For automotive enthusiasts, stumbling upon a treasure trove of classic cars is akin to finding gold. Murilee Martin, a seasoned documenter of automotive history, recently embarked on a journey to the homeland of Rolls-Royce and Bentley, England.
His destination: Westminster Auto Spares, a breaker’s yard nestled in Sherburn-in-Elmet, North Yorkshire.
Specializing in Rolls-Royces and Bentleys, Westminster Auto Spares boasts an impressive inventory of over 120 cars. These luxury vehicles, once the epitome of automotive opulence, now await their fate in this historic yard.
From 1950s classics to contemporary models, the yard houses a diverse array of vehicles, with parts being shipped globally to serve the needs of collectors and enthusiasts alike.
What makes Westminster Auto Spares even more fascinating is its location. Situated on the grounds of a former World War II factory that produced Fairey Swordfish torpedo bombers, the yard is steeped in both automotive and aviation history.
For Carl Heath, the founder and owner, the transition from the insurance business to running a breaker’s yard was a fulfilling one. Today, he oversees a business that salvages parts from these iconic cars, keeping the legacy of Rolls-Royce and Bentley alive.
Despite the glamour associated with these luxury vehicles, Carl estimates that 80% of his inventory comes from owners who can no longer maintain these cars. For many, parting out these vehicles is the only viable option, given the high costs of restoration.
Westminster Auto Spares not only preserves automotive history but also serves as a reminder of the inevitable fate that befalls even the most prestigious cars.