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Perhaps the frame was modified by a framebuilder
Possibly, but I honestly drum brakes are still a thing in a lot of places that value their almost no-maintenance, it doesn't seem too far-fetched for someone to like them enough to build a frame around them.
JVBulman-
Indeed, back in the mid 80's drums were big on the UK MTB scene, here's an excellent article by the late Dave Wrath-Sharman that's worth a read...
http://www.63xc.com/dws/hubbrake.htmI quote:
Once upon a time, long ago, Sturmey realised that there were things called mountainbikes .... the sales director and a sidekick put hub brakes on a mountainbike and went off into the wilds. Nearly killed themselves. The brakes weren't good enough. I got roped in as a design consultant, and I redesigned the innards. I still have some, and they really work, but Sturmey didn't go ahead. They told me they were making enough money with the hubs they already had.Dave's Highpath bikes were pure class - I think this is my favourite
Rik_Van_Looy
Indeed, repositioning brake and gear levers was my first task!
I'm intrigued by the cable guides. Why go to that effort and not create bosses for the brake arms?
My only clue is a shop sticker that says it's bought from or refurbished by Arthur Caygill. Perhaps the frame was modified by a framebuilder