If you’re a regular reader, you’ll probably recognise the Goldstraw name: James and son Sam have been long-term friends of Classic & Sports Car and, over the past 20 years, have helped to keep the Our classics fleet on the road on a number of occasions.
The dyed-in-the-wool classic enthusiasts (James’ current fleet includes a 1975 Ford Escort Mk2 and ’92 7.4-litre Chevrolet 454 race truck) operate as Grace Engine Developments, specialising in machining and building classic and racing engines, and while the workshop is packed full of impressive equipment – both old and new – you can’t fail to notice an entire wall has been dedicated to another love: bikes.
James Goldstraw’s pick-up truck racer (left) and Ford Escort Mk2 on display at the NEC Gravity Car Show
There’s no Lycra or drop handlebars here, though; growing up in the 1980s meant that the preferred two-wheeled transport for James was the BMX – a fascination that persists some 40 years later.
As is so often the case, childhood dreams that once looked unattainable appear within reach when you’re a fully grown adult and relying on more than just pocket money.
