The ceremony, with Richard Hammond as a guest star, took place on June 21 and was planned as a simple but very symbolic celebration. By the way, the plaque has been placed on one of the walls that are still preserved from the old factory, facing the current Enfield Road. ANDbefore its installation, attendees had the opportunity to sign it on the back, leaving their particular mark on the tribute.
The event included the participation of followers of the brand who came from different places, as well as former employees who experienced first-hand the evolution of Royal Enfield in the area. After a brief introduction by the brand’s historian, Gordon Maythe group took a short tour through Redditch to Arrow Valley Country Park, where the brand maintains a commemorative sculpture.
Richard Hammond was another of the stars of the event
As we have told you, one of the most commented moments was the presence of Richard Hammondwho in addition to participating in the official event, shared his personal memories linked to British motorcycle culture. The presenter highlighted the humble and close nature of the celebration, very much in line with the philosophy that, according to him, has always characterized Royal Enfield.
The commemoration is part of the brand’s 125th anniversary events, organized next to the historic pub red lionlocated next to the old industrial site. For the occasion, Royal Enfield He also exhibited several motorcycles representative of his legacy, including one Bullet 500 1932 manufactured in Redditch and considered one of the best preserved units of its time.
A special version of the modern Classic 650 twin-cylinder, created to commemorate the anniversary, as well as the so-called “Origin Project”, a faithful recreation of the brand’s first motorcycle from 1901, and built from a single historical photograph.
own Hammond later had the opportunity to get on a Royal Enfield Interceptor 750 Series II from 1970, previously restored in his workshop, with which he took a route to Arrow Valley Park after the ceremony.
Among the attendees were also former factory workers, such as Mervyn and Hilary Pantingwho shared memories of a time when the plant was not only a workplace, but almost a community in itself, with strong personal ties between employees.
In the words of one of the organizers, the event was not looking for great displays, but simply to pinpoint the place where it all began. A wall that today is part of a modern industrial estate, but that more than a century ago was the starting point of the oldest brand that continues to operate.
