Tony Clipstone, the owner of J/R 649, the earliest known running  J-type in the world, lost a courageous battle against cancer in Adelaide on the 15th July, 2012. He was 68.

Clipstone had a lifelong love of his beloved Morris vehicles and was the proud custodian of a Z van, a Minor van, an LC3 and an LC5. But his prize and passion was J/R 649.  The LC5 fitted Tony’s madcap sense of humour as it enabled him to exercise his passion for the character of Claude Greengrass from the television program Heartbeat.  His exploits at rallies and parties dressed as “Claude” were renowned.

It will forever be to Tony’s credit that J/R 649 has been preserved in original condition and unaltered. 

Tony Clipstone was defined by his wit, humanity and sincerity.  By profession he was a pharmacist.  All comers were greeted with his openness and engaging personality. They were far too droll if they left without a smile.  In the late ’90s, Tony ventured from his comfortable Adelaide home to live and work in the UK, as a pharmacist in North Wales.  As an Aussie, he was able to entertain and bring a smile to the most crook (Aussie speak for unwell!) of Poms. Most found this bloke far too much fun and returned to his counter with any excuse for another remedy.  He made friends easily and made all feel valued.

His farewell will be at Meadows, in the Adelaide Hills, and it is expected that the place will be overflowing.  J/R 649 will of course, take pride of place. Tony Clipstone touched many; a  gentleman whom it was an honour to have known. Tony is survived by his wife Wendy and mother Peg. Peter Bateman

J-owner Mike Slaney writes to inform us of the loss of another Australian J-owner and enthusiast, Chris Jackman, owner of an ex-Cripps Bakery J, now liveried as Jackman McRoss Bakers, which can be seen at http://www.jtypevan.com/morris-commercial/chassis-numbers-not-known/. Chris died suddenly at home, aged 42. He was a talented chef and mad about classic cars.