Is this damage or has a purpose

[John Wakefield]

Looks like the mice have been at it. seriously as you dont have the missing pieces welding is OTT, best to look for another cover.

[MarkM]

First time out in the garage to have a look at my 58 Hawkstone project. Its looking more and more beyond my ability to fix/restore. So much needs to be done and having no/little experience dont help me . Its got so many modifications (not least the unusual cradle holds a 10E engine) At least got the head off and the piston glides nicely in the bore. My first glance at the clutch cover suggested completely trashed. But is there something else going on here? The holes/slots apear to have been cut out in the cover and the inside of the cover has had some serious modifiying. Its almost like it was done to observe clutch wear or something? I am just being daft? (another odd addition is a BVF carb)