Dr Thomson's car

Dr George Thomson was known for being the first person in Codnor to own a motorcar. This photograph shows the car, being driven by Dr Thomson, in use during the coronation celebrations for George V in 1910 held at Codnor Market Place. Mrs Ruby Thomson, wife of Dr Thomson, is seen in the back with their son, Keith. Beside Dr Thomson is Mr Ridyard, his wife and daughter are also in the back.

Dr Thomson was born in Aberdeen, Scotland in 1875. He set up his surgery in Fettercairn House in Codnor in 1901, after previously practising in Nottingham for 4 years. He soon became a key member of the community and often held garden parties to raise funds for local charities. Dr Thomson was also employed by the Butterley Company to treat miners after they were injured in accidents.

After his retirement in 1945, he moved to Duffield near Derby. Both his sons stayed closer to Codnor and became doctors themselves. George died in 1950 at the age of 75. In his will, he left around £1.1 million or $1.5 million in today's money. Codnor still remembers him with an annual tea party for the elderly in his name. A road in the town is also named Thomson Drive.