Can you help put name on classic Ryton-built Commer Cob?

Do you know the name of the chimney sweep who used this Coombe Cob on his round in the city?



A CLASSIC van enthusiast has appealed to Observer readers for help to trace the family of a chimney sweep who once owned the latest addition to his collection.

Gary Oxley recently bought the powder blue 1960 estate version of the Ryton-based Rootes Group's Commer Cob - later known as the Hillman Husky.

It is understood it was used by its first owner for his entire working life as a chimney sweep in Coventry and then restored by new owners in Berkshire after being found by the man's family in his garage after he died.

The van's interior was black, but only because it was thick with soot.

And during its restoration it took several steam cleans and being tipped upside down to empty it all out of the interior and chassis before the seats and door coverings were returned to their original red colour.

Mr Oxley, who lives in Rotherham, said he had help from Coventry Transport Museum to convince the DVLA to allow him to retain its original number plate despite not having the logbook.

But without the logbook the original owner's identity remains a mystery.

"I wanted to honour the chimney sweep by putting his name on the side panels. So I do hope the lovely people of Coventry will help me find out his name.

"I have already bought a set of chimney sweep brushes and rods to go in the back so now all I need is the name."

Anyone who can help should contact Mr Oxley on 07977 572585 or 01709 279518.

What a lovely vehicle.