#444

1946/7

Owner's notes: "Its history is as follows. It was given to Bill
Betton (the former owner of Mercian) many years ago as an example of a
very early Mercian frame. It sat round in the attic of the shop for a
long time, and when Bill retired he gave it to Jeff Bowler, then the
shop manager. About 2 years ago Jeff sold me the frame.  Over its long
life the original transfers had worn away and it may even had another
coat of paint. I had the frame restored by Mercian. Sadly the Crowther
and Barker head badges are no longer available."