
The stories keep coming, and so do the incredible classics! We’re thrilled to reveal the next ten finalists in this year’s Lancaster Insurance Pride of Ownership. Each one represents passion, patience, and pure dedication to keeping classic motoring alive. From garage-built restorations to lifelong dreams made real, these are the cars and owners that make this competition so special.
Alex Mills – 1992 Austin Metro 310 City Van
This is a truly remarkable and one of a kind vehicle, still in its original, unrestored condition, which is rare for a metro let alone a commercial van. With only 32,000 miles on the clock, Alex has had the car for just over 10 years and won many awards.
Andy Green – 1970 Volkswagen Beetle
A real showstopper, Andy has been dreaming of this car since he was 15 years old. Having owned Beetles as daily drivers, Andy set out to make this a show car, bringing in an expert to make sure it was modified to perfection, reaching that goal in the past year.
Christopher Frost – 1983 Ford Escort MkIII RS 1600i
Chris is the 12th owner of this 72,000 mile stunner, which he purchased in 2012. Working with a local restorer, he spent just £2,700 on top of the purchase price to get it to the standard you see here. Winning several awards at UK shows, Chris always wanted to own an RS 1600i since he was a teenager.
David Wootton – 2004 Vauxhall Astra GSi 2.0L Turbo
Having always loved the GSi shape and the round bulky bumper, David has fully restored this example, which was the last one off the product line. Knowing you don't see many on the roads, David sees the car as a future investment, especially as it only had 57,000 miles from new.
Henry Hoare – 1967 Triumph TR4 A
Purchased in 2017 as a restoration project, Henry built the car on an original chassis before a complete nut and bolt restoration. Returning to the road in 2020, it always receives a lot of interest due to its stunning colour. Of the four cars Henry has restored, this is his favourite.
Jason Crawley – 1999 Citroen Berlingo 800 DLX Van
Yes, you read that right! Jason’s Berlingo was purchased new in 1999 and used everyday until 2023, when the ULEZ scheme put a stop to it being his work van. He’d always kept it immaculate so decided a full restoration was in order before he went on the show circuit.
John Hemming – 1990 Peugeot 205 GT Dimma ‘Turbo Technics’
Having sold his last Dimma 205 ten years ago, John knew he wanted another and found this original Factory Dimma with Twin Technics conversion from new. Presented in pristine condition, the car has covered 38,000 miles which includes the journey from Jersey when John purchased it.
Mark George – 2009 Ford Focus RS MkII
Initially looking for a Escort Cosworth, Mark stumbled across this RS and knew it was the perfect project for him. From the body work to the mechanics, Mark has restored, replaced and upgraded all the elements. It wasn’t an easy process, especially as both Mark and his son were ill but they, and the car, are now fighting fit!
Richard Holmes – 1971 Morris Mini 1000 Pick Up
Meet 54 year-old Dylan, one of only 200 surviving Mini Pick Ups out of the 58,000 originally built. Purchased in 2014 to add to their family of classic Minis, the car was stolen in Oct 2017. Thanks to a top-off in January 2018, the vehicle was found in a barn and as a reward has been fully restored to the standard you see today.
Mark Riley - 1965 Renault R8 Gordini
Mark’s Renault R8 Gordini is a superb example of the iconic French sports saloon. Renowned for its rally pedigree, the Gordini boasts unique styling, distinctive blue paintwork, and a reputation for agile handling and spirited performance. Fully restored, the car is bound to win hearts and minds over the weekend.
With all twenty finalists now revealed, the countdown to the Lancaster Insurance Classic Motor Show is officially on. See these remarkable cars up close and meet the proud owners behind them. Remember, only visitors at the show can decide who takes home the 2025 Pride of Ownership trophy – your vote could crown the winner!
Don’t miss the winner being announced at 2pm Sunday on the stand in Hall 3
Use discount code EM31 to save £2 per ticket!