famous company founded in Tamworth.

Elvis Payne, who owns a 1961 Reliant Regal Mk VI van and who organises a gathering of the classic cars at the town's heritage weekend, was asked to co-author a new book on the Reliant Motor Company.

Released by Crecy Publishing, the book is entitled "The Reliant Motor Co" will go on sale in July.

"This is the third book I have been involved with about Reliant," explained Elvis, who has Reliants for 20 years.

"They are eccentric. When you see them you smile. You can't miss them on the road." Joining Elvis in writing the book is Stuart Cyphus.

From its 1935 Raleigh roots through the utility Reliant seven cwt, Greek bound TW9 vans and millennium BN-2, the book recognises the the Reliant Motor Co impact on Britain's automotive industry.

It offers a detailed history of Reliant's full range of vehicles, incorporating three and four wheelers.

The Herald even makes an appearance with several name-checks in the book.

"Some of the information was obtained from stories in the old Tamworth Heralds based at Tamworth Library," Elvis said.

Elvis's love of the quirky cars began in 1990. He had been a motorcyclist but just before he was due to go to university his Yamaha bike was stolen.

On his mum's advice, Elvis bought his first Reliant for £365 and his been a devotee ever since.

Over the last 20 years, Elvis has had eight Reliants, including Regal vans and Robins.

Elvis is also behind a comprehensive website which focuses on three-wheelers – www.3-wheelers.com – which is full of information and photos and is a must for anyone fascinated by the little cars

It includes a history of the three wheeler, noting that the Reliant was first produced in Tamworth in 1935. The firm was founded by Tom Williams, who lived in Kettlebrook, and his cars were manufactured at the Reliant factory in Two Gates until 1998, when the company moved to Cannock. Production ceased in 2002.

Elvis's previous works include a restoration book published in 2005 and book about Reliants on the North Cape Challenge in 2008.For more details on "The Reliant Motor Co" or to order a copy online visit www.crecy.co.uk

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