28/06/2026
Alvis TE21 DHC 1967 🇬🇧
Lyon 🇫🇷 ~ Guildford 🇬🇧
Regular customer called me for another Vehicle Recovery. Usually this customer is around Hampshire / Surrey / Sussex so thinking a normal run to Guildford / Farnham to rescue a classic would be a nice quick job to assist. I was completely wrong.
This beautiful vintage ‘Alvis’ 2 door convertible GT car from the 60s was on a road trip from Guildford, UK to Pisa Airport, Italy over the weekend. Unfortunately, the vehicle developed an engine noise half way along the trip and wasn’t safe to continue driving. With temperatures exceeding 40 degrees celsius, I think most cars of 20-30 years old might struggle, let alone a car nearly 60 years old.
The Alvis made it down to Mâcon, just north of Lyon, France and needed recovering back to Guildford, UK. The Toyota Hilux with the Woodford Flat Bed Trailer was the vehicle in choice, purely because of air conditioning..!
From initial call out requesting recovery, to being on scene in Lyon, France within 24 hours, the vehicles driver, and owner were over the moon. No waiting 12-20 weeks for AA / RAC to attempt to sort something.
This load consisted of a 5 ton train weight all in, running almost non stop in a 42 degree heatwave on some revolting hills in the French countryside. Seriously impressive when you think about it. The Hilux sat @ 110kmh on cruise control for over 4 hours at one point, only slowing down for toll booth’s. I think my Range Rover I had previously would have had a meltdown.
The Alvis delivered back on the evening of the initial pickup in Guildford. Massive thank you to Alistair Hamilton, (the driver of the Alvis) for assisting in driving on the return leg. This wouldn’t have been possible within the 24 hour timeframe with just me driving due to EU / UK laws on driving hours. Top man, I’m glad you enjoyed the 48€ McDonald’s.. 🤢
Should you need recovering, France back to the UK drop us a message. Happy to assist 24/7 whenever required 😎
Charlie ~
www.charlieglovertransport.co.uk
