I have made it! Clearly, Beckenham is the place if is a shabby, maroon hatchback you want. The Cavalier was the taxi.

This collected me from the station, and then I soon arrived at my new steed!

Isn’t she lovely? I’ve known the car for years, but now she’s mine. Under the bonnet, there’s a 1468cc powerhouse and an automatic gearbox. There’s power steering too, as well as electric windows and mirrors and central locking. A luxurious little thing! 

Above is the history in a Cognac box, and a Proton manual as that’s what this Mitsubishi would become.

Anyway, we’re doing paperwork now and then I’m off to Sussex for my first drive. In the rush hour…