I first read 'The Wind in the Willows' aged about nine. 'Toady' became an instant hero. Like him, I used to sniff exhaust fumes in much the same way as the Bisto Kids sniffed gravy. Been addicted to bikes and, to a lesser extent cars, ever since. Not these modern things though; just stuff from the 'fifties and 'sixties. Or, at a push, the 'seventies (you always have to push 'seventies cars - boom, boom!).

My dream machine is/was the Vincent Rapide - the 1000cc 'V' twin motorcycle that's arguably the best (whatever that means) bike of all time. Started looking for one semi-seriously a few years back. Prices were then around 12 grand - twice the price of a new Jap superbike. Astronomical. Then toyed with the idea again when we sold up and moved to France. By which time prices had risen to around 20 grand. Looked at one just outside Bromley, a minter. Tried to convince Georgie it'd be a wise investment, all the time knowing that all I really wanted to do was thrash it through country lanes on full chat. After all, that's what the damned things were built for; not museums or stashing away in heated garages. Almost bought it, but didn't. So near and yet so far.

I keep looking though. As I said, I'm addicted. Prices are now up to about 30 grand. Or more. Way out of reach. Spotted a good 'un on eBay last week. Bidding ended this afternoon. Last night it was up to about 24 grand. Hit 25 this morning. Thought it'd go for about 30. Made 32,100 at the last minute. Worth every penny.

Feast yer mince pies on this eBay beauty (with reluctant vendor who's selling to fund retirement home) while I cry inta me Rosie Lee...

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