Taking the Mick
Hands up all those who remember the two Micks
from Rafferty Newman's Stores.
There was Mick Challon, the rather dour
Supervisor and original Storeman when the shop first
started. Then there was Mick Pantling, the blonde
haired 'prima donna'. The two of them had an
ongoing love affair with MG Sports Cars. One green MGB
was owned by Mick C, and one Blue MGC 3500 V8 was
owned by Mick P. As soon as one of them had any
extras fitted to their car, the other had to have it as
well.
To be fair, Mick Challon did have a pleasant way
about him, and a very dry sense of humour. But he
carried the full responsibility of running the Stores,
and with the huge increase in postal merchandise fed by
the success of the Wildcat performance parts it was a big
weight on his shoulders. With Rafferty Newmans becoming
the Hampshire Yamaha main dealer Mick C had lots to
do, and had his own little section built in the stores,
and Kenny and Marten took over the Wildcat mail order
duties.
Mick Pantling was a colourful fellow, an ex lift
service engineer. Quite often in the early days Marten and I would
hang around Raffs on a Saturday morning and get chatting
to the 2 Micks during quiet spells in the
shop.
I always remember above the old Stores there were some
offices with a gaggle of nice young lovelys. The two Micks were
taken by these girlys and would often be found having a coffee
break upstairs.
Another guy we would talk to would be Richard
Holmes. (who was tragically killed right in front of
me.)
See:- http://www.davesplace.co.uk/Richard_Holmes_Tribute.htm
Here is a message from Mick Challon who has found out little
site.
Hi Marten & Dave.
I have just been referred to your website by
a customer who was trying to catch up with me and
somehow managed to get to your website.
It brings back very interesting and
amusing memories,of the various characters of so
long ago.I didn't realize i was 'dour' must try to
improve my image!
I am still involved with Rafferty Newman at
Petersfield where we sell ATV's/Quad bikes/Utility
Vehicles and small tractors,Ned still owns Rafferty
Newman at Fareham but is virtually retired these days
and lives in Old Portsmouth.I have been on the phone
to him today and told him about your site and sends his
regards.
I don' know what happened to Mick Pantling,i
believe he moved to South Africa.I certainly remember
some of the *'wind ups' that happened with Kenny
Erridge,again have not seen him for years.
If you are ever this way it would be good to
see you,we are on Petersfield Industrial
Estate,Bedford Road.
Kind regards and best wishes Mick
Challen.
*note from Marten.
What ever you do don't mention Blue Unction to Kenny.
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