Welwyn Garden City couple named Classic Motor Show finalists

From Welwyn Times (UK): Welwyn Garden City couple named Classic Motor Show finalists
HE’S been to Egypt and back on a shoestring budget, while raising thousands for charity in the process.

But it seems the adventures are far from over for “Morris”, the 1961 Mini Minor owned by WGC couple Nicky West and Rob Stacey.

The WHT reported back in June how Rob and Nicky had driven Morris 11,000km to the Great Pyramids of Giza in support of Old Hatfield-based charity the Willow Foundation, which organises special days out for seriously ill 16 to 40-year-olds.

And now, the couple have learned that their 50-year-old pride and joy had been named as a finalist in the 2011 Classic Car of the Year Awards, to be held next month during the illustrious Classic Motor Show.

Morris was chosen from hundreds of entries to be selected for the final 20 cars, before a public vote whittled the selection down to just five.

The red 850cc Mini will go on display at the Birmingham NEC from November 11 to 13, where an overall winner will be picked, and awarded with a trophy and a year’s free comprehensive car insurance.

On Morris’ success, proud owner Nicky said: “It’s absolutely breathtaking. To get to the final 20 was amazing but to get to the final – we’re ecstatic.

“I think he deserves it. He’s not shiny, he’s a bit pink and a bit rusty now, but he’s a noble steed and it shows that these classic cars don’t have to be ornaments.

“They’re strong, rugged, reliable cars.”

Meanwhile, Nicky and Rob’s charity efforts were given a boost when they were handed £251 from Waitrose in WGC.

The supermarket raised the cash through its Community Matters initiative, which sees shoppers receive a green disc after every transaction and place it in the charity box of their choice.

Waitrose operation partner Loraine Gwyther said: “It was a great opportunity to help the Willow Foundation, to help them continue sending the children on those special days.”