I have been a car enthusiast since before I could walk! It's not genetics, as the rest of my family really aren't. But I have a few great friends who might have each had a guiding hand at some point in my life!

Like a lot of people my age, I grew up with cars as a method of transportation. Both my parents had cars, one parked on the driveway with the other out on the street. I'd be in one of the cars for some reason or other on most days.

I remember the first "accident" - Dad reversed into a bollard in a Wickes car park. I remember the first test drive - a MK3 Fiesta, whilst we were on holiday in Norfolk. I remember being told we were getting a brand new Ford Mondeo Verona in Cuirass (blue or purple?) back in 1998. I had a road map carpet and a tonne of matchbox and remote control cars.

My Boys' Brigade Captain, and now a very close friend, owns his own garage specialising in Rolls-Royce and Bentley motor cars. I was fortunate enough to ride in some very luxurious and some very fast cars over the years. I was also extremely fortunate to be supported throughout many (many, many) breakages!

Through spending time on forums and attending Car shows, events and track days, I have made a fantastic bunch of friends. I might be slightly out of the 'scene' these days, but thanks to Facebook and other social media, we all know what we're all up to!

View my Car History