Introducing our September Bright Young Spark, Thomas Thornicroft!

We’re thrilled to announce that our panel of judges have chosen our first Bright Young Sparks finalist - Thomas Thornicroft! Thomas is one of six finalists we’ll be announcing from now until March next year, when we’ll crown our overall winner at the Practical Classics Classic Car and Restoration Show.

Thomas has a growing passion for classic revival, which all started with Disney…

How did your interest start?

My interest in cars started at young age when the first Disney ‘Cars’ movie was released; I must have watched it over a thousand times! As I got older, I discovered car shows in the real world. My local show is the Whichford TT, which happens throughout the summer months at a pub near me. Since then, I’ve joined Hook Norton Classics and met a brilliant group of people and their classic cars.

What is on your drive?

At the moment I own a 1991 Nissan Micra, which I’m currently modifying ready for shows such as Japfest next year. I’m also in the process of looking for an older Ford as my next project to go alongside the Micra. As for dream cars I’ve always loved the Mk1 Golf, but the absolute goal is 1969 Mustang Fastback.

What inspires you to do your own work?

I get most of my inspiration from the people around me and the cars that they own. Going to shows and seeing some of the classics that some of my friends own and the condition that they are in really inspires me to restore a car of my own and build a collection of some of the best around. The passion is growing.

What are your plans?

In the future I would love to go into the classic car restoration industry. This is because I grew up watching Wheeler Dealers with Edd and Mike and loved watching them transform rusty shells into beautiful classics. This is something I would like to do in the future. As my first step I intend to find a job within the industry as an apprentice doing light work such as filter replacements to start with and work my way up to higher positions. My goal is to manage a garage or have my own restoration garage.

Share your experience so far

My advice to other youngsters is to start small like I did. I started by starting up an eBay shop selling parts off of classics and using the profits to buy more stock and fix cars of my own. I also recommend joining a small classic car group like I joined Hook Norton Classics and meet as many fellow enthusiasts as possible and learn from their experiences.

INSPIRING OUR YOUNG PEOPLE

The Lancaster Insurance Bright Young Sparks initiative supports young people who are striving to join the classic world – whether 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 2024, we will be celebrating the stories of six ‘Bright Young Sparks’ – as nominated by you!

WHAT ARE THE PRIZES?

Thomas and his five co-finalists will each win: £250 to go towards tools or classic kit and two tickets to the PC Resto Show in March 2024, while also appearing in the Lancaster newsletter and in PC. They will also be in with a chance of winning an industry taster with specialists and PC, too. Visit Bright Young Sparks to find out more!