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BREAKDOWN DOCTOR

Even after 40 years in the business of rescuing stranded drivers and their vehicles, Fred Henderson has never lost his early fascination for machines. The title 'Breakdown Doctor' sums him up completely as he can repair anything powered by an internal combustion engine. Fred is also a renowned rally driver, having driven for both Toyota and Vauxhall factory teams, winning over 40 rallies. In his prime he was probably the finest rally driver outside the professional ranks.

Now, having turned 60, Fred has no intention of retiring; he can often be found under a bonnet with the odd spanner or two. His stories, many stretching back to the 1960s, permit a fascinating insight into the life of a road rescue man. He retains fond memories of the many people he rescued, some who were well known media stars.

This book represents a fascinating insight into the life of a motor mechanic who became a successful breakdown and recovery man in the 1960s and early 70s and who became a major breakdown/recovery operator and a successful rally driver. The period covered is from 1960 to 1973. However, the book takes a look back to childhood and visits the present day from time to time.

Crash recovery

The contents are both humorous and factual and the book itself will set comfortably on a shelf between the 'James Herriott' series and 'The Life of a Constable' which became known as 'Heartbeat'.

Some interesting facts are revealed as to how the Police distributed their recovery work and how difficult jobs were undertaken with primitive vehicles which themselves became involved sometimes in amusing incidents.

Many stories relate to broken down cars and their unfortunate owners: many who were their own worst enemies, resulting in chaos. Sometimes these incidents would end in tragedy but were all in a night's work.

RAC Rally 1970

One detailed paragraph covers the author's three successful attempts at the Lombard RAC Rally of 1970, 1971 and 1972, helped by willing friends which subsequently kick-started his international career. The book is already appealing to the younger generation who are fascinated by motor trade life in the 60s.

Find out more about: Durham's worst road accident with 18 people killed The people and their cars and their accidents Seat belts; what seat belts? Gangsters like Angus Sibbert and how he paid for his service Girls of the 60s, high heels, stockings and hairdos The Saturday night dances and how a motor mechanic worked his way round the dance floor What happened to a load of sweets when the lorry overturned near a school Find out what Police were paid for each recovery

Durham’s worst road accident with 18 people killed

Overturned car outside Ansa Motors HQ, 1966

Where to get it For prompt mail order please call the breakdown doctor on 0191 384 6319. (£9.50 + £1.50 P+P) Alternatively, click here to buy from Amazon.

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