DL: Isle of Wight Motor Vehicles 1896 – 1939

Description

For virtually all of the twentieth century the distinctive “DL” vehicle registration number plates were an important part of the identity of the Isle of Wight.  In this well-researched and sumptuously produced coffee table book the author has assembled a fine selection of 125 rare period monochrome images which capture many cars, motor cycles, buses, charabancs, coaches, taxis and commercial vehicles which served local families, businesses and communities up to the outbreak of the Second World War.  The book also contains a chapter on surviving pre-war Isle of Wight vehicles.  Over 100 of these are known to exist and are listed in an appendix.  In addition the book contains informative notes on several local vehicle manufacturers including the Liquid Fuel Engineering Company (LIFU) of East Cowes, Chevertons of Newport, Gilbert Campling Ltd. of Somerton, Cowes (ABC Skootamota) and Harry Margham and Sons, Newport.

Measuring approximately 11″ x 10″ (landscape) the book contains 165 images.  A large number of these are full page size and 40 are in colour.  This is believed to be the first profusely illustrated book to cover the full range of pre-war Isle of Wight motor vehicles in such depth.  It should really appeal to vintage road transport enthusiasts, students of early motoring and people interested in Isle of Wight social history.

Reader feedback has been extremely positive and excellent reviews have been written in various magazines, including “The Automobile”, “Buses” and “The Omnibus”.

The book will be packed securely and posted by 2nd class Royal Mail.