I think I read somewhere that going out and splashing money around is something people do when they’re depressed. I don’t think I’m depressed, concerned about Essy and her Mum certainly, but not depressed :-) Anyway, the thoughts about replacing the car pre-date all the current problems. Until 3 years ago when I gave up the ‘other job’ to become a bus driver I had 2 cars – a Rover 75 and an Isuzu Trooper. Having 2 cars seemed like an extravagance so I sold the Trooper and I’ve missed it ever since. I can never seem to fit the rubbish I want to take to the tip into the boot of the 75, if I buy timber at the DIY shed it comes home sticking out of the window etc. So I’ve been scouring eBay, Autotrader, the local press and local vehicle auction sites. Yesterday I found an ideal vehicle listed at www.swva.co.uk first registered June 2000, full local dealer service history from delivery and all MOTs to validate the vehicle as only having done 50,000 miles. What was it? A Nissan Patrol! Normally seen in white, in a war zone because they’re indestructible, with UN on each side. Here’s a picture of an identical one to the one I bought, even the colour is the same.

It’s a top of the range model with 7 seats, all in leather, autochange CD player, headlamp washers, reversing sensors which I have on the Rover and love, climate control and everything else you could ever want. It’s great fun to drive but doesn’t seem to fit a Sainsbury’s car park parking space to well …… it’s bigger than a Range Rover!