See Britain’s greatest barn-finds at the NEC this weekend

20 classic cars with exceptional stories of abandonment will star on the Footman James Barn Find display this year. The gathered cars span from vintage Americans to modern classics and all in between. Classic Car Weekly, has had an exclusive peek at some of the cars that will be appearing – and we reckon that this weekend’s display will be a cracker.

Likely the smallest entrant will be a 1959 Isetta. Supplied new in Leamington Spa it had two owners before being taken off the road in the 1960s. The bodywork and chassis are in remarkable condition but owner, Dave Watson, said: ‘The key issues to tackle are a seized engine and a lack of brakes. The plan is to get it running and then focus on preservation rather than a full restoration.’

Another stand feature is a 1985 Fiat Uno Turbo. Acquired by model enthusiast, Nick Greer, in 2003, the familiar story of life getting in the way saw the boosted ‘80s hatch languish for more than 20 years, but that ends now. Nick said: ‘It will be something of a challenge, not least because parts for these particular Unos are almost non-existent. It has been running, but the engine and gearbox are quite tired after almost 100,000 miles, so they’ll be treated to a complete re-build!’

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