I tracked down my grandfather's Mini after it'd been lost for DECADES – I restored & now it's worth over £12,000
Jamie Garrett, from Oxfordshire, was recently named a runner-up in Lancaster Insurance 's prestigious Pride of Ownership award for 2025, after showcasing his beautifully restored and much-loved classic car.
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Speaking to the classic car experts at Lancaster Insurance, Jamie revealed the iconic little motor was originally purchased by his grandfather in 1965 and became an integral part of the family's life.
Indeed, it was used for everything from summer holidays in France and Italy to teaching multiple family members, including Jamie's father, how to drive.
The car later served as Jamie's father's work vehicle - before rust claimed it in 1977, rendering it undrivable and leaving it off the road for decades.
In 1996, an attempt was made to restore the Mini but the project stalled and the car was eventually given away.
For years, it was thought to be lost forever - until Jamie tracked it down in 2019.
Against all odds, he bought the car back and embarked on the ambitious task of restoring it to its former glory - despite having no prior experience in car restoration.
As expected, Jamie faced numerous challenges, including a failed initial attempt, but his determination never wavered and by working with specialists, including a skilled panel expert from the Real Mini Company, the Mini's shell was brought back to life.
Better yet, Jamie decided to keep the restoration project a secret from his father until 2023, when he unveiled the fully restored Mini as a surprise - leaving his father overwhelmed with emotion.
Together, they worked on the final touches before taking the car for its first drive to visit Jamie's grandfather, who apparently, when he first saw it, said: 'It was never this good!'
Speaking to Lancaster Insurance, Jamie said: 'As a family we are immensely proud of the car, and the story that goes with it makes it even more special and brings joy to everyone that meets her.
'She will live on as a lasting memory of my grandparents who are now no longer with us.'
The motor now serves as both a functional car and a showpiece - regularly appearing at various events.
Lancaster's Pride of Ownership award, as voted for by classic car enthusiasts, recognises not only craftsmanship and dedication.
Yvonne Gosney, the firm's Senior Trading Manager, said: 'The work Jamie has completed on this Mini is nothing short of exceptional, and we congratulate him on his deserving podium position in this year's Pride of Ownership.
'Jamie's Mini is a powerful reminder of how classic car restoration can be about more than just metal - it can bring a family's history back to life.'
The Morris Mini has become a favourite among classic car enthusiasts and has risen in price in recent years - with the median price, according to the Classic Valuer, being £13,616.
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