Each week in this section we speak to someone with a passion for vehicles - today it’s the turn of Mark Kirby of Dorchester
It has taken Mark 48 cars to find a car - he ‘really likes’.
And the car with that honour is his 1938 Alvis 12/70 Anderson tourer, which he has owned for two years.
He bought it because he loves Alvis cars, he says.
“This one is one of four ever made in this body style and has been in Dorset all its life. I’ve had a lot of Alvis cars. For me they’re the ultimate car.
“When the owner of this unique car passed away, it was passed on to the man’s daughter and she wanted it to go to a proper Alvis enthusiast,” he said.
Mark Kirby in his much-loved Alvis car
“When I’m driving it around I get a lot of comments and I have a real face ache from driving it, because I’m smiling so much. I just love driving it!”
If you would like to see your car featured in the Dorset Echo's new Me and My Motor page, fill out our simple Q&A form and submit pictures of your vehicle here
Out for a cruise around the beautiful Dorset countryside
Mark used to be a member of the Transport of Yesteryear club.
“I love pre-war cars,” he said. “They don’t make them like they used to. I don’t really like anything that’s older than 1960.
“It’s taken me 48 cars to get a car I really like. I work with a lot of old cars and they’re a real passion for me."
The Alvis car
Mark regularly takes the car to a Classic Car Meet at the Cork and Bottle in Moredon or ‘out for a bimble’ around Dorset. It’s generally me holding up all the ‘grockles’ in the summertime!”
At the moment the meets are restricted to 30 people but preCoronavirus they were attended by around 120 people.
Another favourite event for Mark is the annual Brooklands meet.
Mark is also the proud owner of a Riley RMA, which was the first postwar model.
Mark’s other car - a Riley RMA
A total of 10,504 models were produced from 1945 through 1952 before it was replaced by the RME
If you would like to see your car featured in the Dorset Echo's new Me and My Motor page, fill out our simple Q&A form and submit pictures of your vehicle here
MARK'S MOTORING LIFE
Do you take your car to shows or events?
Shows, weddings and just going out.
What does your family think about your passion for vehicles?
They love it.
What was your first vehicle and why did you buy it?
A Morris Minor which belonged to my great uncle. When I was 13 I did it up, I got into cars from a very early age.
What is your dream vehicle and why?
Pre war Alvis - and I’ve got it
Would you ever go electric and why?
No it’s not worth it
What do you think a car says about its driver?
How much he loves proper cars!
What’s your favourite road to drive on and why?
All of the Dorset roads! But if I had to choose one it would be the coast road from Bridport to Abbotsbury, the views are just stunning.
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