A Minor Classic

I've got my fingers crossed that today is the start of a long, warm Spring and a similarly elongated, hot Summer and on days like this, being indoors is not an option ..... So, as soon as I had finished breakfasting in bed, I headed out to Elsecar and the Heritage Centre to wander around the Antiques and Collectables Fair.

I didn't get beyond the car park before seeing the first of several classics but the vibrant shine of this impeccably kept Morris Minor caught my eye and, much to the stares and sniggers of passers by (the accepted hazard of enjoying photography!), I crouched down and took this shot. What I wanted to capture with this picture is the Morris' friendly facade which perfectly complimented the sunshine smiling down on us, as well as to pay tribute to the owner's clear love and devotion to the car for keeping it so well maintained and spotless!

The Morris Minor is a British economy car that debuted at the Earls Court Motor Show, London, on 20 September 1948. Designed under the leadership of Alec Issigonis, more than 1.3 million were manufactured between 1948 and 1971. Sir Alec Issigonis' concept was to combine the luxury and convenience of a good motor car at a price affordable by the working classes.

Today the Morris Minor and 1000 are among the best served classic family-sized cars in the old vehicle movement and continue to gain popularity. The enduring affection for the "Moggie" (also a common British nickname for an undistinguished cat, or a Morgan) or "Morrie" (as it is often known in Australia and New Zealand) is reflected in the number of restored and improved Morris Minors currently running in Britain, Australasia and in India.