MotorPunk January 2014 | Page 33

B eing the the owner of both a classic Mini and situation. To some die-hard Mini fanatics the also been awarded the Iron Cross; it isn’t easy having a foot in both camps. In this respect the trying to bring opposing sides under the same roof at the Hall 1 featured the Premier Concours competitions, where immaculate examples, both young and old, were judged Cooper - you can be the judge of how fair you think that is! However, even watching a concours competition runs contrary to the MotorPunk manifesto, and could have lead to hadn’t left by the nearest available exit. driven’ MINIs, while the remainder of the hall housed numerous trade stands and the grubby autojumblers. Elsewhere in Hall 2 Mini rally legends Paddy Hopkirk and Rally and next year will be the 50th anniversary of Paddy’s famous Monte Carlo victory). Leaving the Fair several hours later, with yet another set season. The enthusiasm for all things Mini is strangely infectious at events like this; I can’t think of any other such a loyal following. And, while I also have a soft spot for bearded old men will be rummaging through mounds of oily autojumble for Paceman gearboxes or haggling over Countryman speedos!