Bushey waved a sad farewell to one of its most famous residents this week.

A 1950s Daimler DE36 Limousine which has been parked at 42 Chalk Hill for “40 to 50 years” was dragged out of the drive on its flat tyres and seized axles.

The car belonged to Roy Steward, who died earlier this year.

Steven Tompkinson, the proud new owner, took delivery of his “new” car last night, albeit on the back of a flat bed from Herts Recovery.

Mark Hewlett, Herts Recovery, said “It's going to be difficult getting it out, we're going to have to park across the road because of the van parked next to the car.

“I knocked for this car 18 years ago, everyone in the motor trade has enquired about buying this car.”

The removal took several attempts due to a large amount of leaves and debris under the car, and two Daimler wheel jacks which were attached stubbornly to the rear axle.

Stephen Tompkinson, from Hemel Hempstead, said: “I contacted the executioner of the will and asked if I could have the remains, as I'm interested in classic cars.

“They let me have it for nothing. I'm going to see if we can get it running and hopefully sell it on as a wedding car.”

Everyone in the small crowd that gathered had a story about the car.

Harry King, neighbour, said “I heard it used to be the Royal car in Scotland, so when the Queen visited she got picked her up in it.”

Mark Sykes runs his own business from his house next door.

He said: “We heard Winston Churchill was the last name in the log book, and also that it was the car which took Churchill's first wife to their wedding.

“I tell all my customers that my house is the one next to the old car. I'm going to have to get a sign or something now.”

Have you got a story about the old car? Contact the newsdesk on 01923 216295.

Check the Watford Observer for updates on the car's restoration.