Model 911 SC TARGA Year 1982 Acquired NOVEMBER 1994

Having my car back meant I could plan a few trips away. It also meant I could resume the dog-walking business I started in lockdown to get the car out and about. Look away now for those who can’t bear to see a classic Porsche being abused. The rain, wind and mud isn’t ideal for the worn interior of my car, but because she’s my only transport and what the dog owners love – a photo of their pooch in my beautiful classic – it has to be done. Today it was the turn of Nora the cocker spaniel, who was very excited for her photo shoot in a black sports car.

The car was running well for a few weeks, then suddenly it started to stall the minute I took my foot off the accelerator. I managed to drive the car the whole way home, restarting the engine middrive every time the car cut out. I was impressed at my ability to cruise in neutral while restarting the car.

So back to the garage it went. It’s a mixture thing. Frazer checked for vacuum leaks and readjusted the mixture, but it needs a lot more attention. So rather than leave her at the garage for an available slot to be fixed, I decided to take her home and just drive her anyway until she can be seen.

I also decided that the general public was trying to draw my attention to the fact that the engine cover was open (I’m still waiting for the broken latch part to arrive). So I used – shock horror – gaffer tape to hold it down. Frazer was aghast when I did that, but I love the battered look, like the slashes in my roof that are held together with tape. It’s a customised Porsche Targa and not the ‘Pimp My Car’ kind that’s been customised with tons of money.

My first trip into London last month cost me two ULEZ (Ultra Low Emission Zone) charges because I went home after midnight, thus incurring a new daily charge. I was outraged! This means I can’t stay out after midnight if I don’t want it to happen again. I was informed that as my car turns 40 this April, yes 40! I can’t believe it. She’s just so amazing, and as a classic car I may be exempt from the charge. In addition, it won’t need an MOT. It will mean my favourite thing to do in the car – driving in and out of central London – will be a tad cheaper.

So combining my car and her beauty with my dog fashion business, she’ll be used for the marketing campaign. Her imperfections are her attraction. An individual scarred from her 40 years of action. That’s her appeal. But for now I need to get her running smoothly before I take her out of London. Trips are on hold.