When Ken Day bought back the bits of his latest eBay purchase his wife could only describe it to their daughter as a pile of old rubbish.
But four years later his newly restored 1970 Jaguar Series 2 E-type took pride of place at a leading classic car motor show over the weekend.
Speaking to the Basingstoke Observer, the 71-year-old retired builder told how he picked up the battered shell of a car in boxes from a barn in Barnstaple.
Armed with nothing more than a Haynes car manual, an endless supply of elbow grease and patience, the Tadley resident lovingly restored the motor to its former glory.
“It took up to three years just to source better parts than were in the boxes, the car had to be rebuilt from scratch. It was just a wreck when I got it,” he said.
“It was hard, work work, and I had to do a lot of research on the internet just finding out what should be done.
“I just bought a Haynes manual and with help from friends just got on with it.”
The 1970s Jag has been rebuilt to a 1963 spec and has prowled the roads for just over a year.
Everything from the engine to the interior and the paint job, has been stripped down and rebuilt.
On finishing Ken entered the car into a competition at the Jaguar Enthusiasts Club meeting in August.
Picked as the winner, the car was displayed alongside 16 others at the Meguiar’s club showcase stand at the Footman James Classic Motor Show in Birmingham’s NEC, from November 11 to 13.
While his Jaguar was not crowned the overall winner, Ken said it was an amazing experience having his car showcased. “It was absolutely incredible, it was hard work answering all the questions. Unfortunately I did not win,” he said.
“I am extremely proud of the car. It has been money well spent.”
