Steven , you mentioned that Ron has been a one man band since Gillotts. I am
certain he was a one man operation on the frame building side while still at
Gillotts. I am sure that when Edwardes took over in Feb 1963 Ron was the
only builder, leaving in 1967. Harry Carrington went along to support him.
Harry had instigated frame building at Southampton Way in 1945. A question
for Richie - did Bill Philbrook ever mention when he left Gillotts during
your time together at Witcomb's?
Many people dismiss Gillotts built after 1963 but if they are genuine they
will have been 100% Ron Cooper built. I recently bought a 1982-ish Ron
Cooper with "Gillott" milled into the Fork crowns, both sides of the bracket
and 2 millings on the brake bridge. Go figure!
Dale, if you have any more information on Mark Reillys' dealings with Ron
and the purchase of the Gillott name I would be keen to hear.
Mark Stevens. Globally warmed Dingwall. Scotland.