FOR a happy and secure pensioner couple to pack up and sell their home to launch themselves into a challenging business venture takes some motivation.

For Gil and Ann Owen, it is more of a question of 'motorvation'!

For they have taken over Llangollen Motor Museum, in North Wales, after selling their comfortable home in Little Neston.

The two car enthusiasts have earned the respect and admiration of fellow members of the Wirral-based Triumph Appreciation Club, not least that of their son, car restoration expert Jeff Owen, of Wallasey.

For Gil and Ann were ambassadors for Wirral, winning some of the country's top Concours awards in their restored red TR sports car.

Gil, as chairman, and Ann, as show organiser, were also active members of the club, helping to stage several car shows with the Globe.

But when the opportunity arose to take over Llangollen Motor Museum, all this had to take a back seat for the Owens. The road ahead is a big challenge in developing the museum as a business and tourist attraction. They will also have to restore and maintain the classic cars inside, sell and stock parts to classic car enthusiasts besides house hunting in North Wales.

The club - and the Globe - wish them the best of British at Llangollen. Triumph Appreciation is arranging a trip there and the Globe will be visiting, too, for a story.

by Robin Bird

Converted for the new archive on 13 March 2001. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.