Classic car fan is still in the driving seat
March 27th, 2009 by Alex Jeffery
He may be 76, but classic car enthusiast Brian Clarke has no plans to slow down just yet.
The sprightly pensioner, known as “Nobby” to his friends, is the oldest member of the Sunderland and District Classic Vehicle Society and still travels to rallies across the country in his 1958 Sunbeam Rapier.
“I’ve always loved cars, but especially the classics,” said Mr Clarke. “There’s just something a bit special about them, something that sets them apart from most of the others you see on the roads.”
Mr Clarke is also the proud owner of a 1961 Standard Ten car, a 1962 Bedford CA minibus and a 1964 Aerial Leader motorbike.
“I’ve no idea how many cars I’ve had over the years,” he said. “I’ve lost count.
“I’ve had the Rapier for the last eight years and that has done half a million miles in its lifetime and had three new engines.
“You can pick them up for a couple of thousand and they don’t take much to maintain, although sometimes you do have to make the parts yourself because the manufacturers don’t make them anymore.”
Originally from Devon, Mr Clarke moved to Wearside in the 1950’s after serving in the Royal Navy. He has been a member of the Sunderland-based vehicle society for years, looking after the club regalia and organising fund-raising events.
“As long as I can drive, I’ll keep going,” he added.
For more information about the society visit classic car insurance quote, then give the team at Sureterm Direct a call on 0800 999 2030. They won’t charge you for the telephone call but they will save you money on your classic car insurance policy.