Latest news with #LancasterInsurance
The Irish Sun
20-07-2025
- Automotive
- The Irish Sun
I tracked down my grandfather's Mini after it'd been lost for DECADES – I restored & now it's worth over £12,000
A CLASSIC car enthusiast has shared the heartwarming story of his Morris Mini, a cherished family heirloom that has been passed down through four generations. Jamie Garrett, from Oxfordshire, was recently named a runner-up in Pride of Ownership award for 2025, after showcasing his beautifully restored and much-loved classic car. Advertisement 5 Jamie Garrett's restored Morris Mini is a cherished family heirloom spanning generations Credit: Lancaster Insurance 5 The lost Morris Mini was re-discovered and returned to life as Jamie surprised his father with a stunning restoration Credit: Lancaster Insurance 5 The car has earned the runner-up spot at Lancaster Insurance's Pride of Ownership award Credit: Lancaster Insurance 5 The Mini's shell was restored by a skilled panel expert from the Real Mini Company Credit: Lancaster Insurance 5 Found in 2019, the project took years to complete Credit: Lancaster Insurance 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. Advertisement Read more Motors News 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. Advertisement Most read in Motors 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. The first-ever all-electric MINI JCW Aceman '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. Advertisement 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 Advertisement A quick scan through classic car listings, like the ones on
Scottish Sun
20-07-2025
- Automotive
- Scottish Sun
I tracked down my grandfather's Mini after it'd been lost for DECADES – I restored & now it's worth over £12,000
It was recently voted as runner up in a prestigious award LIKE NEW I tracked down my grandfather's Mini after it'd been lost for DECADES – I restored & now it's worth over £12,000 Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) A CLASSIC car enthusiast has shared the heartwarming story of his Morris Mini, a cherished family heirloom that has been passed down through four generations. 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. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 5 Jamie Garrett's restored Morris Mini is a cherished family heirloom spanning generations Credit: Lancaster Insurance 5 The lost Morris Mini was re-discovered and returned to life as Jamie surprised his father with a stunning restoration Credit: Lancaster Insurance 5 The car has earned the runner-up spot at Lancaster Insurance's Pride of Ownership award Credit: Lancaster Insurance 5 The Mini's shell was restored by a skilled panel expert from the Real Mini Company Credit: Lancaster Insurance 5 Found in 2019, the project took years to complete Credit: Lancaster Insurance 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. The first-ever all-electric MINI JCW Aceman '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. A quick scan through classic car listings, like the ones on Cars & Classics, found Morris Minis relatively common and varying in price, although ones from the early 1960s generally seem to sell for £12,000.
The Sun
20-07-2025
- Automotive
- The Sun
I tracked down my grandfather's Mini after it'd been lost for DECADES – I restored & now it's worth over £12,000
A CLASSIC car enthusiast has shared the heartwarming story of his Morris Mini, a cherished family heirloom that has been passed down through four generations. 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. 5 5 5 5 5 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.
The Irish Sun
22-06-2025
- Automotive
- The Irish Sun
I spent years restoring a rare classic car I found at a SCRAPYARD – it's now award-winning & very valuable
A CLASSIC car enthusiast has revealed how he rescued a worse-for-wear motor from a scrapyard and spent six years restoring it - before his hard work finally paid off. Rory Clague, from Gloucester, was recently crowned Lancaster's Pride of Ownership winner for 2025 after presenting his stunning Vauxhall Nova. 5 Rory Clague's six-year restoration of a scrapyard Vauxhall Nova earned him the Pride of Ownership Credit: Lancaster Insurance 5 Rescued from a scrapyard, Rory's Vauxhall Nova was transformed into an award-winning classic Credit: Lancaster Insurance 5 The Nova's custom rebuild, from race-tuned engine to bespoke metalwork, showcases Rory's dedication Credit: Lancaster Insurance 5 With only 766 left in the UK, Rory's restored 1985 Vauxhall Nova stands as a rare gem Credit: Lancaster Insurance 5 Rory's journey with his Nova is not just about cars - it's a testament to creativity and determination Credit: Lancaster Insurance Now considered a classic, the 1985 saloon - once a regular sight on British roads - has been whittled down to just a few hundred with valid MOTs, according to How Rare is My Car. In fact, the precise number is recorded at 766 - with Rory's likely one of the better ones. During its peak years, Vauxhall sold around 500,000 Nova units between 1983 and 1993 - positioning it as a strong rival to the Ford Fiesta, Peugeot 205, and Renault 5. For Rory, the Nova holds plenty of sentimental value as it was his very first car. Read more Motors News Speaking to But for Rory, who has dyslexia and has always struggled with academics, the restoration has meant much more to him than just merely upgrading an old car. 'This Nova is more than just a car, it's a personal passion project that I've brought back to life when it thought its days were numbered,' Rory said. 'Growing up with dyslexia, I always found it easier to learn by doing and express myself through hands-on work rather than academics, which led me naturally into more practical and creative outlets. Most read in Motors Without its badge, people are often left guessing what car it is Rory Clague Lancaster Insurance 'Building this car was more than a restoration - it was a way to channel my strengths and creativity into something I'm proud of.' The extensive six-year restoration all took place at Rory's workshop and involved bespoke engineering and a full custom build - featuring upgraded metalwork, a concrete grey respray and a race-tuned 1.6-litre 8v engine. Fully restored first edition of iconic Ford motor to be auctioned for huge price after £130k spent on its renovation He added: 'From the custom engineering to the race-ready build, every detail reflects my dedication to both preserving its heritage and pushing the boundaries of innovation. 'What I love most is the intrigue it sparks. Without its badge, people are often left guessing what car it is.' Lancaster's Pride of Ownership award is highly coveted by classic car owners, as it recognises not only their craftsmanship and dedication, but the stories that make classic cars so meaningful to their owners. The award is voted for by classic car enthusiasts who visit the Practical Classics Classic Car & Restoration Show. Yvonne Gosney from Lancaster Insurance said: 'The Vauxhall Nova 1985 is a rarity on the classic car scene, especially in saloon form. 'Rory has restored this gem to such a high standard, and we'd like to congratulate him as this year's Pride of Ownership win - and for his exceptional craftsmanship to bring this 40-year-old vehicle back to life.' Not only did the Nova win the 2025 Pride of Ownership award but was also proudly showcased at the Silverstone Festival in 2023 and 2024. For those heading to this year's festival - which takes place between 22 and 24 of August - the Nova will be back there once again. SHADOWY PAST Car enthusiast Paul Rees is a lifelong fan of the iconic Vauxhall Carlton - a nameplate that spanned decades from the late 1970s to the early 1990s. But when he bought an ultra-rare Vauxhall Lotus Carlton, a super saloon with a top speed of 176 mph, he was unaware of its notorious past.
Scottish Sun
22-06-2025
- Automotive
- Scottish Sun
I spent years restoring a rare classic car I found at a SCRAPYARD – it's now award-winning & very valuable
Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) A CLASSIC car enthusiast has revealed how he rescued a worse-for-wear motor from a scrapyard and spent six years restoring it - before his hard work finally paid off. Rory Clague, from Gloucester, was recently crowned Lancaster's Pride of Ownership winner for 2025 after presenting his stunning Vauxhall Nova. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 5 Rory Clague's six-year restoration of a scrapyard Vauxhall Nova earned him the Pride of Ownership Credit: Lancaster Insurance 5 Rescued from a scrapyard, Rory's Vauxhall Nova was transformed into an award-winning classic Credit: Lancaster Insurance 5 The Nova's custom rebuild, from race-tuned engine to bespoke metalwork, showcases Rory's dedication Credit: Lancaster Insurance 5 With only 766 left in the UK, Rory's restored 1985 Vauxhall Nova stands as a rare gem Credit: Lancaster Insurance 5 Rory's journey with his Nova is not just about cars - it's a testament to creativity and determination Credit: Lancaster Insurance Now considered a classic, the 1985 saloon - once a regular sight on British roads - has been whittled down to just a few hundred with valid MOTs, according to How Rare is My Car. In fact, the precise number is recorded at 766 - with Rory's likely one of the better ones. During its peak years, Vauxhall sold around 500,000 Nova units between 1983 and 1993 - positioning it as a strong rival to the Ford Fiesta, Peugeot 205, and Renault 5. For Rory, the Nova holds plenty of sentimental value as it was his very first car. Speaking to Lancaster Insurance, he revealed how he rescued this specific model from a scrapyard in 2016 and has since fully restored every element of it - all of which was engineered and built by himself. But for Rory, who has dyslexia and has always struggled with academics, the restoration has meant much more to him than just merely upgrading an old car. 'This Nova is more than just a car, it's a personal passion project that I've brought back to life when it thought its days were numbered,' Rory said. 'Growing up with dyslexia, I always found it easier to learn by doing and express myself through hands-on work rather than academics, which led me naturally into more practical and creative outlets. Without its badge, people are often left guessing what car it is Rory Clague 'Building this car was more than a restoration - it was a way to channel my strengths and creativity into something I'm proud of.' The extensive six-year restoration all took place at Rory's workshop and involved bespoke engineering and a full custom build - featuring upgraded metalwork, a concrete grey respray and a race-tuned 1.6-litre 8v engine. Fully restored first edition of iconic Ford motor to be auctioned for huge price after £130k spent on its renovation He added: 'From the custom engineering to the race-ready build, every detail reflects my dedication to both preserving its heritage and pushing the boundaries of innovation. 'What I love most is the intrigue it sparks. Without its badge, people are often left guessing what car it is.' Lancaster's Pride of Ownership award is highly coveted by classic car owners, as it recognises not only their craftsmanship and dedication, but the stories that make classic cars so meaningful to their owners. The award is voted for by classic car enthusiasts who visit the Practical Classics Classic Car & Restoration Show. Yvonne Gosney from Lancaster Insurance said: 'The Vauxhall Nova 1985 is a rarity on the classic car scene, especially in saloon form. 'Rory has restored this gem to such a high standard, and we'd like to congratulate him as this year's Pride of Ownership win - and for his exceptional craftsmanship to bring this 40-year-old vehicle back to life.' Not only did the Nova win the 2025 Pride of Ownership award but was also proudly showcased at the Silverstone Festival in 2023 and 2024. For those heading to this year's festival - which takes place between 22 and 24 of August - the Nova will be back there once again. SHADOWY PAST This comes as a petrolhead recently revealed the secret history of his extremely rare modern classic motor - claiming the model is infamous in some parts of the country. Car enthusiast Paul Rees is a lifelong fan of the iconic Vauxhall Carlton - a nameplate that spanned decades from the late 1970s to the early 1990s. But when he bought an ultra-rare Vauxhall Lotus Carlton, a super saloon with a top speed of 176 mph, he was unaware of its notorious past.
