PETER ARNELL
(1944-2020)
Peter Arnell died on February 12th at the age of 75 from heart failure after struggling with throat cancer and heart problems. He was a prominent figure in the MG world.
He was a very bright pupil at school who opted to enter banking rather than attend university. He progressed quickly before becoming a successful broker on the Stock Exchange. The changing face of the institution in the late 1980s did not appeal and he found himself in a very different world and took early retirement.
His interest in cars and MGs in particular began in his early teens and he owned a range of models including most of the T Series and later models. He had an MG or MG’s in his garage from those teenage years through to his death. He was very much involved with the South East Centre of the MG Register. He is though, particularly remembered through his long term ownership (well his wife Suzie’s!) 1952 MG YB. The car was found in a small village garage in Surrey on a run organised by the SE Centre. They were driving their early NB at the time.
The YB hadn’t been run for many years but was being gradually restored. It was acquired by Peter and Suzie after the owner offered them a deal they couldn’t turn down. So in mid 1995 a different MG entered the Arnell’s life. Their then 43 year old YB (Chassis no. YB0858), with just 37,000 mile under its belt, joined the rare four seater NB. This was followed by an MGBGT and so provided an eclectic gathering of MGs at their Surrey home. The YB proved to be an inspired choice as now the couple have added a further 80,000 plus on her mileage with trips into Europe and around the UK.
Peter was Chairman of the MGCC Y Register for over 5 years during the early 2000s , a job which he undertook very efficiently. His wide range of contacts within the MG world was particularly effective in promoting the Y Type.
In 2010 Peter and Suzie left Surrey and moved to village life in rural Shropshire, a different but inspired choice where a good size garden and well appointed garage accommodation were especially valued.
It was here that they could both enjoy their love of gardening, the opportunity to exercise their border collie and to maintain their collection of MGs, a Morris Traveller and an AC Greyhound.
Peter will be sadly missed by his wife Suzie and wider family in particular, but also by his range of MG friends and many others. Peter was a true gentleman who thought about and cared for others. A very sad loss. Peter will be cremated with his ashes spread at Shelsey Walsh.
Jerry Birkbeck