Welcome to the VINTTRO Member Interview!

Our Member Spotlight is how we celebrate the incredible community we protect, focusing on the extraordinary journeys of the people behind the wheel.

To kick off part three of our series, we’re thrilled to introduce a truly standout person. An absolutely fascinating character with an incredible business journey, we know you’re going to love his story.

Read on as we sit down for an exclusive interview to get to know the man behind the machine.

Tell us a bit about yourself, starting with your name:

Gordon Ranson

Where are based and what does a typical day look like for you?

I live in Ipswich, Suffolk and I’m semi-retired, so my days are usually all about cars and my wife.”

The First Pay check: What was your very first job, and how did your career path evolve into what you do today?

My very first job was a paper round, but my first real job was as an apprentice electrician, earning just £5 a week. Later, I worked in the drinks industry before finally moving into classic car restoration, all thanks to my lifelong love for them.

What was the “spark” that led you into your current industry?

After a chance conversation with a classic car restorer, who asked why I didn’t turn my love for classic cars into a business, the rest was history.

Company Info. What is the company name you work for now, and what position do you hold?

I am the founder (since 2004) and director of Bridge Classic Cars

What services do they provide, and what is the website address?

We restore and maintain classic cars. www.bridgeclassiccars.co.uk

The Automotive Obsession

What age were you when you first realised you’re a petrolhead?

Ever since I was five or so, I used to look out for the registration plate changes and played with toy cars and lorries before anything else.

What was the first car you ever owned, and how much did you pay for it?

Ford Anglia 105E and I paid £35 for it.

What cars do you currently own (including your daily driver)?

Range Rover, Triumph TR6, Rover P6 but they are constantly changing.

Which car do you most regret selling or losing?

Mercedes 230SL Benson and Hedges show winner.

If money and garage space were no object, what is your ultimate “dream” car and why?

My personal passion lies with Rolls-Royce and Bentley. I’ve owned several over the years, with the Rolls-Royce Wraith being a particular favourite.

Describe your ideal Sunday morning drive, where are you going, and what’s playing on the radio?

For me, nothing beats country roads and no radio. A V8 or a straight-six, that’s the only music you need.

Manual or Automatic?

Both

Electric cars – Yes or No? (Give reason)

A definite no. They have all the style of a Lego brick, you can’t tell one from another.

Hard Roof or Convertible or both?

Both

Track Day or Weekend Cruise?

Weekend and weekday cruise every time.

What is one piece of advice you’d give to someone looking to buy their first classic/performance car?

Buy the best you can afford and don’t restore cars.

Finally, Beyond the Car Obsession

When you aren’t behind the wheel or under a hood, how do you spend your time? (Hobbies, other interest’s etc).

Enjoying the garden, holidays but there isn’t much after cars.

Thank you Gordon! we hope this interview inspires others to take part.

Would you like to feature?

If you have enjoyed reading about Gordon, why not take part in the VINTTRO Member spotlight interview series yourself? … please email us at info@vinttro.co.uk and we’ll be in touch.

As part of our continued commitment to enhancing our Private Client proposition, we are thrilled to announce that VINTTRO Cover has expanded its specialist insurance services to cover professional footballers.

In partnership with ERS, the UK’s leading specialist motor insurer, we are making it easier than ever for you to place these complex, high-profile risks with total confidence.

Deep Expertise You Can Rely On

Securing the right motor insurance for professional athletes requires an insurer who understands the unique lifestyle, asset values, and media exposure that come with the territory.

• A Proven Track Record: ERS has been a trusted provider of cover for professional footballers since 2016, building an unrivalled depth of market expertise.
• Strengthened Specialist Team: ERS has significantly expanded their dedicated underwriting team, ensuring a consistent, knowledgeable, and reliable solution tailored specifically to elite sports professionals.

What This Means For You

Through this partnership, VINTTRO Cover is giving you the tools to say “yes” to more clients, backed by a product designed for the unique demands of the modern game.

• Greater Flexibility: Enhanced appetite and flexible underwriting across diverse footballer profiles, from emerging talent to established international stars.
• Broader Acceptance: A streamlined process to help you comfortably place high-net-worth (HNW) sports clients.
• Uncompromised Quality: Continued, seamless access to the bespoke, high-quality Private Client care and comprehensive cover that VINTTRO Cover is known for.

Core Risk Criteria & Appetite

This elite cover is designed to accommodate premium vehicles, multi-car portfolios, and complex risk profiles. See below the appetite guide by ERS.

21 -24	Age	21+
21 -24	Residency	12+ months unless prior residency (for 12+ months) in EEA country as well as US / Canada / Aus / NZ / HK
21 -24	Licence Length	12+ months in any of the above countries
21 -24	Driving Experience	12+ months in any of the above countries
21 -24	Previous Driving Experience	Prior vehicles with similar performance (vehicle type, BHP, acceleration, driving style)
21 -24	Vehicle Type	New purchase – max £150k Owned 12+ months – max £350k Collections 3+ with vehicle over £350k – consider on request
25 – 27	Residency	12+ months unless prior residency (for 12+ months) in EEA country as well as US / Canada / Aus / NZ / HK
25 – 27	Licence Length	12+ months in any of the above countries
25 – 27	Driving Experience	12+ months in any of the above countries
25 – 27	Previous Driving Experience	Prior vehicles with similar performance (vehicle type, BHP, acceleration, driving style)
25 – 27	Vehicle Value	New purchase – max £250k Owned 12+ months – No maximum restriction but subject to standard UW consideration
28+	Licence Length	Subject to standard UW consideration
28+	Driving Experience	Subject to standard UW consideration
28+	Previous Driving Experience	Subject to standard UW consideration
Renewals	ERs will honour claim free renewals that fall outside this footprint. All renewals are subject to our agreed renewal strategy

Our dedicated Private Client team is on hand to review your professional footballer risks immediately. Contact your VINTTRO Cover representative today by calling 0333 4042 007, or click this link to submit a Quote Request and our team will be in touch.

VINTTRO Cover is a trading style of Sona Insurance Solutions Ltd. VINTTRO Limited is an Appointed Representative of Sona Insurance Solutions Limited who is authorised and regulated by the FCA under reference number 927990.

To any true automotive enthusiast, a car is infinitely more than just a means of getting from A to B; it is a statement, a passion, and a source of pride. But it begs an interesting question for the community: how many drivers actively match their personal fashion to the machine they are piloting? The connection between cars and fashion is undeniable in this context.

For automotive subcultures like the VINTTRO community, appreciation spans everything from curated classics and retro icons to modern-day performance supercars. For many, the experience of owning or driving these special machines naturally extends into “dressing for the car.” The right attire doesn’t just complement the vehicle, it elevates the entire driving experience.

As we explore the relationship between cars and fashion, it becomes clear that style plays a significant role in how we perceive our vehicles.

The Italian Sophistication: Sleek and Tailored in Cars and Fashion

Take the undeniable allure of classic Italian sports cars, such as the Alfa Romeo Spider. These machines demand a style that matches their sharp lines and Mediterranean elegance.

The ideal uniform here is effortlessly sophisticated: a white tailored shirt or a crisp white t shirt, designer jeans or chinos, and classic loafer-style shoes. The look is perfectly finished with a pair of vintage sunglasses, like Ray-Ban Classic Signets, and perhaps a dark blue fitted blazer neatly folded on the passenger seat. It’s a style that feels on top of the world without being obnoxious, a seamless extension of Italian automotive art.

British Heritage: The Art of “Wafting”

At the other end of the spectrum lies the quintessential English luxury of a classic Rolls-Royce Silver Shadow or the dream of an Aston Martin DB5. Driving these vehicles isn’t about speed; it’s about “wafting” with immense pride.

An iconic front grille requires an equally iconic wardrobe. This is where British heritage styling comes alive:

• A classic blue checkered shirt paired with a textured tweed waistcoat.
• Traditional leather brogues on the pedals.
• A bold Stetson or a classic newsboy cap, nodding to the English rugged look, as seen on actor Jason Momoa below

It’s an aesthetic look that oozes timeless class and respects the heavy heritage of British engineering.

The 1980s Retro Casuals: Nostalgia on Wheels

Then there is the gritty, high-energy world of retro hot hatches, like the legendary original Escort Mk2 RS Mexico. Getting behind the wheel of a “Dagenham dustbin” instantly transports a driver back to the casual subcultures of the 1980s, where fashion and car culture were fiercely intertwined.

The attire of that era is unmistakable and highly specific:

• The Lower Half: Farah trousers (in beige, black, or blue) held up by a soul belt, finished with lavish Diadora Gold or Nike Wimbledon trainers.
• The Upper Half: An Ellesse or Lacoste T-shirt, proudly topped with a Fila or Sergio Tacchini tracksuit top.
• The Night Shift: Swapping the trackie for a sharp leather and suede jacket sourced straight from the markets of Petticoat Lane in London or Romford.

Slapping a Duran Duran cassette into an Pioneer radio cassette player while wearing a retro Tacchini top isn’t just driving, it’s a time capsule experience.

American Muscle & Modern Supercars: Finding the Uniform

Every automotive genre has its unwritten dress code. For the raw, unadulterated rumble of American muscle, like a ’65 Mustang or an AC Cobra, the uniform is universally understood: worn-out Levi’s, rugged ankle boots, a plain white T-shirt, and a dusted-off leather motorcycle jacket. It’s effortless, rebellious, and timeless.

Yet, some cars still stump the style critics. What exactly does one wear in a modern hyper-car like a McLaren? High-tech track gear? Minimalist streetwear? It’s a tough puzzle to solve, though, arguably, figuring out the fashion is half the fun of ownership. After all, when it comes to matching style with horsepower, leaving the garage unprepared is simply not an option.

Over to You

Does the wardrobe change depending on the keys in hand? What is the go-to driving uniform?

Few things beat the romance of a cross-continental road trip. Setting off from the UK, navigating the Eurotunnel or a ferry, and heading down sun-drenched coastal routes visiting many great places is pure bliss.

Doing it in a two seater convertible makes it unforgettable and with the current market values, you can enjoy a road trip in a sports car for less than £5,000.

With five grand in your pocket, the UK used car market offers an incredible selection of European-capable drop-tops and coupés. However, a road trip demands a very specific mix of reliability, luggage space, and driving dynamics. Let’s break down seven fantastic budget contenders to see which one deserves the keys to your European adventure.

The Contenders at a Glance

Car	Best For	Road Trip Superpower	The Achille’s Heel
Mazda MX-5 (NC)	Worry-free mechanicals	Unmatched reliability and cheap parts	Cabin noise on long motorway stints
BMW Z3	Classic 90s nostalgia	Retro charm and characterful engines	Scuttle shake and dated interior
BMW Z4 (E85)	The driving purist	Stellar chassis and smooth straight-sixes	Stiff ride on run-flat tyres
Porsche Boxster (986)	Unmatched handling balance	Dual boots (front and rear storage)	Terrifying potential engine bills
Audi TT (Mk2)	All-weather high-speed cruising	Premium cabin and massive boot space	Lacks the raw feel of a true sports car
Mercedes-Benz SLK (R171)	Hardtop grand touring	Quiet cabin and Vario-roof security	Complex roof mechanism if it breaks
Alfa Romeo Spider (916)	Pure Italian drama	Gorgeous styling and Busso V6 soundtrack	FWD dynamics and typical Italian quirks

1. Mazda MX-5 (Mk3 / NC)

If your absolute priority is making it back to the UK without ever seeing the inside of a European flatbed recovery truck, buy an MX-5.

Your £5,000 budget lands you squarely in a well-maintained third-generation (NC) model. It is more spacious and structurally stiffer than its predecessors, making it much better suited for long miles.

• The Drive: Go for the 2.0-litre engine with the limited-slip differential (LSD). It’s punchy enough for alpine switchbacks and beautifully balanced.
• Road Trip Reality: The boot is a decent shape but tight. Motorway refinement isn’t its strong suit; if you plan on long hours on the French Autoroutes, look for the PRHT (Power Retractable Hard Top) version for extra insulation.

Watch out for: Rust in the rear arches and sills, and blocked drainage holes that can flood the cabin.

2. BMW Z3

The Z3 serves up pure 1990s nostalgia. With its long bonnet, short rear deck, and muscular rear arches, it feels like a proper old-school roadster.

At this budget, skip the sluggish 1.9-litre four-cylinder and hold out for a 2.2i or 2.8-litre straight-six.

• The Drive: It uses an older semi-trailing arm rear suspension setup (borrowed from the E30 3 Series), meaning it feels a bit old-fashioned and lively in the wet, but highly characterful.
• Road Trip Reality: The straight-six engine makes an incredible soundtrack through mountain tunnels. The interior is cramped by modern standards, and the plastic rear window can cloud up, but it has a wonderful mechanical honesty.

Watch out for: Rear subframe welds splitting under power, and water leaks through the soft top.

3. BMW Z4 (Mk1 / E85)

If you want a sharper, more modern BMW experience, the first-generation Z4 is arguably the sweet spot of this entire list.

Chris Bangle’s flame-surfaced design has aged magnificently. For £5,000, you can pick up a very clean 2.5i or 3.0i straight-six with a 6-speed manual box.

• The Drive: It is a phenomenal driver’s car. The seating position sits almost directly over the rear axle, giving you a fantastic sense of what the chassis is doing.
• Road Trip Reality: The boot is surprisingly large for a roadster, easily swallowing two weekend bags. It cruises effortlessly at 70 mph, though the ride can be harsh if it’s still riding on original-style run-flat tyres. Swapping to standard rubber transforms the comfort.

Watch out for: The roof motor. It sits in a drainage channel that easily blocks, causing the motor to sit in water and burn out. Check that the roof operates quickly and smoothly.

4. Porsche Boxster (Mk1 / 986)

If you want to pull up to the casino in Monaco looking like you spent five times what you actually did, the first-generation Porsche Boxster is the ultimate budget flex.

For £5,000, you are looking at the original ‘986’ generation, typically a well-kept 2.5-litre or a mid-life 2.7-litre flat-six. While people might dismiss it as the “cheap Porsche,” make no mistake: underneath the skin, it shares its front architecture, suspension layout, and engine DNA with the legendary 911 of the same era.

• The Drive: Absolute perfection. Because the flat-six engine sits right in the middle of the car (behind your shoulders but ahead of the rear wheels), the balance is sublime. The steering is hypnotic, and the howl of the naturally aspirated flat-six echoing off the walls of a French gorge is worth the entry price alone.
• Road Trip Reality: The mid-engine layout makes the Boxster a secret packaging masterpiece. Because the engine is buried deep in the middle, you get two boots, a deep “frunk” (front trunk) for two carry-on suitcases and a shallow rear boot for loose bags or coats. The downside? If something goes wrong mechanically, parts carry a “Porsche tax,” and accessing the engine requires pulling up the soft-top roof structure.

Watch out for: The infamous IMS (Intermediate Shaft) bearing. If this component fails, it completely destroys the engine. Look for a car that has already had an upgraded aftermarket bearing fitted, or factor in the cost. Also check for leaking Rear Main Seals (RMS) and cracked coolant

5. Audi TT (Mk2)

The Mk2 Audi TT is less of a purebred sports car and more of a scaled-down Grand Tourer.

Built with a clever aluminum-steel spaceframe, it is far sharper to drive than the original Mk1. Five grand will easily get you a clean 2.0 TFSI petrol model or a Quattro variant.

• The Drive: It is front-wheel drive (or front-biased Quattro), so it won’t give you the tail-sliding antics of the BMWs or Porsche. Instead, it offers incredible grip, safety, and cross-country pace, regardless of whether you encounter a sudden alpine downpour.
• Road Trip Reality: If you buy the Coupé, the rear seats fold flat to create a truly massive estate-like luggage area. The cabin is an beautiful place to sit for 8 hours straight, featuring top-tier materials and great sound isolation.

Watch out for: PCV valve issues on the TFSI engines, oil consumption, and ensuring the DSG automatic gearbox (if optioned) has been serviced every 40,000 miles.

6. Mercedes-Benz SLK (Mk2 / R171)

Want to cross continents in total silence but still enjoy the sun when you arrive? The second-generation SLK is your tool.

Borrowing its nose styling from the legendary SLR McLaren, the R171 generation brought a much-needed injection of style. A budget of £5k buys an excellent SLK 200 Kompressor (supercharged 1.8L) or even an early 3.5-litre SLK 350 V6.

• The Drive: It is set up for comfort and stability rather than ultimate B-road agility. It corners flatly, but the steering is heavier and less communicative than the Z4.
• Road Trip Reality: The folding metal “Vario-roof” gives you a proper coupé experience on the motorway, isolating you from wind noise. Many models come with “Airscarf” vents in the headrest that blow warm air around your neck, allowing you to drop the roof even in chilly mountain air. Note that when the roof is down, boot space shrinks dramatically.

Watch out for: Balance shaft gear wear on early M272 V6 engines (check the engine number history) and slow-operating or leaking roof hydraulics.

7. Alfa Romeo Spider (916)

This choice is entirely for the heart, not the head. The “916” generation Alfa Spider, designed by Pininfarina, looks like absolutely nothing else on the road.

Finding a good one under £5,000 takes patience, but they are out there, usually with the 2.0-litre Twin Spark engine. (The legendary Busso V6 versions have skyrocketed past this budget).

• The Drive: It is front-wheel drive, but Alfa engineered it with a brilliant multi-link rear suspension that makes it surprisingly agile and rewarding to hustle through corners.
• Road Trip Reality: Park this outside a café in a Tuscan piazza, and you will look like a movie star. The interior feels distinctively Italian, though the driving position is notoriously quirky (long arms, short legs). Reliability requires a proactive maintenance mindset, so bring a basic toolkit and some spare fluid just in case.

Watch out for: Cam belt failures (must be changed every 3 years or 36,000 miles on the Twin Spark) and suspension bush wear that ruins the handling.

The Road Trip Verdict

If your dream trip involves driving hard on technical mountain passes, buy the BMW Z4. If you want that exotic, mid-engine handling balance and badge prestige, brave the running costs of the Porsche Boxster. If you want a luxurious, effortless cruiser with space for wine cases on the way back, buy the Audi TT. And if you want zero mechanical anxiety, stick a roof rack on the Mazda MX-5.

What car would you choose out of the seven above? ..  or have we missed out a two seater bargain sports car? … let us know your thoughts.

For all your classic and retro car insurance – Click Here

The Motor Insurers’ Bureau (MIB) has made history by defeating a massive £4 million fraudulent injury claim, the largest ever rejected under the Untraced Drivers’ Agreement 2017.

Following the court’s ruling, the MIB is now moving to recover nearly £190,000 in interim payments that were deceptively obtained by the claimant.

The Incident and the Escalation

The case began after a motorcyclist suffered genuine injuries on Crockford Road West in Grimstead. The rider crashed after swerving to avoid a Mercedes that had veered into his path. His initial injuries were severe, including:

• A fractured pelvis and ribs
• A displaced shoulder
• A lumbar disc injury

While the claimant initially returned to light duties after five and a half months, the financial scope of the claim soon skyrocketed. Alleging long-term disability, severe psychiatric harm, and extensive daily care and housing needs, the total valuation of the claim was pushed to over £3 million (excluding interest and damages for pain and suffering).

The Deception vs. The Reality

What the Claimant Alleged	What Investigators Actually Found
Unable to work or perform basic domestic tasks.	Launched a secret vehicle recovery business in June 2019.
Severe physical limitations; unable to walk more than 50 meters.	Filmed single-handedly pushing a customer’s car onto a recovery truck.
Inability to use his injured arm.	Caught using the supposedly damaged arm to attach tow ropes and work on vehicles.
Suffering from severe PTSD and unable to go shopping.	Spotted driving for prolonged periods and managing a business.

The claimant painted a bleak picture for medical experts, spinning a narrative of profound disability. However, an extensive investigation by the MIB, utilising physical surveillance and social media analysis, blew the case wide open. Furthermore, investigators discovered a brazen pattern: social media images of new, sign-written vehicles for his business frequently appeared right after he received interim compensation pay-outs. It is believed the £190,000 he fraudulently secured was used directly to fund his new company.

The Verdict: No Mercy for Fraud

Because the Untraced Drivers’ Agreement requires the MIB to mirror court standards, the case was evaluated under Section 57 of the Criminal Justice and Courts Act 2015. This law allows courts to dismiss personal injury claims in their entirety if the claimant is found to be fundamentally dishonest, provided it doesn’t cause substantial injustice.

As a result of the overwhelming evidence, the multi-million-pound claim was thrown out completely. The MIB is now aggressively pursuing the return of every penny paid out in interim funds.

“This result sends a clear warning that prolonged and calculated dishonesty will not be tolerated.”

Paul Baxter, Partner and Deputy Business Unit Director at Keoghs

The MIB has hailed the decision as a landmark victory, reinforcing its commitment to robustly challenging suspicious claims to protect public funds and safeguard genuine victims of uninsured or untraced drivers.

Why This Victory Matters to VINTTRO Policyholders

At VINTTRO Cover, we are always pleased to see fraudulent activity exposed and brought to justice, not because we celebrate dishonesty, but because we know exactly who pays the price when fraud succeeds: our policyholders. Insurance fraud is never a victimless crime; every inflated or fabricated claim creates a ripple effect that directly drives up premium costs for honest drivers. By celebrating landmark victories like the MIB’s defeat of this £4 million claim, we reaffirm our commitment to protecting our community. Rest assured, VINTTRO will continue to stand firmly behind robust investigative and legal measures, ensuring that fraud is ruthlessly weeded out so that we can help our insurer panel keep their policies fair, affordable and secure.

VINTTRO Cover is a trading style of Sona Insurance Solutions Ltd. VINTTRO Limited is an Appointed Representative of Sona Insurance Solutions Limited who is authorised and regulated by the FCA under reference number 927990.

Recently, we wrote a blog about how we insured a car collection that included the iconic DeLorean. While we are completely used to dealing with rare and unique vehicles, we just couldn’t help ourselves from writing another post after we insured another true screen icon and incredible recreation of the General Lee, so here goes ….

We’ve all done some late-night browsing on eBay. Maybe you’re bored, maybe you’ve had one too many drinks, or maybe in David’s case both.

Back in 2012, that late-night scroll led to a £2,400 bid on a classic Dodge Charger sitting in a muddy field in Norfolk. It seemed like a laugh at the time. But when a hi-ab lorry finally dropped it off, the reality of the situation set in.

“I thought, ‘OMG, what have I done?’ It was as rotten as an apple.” David’s mates turned up, took one look at the rusted shell, and literally cried with laughter. “That will never get done in a hundred years,” they scoffed.

They underestimated David’s determination. He knew it would be a brutally long, incredibly expensive mountain to climb. He just didn’t know it would take nearly 15 years, a global village of Mopar fanatics, and a race against a wedding day to finally hear that engine roar.

The 14-Year Road Trip

Restoring a car in this condition isn’t just about turning wrenches; it’s about sourcing parts that haven’t been manufactured in decades. The project bounced around from place to place, slowly making minor progress, but it needed a catalyst.

Enter the first hero of our story: Greg McNair.

Greg became a crucial part of David’s life, sourcing massive parts from across the globe and arranging complicated shipping logistics. Without Greg’s expertise and tireless work, the project would have stalled permanently. But as life got busy and Greg had to step away, the car returned home, still unfinished, but getting closer.

David wanted it done. He needed the finish line. So, he threw a Hail Mary pass onto Facebook, listing everything left to do. That’s when Andy from A-TM Engineering reached out. Their specialty? Pure, unadulterated Mopar’s.

The Race to the Altar (2024)

The Charger moved to A-TM Engineering, and the clock started ticking loudly. David and his partner, Sonia, were getting married in 2024, and there was only one acceptable wedding car for the big day.

Andy and the team at A-TM pulled off the impossible. Within two years, they took a decade-and-a-half of fragmented progress and crossed the finish line just days before the wedding.

THE RESTORATION BY THE NUMBERS:

• Timeline: ~14-15 Years

• Purchase Price: £2,400

• Total Build Cost: Over £100,000

• Current Status: Perfect

Who’s Laughing Now?

The reaction to the finished General Lee was nothing short of a media frenzy. It didn’t just turn heads on the street; it made national newspapers both in the UK and abroad. BBC Radio Suffolk even showed up early one morning post-wedding to interview the couple and capture the rumble of the V8.

As for those mates who laughed at the rusted shell in 2012? They’re in absolute shock.

It was a gruelling, £100k+ journey, but it brought incredible new friends into David’s life, a viral wedding day, and the ultimate bragging rights.

A massive thank you to Greg, Andy, and everyone at A-TM Engineering. You didn’t just build a car; you built a legend.

How did the General Lee Impact your childhood memories?

Were you a fan of The Dukes of Hazzard growing up? What are your favourite memories of watching the General Lee fly across your TV screen?

Or was there another classic series or movie that featured your absolute favourite cars? Whether you were a Knight Rider fan, a Back to the Future buff, or obsessed with the A-Team van, we want to hear about it.

Your Restoration

Have you painstakingly restored a iconic car, and would you like to feature here? If so, please send an email to info@vinttro.co.uk and we’ll be in touch.

Welcome to the VINTTRO Member Interview!

At VINTTRO, our community is built on more than just high-octane fuel and polished chrome, it’s built on people. Our members are a unique breed: a vibrant mix of passionate enthusiasts and visionary business people who apply the same drive to their professional lives as they do to their garages.

The Member Spotlight is our way of celebrating the incredible community we protect, focusing on the extraordinary journeys of the people behind the wheel.

To kick off part two of the series, we’re excited to introduce a standout member and policyholder. Quite simply, he is an absolute fascinating character and a incredible person, we’re sure you’ll going to love this! In this interview, we get to know him better.

Tell us a bit about yourself, starting with your name:

Greg McNair.

Where are based and what does a typical day look like for you?

I’m based in Bury St Edmunds, in Suffolk.

A typical day for me starts at 7 a.m. when I jump into my recovery truck to help drivers and the police after a breakdown or an accident. But the truth is, there is no such thing as a ‘typical’ day in recovery, you never know what you’re driving into

The First Pay check: What was your very first job, and how did your career path evolve into what you do today?

My first job started in 1993 as a trainee air compressor engineer, and my first wage was a grand total of £80 a week.

What was the “spark” that led you into your current industry?

As for how it evolved into where we are today? That’s a bit War and Peace. In short, that job was followed by a few years in America working as a church organ builder and restorer, an American muscle car importer (and later restorer), a Monster Truck driver, and now, a recovery truck driver.

The spark that led me to what I’m doing today came out of pure curiosity. I’d done general haulage and been that truck driver who was away all week. I wanted some of my time back, and I wanted to do something a bit different.

Company Info. What is the company name you work for now, and what position do you hold?

Today, I work for Manchetts Rescue & Recovery as a recovery operator, and I’m proud to say I’ve been there for nine and a half years now.

What services do they provide, and what is the website address?

Manchetts provides a service that means we can recover pretty much any kind of vehicle from any situation. We have a lot of specialist equipment that allows us to lift and remove vehicles from tight spaces, greatly reducing the risk of damage to some pretty big off-road equipment, including cranes. On an almost daily basis, we recover everything from motorcycles and the smallest city cars all the way up to fully loaded trucks and trailers.

Find out more: www.manchetts.co.uk

The Automotive Obsession

What age were you when you first realised you’re a petrolhead?

I first realised I was a die-hard car guy when I was about 12 or 13. My uncle had a 1970 bullnose Pontiac Trans Am with a 455-cubic-inch big-block V8 (7.5 litres for those who don’t measure engine sizes the American way) and a 4-speed manual transmission. The noise it made and the raw acceleration just completely got me. After going out in that car, I was hooked. I knew right then that a classic American muscle car was the route I needed to take as soon as I could.

What was the first car you ever owned, and how much did you pay for it?

Oh dear god, must you ask about my first car?! It was a 1989 Skoda Estelle LSE. I’m still trying to shake that off, even though it was many years ago, i can’t even remember what I paid for it!

What cars do you currently own (including your daily driver)?

My current collection consists of:

2001 Vauxhall Omega CDX 2.6 24v (part-owner)

1984 Mercedes-Benz SEC

1995 Mercedes-Benz W124 E220 Coupe (my daily driver)

2001 Land Rover Discovery 4.0 V8 Adventurer

2001 BMW E39 M5

2004 Mercedes-Benz CL55 AMG Kompressor

2006 Mercedes-Benz S600 L

Which car do you most regret selling or losing?

The car I most regret letting go, after 20 years of ownership, was my 1970 Plymouth ‘Cuda.

If money and garage space were no object, what is your ultimate “dream” car and why?

My ultimate dream car is a bright yellow 1971 Plymouth Hemi ‘Cuda. They aren’t widely known to the general public because, unlike the Dodge Charger in The Dukes of Hazzard, they weren’t really featured in mainstream media. But back in the ’70s, they were feared and respected, the undisputed kings of the 1/4 mile and the red-light-to-red-light race. They were the car everyone in the scene wanted. (Don Johnson did actually drive a convertible version around San Francisco in his ’90s TV show Nash Bridges!) Production numbers were extremely low in 1971, so any hardtop will easily command six figures today, while the convertibles fetch millions.

Describe your ideal Sunday morning drive, where are you going, and what’s playing on the radio?

My ideal Sunday drive involves heading straight to the coast. The sun will be out, and I’ll be looking forward to a walk on the beach and a nice pub lunch. On the stereo, it’ll be either classical music or country music, depending on what I’m driving. Yes, I know, opposite ends of the spectrum! But it chills me out and just puts me right in my zone.

Manual or Automatic?

Although all but one of my current cars are automatics, I’m definitely a manual guy at heart. My Plymouth ‘Cuda was a 4-speed manual, and obviously, my E39 M5 is a 6-speed manual (as they all were). That thing is absolutely epic to drive and incredibly engaging because of it.

Electric cars – Yes or No? (Give reason)

Electric cars are not for me. However, I highly encourage everyone else to buy them, because as a recovery driver, I need the income to keep my own classics on the road!

Hard Roof or Convertible or both?

I’m not a hater of convertibles, and I’ve owned a couple, but they don’t overly excite me. Some of the ’80s and ’90s American cars I’ve owned had T-tops, which is a cool compromise, but I’m just as happy in a hardtop with the A/C blasting as I am being blown away with the roof down.

Track Day or Weekend Cruise?

I am definitely a weekend cruiser and European road tripper over a track day enthusiast. I’ve done a couple of track days, but as a past collector of American muscle, I can safely say corners aren’t really their strong point. I’m much more competent in a straight line than I am managing lots of bends!

What is one piece of advice you’d give to someone looking to buy their first classic/performance car?

The advice I’d give anyone looking for their first classic or performance car is to really think about what you want to do with it. If you just want to go to local shows and hang out with friends, that’s great. But that requires a very different kind of car than if you want to be like me, doing a few thousand miles a year touring Europe. A ’68 to ’70 Dodge Charger with a 7.2-litre V8 will be an absolute show queen and command the exact same attention as a high-end Italian exotic, but it is definitely not the best tool for a 2,500-mile road trip down to the South of France!

Finally, Beyond the Car Obsession

When you aren’t behind the wheel or under a hood, how do you spend your time? (Hobbies, other interest’s etc).

When I’m not working or playing with cars, my true first love is astronomy. I’ve been looking up at the stars since I was old enough to lift my head, so almost my entire life. I’ve formally studied astronomy and take great pleasure in talking about it. I love being able to explain a bit about what goes on up in space, how it affects us, how it shapes other planets, and ultimately, how we were all made. It’s a fascinating subject and something I am incredibly passionate about.

I have a collection of different telescopes, and that is ultimately what I use my Land Rover for. On a clear night, I can throw one or two telescopes in the back, drive up to the top of a friend’s field, and just look up, completely losing myself in the wonders of the universe.

Thank you Greg! we hope this interview inspires others to take part.

Would you like to feature?

If you have enjoyed reading about Greg, why not take part in the VINTTRO Member spotlight interview series yourself? … please email us at info@vinttro.co.uk and we’ll be in touch.

We often plan for the big milestones, buying a home, investing in a dream car, getting married, or saving for retirement. But there is one crucial piece of the puzzle that many people overlook until it is too late: Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA).

While it isn’t always the most comfortable topic to discuss, appointing an LPA is one of the most selfless and practical things you can do for yourself and your family. It ensures that if life takes an unexpected turn, the people you trust most are empowered to look after you.

The Risk of Playing the “Wait and See” Game

The most common misconception about an LPA is that you only need one when you are elderly. In reality, mental incapacity can happen to anyone at any time due to a sudden illness or a serious accident.

If you haven’t appointed an attorney and you lose the capacity to make your own decisions, your loved ones don’t automatically get the right to step in. Instead, they may have to face the Court of Protection. This process is:

• Expensive: Legal and application fees can run into thousands of pounds.
• Time-Consuming: It can take many months to resolve, leaving your finances in limbo.
• Impersonal: The court, not you, ultimately decides who is appointed to manage your affairs.

Financial Security and Personal Wellbeing

An LPA isn’t just about “who gets the money.” It is divided into two distinct areas to ensure total coverage of your life:

1. Property and Financial Affairs: This allows your chosen attorney to manage your bank accounts, pay your mortgage, or even sell your property if necessary.
2. Health and Welfare: This covers your daily routine, medical care, and even critical decisions regarding life-sustaining treatment.

By setting these up now, you are providing a roadmap for your family, removing the guesswork and the burden of difficult decision-making during an already stressful time.

Expert Guidance with VINTTRO

As a lifestyle brand, we are dedicated to providing premium services that seamlessly integrate with your way of life. We believe planning for the future requires more than just filling out forms; it demands the professional touch of centuries of expertise. If you require assistance with LPAs, Wills, or probate, we have the perfect partner in VINTTRO a prestigious law firm with a heritage spanning hundreds of years, ensuring your legacy is held in the safest possible hands.

Don’t be tempted by the “budget” services often advertised on social media, as these can leave you legally exposed. Just like your Will, we believe an LPA should only be handled by a qualified solicitor. To put it simply: you wouldn’t take a Bugatti to a Ford dealership for a service! Your legal security deserves that same level of specialised, high-end expertise.

LPA Q&A: Everything You Need to Know

What is a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA)? A Lasting Power of Attorney is a legal document that lets you (the ‘donor’) appoint someone as your ‘attorney’ to help you make decisions for you or on your behalf. There may be a time when you are considered to lack ‘mental capacity’ and need someone to make decisions for you.

What is Mental Capacity? Mental capacity means your ability to understand information and make decisions about your life. Having mental capacity means you can make your own decisions and understand the consequences of those decisions.

Why a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA)? They are very important documents. They allow you to choose someone you trust to make decisions on your behalf if something happens, such as an illness or accident and you are unable to make decisions for yourself. They are excellent documents as a way of planning ahead for the future for you and your loved ones.

What happens if I don’t have a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA)? If you lose mental capacity and do not have an LPA in place, someone wishing to act on your behalf will need to apply to the Court of Protection to be appointed as your Deputy. Your Deputy will then be able to make decisions on your behalf. This can be a lengthy and expensive Court process. You also do not get to choose who you want your Deputy to be.

What is a Financial Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA)? Under a Property and Financial Affairs LPA, your attorneys can make decisions on your behalf, about things like dealing with your banks, building societies and utility providers, or even selling your home.

Does a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) cover Health and Welfare? It can, if you also make a Health and Welfare LPA. Under a Health and Welfare LPA, your attorneys can manage your everyday medical and personal care decisions, such as the care and support you receive. You must also choose whether your attorneys can give or refuse consent to life-sustaining treatment on your behalf.

What is Life-Sustaining Treatment? This is any treatment that aims to prolong your life without changing the underlying medical condition. For example, life-sustaining treatment can be antibiotics if you have pneumonia to lifesaving surgery such as a heart bypass.

Who decides if you have Mental Capacity or not? When entering a LPA, an independent Certificate Provider must sign the document. This Certificate Provider is an independent person who will confirm that you are making the document of your own free will, without pressure and you understand the implications of what you are doing – with the mental capacity to do so.

Is a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) valid after death? No, a Lasting Power of Attorney ends when you pass away. The attorneys can no longer manage your affairs. With this in mind, it is important to have a Will in place to ensure your affairs are looked after when you have passed away.

Are Enduring Powers of Attorney (EPA) still valid? Yes, if you signed your EPA before the 1st October 2007. These documents were then replaced by a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA). However, it is very important to have this document reviewed as EPAs are only valid for property and financial matters and must be registered if the donor is losing or has lost mental capacity.

Your Lifestyle

Your lifestyle is important, you’ve earned it, so make sure it’s protected. If you require any legal services, we’re here to support you – Call us now: 0333 4042 008.

If you’re driving a performance car, a limited-run modern classic, or a vehicle that has seen a significant amount of “garage love,” your biggest risk isn’t just a rogue shopping trolley or a roadside mishap, it’s the “market value” Trap!

It’s More Than A Car

For VINTTRO members and policyholder’s, a car is rarely just a machine. It’s an entry ticket to a unique way of life, one defined by early morning starts for social meets, the camaraderie of the community, and the painstaking hours spent on restoration to ensure every nut and bolt is period-correct. However, most standard insurance policies are designed for the average commuter car. When those “off-the-shelf” policies meet the reality of the performance car world, owners often find themselves thousands of pounds out of pocket.

The Problem: The “Market Value” Myth

Most mainstream insurers use “Market Value” to determine your pay-out. In their eyes, your car is simply a set of data points: make, model, year, and mileage.

Why this fails the enthusiast lifestyle:

• The “Condition Gap”: An algorithm doesn’t know if your car has a full specialist service history or that it’s been ceramic coated and stored in a climate-controlled garage. It sees a 10-year-old car and pays out the “average” for a vehicle that might have lived a much harder life.
• The Restoration Reality: If you’ve spent months (or years) restoring your car to concours or “better than factory” condition, a standard policy won’t recognise that sweat equity. “Market Value” ignores the premium that a meticulously restored car commands.

The Replacement Struggle: If your car is a total loss, “Market Value” might cover a standard version of your model, but it won’t cover the cost of finding another one with the same provenance that allows you to pull up to a community meet with pride.

Protecting the Lifestyle

At VINTTRO, we know that your car is the cornerstone of your social life. Whether you’re grabbing a coffee at a Sunday morning meet or sharing advice on a forum about a specific part, the value of that car isn’t just in its parts, it’s in the community it connects you to.

If you are underinsured, a claim doesn’t just take your car; it takes you out of the driver’s seat of your favourite hobby. Agreed Value ensures that if the worst happens, you have the funds to get back into the community without missing a beat.

Agreed Value – The Solution

We advocate for Agreed Value, a pre-determined sum that you and the insurer agree upon at the start of the policy. If the car is stolen or written off, that is the exact amount you receive. No haggling, no depreciation, no “computer says no.”

The Benefits of Agreed Value:

1. Certainty: You know exactly what your “worst-case scenario” payout looks like.
2. Protection of Passion: It accounts for the rarity, the professional restoration work, and the condition that standard guides ignore.

Speed: Because the value is already set, the settlement process is significantly faster, getting you back into a replacement car and back to the social meets you love.

How to Fix Your Protection

If you suspect you’re currently underinsured, here is how you can move to an Agreed Value setup with VINTTRO Cover:

• Evidence Your Passion: We don’t just take a number out of thin air. We ask for high-quality photos (the “Hero Shot,” the interior, and the engine bay) and a list of restoration work or significant maintenance.

The “Annual Review” Rule: The performance and car investment market is dynamic. Just because £50,000 was right last year doesn’t mean it is today. We can help our members review their values at renewal to ensure the market hasn’t left them behind.

The VINTTRO Cover Difference

Standard brokers sell policies; we protect a way of life. We understand that a performance car’s value isn’t found in a trade-in guide, it’s found in the details, the history, and the joy of being part of the community.

Don’t wait for a claim to find out your car (and your lifestyle) was undervalued. Let’s get your “Agreed Value” locked in.

Ready to update your valuation? Call us on 0333 4042 007, we’ll be delighted to help.

VINTTRO Cover is a trading style of Sona Insurance Solutions Ltd. VINTTRO Limited is an Appointed Representative of Sona Insurance Solutions Limited who is authorised and regulated by the FCA under reference number 927990.

Welcome to the VINTTRO Member Interview!

At VINTTRO, we’ve always known that our community is built on more than just high-octane fuel and polished chrome; it’s built on people. Our members and clients are a unique breed: a vibrant mix of passionate enthusiasts, savvy business leaders, and many visionary entrepreneurs who apply the same drive to their professional lives as they do to their car collections.

We are thrilled to launch our Member Spotlight Series. This is our way of celebrating the diverse community we protect. Every month, we’re pulling back the curtain to feature the fascinating individuals behind the wheel, exploring how they’ve turned their personal drive into professional success.

Each edition of our Member Spotlight will highlight the extraordinary life journeys of our members.

To kick off the series, we are delighted to introduce a face very familiar to the VINTTRO family, our Broking Director and Co-owner.

We hope you enjoy the journey!

Tell us a bit about yourself, starting with your name:

Jason Balls.

Where are based. and what does a typical day look like for you?

I’m based in Mistley, Essex and my typical day as Broking Director is helping our customers with all of their specialist Personal & Commercial insurance requirements.

The First Pay check: What was your very first job, and how did your career path evolve into what you do today?

My first full time job was a Trainee Heating Installation Engineer which I quickly realised was not a strength after 6 months, but since then I’ve always worked in the insurance industry.

What was the “spark” that led you into your current industry?

When I was 17 I started work at Hambro Legal Protection where I was trained up as an Uninsured Loss Recovery Claims Handler.

Company Info. What is the company name you work for now, and what position do you hold?

I am a Co-owner and Broking Director of VINTTRO Ltd.

What services do they provide, and what is the website address?

We are a comprehensive lifestyle brand dedicated to supporting our personal and commercial clients through every stage of asset ownership. From niche car insurance and asset funding to vehicle storage, transportation, and expert claims management, we provide a seamless ecosystem of protection and professional services.

www.vinttro.co.uk

The Automotive Obsession

What age were you when you first realised you’re a petrolhead?

I was 16 years old when I found my love for motorbikes and cars.

What was the first car you ever owned, and how much did you pay for it?

My first car was a T Reg mark 1 Ford Fiesta 1300 Ghia which I paid £1100.

What cars do you currently own (including your daily driver)?

I currently own a Porsche Cayenne and 2025 BMW Z4.

Which car do you most regret selling or losing?

My 1989 Vauxhall Nova GTE and my 1994 Vauxhall Calibra, see below.

If money and garage space were no object, what is your ultimate “dream” car and why?

Aston Martin DBS and an Audi Quattro Turbo.

Describe your ideal Sunday morning drive, where are you going, and what’s playing on the radio?

Along the coast, roof down, listening to Dakota by the Stereophonics.

Manual or Automatic?

Depends on the car and drive.

Electric cars – Yes or No? (Give reason)

Not for me – I’m all for protecting the environment but EV’s have no soul or driver connection in my opinion.

Hard Roof or Convertible or both?

Both – again depending on the car, but there’s nothing like a the hood down, shades on when touring Europe in the sunshine.

Track Day or Weekend Cruise?

Weekend cruise all day long.

What is one piece of advice you’d give to someone looking to buy their first classic/performance car?

Do your research and seek professional advice but most of all make sure you get the right insurance protection.

Finally, Beyond the Car Obsession

When you aren’t behind the wheel or under a hood, how do you spend your time? (Hobbies, other interest’s etc).

Riding my Harley Davidson Heritage Classic with my wife, I love travelling, snowboarding, walking our black lab Hugo and I’m a passionate supporter of Manchester United.  

Thank you Jason!

If you would like to take part in the VINTTRO Member spotlight series, please email us at info@vinttro.co.uk and we’ll be in touch.