The Press and Journal (Inverness, Highlands, and Islands)
Mini magic
What does this caravan and Mini have in common? They are both owned by Highland woman Kerrin Williams. Cheryl Livingstone finds out more
It could be argued that the Mini is one of the most recognisable cars on the road. Even those who don’t know the slightest thing about cars can spot a Mini.
It is also one of the most loved marques – and a regular on the big screen too.
Kerrin Williams is amongthose that has a love for the mightyMini. It was a relationship that began when she was just 20when she got her first and she has loved them ever since.
“I didn’t have one for a few years until I met my husband Jim in 1987, who also loves them, and it has been an obsession for us both ever since.”
The couple’s latest model is a 1992 RoverMini British Open Classic which they bought in 2009. It was their love of the marque that led to them finding the car.
Kerrin said a woman who knew of their interest offered them the car when she decided to sell it.
She said: “She had thought about putting it to the scrappage scheme but
decided to offer it to us first. She knew that myself and my husband are really interested in Minis.”
Around about the same time the couple made another purchase – this time an 1967 Eriba Puck caravan. They found it on eBay and went toNorfolk to pick it up. She said they had always wanted an Eriba Puck as it can be easily towed by a Mini.
Kerrin said that the car looked good but on further inspection they realised it needed quite a bit of work done to it.
She said: “We discovered that it needed a complete rebuild which myself and my husband did, the caravan was perfect though.
“We have rebuilt several cars over the years, either for myself or Jim, it is usually a love/hate relationship. The time always depends on what other things need to be done, it can take anything from one to three years.
“We also discovered some history about the car and caravan. TheMini had one owner and was originally bought in MacRae and Dick in Inverness while the caravan came from France and had previously only had one owner.”
Kerrin said the couple use both vehicles often for weekends away and commuting to work. She said oneparticularlyfondmemory was when they met a 38ft RV in a campsite they use a lot, which was “hilarious”.
They went away with it for Christmas two years ago and parked up near Aviemore and had pie and beans and apple crumble for Christmas Day.
As for driving the Mini, Kerrin said it is “amazing” and so much fun.
“It also parks really easily which is a bonus. I loveMinis, they are such happy cars with so much nostalgia attached.
“When we are out we get ahugeamountof attention. When the caravan is on as well it is incredible. People will be taking photos when you are driving down the motorway. It’s great.”
MY FIRST CAR...
Just a basic 998cc Mini, which was red
MY DREAM CAR...
I have my dream car – my Mini