Captain Birkin's 1929 "Blower" Bentley workshop

On Saturday 2nd Nov 2019 despite the inclement weather a blue plaque was delivered to Topps Tiles in Broadwater Road, WGC by the Bentley Drivers Club. It commemorates the site of the workshop set up by Sir Henry (Tim) Birkin where, in 1929, he produced his world famous racing “Blower” Bentleys.

The presentation was made by Ron Warmington, former Chairman Bentley Drivers Club, who explained that the "Blower" Bentley was born thanks to technical help from Clive Gallop, supercharger specialist Amherst Villiers, and Dorothy Paget who financed the project after Birkin's own money ran out. As well as the increased power Birkin's added supercharger ("blower") in front of the radiator gave the car it's unique appearance.

The plaque will be formally mounted at the Topps Tiles premises on 23 Aug 2020 when a display involving several "Blower" Bentley cars will take place, driving around a closed circuit, as part of the WGC centenary celebrations.