The Maurice Project shifts into the next gear at Dudley College of Technology

Dudley College of Technology is pleased to announce its collaboration with Provision House in support of The Maurice Project, a community-based project centred around the restoration of a 1963 Jaguar E-Type. Through this project, members of the Dudley community will have the opportunity to develop their skills while working on a classic vehicle whilst learning more about the local history of the vehicle’s manufacture.

By contributor Oliver Cadman
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The 1963 Jaguar E-Type was recently donated to Provision House by the Dudley-based Pope family, following the death of family member: Maurice Pope, whose lifelong passion for classic cars and wish to see his beloved E-Type restored, led to the project. The vehicle is to be housed at the Black Country & Marches Institute of Technology (BCMIoT), whilst the restoration will be managed by Nick Gainsford of Provision House.

Speaking about the opportunities that the project will bring, Dennis Stephens Curriculum Manager for Automotive at Dudley College of Technology said: “We’re incredibly proud to be supporting The Maurice Project here at Dudley College. It’s a fantastic opportunity for our students and local volunteers to gain hands-on experience working on a truly iconic vehicle. Projects like this bring learning to life — blending technical skills development with real community engagement and a deep appreciation for our region’s rich automotive heritage.”

From Left to Right: Dennis Stephens (Curriculum Manager for Automotive, Dudley College of Technology) with Steven Claxton and Nick Gainsford of Provision House.
From Left to Right: Dennis Stephens (Curriculum Manager for Automotive, Dudley College of Technology) with Steven Claxton and Nick Gainsford of Provision House.

Sharing his thoughts on the project’s potential for community collaboration, Nick Gainsford Senior Manager at Provision House said: “Provision House are very excited about this collaboration opportunity with Dudley College. We are very grateful to Dennis Stephens (Dudley College Automotive Department) for opening the door of the Institute of Technology to us. As venues go, this is about as good as it gets and is a great place to receive the Dudley community volunteers. This project offers both Dudley College students and the wider people of Dudley a unique and rare opportunity, to take part in the preservation of a valuable and Iconic, midlands built, classic car.”

Recruitment for volunteers who are interested in getting involved is now underway. Anyone is welcome to join irrespective of any existing knowledge or skills. To volunteer, contact Provision House by calling: 0121 285 3970 or emailing admin@provisionhouse.co.uk. Alternatively, you can download and complete an application form by visiting: provisionhouse.co.uk/jaguar-e-type-restoration-project/