I can barely believe I am writing these words but meet Horace our 1982 Mini Pick-up, registered 1.2.1982 making him one of the last made.

This exceptional Pick-up is like a time warp, he just has that feeling.........

After spending many many years in a private collection and having been fully restored (When I say fully restored I mean light body as the 75% is original metal) and being given a fresh bare metal paint job Horace found himself moved on to another private car collection where he has sat pampered for the last two years. I was lucky enough to be offered him along with a few other Minis (more to come on the others) and of course I snapped the chaps hand off.

On arriving with me Horace has been for the once over with a Mini specialist and been given the thumbs up, he's all new and done basically 1 mile in 15 years. Everything original that could be kept or refurbished was done so and the small amount that couldn't be has been replaced with genuine parts, he is missing a few bits and pieces black bumpers, rear fog lamp etc but I have them on there way so he will soon be whole again.

Today driving him spiritedly around the country lanes to photograph him was a complete joy, he pulls like he should, the gearbox is tight, no rattles, oil pressure where it should me and so much more, these are basically a MK1 thats 25cm longer.

Painted in Green with his original tilt frame cover in Whitehall Beige, which is also in remarkable condition, this colour combination is just perfect. He is as clean underneath as he is on top. This is how he arrived, Ive not even cleaned him, just seems to suit the commercial aspect better ????

Interior wise these were all about functionality so no shiny bits, everything's finished in black with black vinyle seats, Horace has had the luxury of a period correct dash housing all the important information, centre speedo, fuel gauge, Oil pressure and engine temperature, these are all original Smith gauges too ???? Of course with Issigonis being a chain smoker the dash rail ash tray remains. A few neat little features like the seat belts hang on top locking point so they don't move around when not being used. Horace does come with a brand new set or carpets but I left them out for the photos to show you how solid he is. MK1 sliding windows.

Under the bonnet is a replacement 998 Metro engine that had 20,000 miles on when fitted so might have 20,005 now, the only difference is the final drive that makes it better for cruising. The original engine was low milage and in great condition but the builder of the car had planned to use the metro as wanted to use the Mini for shows etc (I do have access to the original engine so may include it with the car for the purist)

Of course he will have a full MOT before being WON.

1st prize: Horace

2nd prize : £500 MiniSport voucher or cash (on sellout)

3rd prize: £250 MiniSport voucher or cash (on sellout)

Good luck ????