Introducing our October Bright Young Spark – Jude Currie!

Introducing our October Bright Young Spark - Jude Currie. We were fascinated to hear about Jude’s passion for rescuing cars as their owners struggle to contend with the new charges imposed by ULEZ restrictions in Greater London. At only 20 years old, Jude is a great example of the younger generation who are keeping our passion for classics alive.

Our friends at Practical Classics magazine caught up with Jude to find out more about his penchant for old cars…

What’s your motivation?

I love old cars. I have done since I was a little kid. I think it is important ‘bread and butter’ vehicles of the Eighties and Nineties are preserved and appreciated especially as time has not been kind to them. They are typically far rarer than their ancestors, with factors like the 2009-10 scrappage scheme resulting in so many being prematurely scrapped.

Where do you find them?

I live in Surrey, just inside the M25. Greater London was always a great hunting ground for good examples of older cars. In London, unusual Eighties and Nineties models, which I love the most, have always been noticeably more common compared with other parts of the country. A city environment, lower mileages, less disposable income and eccentric owners have no doubt played part in these cars surviving for so long, but ULEZ has largely put an end to that. There has been a noticeable decline, particularly in the poorer parts of London where people cannot afford the £12.50 charge on the days they take their cars out. I regularly go for walks around different parts of London and leave notes under the wipers of older cars with my details on, so the owners keep me in mind when they come to move them on in the future.

How many cars have you rescued?

It must be over 20 now – all from owners who have contacted me because of my notes. A lot of them have had their cars for years. They’re part of the family and the only reason they’re parting with them is because of the ULEZ restrictions, which have made it impossible to own them any longer. When owners see someone has taken an interest in giving their car a chance, they’re often quite emotional. I often get photos with the owners to keep as part of the car’s story.

What happens to the cars once you rescue them?

Sadly, I don’t have the means to keep all the cars I save, so I have to move some on. I typically find new owners for the vehicles through enthusiast groups on Facebook. It’s really satisfying to see these cars live on with new custodians, especially when they give them love and attention, improve and use them. These are cars that would probably have been scrapped, but instead are giving pleasure and enjoyment to enthusiasts young and old. I love that. At present I’ve got a Hyundai Lantra, a Rover 45, a Kia Pride and Toyota Starlet. All ULEZ rescues.

Inspiring our Young People

The Bright Young Sparks initiative aims to support young people who are striving to join the classic car world - whether that’s by working in it or simply enjoying it as a hobby.

In the run up to the Practical Classics Classic Car and Restoration Show in March 2023, we’ll be celebrating and sharing the stories of six ‘Bright Young Sparks’ - as nominated by you!

So, what do they win? Each of our final six will win: £250 to go towards tools or classic kit. Two tickets to the PC Resto Show in March 2023 and a feature in the Lancaster newsletter and in PC. They will also be in with a chance of winning a 'Classic Car Industry Taster’ trip, including work experience with classic car mechanics, specialists and celebrities!

Our ‘Bright Young Sparks’ are all nominated by you! You can find out more about the initiative and how to nominate here.