Isle of Man: P50 - Peel Engineering's Extraordinary Legacy (Book Review)

With renewed interest in the Manx micro-car known as the Peel P50, it's an appropriate time to publish a book which explores the background of this remarkable vehicle and the unique story behind Peel Engineering.

Brimming with an assortment of nostalgic photographs, including rare ones of Peel Engineering's Managing Director, Cyril Cannell, this little gem has been produced as part of the car's fiftieth anniversary celebrations, and includes details of recent anniversary events.

This chronicle of the world's smallest car also highlights a lesser known aspect of the history of the Island fishing port which gave its name to the company Peel Engineering, providing not only a number of vehicle designs, but several other innovative concepts; including the Peel motorcycle fairing, a revolutionary hovercraft and the spire on the Sea Terminal in Douglas.

Cyril Cannell's propensity for design was extraordinary, and even in his twilight years he continued to reveal new ideas, including a monorail scheme (highlighted in the book) which he believed could be installed along the old Peel to Douglas railway line.

The story of Peel Engineering, an important element of Manx history, is a singular tale which will appeal to a wide readership, whether they be car enthusiasts or historians.

Written by locally based enthusiast Barry Edwards, the book is available from Lily Publications and other Island outlets priced at £16.

Valerie Caine
© March 2015

(Courtesy of Mannin Media)