Bought in 2017 as a birthday present to myself, this car had 110,000 miles on the clock and was originally intended as a hobby project to tidy up and preserve. What started as a simple restoration soon grew into something much bigger when someone suggested entering a concours competition. Although I had heard of concours events before, I had never taken part but decided to give it a try.

Over the past nine years, the car has undergone extensive work, including a full nut-and-bolt restoration of the underside, along with countless other improvements and refinements. The focus throughout has been on maintaining the car to the highest possible standard while preserving its originality and character.

The hard work has paid off. Over the last three years, the car has collected multiple awards, including four Pride of Ownership titles, and is currently the 2026 Masterclass winner.

Today, the car has just over 120,000 miles on the clock and is used sparingly, mainly for summer drives and trips to car shows. Purchased for £7,000 in 2017, it is now insured for £55,000, reflecting both the quality of the restoration and its condition. For me, however, its value goes far beyond the numbers, representing years of dedication, attention to detail, and enjoyment of the hobby.

Name: Phil Richardson