I am continuing a history of engine turning developed at James E. Pearce; a family owned and run business which was started in London in the late 1950's by my grandfather, Jim Pearce - in 1968 the company moved to the picturesque village of Wisborough Green, West Sussex.

Coachbuilding has long been undertaken in Wisborough Green. The Gravely Brothers, who were skilled engineers, could often be found converting vehicles for use for local businesses.

Jim Pearce took on part of the premises restoring a small number of cars but specialising in Vintage Bentleys pursuing his passion. David Pearce, having worked closely with his father Jim in the business for over thirty years, took over the ownership and running of James E. Pearce in the year 2000. David now provides coachwork parts and supplies for owners and the trade, and has a vast experience and knowledge of the cars, their preservation and heritage.

Today, amongst other technical and varied projects, I work as an Engine Turner. I am pleased to share that this work will continue with the dashboards for the Bentley Motors Blower Jnr; the first all-electric Bentley, inspired by the vintage Bentley Team Car UU 5872. Working with my father, David, the dashboards will contain a curved sequenced pattern, sharing a language of the original, historic instrument fascia. To be part of the design and manufacture of a more sustainable Bentley has been a long-held aspiration.

- Simon Pearce