Blue Diamond Services

...from Langport, Somerset, have specialised in pre-1940 Riley cars for the past 35 years. They undertake: complete mechanical restoration; high quality engine and unit repair; and overhaul work, as well as routine servicing. Over the years, they have rebuilt and worked on a wide range of sports, saloon and touring cars, and have built and rebuilt a number of sports and racing specials.

Ian Gladstone's love affair with the Riley started when he saw one parked in the street. Struck by the style and lines of the car, he found it hard to believe that such fine cars were so undervalued. Determined to own one himself, he finally bought a 12/4 Riley Kestrel for £15.

Ian went on to own, and work, on Rileys for some years before going full time.

He started (what was to become) Blue Diamond Services, in 1974. This coincided with the start of over 35 years collaboration with Brian Lloyd-Jacob, and the purchase of the entire remaining stock of Caffyns, the main Riley dealership near Brighton.

According to Ian, Rileys are great cars to drive and usable today, with excellent steering, brakes and superb engines, well capable of tuning for racing and fast touring.

Blue Diamond Services has built and rebuilt a large number of Rileys over the years, including saloons, tourers, two-seaters and specials. They also pride themselves on the parts services, which has expanded over the years, to include a recently-published illustrated list.