AN Austin 7 enthusiast has embarked on a new restoration project.

Sid Gamble, from Crabtree Lane, Sidemoor, is attempting to fully restore a 1932-33 Austin 7 RP Van, of which there is only believed to be 12 in existence.

Retired Sid, who has already restored five Austins to their former glory, first discovered the car in bits near Bridgnorth almost 20 years ago.

He was then forced to sell the parts to a friend, not having the time to restore the van, which was the first model made with a four-speed gearbox.

However, since his recent retirement as a mobile mechanic, Sid has found the time to take up one of his greatest passions.

"They are the best cars ever made. I have always had an Austin and can't wait to have it finished and be able to show it off. I love them," said Sid.

When Sid got the offer to buy the same parts back six months ago, nearly 15 years on from when he sold them, he jumped at the chance.

"All that is left to do is install the engine, put on the side panels and other little jobs. I hope to have it finished by the summer," he added.