CAR pioneers Charles and Walter Santler of Malvern have been commemorated at a new retirement complex in Malvern Link.

Anna Brazier, of Pickersleigh Grove, chose the name Santler Court to win a Malvern Gazette competition naming the McCarthy and Stone development on the corner of Worcester Road and Howsell Road.

The Santler brothers built a steam-driven car, the Dogcart, in 1887, which drew crowds of onlookers wherever it went.

In 1894, they fitted it with a petrol engine, making it the first of its kind in Britain. It could reach about 12mph - with no policemen watching - and carry two people up a slight gradient.

Now restored, the old car has become one of the most sought-after trophies in motoring history. The last time it came on the market, in 2001, it fetched £146,750 at auction - double the expected price.

Mrs Brazier and her husband Tim went to Santler Court this week to present a picture of the car for the residents' lounge and to collect their £100 prize.

She chose the name because of the close connection between Santler and the Morgan Motor Company, which once stood on the site of Santler Court.

Mrs Brazier, a steward at Malvern Museum, said: "Although Morgan became world famous, the Santler brothers really started it all. They have not been recognised as often as they should."