Photos by Chris Bruce – from Consett in Focus
One of the main reasons that people buy classic cars is nostalgia. They represent a different era of automotive history and evoke memories of those times. They generally are easier to maintain and take people back to when cars were more basic but, arguably, more fun to drive. They also bring people together that have a shared interest in clubs and shows, such as the local one at Ushaw Historic House.
There is also the investment aspect of restoring then selling on a collectable car. Jon Jo Bradley from Burnopfield runs Classic and Retro Autos on Langley Park North Industrial Estate. He has a team of experienced and skilled mechanics, fabricators, bodyshop and paint technicians that do complete restorations on any type of classic or retro car.
One fascinating example that our photographer saw was a 1969 Mercedes that was being completely rebuilt then converted to a fully electric vehicle in collaboration with an electric vehicle specialist. It is also important to mention the girls in the office and the two office Border Terriers that keep everyone in check and the trainees from the local college given the opportunity for some work experience.
