Introducing our January Bright Young Spark – Katie Bushell

Our friends at Practical Classics magazine caught up with Katie Bushell a true mechanic, enthusiast, YouTuber and Bright Spark.

When did you first know that you were a petrol head?

I can’t really remember a time that I wasn’t! Both my parents are big into cars, and I’ve been going to shows for as long as I can remember. It’s sort of been bred into me. Even as a kid in primary school it was always about cars… I’d spend every playtime running around pretending I was driving a car (almost always a Focus RS MkI for anyone curious).'

Why do old cars inspire you?

'I love the simplicity. Compared to all the modern stuff I work on for my day job, they’re a walk in the park! In fact, sometimes stuff is so straightforward, it ends up confusing me more. I love seeing how far technology has advanced too, and how early versions of it came about. The Bosch K-Jetronic system in my Audi 100 Avant is equal amounts fascinating as it is terrifying. I did my apprenticeship at an independent VAG specialist, and sometimes we’d have something interesting come in, like a Corrado or a 968, although I didn’t fully start working on older stuff until I got my own though.'

What is it with the Scirocco?

'I’ve always loved the Scirocco, even the MkIII. While I was an apprentice my mentor encouraged me to find a project, but MkIIs were pricey. Once I was qualified and on a bit more money I started looking again and found this one for sale just outside of Leeds. I love any Eighties coupé, so I really adore the Scirocco, and I love how it’s a bit different, and not a car you see all the time compared to something like the Golf. That rear quarter angle with the spoiler is just to die for, too!'

YouTube. How did you start?

'There’s a lot of car YouTubers out there, but not a lot of women (although thankfully that is changing!). I thought maybe if other women saw me working on a car, they’d get the confidence to give it a go. I’ve never felt I couldn’t do something because of my gender, but I know a lot of other young women have felt intimidated. Over the last couple of years, I’ve become friends with people like Steph (idriveaclassic) and others, and that’s spurred me on!

OK… ambitions please?

To grow the YouTube channel and to learn more about classic cars and how to fix them. I recently bought a Golf GTI MkII project that I’m looking forward to working on… I’ve always been a bit nervous doing major work on the Scirocco as I don’t want it off the road, so this is my opportunity to learn how and gain confidence without rushing. One day I might run my own classic garage, too. But for now, I’m happy working on battered hire vans!'

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.