Truro TR4 8UN You can also read about the new Škoda Kodiak (pg 28) which will introduce a 7 seater into Škoda’s range as well as being their first SUV. I’m looking forward National Committee Members to seeing one in person and I can see it being a popular model. Listening to the Škoda Executives, it would appear that this will also be the model which will Secretary: Mark Fisher showcase their hybrid technology too. All of which is a long way from where [email protected] 07956 283948 Škoda was in 1991 when VW began their relationship with Škoda (see page 27). Treasurer: David McKinney Looking even further back into history on page 22 Matt Gibbs takes us back to [email protected] 07969 223114 the first half of the 20th century to explore some past Škoda achievements. Unfortunately this will be the last article from Matt Gibbs as Archivist as he Editor: Rob Parker-Norman hands over the reigns to Rob Ormsby. Matt Gibbs has pioneered this role and [email protected] 07884030109 under his custody the Club’s archive has grown exponentially so we owe him a great debt. I hope he will continue to write for the magazine when time Webmaster: Mark Cook permits and I know that he will join me in welcoming Rob to the role. Rob has [email protected] 02476 225929 some exciting ideas and plenty of enthusiasm so expect to see the archive National Committee Member: Andy Morris continue to develop. Don’t forget to use the service if you have a query to answer or maybe you have some old Škoda memorabilia you’d like to get rid of [email protected] 07816 427723 - why not donate it to the Club archive? Ex-Officio Officers For our Facebook users I need to clarify some information about our page. The Club’s page is very successful and has over 3,500 members from around the Membership Secretary: Jill Burbidge world. The conversation is stimulating and varied and I am sure that everyone 36 The Court, Anderby Creek, Skegness, enjoys their time there. However, recently a spurious page has been created purporting to be the Škoda Owners’ Club GB. I can confirm categorically that PE24 5YQ 01754 871594 this page is not, in any way, associated with this Club. Moreover, the commentsFacebook Admin: Mark Cook / Łukasz Sochacki made on this fake page about our Club are wholly untrue and unfounded. Whilst we are working hard to resolve the situation at the soonest opportunity, [email protected] can I just stress to everyone to ensure that you’re posting on the correct page Features Editor: Rob Owen If you’re unsure, then just drop me a line and I can clarify everything for you. Our [email protected] page can be found at www.facebook.com/groups/skodaownersclub Advice on Spare Parts: Dave Mackelden I will close by thanking everyone for their help with the magazine and the 01553 675172 general running of the Club, particularly Graham Banks who has, once again, [email protected] stepped up to the mantle to ensure this magazine reached production. A top Technical Officer: Simon McDonald-Elliot effort! Thanks! [email protected] 07771 736822 *NEW* Club Archivist: Rob Ormsby R P-N [email protected] 07577988635 Section Reps South Coast Section: Paul Wyatt [email protected] 07871 920282 East Section: Peter Banham 01449 771824 S.K.O.D.A.S Section: Darren Fawcett [email protected] 07966 176087 South-West Section: Colin Iles [email protected] 01722 711280 Yorkshire Section: Janet Atack [email protected] 01924 781569 North-West Section: Ron Makin [email protected] 07572878422 skodaowners.org 3

Club News WRC Registrar In Memorandum: Elsie DawsThe Club has recently welcomed Heather GrenfellGraham Banks onto our list ofRegistrars. Graham specialises in It is with sadness that I amrecording, maintaining and restoring writing to advise everyonethe limited edition WRC models. If that Elsie Daws passedyou have an Octavia vRS WRC then away peacefully at her homeGraham would like to hear from you. on 27th February. Elsie had been unwell for someGraham Banks months but with [email protected] had managed to welcome the arrival of her first greatIf you would be interested in grandchild, which had givenbecoming a Registrar then please her great joy and comfort atget in touch with Mark Fisher. the end of a long and enjoyable life. Skill Shack Discount Elsie had been a member of www.skillshack.co.ukWith Skill Shack Practical Classics our Club since 1965 andhave created online tuition websitewith videos from car restoration along with her husband Kenexperts to give you the essentialskills you need to restore, maintain attended many of the Cluband improve your classic car.You can stream video courses from events over the years, evenany device, whenever you like andlearn at your own pace from the hosting one or two parties atcomfort of your own home orworkshop. The online courses her home. At hotelconsist of video classes anddownloadable bonus material, weekends she was often theproviding the step-by-step guidanceyou need to get the job done first to take to the dance floor Above & Below: Elsie was the life and soul of many anproperly. There are 12 courses tochoose from ranging from the Basics and was very fond of doing SOC partyof MIG welding to mastering classiccar electrics and learning how to the ‘Birdie dance’. Followingmake simple body repairsAs a club member you can save Ken’s death in 1994 Elsie25% on any full course (usuallypriced £29.99) – simply follow the continued to attend events,link above and use SOC25 at thecheckout. often with her sister Margaret. In December 1987 Elsie was elected as the Club’s Treasurer, a job she did for four years before standing down in December 1991. She was also very much involved with the South East Section too. It was Elsie that encouraged me to stand for the position of Vice Chairman in 1987, for which I will always be thankful. I have made many friends through being a member of the Škoda Owners’ Club, Ken and Elsie Daws were two of the best, it was a pleasure to know them. As per Elsie’s wishes, the Club sent a donation to her local hospice in recognition of her long support for the Club.Welcome to New Members A warm welcome to the following new and returning members:Howard Ellis Northallerton Marc & Jane Fisher FarnhamStephen WrenchDavid Allen Brighton Aidan Weatherill ManchesterJohn Fletcher Aberystwyth Ruth Johnson Dareham Wrexham Help to keep the Club database current by updating your car & address details. We use this information to know what cars ourmembers own and to ensure we are posting magazines to the correct address - it isn’t shared with any external organisations. To update your details, log into the website. (only applicable to members who joined via the website)4 www.skodaowners.org

Club NewsWarm Welcome for Committee in Swindon Rob Parker-NormanThe Committee met for the first quarterly meeting of 2016 Fish Brothers made the Committee most welcome andin March. The meeting was hosted by Fish Brothers provided a great meeting place for us to discuss theŠkoda, Swindon who recently joined the Club as a Retailer running of the Club. We also welcomed along Dave PickettMember. to the meeting who is hoping to help out with a role on the Committee. Dave brings with him years of experience and knowledge from his 30+ years of Club membership and we’re looking forward to putting his expertise to good use. If you would like to volunteer to join the Committee or take up a role within the Club, or to host a Committee meeting, please get in touch with Mark Fisher. All offers of help are greatly accepted! Our next meeting is expected to be in August.From L:R: Mark Fisher, Dave Picket, Rob Parker-Norman, Andy Morris following Connect with facebook.com/groups/ March’s Committee meeting the Club! Škodaownersclub/ @ŠkodaOwnersGB #Škodaownersclubgb www.Škodaowners.org 5% discount PayPal Donations for Club members!quote your mem. No. In recent years the Club has asked members to make donations when renewing When ordering! their subscriptions; either by sending in some stamps or increasing their payment slightly. These donations are welcomed by the Club and each one is very much appreciated. Should anybody wish to make a donation through PayPal then please visit the website and click on the donation button on the home page. www.skodaowners.org Hub Puller Hire Deposit: £30 Hire: £40 Payment by PayPal or cheque. Deposit returned upon safe return of hub puller. [email protected] 5

Regional News Section News North West East pennines to lend their assistance and a great time was had by all.Our Section started the year with the Škoda East AGM; 13th MarchTransport Museum of Manchester Our AGM was attended by 23 DM Keith is the biggest familyindoor show which was a great members and the usual agenda was owned Škoda dealership in the UKsuccess and a fantastic step back in followed including reports from and has been undergoing extensivetime for everyone present. Lookers Chairman and Committee members, building works on its many YorkshireManchester brought along a new events for 2016 and the election of sites including their original site inSuperb, Octavia Scout & Yeti to Committee members. The Committee Leeds. They have been sellingbolster our display. were re-elected enbloc. Škoda's since 1976 which is the Following the AGM we had a buffet exact year my S110L was firstWe have also supported the launch lunch and the usual raffle. “Are You registered and so brought back soof the brand new showrooms at DM Here” was won by Tony and many memories for Dougal andKieth York in March and DM Keith Margaret Holland. Angus Keith when we arrived for theLeeds in April. At the time of going to grand opening party. The intimateprint we are preparing for the Minature World, Wroxham; 10th April knowledge they both have of classicLookers Škoda Manchester dealer 18 members attended this event Škoda is amazing! Forget the usualday on 23rd April. We’ll let you know which consisted of various miniature things that you think with regardshow that goes. working model layous – mainly of \"Main dealers know nothing about railways. There was a large RWD Škoda cars\", these guys wereŠkodafest will be our next big event. scalextroc layout too. A Lego exhibit trained from the early days knowingWe will have fund raising items to contained 50,000 bricks! There were every single part with part numbershelp raise money for BulliesOut so also models from every James and what models had whatplease come and see us and help us Bondy fil, a list of the 100 top toys in problems etc. The time they spentraise some money. We also are a recent survey and an example of with us chatting about the old dayshoping to have our local dealers each,. After going round we had even on this very important andtravel with us too. lunch in the resturanyt and the raffle. busy night for them was a hugeOn the 26th June were hoping to “Are You Here” was not won. honour.stage a mini Škodafest at BurnleyTowneley Park - details on our Change of Date We lined our cars for the VIP guestsFacebook page or contact me The Cotton Music Museum event has to view our time warp of cars and([email protected]). been changed from Sunday 19th were treated to free drinks and aIn August we are running the Club June to Sunday 26th June. huge pizza. Also to thank us forstand at the Cumbria Classic Car coming Dougal had found some newShow on 21st August. We would like Peter Banham in the box tea mugs from the 1980sto do better than last year’s second in with the old Škoda logo on in blue, ashow club stand so watch this space. Yorkshire great gift for us Škoda geeks!All are welcome! A great night to open the brand newFinally we are excited to be hosting The Yorkshire Section were recently building with very welcoming andthe national AGM in September at invited to the opening ceremony of friendly people which can be quite aRRG Rochdale where we hope to DM Keith’s new dealership. The rare thing these days with so manysee all our friends from far and wide! North West section transversed the anonymous chain store style dealers. Ron Makin Rob Ormsby Below: Yorkshire Section members celebrate DM Keith’s new dealership opening.6 www.skodaowners.org

Dear EditorDear Editor, Felicia right up until his very sudden death at the age of 89.I’ve recently had real trouble having my 1975 S110Lregistered as a “historic” vehicle. You may recall that in I know how he looked forward to receiving your magazine2013 George Osborne moved the cut-off date for free and enjoyed reading the many interesting articles.historic Vehicle Excise Duty to 1 January 1974. In 2014,this was reintroduced as a rolling cut-off. Yours Faithfully,However, no one seems to have notified those with Mrs P Millsaffected vehicles that the effective date of the roll over is1st April, not the 1st January as you would assume. Mrs Mills, I’m sorry to read about your fathers passing. It gives me great pride in our Club that we offer suchI duly applied for VED exemption at the end of December satisfaction to our members. My thoughts are with you2015, taking my V5c to a local Post Office to have the at this terrible time. - Ed.status of the car changed to ‘historic’. I hoped to tax thecar without charge from 1st January 2016 but the Post Dear Editor,Office staff, competent though they were, could not makethe change. The Post Mistress didn’t understand why - Following the recent ‘dieselgate’ scandal, I wondered ifneither did I. you could offer any advice on my situation? I have a 2011 Octavia with the affected EA 189 engine.She sent off the V5c to the DVLA requesting the change.A couple of weeks later I received a letter from the DVLA As I understand it the software modification will reveal thestating that only vehicles manufactured before 1st TRUE emissions o the engine and NOT reduce them. TheJanuary 2015 qualify for the ‘historic’ tax class. I thought possible outcomes therefore are either a higher annualthat the DVLA had simply used the wrong standard letter road tax fee or an adjustment to the mixture of fuel to airbut when I spoke to someone at the DVLA he did not to produce a weaker mixture, thereby reducing emissions.mention the April roll-over date but instead lay the blame,curiously, at the manufacture date of my car. However this is addressed by VW, I fear that there will be, ultimately, a financial loss to the owner. I haven’t heardAs they cannot change the build date records without much from Škoda on matter but on the official Škodaevidence I asked Mark Fisher to help. He kindly emailed website VW state that compensation will be paid to USthe factory in Czech who confirmed almost at once that owners but NOT to UK owners. Certain UK owners willmy car was built on 25th August 1975. get a discount off VW and Škoda models upon their next purchase though.I then sent a copy of the email from Škoda confirm the As you can imagine I am not best pleased. I will keep youbuild date to the DVLA. Their reply again quoted the 1st informed with how I get on. Hope this helps,January 1975 date and also wrote that the email was notacceptable evidence to allow them to change the date of Julian Howarthmanufacture as it needed to be on official Club headedpaper. At the same time I, quite by chance, happened Jullian, I can understand why the ‘dieselgate’ scandal hasupon a copy of Classic Car Weekly from 10th February knocked your confidence in the brand. I can confirm thatwith a report about the change. It was only after reading there will be no changes to VED banding regardless ofhe report that I realised why my application for VED the outcome of the software changes. As far as I’m toldexemption had been turned down. the changes won’t negatively affect the performance of the vehicle, but that really remains to be seen by theThe Federation of British Historic Vehicle Clubs (FBHVC) owners who have the changes carried out. Already Ihave since told me that the rolling VED exemption has to have seen some very competitive offers to get people tobe confirmed each year by the Chancellor in his budget part ex their affected cars. Keep us posted. EDand it does not automatically change.This may explain why the saff at theDVLA did not know about it.By the time you read this I hope thatmy car will be classed as a ‘historic’vehicle, but I’m not holding my breath!I hope to be able to confirm as much inthe next magazine!Regards,Mike BensonThank you for the heads up Mike. I amsure you are not the only one who hasbeen caught out by this unclear pieceof legislation. Good luck, keep usupdated! - Ed.Dear Editor, Above: Mike Benson’s Škoda which he hopes will soon be historic!I’m writing to let you know that Send your letters to: [email protected] my father has recentlydied. He was still driving his Škoda skodaowners.org 7

2016 Events CalendarDate Event Location Info Newsham, Leeds8 Yorkshire Section meet May22 East Section meet Snettisham Meet in the farm carpark at 11am.29 Škodafest Stanford Hall Contact Peter Banham for more information.2-5 SALT 10 Sheffield Winteringham The Club’s premier event returns to Stanford Hall for 2016. Expect to12 Yorkshire Section meet Beaulieu Motor see a record number of Škodas turn up.18 Simply Classics @ Beaulieu Museum Entry price remains set by Stanford Hall at £8 per person, though this19 East Section meet Music Museum, does grant entry to the house grounds too.4 - 10 East Section Camp Cotton Raffle and fund raising activities will be taking place for BulliesOut. 10 Yorkshire Section meet Runction Pontefract June9 - 16 International Škoda Tour Sec, CZ Uxbridge This popular touring event for Cold War period vehicles. Based at17 Uxbridge Auto Show Wortley Hall you can expect to visit an array of unusual sites during the Helmingham Hall7 Estelle 40th @ Festival of Kirkburton weekend. See their website for more details and booking form. Classic & Sports Cars www.sovietautoluxurytours.org.uk20 Yorkshire Section Meet Wolds Way Lavendar at Winteringham, near Malton. Meet in the car park at 11am. Contact Paul Wyatt for more information and see their website, www.beaulieu.co.uk/events/simply-classics-and-sports-car/ Contact Peter Banham for more information. July Contact Peter Banham for more information. Join the Yorkshire Section at the Pontefract Liquorice Festival. Meet outside The Liquorice Bush pub in the Market Square for 11am. Further details are to be released in time but 2016 sees the Tour return to the Czech Republic for this week of grandiose Škoda celebrations. Limited spaces available! Family (& dog) friendly event with plenty to see and do. All Škodas welcome, contact Rob Parker-Norman for a ticket. August The Club will be celelbrating the 40th birthday of the Estelle at this fantatic event. Spaces are limited so get you place booked ASAP. All Škodas (& well behaved dogs) welcome. Contact Mark Fisher for info. Join the Yorkshire Section for lunch at The Foxglove in Kirkburton. Meet in the bar at 12 noon.22 Cumbia Classic Weekend Dalemain Expansive show in the North West - sunny weather not guaranteed! All welcome - contact Ron Makin of North West section for more information. Action packed, retro themed show. All kinds of modified retro cars with28 Retro Rides Gathering Shelsley Walsh active hill climb throughout the day. Tickets available from Show website; contact Rob Parker-Norman for a Show pass. www.retroridesgathering.com September11 Yorkshire Section meet Rufford Park Meet in the car park at 11am for this Yorkshire Section meet at Rufford Park, Nottinghamshire.11 East Section meet Parham Held at the Parham Airfield Museum. Contact Peter Banham for details.11 AGM RRG Škoda, Annual General meeting this year is being organised by the North West9 Yorkshire Section meet Rochdale section who have secured us a venue at their local retailer, RRG Škoda.16 Quiz & Games Day Grantham Turton The meeting will start promptly at 10am.11 - 13 Practical Classics National Classic Car Show NEC October3 Yorkshire Section Christmas Kirkburton Yorkshire Section meeting at the Downtown Garden & Shopping Centre Meal Stowmarket in Grantham. Meet in the Garden Centre car park at 11am.4 East Section Christmas meal East Section Quiz & Games day - much fun to be had. Plese contact Peter Banham for more information. November The biggest event in the country for fans of classic cars. David Mackelden will once again be organising a stand for the Club. If you’re interested in displaying your car, please get in touch with Dave before the end of June. December Yorkshire Section Christmas lunch hosted at The Foxglove in Kirkburton. Meet in the bar for 12:30. Christmas celebration with East section at Cedars Hotel in Stowmarket. Contact Peter Banham for more information.8 www.skodaowners.org

Škodafest 2016What?The Škoda Owners’ Club GB’s premier annual event is setto place on Sunday 29th May this year. Set in the majesticgrounds of Stanford Hall, the annual Škodafest offers anexcellent opportunity for owners and fans alike to meet,swap stories and admire the cars on display. With agrowing number of cars attending year on year the event,open to Škodas of all ages, has become a focus event inthe calendar of all Škoda owners. The Club also welcomesCold War Era vehicles.When? this is £8 per person, to be paid at the gates upon arrival. There are no card machines so remember to bring cash. Sunday 29th May 2016.Gates open at 10am and the show will continue until 4pm.Where? RaffleStanford Hall is centrally located in Leicestershire, just 4 Building on the success of last year’s charity raffle, we willmiles from Lutterworth, LE17 6DH. Stanford Hall is be seeking to raise even more this year for our nominatedconveniently located close to the M1/M6/A14 Catthorpe charity, BulliesOut. Raffle tickets can be bought on the dayInterchange. The show itself takes place in the stunning and all of the Committee members will be collectinggrounds of the house, with the cars displayed on the lawn donations for the charity too.and the lake as a picturesque backdrop. The Club welcomes any raffle prizes. If anyone would like to donate a prize, please email ahead to the ClubTickets Secretary Mark Fisher ([email protected]).The Club doesn’t charge for this event, but you will need topay for entrance into the Hall’s grounds. This includes Further Informationaccess to and use of the amenities on site. The charge for For more information about Stanford Hall, then check out their website or give them a call. www.stanfordhall.co.uk 01788 860250 www.skodaowners.org

Club Shop Logo now available in full width on t-shirts How To Order? By Email: Simply email your orderthrough to [email protected] By Phone: Contact Rob-Parker- Norman By Post: Complete the below orderform to Rob-Parker-Norman. Contact first by phone for address. Item PriceRegatta Fleece with embroidered logo on left chest £27.99Polo shirt with printed logo on left chest £18.99T-Shirt with printed logo across chest £14.99T-shirt with printed logo on left chest £14.99Cap with printed logo £13.99Mug with Club logo and/or personalised image & text £11.99Club logo car sticker - internally adhesive 210mm x 45mm £2.49Škoda Engine sticker £2.49Tax disc sticker - externally adhesive £1.99 EXTENDEDKey ring £1.49 OFFER!!Pin badge £1.99Mouse mat £4.99 We are continuing this amazingFridge magnet £1.49 offer! To celebrate this new line ofMembership card holder with new Club logo £1.99 products, we are pleased to offer a All prices include postage & packaging special price of £19.99 (a saving Club Merchandise Order Form of 11%) for a printed t-shirt, mousemat and sticker! Perfect for Item Quantity Price Total the summer show season!1 We are pleased to be able to offer2 commissioned digital artwork of your beloved Škoda. Each design is created3 to order by talented Graphic Design Simon Coulson of Rmad Design.4 Each design is completed to your requirements and you will receive a5 full hi-res file which can then be applied to a Club mug, t-shirt or even Total a canvas wall art. Each commission costs £35 andName interested parties are asked toAddress contact Rob Parker-Norman.Postcode Mem No 10Tel Email I enclose a cheque for the amount of £..................... made payable to “Škoda Owners Club GB”. skodaowners.org

Charity NewsWhy I Am Walking for BulliesOut Graham DayI never considered myself one for attempting Charitable one’s waistWalks, however that changed 4 years ago when my niece you had tosuggested over Christmas lunch that she, my brother in believe thatlaw and I should attempt the Orwell Walk to raise money you could dofor the charity in Cambridge where she’d volunteered as a it. Eventuallycounsellor for many years. In a convivial atmosphere after aroundeveryone said “Yes”. 15 minutes we reached theTime came to register for the walk and it was at this point other bank. Athat my niece said she had something else on, and my great wave ofbrother in law has conveniently forgotten about it! relief and satisfaction came over me. We wereWell, cometh the hour, cometh the man! Or rather the then taken by another guide acrossfailed cross country runner, useless school athlete and the sands (Cedric returned by tractor),ignored football player! I registered on the day and stumbling over the marram grass and rivulets topromptly found myself at 7.30am on a Sunday morning at Kents Bank Station. Elation again! “Yes!” and morea Sports Centre in deepest Ipswich wondering with great money raised!trepidation what I had let myself in for. The 14 mile routeas well as being riverside took me past a stately home, Turning to this year, I became aware of the tragedy whichthrough an ancient woodland, down country lanes and to had befallen the McKinney family and resolved that I wouldthe finish in around 6 hours. The weather ranged from cold do the Orwell walk again. I always believe that the bigto warm and torrential hail. Exhausted and full of aches national and international charities have such a high profileand pains, I collected my certificate and finishers medal. Of that it is good to help those which have less mediamore importance though was the fact that I had raised presence, hence my decision to walk for BulliesOut. I hopesome £220 in the process. Elation set in! that I will be able to raise a good sum for a worthwhile cause. I was often the victim of verbal and physical bullyingFast forward to 2015, my 65th year and as I’m always on at school myself, and in those days I tried to cover it up bythe lookout to do something new to do I decided that I taking longer routes home from school. At least then it waswould like to do a charity walk across Morecambe Bay. I confined to the school period and not the cyber bullyingknew that one had to do this as part of an organised walk; which is prevalent and all pervasive today.the sands of Morecambe Bay are far too treacherous.Raising money for a local charity I secured a place on the Will my walking and other activities for charity stop here?walk. The walk was led by the legendary Cedric Robinson, Probably not! On the cards this year will be the Worldnow 83, who has been guiding walkers across the sands Conker Championships near Peterborough in Octoberfor 50 years! (last time I played conkers you hardened them up by soaking them in vinegar and baking them in the oven toOn the day I was apprehensive. Arriving at Kents Bank, I make them invincible!!) and if I can a Santa Run atwas able to travel by bus to the starting point at Arnside. Burgleigh Park, Stamford in December. I wouldn’t mindThe sight of so many walkers all together was gratifying, trying a charity walk along the Jurassic coast in Dorset atthe journey out over the marram grass and the shore to some stage either.meet Cedric gave everyone added impetus. MeetingCedric one felt instinctively safe - “yes we can do it”. Here The Orwell Walk takes place on Sunday 26th June.was a man, a cockle fisherman, who knew the Bay like the Cheques made payable to “BulliesOut” can be sent to:back of his hand. We set off in a large group. At one pointwe stopped, and he announced that we would have to Graham Day, Bodicote House, 11 Ridgeway,wade across the Kent River. The water was swirling Stowmarket, Suffolk, IP14 1SW.around our feet, the sand becoming more puddled, wetterand softer. Eventually though we reached the River with Donations can be made online atabsolutely no chance of turning back. Wading in it up to https://www.justgiving.com/graham-day8 Škodafest Charity CollectionsPlans are underway to kick start our fundraising campaign charity raffle which will have an amazing array of prizes tofor 2016. Last year the Club raised an outstanding £417 for be won. Tickets will be available on the day fromBulliesOut. Committee members. Anyone wishing to bring along a prize for the raffle is welcome to do so - just see MarkThis year the Club has renewed its commitment to the Fisher on the day.charity and is aiming to surpass last year’s total. Of coursethis is only possible with the support of you, the members, Ron Makin, the North-West section Chairman, will beand on behalf of the Committee I would like to thank each organising a spark plug challenge over on the North-Westand everyone one of you who has donated at events and stand to find the quickest mechanic in the Club so getthroughout the 2015. Our efforts make a difference to practicing now! All proceeds will go to charity.bullied teenagers today and tomorrow. If you have an idea to raise some funds then please get inŠkodafest, to be held on 29th May, will be our first big fund touch. The Committee would love to hear your ideas andraising event for 2016. Plans are already underway for the help to support you in your endeavours.11 www.skodaowners.org

EventsShow Report:Practical Classics Restoration& Classic Car Show 2016As most of you are aware by reading the past pages of themagazine, the Club hasbeen represented over theyears at the NEC ClassicCar Show held later inNovember each year.Following a visit by myselfand Secretary Mark Fisher tolast year’s PCR&CCS to seewhat was on offer, a decisionwas made to submit anapplication for a club stand forthis year’s event. Thus wewere duly accepted to attendand show the wider audiencein attendance just howpractical a Škoda can be towork on!Mark brought along his Rapid Škoda perfectly in the form of driving to the Show. The occasions the conversion ofwith the task of extracting the my partner Nicky’s 1999 event was the ideal the 'Fun' from a 2 to 4 seaterspare wheel from its housing Felicia Fun Pickup. opportunity to carry out the which aided greatly by theat the front, a task duly replacement of the headlamp removal of the Truckmancompleted in next to no time It has recently been levelling system on the 'Fun', Hardtop over the load bedduring the Friday 'set up' day recommissioned following a a task I had delayed for area. It was also great toby Dave Mackelden, there period of storage at the In- the better weather or at meet and greet so manybeing as I recall no logical laws. A new battery, wiper least somewhere undercover of you that turned up toexplanation as to why Mark blades, functioning switch and dry! support the event, Saturdaycouldn’t get the wheel testing, bit of air in a couple being the busier dayout other than it was slightly of tyres later and a 'fresh' The leveling system is (though not as busy as theover inflated. MOT test, ready for taxing & strange in that instead of November event). employing electric motors toA bit of stand construction/ move the headlamp internals, On the strength of this, I havereconstruction later around the system is hydraulic and been asked to submit anotherthe next display 'project', thus completely sealed. stand application for 2017. Soshowed the transition from Without going into too much if anyone out there has aearly Škoda model, to later detail, it took me a good 2½ 'moveable' Škoda project that to 3 hours to complete as I they would like to bring along couldn’t find the Haynes for 3 days and that we can manual for the Felicia before carry out some minor repairs the event (couldn’t even find on, can they let me know as one at the event), so had to soon as possible. My thanks use good old skill & initiative! again to Mark Fisher and Dave Mackelden for their In the meantime, both support in making this event vehicles drew in the the success for the Club. respective interest, even demonstrating on several Andy Morris12 www.skodaowners.org

EventsClub Expo 2016In March my wife and I interesting and thought rights of historic vehicles and became clear that all Clubs represented our Club provoking talk by the their owners are properly face the same challenges at the Club Expo. Federation of British Historic protected and represented. of membership retention, Vehicle Clubs (FBHVC) who managing online presenceThis event is held annually are in the process of The rest of the day was taken and sustaining volunteersat the British Motor launching a new research up with seminars on a range and organisers.Museum in Gaydon. The project. They are aiming to of topics. Perhaps mostevent aims to allow car hear from anyone with a pre- interesting of all was a We also heard talks aboutClubs to get together and 1985 vehicle in the survey seminar organised by the the values of classic carsdiscuss problems affecting (see panel). Their research is Motor Sport Association and using classic cars safelyus all and address issues very indepth and is used to who tasked teams of four on modern roads withwith industry advice. lobby Government in London to consider the biggest suggestions for those driving and Brussels to ensure the challenges facing Clubs. older vehicles on today’sThe day opened with an Despite the array of Clubs busy roads. represented, we worked withDo you own a pre 1985 Škoda? the Alvis Register, it soon Rob Parker-NormanIf you own a pre-1985 vehicle, it doesn’t have to be aŠkoda, then the FBHVC want to hear from you.The online survey is quick and easy to complete andyour answers will go towards protecting our interests formany years to come.To complete the survey please visit:http://fbhvc.co.uk/research/survey-2016/ www.skodaowners.org 13

TechnicalFabia Spark Plugs • Coil pack removal toolIhave had my mk2 Fabia The YouTube mechanic • Spark plug recess 1.2 for six years and it easily levered the coil packs has always had a service out with two screwdrivers. • Spark plug removal tool to be patentedplan at a Škoda dealer. Haynes recommends using a length of welding rod filter and also the gearbox difficult to service; providedFollowing the last service I made into a hook to remove oil myself. If you have a car of course that the spark plugwas surprised to see that the the coil packs. I had ordered under warranty a service socket stays on!spark plugs and air filter had a tool, again from the plan is a good thing but fornot been changed. They were internet, and found that a an older car it’s not too John Fisherlast changed three years and firm pull was needed. No16,000 miles ago. I wasn't way could this have beensure if the cabin filter had done with a bent weldingever been changed. The rod. There was just enoughengine oil was well over the slack in the wires to pull themaximum mark. coil packs out. I could see the spark plugs at theI decided to change the filters bottom of deep holes in theand spark plugs myself. I cylinder head and using a 16ordered parts from the mm spark plug socketinternet and easily changed unscrewed the plugs. Onethe air filter, which wasn't too of the plugs was not atdirty. The cabin filter wasn't all tight.too difficult once I had foundit underneath the dash. I also I checked the gap on thechanged the sump plug for a new spark plugs which weremagnetic one, again bought spot on at 0.9mm. I thenfrom the internet. The Škoda installed the first spark plugsump plug takes an Allen key and torque’d it up to 22 ftand was very tight. I let a little lbs/30nm. With andrain away before fitting the aluminium cylinder head it isnew plug. I have had to important not to over tightenremove excess oil before and potentially strip thefollowing a service. thread. As the plugs sit at the bottom of a deep holeThe spark plugs looked a bit the plug socket was on anmore difficult so I checked extension. When I went toYouTube. It showed someone remove it the socket grippedchanging the plugs on a mk the plug and the extension1 Fabia with a similar engine. came out of the socket. IThe mechanic did the job in was able to remove theminutes. I also read the socket using a pair of needleHaynes manual for the mk 1 nosed pliers. If you don'tFabia and also the Polo with have a torque wrench do thethe same engine. How hard plugs up finger tight then acan it be? further half to two thirds of a turn. I then taped theThe Fabia has three spark extension to the socket withplugs with a coil pack on top duct tape and had noof each plug. The coil packs problems with the remainingand their wires are hidden two plugs. Looking at the oldunder a neat cover. Using a plugs, they were in goodtable knife I was able to undo condition and the gap wasthe four clips on the cover and still fine. I probably couldremove it. I then tried to unclip have happily left them in.the wires where they plug intothe coil packs. I couldn't My efforts, apart from the oilmanage this so decided to level, may have been of littleundo the clips that hold the consequence but I havewires in place and then decided that next year I willremove the coil packs with change the engine oil andtheir wires still plugged in.14 www.skodaowners.org

TechnicalSuspension ShockerWhen a 2005 Fabia vRS was booked in at the garagefor me to investigatea knocking noise fromthe front suspension Iwas expecting one of theusual Fabia suspensionparts to be worn, like aconsole bush or anti rollbar link joint.However, driving it the shortdistance from the forecourt onto the ramp was enough tomake me realise thatsomething far more sinisterhad gone wrong!With the car raised I was Hopefully you can see from this has happened to your arms. Sudden failure asshocked to find that the lower my [not brilliant] photograph Fabia please write in and tell shown here is likely to causesuspension arm had failed... the part of the arm that had us. Next time your Fabia Mk1 loss of control and possiblethe part of the arm that slots failed. I don't know if this is a is in for repair, service or tragic results.in to the console bush had common problem, I've not MOT I'd advise carefulactually snapped off! The arm seen another Fabia do this. If inspection of your suspension Dave McKinneywas generally a little corrodedbut this failure was caused bymetal fatigue not corrosion. www.skodaowners.org 15

Your ŠkodasOne-Millionth Third Generation OctaviaOn 29th March, the The milestone vehicle was a The third generation Octavia to production in the one-millionth moon white Octavia Scout. was launched in 2013. Most Czech Republic, the third generation Since the modern Octavia Octavia models are produced Octavia also runsOctavia rolled off the was launched in 1996, at the main plant in Mladá off assembly linesproduction line at in excess of 5 million have Boleslav however, in additionŠkoda’s main plant in been built.Mlada Boleslav.SpartakIwanted to share with you who bought it in Prague and using the bits that I sent! gift bag! The previous owner some pictures of my brought it to the UK in 2013. did have a lot of spare parts, new purchase, a Škoda I have not yet fitted it and am so I bought them with the car.Spartak. I have the complete history of starting it with a home-made the car, which was owned for device that consists of a The Spartak is difficult to driveA Spartak is indeed a very a while by pragos.cz, who bicycle cable, a mirror clip and the trip to Cambridgerare car and a real head- restored it. There are pictures and the rope handle from a from Exeter presented meturner. The Škoda Museum of the car during and afterbelieve there to be only 50 to restoration on their website in80 of them still in existence the Our Cars section.and mine is the only one inthe UK. I have been in touch with them and have found themMy partner found him very helpful. They are able to(unusual for a car to be a \"he\" supply a lot of parts, bothbut Spartak most definitely is) original and reproduction, buton eBay after we had had a not, sadly, a replacement forconversation about Škodas the starter cable that came offlooking like all the other in my hand last week! Formodern cars. The car was in that, I went to Austin Repro,Exeter with Richard Rohalcin, who made a bespoke one16 www.skodaowners.org

Your Škodasin China, Russia, from the Octavia model This makes it the most the largest, safest, mostIndia and Kazakhstan. series were sold around the successful Škoda model ever practical and comfortableWhich is why, in 2015 world, around 11% more and is subsequently Octavia ever. More thanalone, 432,300 vehicles Octavia models than the considered to be the ‘heart of any other Škoda model, the previous year. the brand’. The Octavia sets Octavia symbolises the standards in its class and is brand’s rapid rise over the past two decades.with a vertical learning curve Fabia Monte Carloand a physics lesson. I amused to the gear changes now After nearly ten yearsand also to him being left- of vRS Fabias Ihand drive but the steering is have taken theheavy and I remain fairly plunge and bought a newinsecure with his cornering! Fabia 1.2 Monte Carlo.We shall definitely bring him It was not an easy decisionto Škodafest and have but it is my first new car. Afterbooked a hotel in Lutterworth 6 months of ownership I canfor the night before. only say how pleased I am.We also intend to take him to Delivery from my local Trust also good, on a 300 mile I am very pleased with mythe Stony Stratford Classic Škoda dealers was painless round trip to Gatwick it was new toy. Škoda make aCar Festival and the and after treating it gently for showing a steady 43 mpg. superb product in all theirSilverstone Classic. the first few miles it has now models but, oh please, settled down and performs With red bodywork, grey and when can we have a newFor those events, we might very well. red upholstery, glass roof, Fabia vRS? I enjoy the clubtravel separately, if Jonathan's black trim and smart black and it’s excellent magazine,Austin two-seater is in working Performance is not quite up wheels it is often admired and thank you.order: the rebuilding of it has to vRS standards but it goes although sometimes I misstaken years and is close to very well and economy is the old car I can only say that John Niblett.completion... fingers crossed!Ruth Johnson www.skodaowners.org 17

Your ŠkodasIntroducingGrannyMost of You surley sight, I did not know anything drivable condition, few rust looking up – then I have know Granny, about her ;) I just liked the spots around, horrible colour noticed she had a sunroof – especially those of way she looks like. (I call it Coffee with concrete) key in and started the engine.you who are on Facebook, but only 160k km on the clock It started ok with no problems,but I bet you do not know National Service in the Polish and first owner. That sounded first gear and go. I remembereverything. Army made my search a bit like a great deal. A quick call how difficult it was for me use longer; I had to wait to finish and a few days later I was on go from first to second gear,She is not just a car; she is it first. In mean time I have the train to pick her up as she I had to try it good few timesmember of family, my friend signed in to Polish Škoda was 300miles away. to get it. Before we arrived atand sometimes the only cure Owners’ Club known as Mr Jan’s house, I had afor my madness. She is my Škodovka Club, people there I will never forget when feeling this car would stayway of running away from all told me more about those previous owner picked me up with me for a long time.that day-to-day boredom, cars, what their weaknesses on train station and beforeworries etc. I cannot even are and what should I be saying “Hi” or whatever he In the mean time Mr Jan toldimagine my life without this looking for when buying one. handled me keys first. After me what was recently donestubborn piece of metal. After National Service I quick talk and look around the and what might need doing inHowever, today I would like started a new job as van car, I could finally sit behind near future. We both signedto tell you when and why it driver so needed a car to get the steering wheel. I sale agreement and from thatall started. to work and then I found the remember when I first looked day, 6th June 2008, Granny advert in Škodovka club at the dashboard, then a quick was officially my own car,In my family we only had forum. A car in not bad, look in the back before my first own car. But I hadFiat's (Polski Fiat) until the about 300 miles trip on frontmid-90’s until my father of me first.bought an Opel Ascona mk3and I felt in love with that It was a pleasure to drive thismake. Thereafter my dream car, our first road trip on daycar was an Ascona mk2 one in 19 years old car that I(known in UK as Cavalier did not know much about.Mk1) in rare two door body. I Already I liked her so much,had this idea in my head for she caught so much attentionmany years and then on the road (Škoda was wellBOOM!!! I saw a picture of known brand in Poland butŠkoda Rapid while searching not many people knownfor pictures on Google and models like S110r or Rapid –this was it, I have caught that it wasn’t easy to buy one inbug. It was like love at first communist Poland). I was so18 www.skodaowners.org

Your Škodasproud when I had her parkedoutside my parents’ house; Iwas constantly going to thewindow just to stare at her forat least two weeks…Next months I spent manly oncleaning, and buying missingor damaged parts. Working asa van driver was a really goodthing as I was able to stop atevery single scrap yard and atleast ask if they have any “oldŠkodas” in. I also managed tofind well-equipped shop withparts (unfortunately this shopwas closed about two yearsago when owner retired).Granny needed a full bodyrestoration but I couldn’tafford that from my wage, soI made the decision to movefrom Poland.I always wanted to visit GreatBritain so just to confirm that Iasked my girlfriend (now Wife)if she would be OK to moveto UK or maybe Germany (Ihad more friends there). Shedecided it will be UK as shecould speak English already.Within a few weeks I movedto Heanor, Derbyshire. Grannywas awaiting my return in myGrandfather’s shed.Almost a year later, I returnedto Poland, to restore Granny.The plan was to makeanother road trip. There wasa plan to get all parts needed for my “project prototype” - was Mlada Boleslav and the yes, this plan was sitting in Škoda Museum. Later I had my head looong time before planned “veteran bazar” in I actually bought Granny. First Chotusice. Absolutely great I travelled from Wabrzezno place to be if you are looking (near Torun) to Rzeszow (little for unusual parts, AK47 or you over 300 miles across want to buy an Amphibia. Poland) to collect some seats and alloy wheels from a Unfortunately there was no Škodovka Club member. MK1 Rapid/Estelle wings and other panels to buy – then I With all the parts on board I decided to give up with travelled to my uncle who “prototype project” just for lives just on the border of now. Returned to my uncle Poland and Czech Republic. and left Granny there for My uncle has almost 40 years’ body restoration. experience in car accident damage repairs and Three months later I was on restorations; he really knows a plane back to Poland to pick how to do his job. up Granny. You should see my face when I first saw her. After a quick visit I continued Paint job was spectacular; my trip. The first place to see absolutely amazing. www.skodaowners.org 19

Your Škodas I could not say anything friends in UK (that was before restore her mechanically. behind his Roomster acrossfor a while. I came back to I found out that there is such There were a few people really the country to his little garageWabrzezno (my home town) a thing as SOC). Granny then interested but I set up a really where he swapped enginewithout any issues again just was my only car and I drove high asking price which proved with early Felicia with allto start a race with time to her everywhere, every day… to be a good move. I decided wiring needed to run Singleprepare alloy wheels that I Ten months later as I had no to give her one last chance as Point Injection (SPI), fittedbought few months earlier for garage and the car was I just couldn’t part with her. I Suzuki Bandit exhaust boxbiggest Škoda event in parked on the street I made asked my friends from and custom made pipes,Poland, “Škoda Obsession” decision to take her back to Škodovka Club if someone striped all gearbox to checkwhich was then held near Poland so I could buy car in would be able to help me with and replace parts whereLudz in centre of Poland. UK. It was really hard to say all the jobs and parts needed. needed, replaced brake discsApollo wheels looked really goodbye. From then Granny and pads, restored callipers,good on Granny and she took was only used as my holiday It was then that my friend lowered suspension, and Godthird place for classic car of car, and when my father Sebastian Szczyglewski know what else. Amazingly,the event. needed a spare car – so not came out from nowhere this was few months of really often. Within a few saying he can do the entire weekend’s job for him.After Škoda Obsession it was years the engine was losing job for me and he has mosttime for me to go back to UK its power, the clutch needed of the parts needed. I can’t When I got back to Poland towith Granny this time. It took replacing, the brakes were even tell you how happy I pick up Granny off him, heme three days, I was in no harder and harder to operate. was. A miracle. We spent was still working to improverush, with a few stops to visit It was time to act. many hours with Sebastian some bits – what a man – bigfamily and friends in Gdansk, planning what needs doing, thanks to him, not everyoneSzczecin and in Hamburg. I So, with a broken heart I what can be done and all that. would care about someone’swas so happy when I could decided to sell Granny as I He collected Granny from my car that much. I could notfinally show my car to my couldn’t find parts needed to home town and towed her believe how well Granny20 www.skodaowners.org

Your Škodaslooked. I had a huge smile onmy face for at least first 300miles of driving back home –home in UK. That was themoment when some of youstarted to recognising Granny.Whilst trying to attend asmany events as possible Ihave finally registered her inUK – that was back in 2013.The biggest show so far wasof course Classic Motor Showin Birmingham, as forsomeone who visited thisshow in past years that washuge distinction that my carwas chosen to go on ŠkodaOwners’ Club stand.In May 2014, just before months ago My wife has can be in daily use and still the only one happy driver atŠkodafest, I decided to give it started new job here in Leeds, give me so much fun. Most of 05:45 in the morning on M621a go and reactivate “project as she needed a car the other drivers seem to just in Leeds. It still amazes meprototype”. I booked one week decision was made that she travel from work to home or how we, people can beoff from work and started will drive our Superb and I will from home to the shopping attached to piece of metal…metamorphosis to the shape, use Granny. It is unbelievable centre – but not me I justwhich we all know now. Not how good a 27 year old car enjoy every single mile, I am Lukasz Sochackieveryone likes it, but I love it.Yes one day I will bringGranny back to original but itis not yet. There are still fewthings I need to do. Seven www.skodaowners.org 21

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ArchiveFrom the Archivist...Sometimes it is by writing to the man, it category, adding to the factory first car was delivered to the surprising where I seems she led to further silverware haul. Has anyone in Leader of the Republic of find historical Škoda suspicion being laid upon her the UK seen any L&K Czechoslovakia, Presidentinformation. in letters that were intercepted motorcycles in museums Masaryk. It featured a light through the mails – a most here? alloy block, 6.6 litre engineSome of you may know I interesting snippet of history developing 100 bhp atenjoy a lot of reading, from the war years! As the dark clouds of war 1,600rpm with overheadincreased as I continue in my stretched over Europe in the camshaft, seven bearingadult education studies. In a Back to things automotive! teens, Porsche, the famous crank and dual ignition.cross over to another hobby – There are several significant designer from Germany,researching censor mail – I anniversaries for Škoda that entered the Škoda scene with In 1936, 80 years ago, indiscovered reference to one of crop up this year, I will look at the design and production of December was the first timeŠkoda's employees in Spain in a few from before WW2. a vehicle for the Austro- that Škoda edged ahead of allWW2 being a German Spy! Hungarian army, a pair of other car makers in 110 years ago, in March 1906 driving vehicles and powered Czechoslovakia, deliveringThe details were contained in Škoda attracted as a trailers for a 240mm field the most vehicles, ahead ofa released MI5 file in the permanent employee Vaclav artillery gun, the Škoda- Tatra and Praga. It was alsoNational Archives. Emilio Vondrich, formerly a privateer Daimler-Benz petrol electric the first year in which FavoritKiechle worked as a sales motorcyclist rider who gun tractor. This amazing was used as a model namerepresentative for Škoda in became an official rider for vehicle used an internal and the first year the factoryoffices in Madrid and was Laurin & Klement, having won combustion engine to provide entered the Monte Carlo rallyconfirmed from “Most Secret” the “Coupé Internationale” on electrical power via a with a crew. Zdenek Pohl and[intercepted radio and an L&K two-cylinder V twin of generator to electrical motors Jaroslav Hausmann cametelegram traffic] sources as 693 c.c. Paradoxically this was underslung in mesh with the 2nd in their category, leadingbeing involved in commercial the last year for L&K racing axles, sounding quite ahead to the production of a limitedand possibly other forms of with two wheeled machines as of its time. run of Škoda Popular Sportespionage. The paperwork I the Voiturette Model A car was “Monte Carlo” coupes with anwas looking for referred to a well on the way. 1906 was also Another milestone anniversary impressive swept back rearBritish subject suspected of a milestone in the form of the this year is from 10th May end styling.espionage activities who was first Gold Medal in a such a 1926. 90 years ago, the firstdiscovered to have received car at the German Auto Klub new luxury Škoda automobile In the next issue I will look atpayments from this man event in September of that was delivered. Using patents anniversaries relating tothrough a thread of bank year. Engineer Rezler won the secured from Hispano-Suiza Škoda in the second half ofaccounts leading from there 2,500 Mark category and of France they developed a the 20th Century.via Portugal and into the UK. another official driver came version of their H6B as theAsked to prove her innocence second in the hillclimb Škoda 25/100 Limousine. The Matt Gibbs24 www.skodaowners.org

Retailer Members Introducing Retailer Members Fish Brothers Škoda, The Club’s retailer membership programme has continued to grow in popularityFenn Close, Swindon; 0843 320 1928 and we now have five retailers supporting the Club up and down the country. Horton Škoda, Retailers who join the Club will receive 3 copies of each issue of Škoda Owners.Kingsley Road, Lincoln; 01522 508650 Moreover, those retailers who are listed in the magazine to help you decide which retailer to take your Škoda to. Meadens Škoda, Sway Rd, Brockenhurst, SO41 6AL; The Club receieves no official recognition from Škoda UK so those retailers who have joined the Club have done so out of their pocket. These retailers appreciate 01590 623344 the ethos of the Club and are keen to support members. Winner Garage Ltd, Cinerford, GL14 2PH; 0843 320 1834 So please do support these retailers and if you think your local retailer would be interested then please let me know and I can give you more information. Bristos Škoda, Woodridge Road, Ipswich, IP4 4AU; Rob Parker-Norman 01473 71922126 www.skodaowners.org

25 Years of Volkswagen25 Years of Volkswagen Partnership Rob OwenThe foundations of an exemplary success story were laid had expressed their interest in the traditional brand,25 years ago. The partnership between the Volkswagen founded in 1895, to the Czech government, who ultimatelyGroup and Škoda began on 16 April 1991. From that point decided in favour of merging Škoda with Volkswagen.on, the traditional Czech brand evolved from being a Europe's largest automobile producer was seeking aregional market leader to an internationally successful strategic partnership and welcomed the highly trained,vehicle manufacturer. creative and efficient workforce. Craftsmanship and​“Škoda is one of the longest­established carmakers in the engineering expertise had always been among theworld that has been writing an exemplary success story Czechs’ strengths. On 28 March 1991, Czech Industryover the past quarter century thanks to a strong team,” said Minister Jan Vrba and Dr. Carl Hahn as CEO ofcurrent CEO Bernhard Maier, before adding: “What began Volkswagen signed the agreement on the inclusion of theas a one-series producer with annual sales of 170,000 in then  ‘Škoda  Automobilová  Akciová  Společnost’  in  to  thethe early 90s has since evolved into an internationally Volkswagen Group. On April 16, 1991, the document camecompetitive car company with six model lines and over 40 into force. The Group gradually increased its share beforeversions. Nowadays, Škoda produces over one million becoming the sole owner of the joint stock company on 30cars per year at 14 production sites on two continents, May, 2000.selling products in over 100 markets.” It is hard to argue Since 1991, a comprehensive investment programme hasagainst such compelling statistics as these. fuelled the brand’s development. Between 1991 andBohuslav Sobotka, the Czech Prime Minister, also March 2016, more than 300 billion crowns (around €11supports the progress Škoda has made in the past 25 billion) has been invested in new models, research andyears, “Škoda Auto has become one of the drivers of the development, and in expanding production capacities.Czech economy over the past 25 years.” He went on to talk With approximately 28,500 employees today, Škoda is oneabout the the recent expansion of of the largest and most attractive employers in the Czechthe Solnice-Kvasiny plant, partiallyfunded by the Government, which Republic. The heart of the globallywill create more than 2,000 new jobs successful brand still beats in Mladáby 2018. “This investment also Boleslav. The company’s main plantunderlines the fact that Škoda Auto and headquarters have been located inis one of the most important the Bohemian town for the company’s entire 121-year history.investors and employers in the Production volume in 1991 were aboutCzech Republic. I wish the company 200,000 cars per year; the model rangestable and successful development consisted of only two model lines – theover the coming years.” Rapid and the Favorit. Today, ŠkodaBy 1990 several car manufacturers Above: A Felicia model at the recent offers an extensive model range withfrom Western Europe and overseas anniversary ceremony. over 40 model variants.Sound Proofing the Professional Way All products manufactured in the UK (not US imports) Full sound proofing kits available for all Škoda modelsClub members get 10% discount when quoting membership No. Fitting service available if required. Superb Noise Reduction to improve your journey.Tel 0161 652 7080 Web www.nkgroup.co.uk Email [email protected] skodaowners.org 27

Škoda SUV Welcome to the (SUV) Party!At the recent Geneva Motorshow emphasised even further by the new The side view also illustrates theŠkoda unveiled the VisionS. The Iceland Green hue. show car’s robust SUV character.highly anticipated concept vehicle The sharply drawn and greatlydebuts Škoda’s forthcoming design The wide, trapezoid Škoda grille with recessed tornado line starts at thelanguage and product development upright struts shape the face together upper lighting units and stretchesand gives a strong indication of with the four flat, raked, highly-set across the bodywork. The wheelwhat their first 7 seater model, to be headlights – their LED technology will arches are framed by wide angularknown as Kodiak, will look like. So, shortly go into series production. trims and the upper shoulder contourwhat does it tell us about this There are four lighting units in each of forms a deep waist line across theexciting new model for Škoda? Rob the upper headlights for high and low door sills. The sloping roof line andOwen investigates. beam; their reflectors give the tapered rear end make the show car impression that they were the appear as if it were accelerating evenThe lines of the VisionS have eyelashes of a human eye. The when stationary. The longevidently been inspired by the signature daytime running lights wheelbase alludes to a large,tradition of Bohemian crystal glass art complete the main headlights; the practical interior.and a touch of cubism: all sections are lower units provide the fog lights. Theprecise, sharp and clean-cut. On the headlights as well as the brand logo The heavily sculptured rear of thestrikingly contoured surfaces, the and the vertical struts in the grille are VisionS provides the SUV show cardistinctive play of light and shade characterised by crystalline design with a strong visual stance on thecreates strong effects that are features – also a Škoda design tribute road. The rear window, underneath a to Czech glass makers. long spoiler, is kept narrow and sporty, without compromising the view through the back. The neat design continues inside. Fine, light-grey Nappa leather with dark-blue patterns combined with Ultrasuede emphasise the interior’s classy look. Dark blue dominates the upper regions; seat covers and armrests come in light grey. The logo on the steering wheel hub, parts of the centre console and the sculptured trim strips in the doors are made from hand-cut Czech crystal glass in the show car. The ambient lighting in the interior provides a refined level of ambience for all occasions with a choice of ten different colours. Meanwhile, all occupants have their own display; two in the dash, two in the headrests for rear passengers28 www.skodaowners.org

Škoda SUVand another in the centre console. steer. Adaptive Dynamic ChassisAn intergrated Phone Box in every Control (DCC) controls the thedoor, from where the phones can be shock absorbers, and allows thecharged and each individual can driver to select the desired drivingaccess their personal settings and mode – Standard, Comfort orthe smartphone’s data and Sport – to suit their individualinformation, using their own display preferencesin a development of the currentSmartLink system. The car can also easily negotiate off-road terrain thanks to 21-inchIt isn’t just inside that Škoda wheels wrapped in 275/40 tyres.showcased new technologies. The The five-spoke wheel design isVisionS show car features plug-in aerodynamically inspired andhybrid drive, a first for Škoda. It has looks great too.also been revealed that Škoda are working on a purelyelectric drive system although details remain vague at this It is easy to discount concept cars as follies but in the casetime. And with a length of 4.70 metres, a 2.79-metre of the VisionS, we see a clear indication of the upcoming,wheelbase, a width of 1.91 metres and a height of 1.68 production ready Kodiak model. A crucial model for Škodametres, the Škoda VisionS is a real presence on the road. which will not only bring a 7 seater to the range, but openBased on Volkswagen Group’s modular transverse matrix up a whole new sector of the SUV market. Expect more(MQB), this is the first Škoda with six seats, whilst details later in the year.production models with gain 7 seats and the Kodiak will sitatop of the Yeti in the range hierarchyDepending on the position of the seats, the boot has acapacity of up to 460 litres too, and is effortless to loadthanks to its flat floor, low loading sill and high-liftingtailgate. ‘Simply Clever’ features such as bag hooks makeusing the VisionS easy and enjoyable.Travelling in the VisionS is said to be safe and nimble onall types of roads thanks to use of aluminium in theMcPherson strut front suspension. At the rear anelaborately designed four-link rear axle absorbslongitudinal and transverse forces independently from oneanother. The progressive steering has increased steeringlock and yet is more responsive to provide an engagingskodaowners.org 29

MotorsportSwedish Success follows APRC Victory Rob OwenŠkoda Motorsport started their 2016 The Rally Sweden has been held on tyres delivered specially for the Rallyseason with podium positions at the ice and snow in winter regularly since Sweden! As a result the rally routesecond event of the WRC; Rally 1965, before then it was held as a ended up being reduced from 331 toSweden. summer event, known as the “Rally to 226 kilometres making the 2016 Rally the Midnight Sun”. It wasn’t quite as Sweden the shortest ever WRC event!Works driver Pontus Tidemand, warm in the rally base of Karlstad thiswhose home rally was the first rally he year as it was when the rally first Asia-Pacific rally Championshipcontested with his new co-driver started, but mild, almost spring likeJonas Andersson, finished in second weather at the start of the week meant Škoda Motorsport goes in search ofplace. Their team-mates Esapekka that the organisers were forced to its next title in the FIA Asia-PacificLappi and Janne Ferm temporarily cancel a total of nine of the 21 special Rally Championship (APRC) withdropped down into eleventh place stages scheduled. Instead of icy and talented young German driver Fabianafter making a driving error on Friday snow-covered tracks, the organisers Kreim.eventually made it onto the podium in found partially sodden gravel roadsthird place after a redeeming flawless on which it would have been too The 23-year-old will start the sixperformance on both Saturday and dangerous to drive with the studded rounds of the prestigious continentalSunday. championship alongside experienced co-driver Frank Christian in the Fabia R5. Škoda has pedigree in the APRC having won the title for the last four consecutive years. In 2015 Pontus Tidemand’s victory at the Rally China secured Škodas’s fourth title in a row in the APRC. They’ve been unstoppable since 2012 in the Driver, Co-Driver and Manufacturer competitions. Meanwhile Indian rally hero Gaurav Gill lines up for the Škoda MRF team again. The 2013 APRC champion is at the wheel of the team’s second car, and will be on hand to offer valuable advice to his new team-mate Fabian Kreim. We will update you on their progress as the season progresses.30 www.skodaowners.org

Classifieds For Sale: 1983 Škoda 120L Super Estelle White - two local owners from new. 23000 miles – lots of service bills and MOT certificates to prove genuine mileage. Off the road since 2000 and will need much attention to mechanics and bodywork. Original RHD British car. The car does not have an MOT. Bodywork is neglected with a couple of dents and scrapes. Rusted where inner and outer front wings meet on both sides of the car. However the underpan, sills and inner boot and inner engine bay appear sound. Engine has run briefly. There is some damage to nearside front seat so overhaul needed. Can take more detailed photographs if required. £1,750 ono. 10 min from Donington Park Contact Gilbert Corliss on 01509 672778 for more info To place your free advert, send your advert to the editor. Include price, location and as many photos as possible.Club member Neil Thompson is callipers complete the chassis and For Sale: 1977selling his well-known 130RS replica. drivetrain overhaul. Škoda 130RSWith MOT’ until April 2016, the car Inside there is a full roll cage, 6 point £4,000. Londonruns a 136 8 port Škoda engine with harnesses and plumbed in fire Contact Neil Thompson ontwin 40 Weber carburettors fed by system. 07889758977 for more infotwin facet fuel pumps through to a 5speed gearbox. Estelle 130 The fibreglass front wings, bonnet, 31suspension with AVO shock boot lid and rear quarter panel giveabsorbers and 4 pot Rapid front brake the 130RS true stance, complimented by the 4 spoke revolution wheels. skodaowners.org

New member John Melling sent in pictures of his current project; ex-works car C155 BYR now undergoing restoration. Full feature coming soon! Submit your Škoda for next issue! Rob Parker-Norman’s vRS enjoying the recent sun Printed by the Lavenham Group. Telephone: 01787 247436