100-Year-Old Rolls-Royce Stolen from Essex Hotel Before European Tour

A 105-year-old Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost valued at approximately £300,000 was stolen from the Orsett Hall Hotel near Grays, Essex, just hours before its owner, Brian Fitton, was set to begin a European tour including Finland and the Baltic States. Fitton, 82, who has owned and traveled extensively with the car for over 20 years, described the theft as heartbreaking and is offering a £2,000 reward for its safe return. The vintage vehicle, known for its complex 23-step starting procedure, was likely taken via flatbed or towing rather than driven away. Fitton, a retired scrapyard owner, has restored the car, which retains original parts including the iconic 'Lady' mascot, and has driven it across numerous European countries. The theft has been investigated by Essex Police, and the incident has deeply impacted Fitton, especially following a recent personal loss. The car was due to be loaded onto a ferry at Tilbury Docks along with 25 other Rolls-Royces for the planned tour.