And a quick reply from Flash:

"Thanks for getting in touch. We know that Alf subcontracted some frame
building out to Bob Jackson Cycles (among others) at times when Jack
Denny couldn't keep up with orders. We know that Jack Denny went to
Jackson's at some time and showed them how to bend the stays. How many
frames were subcontracted to Jackson, and when this practice started, is
a matter of conjecture. Jackson's web site claims that all Hetchins
production was carried out by themselves in Leeds from the mid 1970s;
that is exaggerated. I think they'd like to take more credit than they
deserve for Hetchin's reputation.

"In 1972 Hetchin's shop was still in Tottenham, London; the move to
Southend-On-Sea took place in 1974. A confirmed Jackson-build prior to
the move to Southend is news to me, but if Donald Thomas confirms it
from his production records, then it is indisputable. However, I
shouldn't think it was common at that time for Jackson to build Hetchins.

"I don't know what to make of the SN 8648; it appears to be Jackson's
own. Hetchins serial numbers from 1972 would have been in the range
H102xx to H103xx. As one of your correspondents mentioned, the first
confirmed Jackson-build with an 8xxx number was built in the summer of
1984--I have seen the receipt for it, in Alf's hand.

"Do send me some fotos, especially close-ups of the top eyes, stay ends,
lug work, and fork crown, if you can."

Regards and tailwinds,
Flash
--
Editor
Historic Hetchins
http://www.hetchins.org