Jim Broome (1916-1981), frame builder, Salford, Lancs., UK
Jim Broome was
not untypical of many of his era as a skilled builder of quality frames
for a mainly local clientele.
He carried on his business initially in parallel with his
day job as a Post Office Telecommunications worker. Jim was born on Christmas Day 1916 and lived to 64. He began business in a small shop in Tatton Street, Salford, in which his wife served in the shop while he carried on the tasks of frame repairs and building in a back room workshop. This was apparently no mass production process with brazing hearths and complex jigs and fixtures. Frames were assembled from Reynolds 531 with the aid of an acetylene torch for brazing. It seems that about 200 frames were his total output (mine is No 191).
In later years Jim gave up his day job and opened larger premises at 169/171 Regent Road, Salford. These were close enough to the Coronation Street TV set to require some of Jim's stock in trade as props. His interest in amateur dramatics drew him in with a non-speaking part in the popular soap and another TV production. The shop closed in the late 1960's and the area was subsequently comprehensively redeveloped.
Below is the scan of an advert for 'Jim Broome of Salford' at his Regent Road address as published in Sporting Cyclist of June 1964. It lists his '531 Special' with Campag front and rear ends at 16 Gns (£16 16s). Vertical drop-outs are £1 3s 6d extra.
The above is a synopsis of the recollections of Bill Clayton, Peter Watson and Jim Broome Junior via a third party whose invaluable assistance is gratefully acknowledged.
Phillipa's Jim Broome track machine
 Detail showing the original Jim
Broome 'autograph' style down tube transfer
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 Slightly smaller version of
transfer on both chainstays
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 Cunning use of motor-cycle valve
lifter as quick release brake lever for track/road use
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 Jim Broome headlugs
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 Seat cluster
with spare tub |
 Chrome track rear ends
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