I've mentioned on the forum before I'm a long time Lotus owner and am fortunate enough to be friends with fellow Coventrian Mike Kimberley. For those not aware Mike went on to be the boss at Lotus Cars and for many years was Colin Chapman's right hand man and also remarkably at one time was also at Lamborghini. Anyway Mike got in touch recently as he is currently writing his autobiography (which should be a great read to include his early years in Cov). Mike was after a particular photograph that we've later learned came from the London Illustrated News, of the Browns Lane fire in 1957. With many thanks to our own Annewiggy, we were able to provide Mike with a copy. I've zoomed in here as it show's Mike on the right as he was originally an apprentice, living just along the road on Brown's Lane. The other apprentice Mike named as Mike Ferris. This is what Mike had to say on the image - it’s interesting to hear some commentary about pictures of the time.
The photograph was taken from inside the north end of the factory, just where the test and rectification area was before the fire. I had been reversing cars out during the fire when Lofty grabbed me by the ear (I was just reversing a melting 3.4l out - my 6th car) and took me round to Sir Bill out front.
The next day I was in the same area standing on top of a burnt out car with another apprentice, both wearing wellies as we were looking for our toolboxes (were by the elevated line on left).
The thing that stands out is the frozen river of glass hanging from the burnt out roof! We are surrounded by burned out hulks. Our backs are to the camera I think, or half side on, gazing at the glass and terrible burnt out cars.