Kevin Patience told us of the true story behind how Rolls Royce was formed as a result of a partnership between a car salesman and a fastidious engineer.
He also explained how Rolls Royce adopted the Silver Lady or Spirit of Ecstasy mascot for its motor car radiator emblem in 1911.
What many didn’t realise was that there was a tragic love story between Lord Montague of Beaulieu and Eleanor Thornton his secretary who lost her life when the S.S. Persia was torpedoed in 1915. She had been the model for the mascot designed by Charles Sykes.
Kevin obviously has a vast knowledge of vintage Rolls Royce motorcars and had developed this fascinating insight into lesser known aspects of the marques history.
A most enjoyable and informative talk and, as part of the Ladies Day lunch, was appreciated by both Probus members and their partners in equal measure.