We regret to announce that Tony Beadle, well-known classic motoring journalist, founding Editor of our sister publication Triumph World, and the man who instigated Drive It Day, died on January 7, 2012, of complications following an eight hour operation to deal with a serious heart condition.

Tony was admitted to Harefield Hospital before Christmas after complaining of chest pains and was told he had suffered a heart attack – news that came as a complete surprise − and needed a triple bypass and new heart valve. Sadly there were complications arising from this rather complex operation.

As well as editing Triumph World from 1995 to 2007, Tony also had a great interest in American cars and drag racing, edited Classic American from 1988 to 1992, and also worked on Street Machine first as Technical Editor and then Deputy Editor.

He was also extremely active within the Federation of British Historic Vehicle Clubs, being a member of the FBHVC’s board from 2003 to 2007, and a member of the legislation committee. In 2005 he suggested an annual event, commemorating the 1900 Thousand Mile Trial and involving enthusiasts simply going out for one day and using their cars, in order to show people what classic car ownership is all about and the numbers involved. Drive It Day debuted in 2006 and in the five years since has become a major event in the classic car calendar, and the day on which we all show people what Britain’s historic car movement is all about.

He was also a committee member of the Society of Automotive Historians in Britain and the editor of the SAHB Times.

Tony’s untimely and unexpected death has robbed the classic car movement of a good friend and true unsung hero. We at Classic Car Buyer extend our sympathy to his wife Jennie and son John.

Peter Simpson