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Longbridge tunnel Mini Clubman to be auctioned | Longbridge tunnel Mini Clubman to be auctioned |
(about 7 hours later) | |
A car hidden for more than 30 years after being left in a tunnel under the factory where it was built is to be auctioned. | A car hidden for more than 30 years after being left in a tunnel under the factory where it was built is to be auctioned. |
The Mini was used by workers to travel around the car plant at Longbridge in Birmingham but was dumped in the late-1970s after it was damaged. | The Mini was used by workers to travel around the car plant at Longbridge in Birmingham but was dumped in the late-1970s after it was damaged. |
It was saved by a former factory worker last year and will be sold in July. | It was saved by a former factory worker last year and will be sold in July. |
Auctioneers Silverstone Auctions said it needed "much love and attention to return it to its former glory". | Auctioneers Silverstone Auctions said it needed "much love and attention to return it to its former glory". |
Nick Whale, from the auctioneers, said the car was missing its engine and gearbox. | |
'Controversial' auction | |
Despite that he described the Mini as a "global icon" and could make more than £5,000, as the last car to leave Longbridge. | |
He said the decision to auction the vehicle had "caused a fair amount of controversy," with some people preferring it was left in the tunnels as a hidden memorial. | |
Gemma Cartwright, organiser of the Pride of Longbridge rally, said she would have liked the car to stay on site, where former factory workers are trying to set up a museum. | |
"I say give it to the community where it's been made," she said. | |
The Mini Clubman 1275 GT is due to be auctioned on 27 July. |
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