The Rolls Royce Silver Cloud 111 Long Wheel Base, to which I refer, is one of just 254 such models ever produced worldwide. The only one of its kind in Ireland presently, this truly amazing piece of automotive history was first commissioned by William Waldorf Astor, 3rd Viscount Astor (Bill Astor) in 1963.
As it was not Astor’s first Rolls Royce. He had many bespoke features added specifically to this car, thus making it unique and fitted to his very exacting standards. Amongst these ‘extras‘ were the higher more comfortable back seat with rounded edges, making it easier to alight from; the Limousine Electric Division screen and privacy curtains which ensured privacy from the driver (you will understand possibly why in a moment); the bespoke telescopic reading lamps and unique green Perspex sun visors. All the windows were electric, there was air conditioning, power steering and a fine stereo fitted, all of this dating back to, believe it or believe it not, 1963! This magnificent automobile was then registered and delivered in January 1964 to Clivedon House where the Astor’s then resided.
Clivedon House was the setting of many famous social gatherings and parties and under the ownership of the Viscount and his family it was no different. It was at such a gathering that John Profumo, the British Secretary of State for War in Harold Macmillan‘s Conservative government, met Christine Keeler and started the now infamous “Profumo affair” that severely damaged the reputation of Prime Minister Harold Macmillan’s government. Indeed Macmillan himself would resign a few months later owing to ill health
It was then alleged that Viscount Astor himself was involved in this scandal with a friend of Christine Keeler, one Mandy Rice-Davies. When he denied knowing her and while she was giving evidence at the trial of Stephen Ward, latter then charged with living off the immoral earnings of both Christine Keeler and Rice-Davies, Mandy made a quip for which history will always remembered her. When the prosecuting counsel pointed out that William Waldorf Astor, 3rd Viscount Astor denied having an affair or having even met her, she replied, “Well, he would, wouldn’t he?”.
One can not help but wish that this car could talk!
This historic automobile was purchased in July 2007 by Michael F. Hogan and now holds pride of place in his collection of very fine automobiles and yes it can now be hired for your very own special event. On your wedding day, this car comes polished and spotless with a truly professional chauffeur, properly dressed. By professional chauffeur I mean the sort who arrives exactly on time, can sew on a loose button, insists on brushing down your jacket, can produce a bottle or two of real vintage champagne or vintage brandy, faster than you can click your fingers and insists that the laying out of the brides wedding train is all part of his duties.
This sort of attention to detail offered has not existed since the death of Queen Victoria, and is just not available anywhere else in this green Isle presently at least. Indeed, I defy any prospective bride or groom to find the slightest fault with the service.
Most important of all the price is easily within the range of everyone’s wedding budget. What a wonderful surprise gift for your future wife on her wedding day!
You can telephone 067-22212 or 087- 2335576 to find out further details.
Thurles.Info highly recommends this service.
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