Hooked on CLASSICS

These much-loved cars are more than just vehicles - they're family

- CLAUDIA WOODWARD

Women who own heritage motors may be a select band but they are passionate about their cars. According to specialist insurance company Footman James, only 9% are female - with the majority of them in their 50s and 60s, and some in their 90s.

'Classics really do have their own personality'

Rebecca East, 30, from Derbyshire, owns a classic Mini Cooper called Matilda.

I first fell in love with retro cars while visiting a classic Mini show with my dad. The people I met were wonderful - so warm and friendly. I'm an artist, and while I was there, I received my first commission from someone who wanted their Mini captured on canvas. Word soon spread, and I went on to paint iconic cars for enthusiasts all over the world, including world-famous motor sport stars such as Mika Häkkinen and Nigel Mansell.

I soon found myself hankering after my own old-school Mini and found Matilda. When I drive her, I feel like I'm back in the '60s, part of The Italian Job, wind in my hair, a hamper on the back seat. There's something about the character of the classics - they really do have their own personality.

My passion inspired me to begin Retro Mini Hire. Matilda is available for a collection of road trips, and she's even hired out for weddings.