Classic Sports Car

& MEET GREET

- Umar Valu CEO, CLASSIC MUSTANG HIRE classicmus­tanghire.com

How long have you been in business? After leaving the education sector to pursue my passions fully, I founded my Ford Mustang hire service about five years ago. We specialise in special occasions such as photoshoot­s, music videos and student projects. I find immense joy in seeing the excitement on people’s faces, particular­ly the younger generation, as they interact with these timeless vehicles.

What’s the best classic you’ve owned? It would have to be my Mini, a 1959 model that has been converted into a Cooper. It holds huge sentimenta­l value because it was a gift from my father, despite my unfortunat­e crash with it at a young age. Sadly, he then put me on a driving ban… for a year! Seriously sad times.

And the worst? Definitely my E30 BMW 325i. A nightmare to work on and own, so I had to sell it on as a project in the end.

What would you never part with? Without a doubt, I could never part with my beloved Mustang. It’s been a source of joy and inspiratio­n for me and others for the past five years.

How’s business? It has ups and downs, but overall things are looking good, especially during the spring and summer. Looking ahead, I can see a rising demand for classic cars as they continue to age and gain value, promising a bright future for enthusiast­s and businesses alike.

What’s the best way for classic owners to protect their investment? Maintain the damned thing, inside and out, just like you’d maintain yourself – in fact, probably a bit more than you look after yourself!

What are your other hobbies? I’m deeply involved in creating music, teaching various creative and digital arts, and indulging in my love for horse riding. Perhaps the most interestin­g thing about me is that I failed all my GCSES, but now I own one of the world’s biggest vocal music licensing platforms (Halal Beats) and have four of my childhood dream cars. Never stop believing and you’ll always be achieving!

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