Discussion
That's the end of an era. The first Corvette I ever drove was a C5 which Tom had for sale back in 1998.
These extracts from Classic & Sportscar - October 1996 - an article which set me on the path towards owning an American car:
"Tom Falconer's love affair with the Corvette blossomed after a spell working in America in 1965. Five years later, on returning to Newcastle, he bought his first one from Animals lead singer Eric Burdon.
"Tom worked as an architect in Newcastle and began Claremont Corvette as a hobby sideline in 1977. But within five years it was virtually supporting his architectural practice.
"The name Claremont was taken from the name of the road where he lived, and sounded suitably American.
"Claremont expanded until 1985, when the opportunity came to move down south. This suited Tom because there are a lot more Corvettes in the south of England and the weather is better for driving open cars. Tom is still in his Kent premises, a converted Methodist chapel.
"Tom says he's been doing the job for so long he doesn't have any trouble understanding what people want when they ring up. He claims to offer the most extensive supply of parts outside USA and because he has been breaking cars for 20 years has an enormous stock of obscure parts. If you come in for something strange it's amazing how often he will have it.
"Falconer, who has written several excellent books on Corvettes, realises he is lucky to be doing something he enjoys and earning money out of it."
These extracts from Classic & Sportscar - October 1996 - an article which set me on the path towards owning an American car:
"Tom Falconer's love affair with the Corvette blossomed after a spell working in America in 1965. Five years later, on returning to Newcastle, he bought his first one from Animals lead singer Eric Burdon.
"Tom worked as an architect in Newcastle and began Claremont Corvette as a hobby sideline in 1977. But within five years it was virtually supporting his architectural practice.
"The name Claremont was taken from the name of the road where he lived, and sounded suitably American.
"Claremont expanded until 1985, when the opportunity came to move down south. This suited Tom because there are a lot more Corvettes in the south of England and the weather is better for driving open cars. Tom is still in his Kent premises, a converted Methodist chapel.
"Tom says he's been doing the job for so long he doesn't have any trouble understanding what people want when they ring up. He claims to offer the most extensive supply of parts outside USA and because he has been breaking cars for 20 years has an enormous stock of obscure parts. If you come in for something strange it's amazing how often he will have it.
"Falconer, who has written several excellent books on Corvettes, realises he is lucky to be doing something he enjoys and earning money out of it."
BlackZeD said:
I actually remember Claremont Corvette in Newcastle.
Used to pass it taking my brother to his Uni digs in Fenham.
I seem to remember a yellow C3 outside, long time ago now.
Good luck to Tom in his retirement.
I too remember when Tom ran his business from Claremont Road.Used to pass it taking my brother to his Uni digs in Fenham.
I seem to remember a yellow C3 outside, long time ago now.
Good luck to Tom in his retirement.
I also remember him turning up at Felton in Eric Burdons Vette. We used to run drag races up the old airstrip eighth mile not quarter IIRC back in the 70's
Friend of mine sold him his Vette and also the Dutton Van he used for a while.....
Sad news indeed, but brightened by the thought of Tom enjoying his retirement. Dad bought a C2, a C4 and a 1978 Thunderbird Diamond Jubilee Edition from Tom in Kent many years ago. The latter I would love to know the wherabouts of.
Loved going to Snodland to see the showroom - as a young lad the models, books and memorabilia on offer were as interesting as the cars! Busy workshop too with all sorts of fabulous things burbling in and out, loved it.
Good luck in your retirement, Tom.
Loved going to Snodland to see the showroom - as a young lad the models, books and memorabilia on offer were as interesting as the cars! Busy workshop too with all sorts of fabulous things burbling in and out, loved it.
Good luck in your retirement, Tom.
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