All of you are aware of "ST1"s famous role in "The Saint" and that it's actual first owner was Sir Roger Moore as documented by it's green logbook. What many of you may not know is that "ST1" actually had a famous film star as it's second owner as well.
By late 1968, production for "The Saint" series had been completed and Sir Roger purchased a Mercedes sedan as his principle personal vehicle. This meant that "ST1" was now no longer needed. Enter actor and producer Martin Benson

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Mr. Benson had been in many famous films such as "Exodus" and "The King and I". However, the role which most people associate him with is "Mr. Solo" from "Goldfinger". In this film, he plays the gangster to whom Sean Connery slips the tracking device. Later, his character is shot then crushed in a Lincoln Continental by "Oddjob". The crushed Lincoln is later returned to Goldfinger which causes Bond to quip, "You said he had a pressing engagement". (Please see attached photo for reference). Of course, Mr. Benson also appeared in "The Saint".
I'll let Mr. Benson tell his story about "ST1":

" Dear Bill, How exciting that you have worked the magic enough to bring it back to life! I was involved with the filming of "The Saint" and therefore I knew what was going on with the car. When the show ended, I asked Roger to sell me the car. I used it on a daily basis to take my kids to school. The condition of the car was excellent except for a cut in the passenger's seat (note:it's at the seam where the stitching has pulled and is still there!) which my daughter remembers!"

I asked Mr. Benson about what looks to be a cigarette burn mark on the facia above the ashtray. He responded that the mark was there when he bought the car and that "the burn is placed to make it certain that Roger was responsible!"
Mr. Benson kept "ST1" for several years and sold it in the 1970's. I have the actual ad he placed which is attached. Check the price!
While unable to find a photo of "ST1" during his ownership in his 'nostalgia' drawer, Mr. Benson was kind enough to sign a photo for me which is attached.

Best Regards to All,
Bill Krzastek