I first learned about THL from my nephew, Robert Adams, who had purchased a Cooper MG MYH 314 from Tom. It is a great car. Robert called me THL had a Lotus 8 for sale. I’d always wanted to add a Lotus MK 8 to my collection, partly as they are rare, and the transition to the Lotus 8 with Frank Costin influence is an interesting story.
I raced vintage cars with the Sportscar Vintage Racing Association in the 1990’s. There was a Lotus 8 in my class, and it hit every note in what I like in under 1500 cc race cars.
Tom’s website’ revealed he has a great eye for cars. I emailed Tom and he walked me through the car and sent photos with more detail. I thought about it for a week, and because I was confident Tom would treat me fairly, I bought the car without physically seeing it. Tom got the car shipped to the States and kept me fully informed. I could not have done it without his help. The Lotus is now road registered and is a joy to drive. It was awarded First in class for 1950’s race cars at Amelia Island Concours.
THL is easy to recommend, Tom has a good eye and will help you as a customer. no words of wisdom, Tom is very good at what he does, and it shows.
Howard Banaszak, USA
I watched Tom racing the MG Bellevue special and contacted him after seeing an early 1924 Alvis tourer he had for sale in early 2020. THL print adverts were a little different and of high quality, so felt Tom’s offerings would be of high quality.
He understood what I wanted and he encouraged me to take the plunge but to cost up the items of work that needed doing. There was no hard sell. I was daunted by the project but Tom was exceptionally patient and we spoke regularly – and I took the plunge.
Tom has strong values and was determined to do right by the family that sold it and we did a deal we were all happy with. Through the ownership of the Alvis have got to know some wonderful people who advise and support me and I feel the ownership has opened a new world of adventures.
In finishing the car, I have spent time with my oldest friend and with my father – discussing each step. My father has relived his vintage memories through my enthusiasm. The car wears a dashboard lamp that came off the shelf in his garage.
I’d recommend Tom to anyone. He has also introduced me to locals near me who are competitive to him which is refreshing, open and honest. I’d buy through Tom again!
Sam Whittaker, United Kingdom
I visited a good friend in Yorkshire who had recently bought a rare 1932 Pre War Alvis from THL. He recommended I see Tom during my next UK visit. Initially. I wanted to seek his advice on the available pre-war MGs, Alvis, Talbot, and Riley Models. I’d already owned three MG’s in Singapore and was considering adding an MG NA or MG NB.
After viewing the Alvis Speed 20, I started looking for a pre-war Alvis. I then purchased two cars from him. A 1933 Alvis Vanden Plas Speed 20, which Tom also project managed a restoration on my behalf with marque specialists in Bolton and Blackburn.
I also bought a 1938 Aston Martin Short Chassis Sports Tourer. THL arranged the logistics, export, and documents to Singapore in 2019. The Aston is amazing, with its incredible handling, performance, and low engine temperature. All this whilst driving in the tropics!
A piece of wisdom I would give to Tom? Keep doing what you’re doing! The advice and assistance you give is invaluable.
Andrew Webster, Singapore
