Life on Mars Ford Cortina lands at NEC Classic Motor Show

The iconic 1974 Ford Cortina that featured in the hit BBC TV series Life on Mars will be landing on the Live Stage at this year’s Classic Motor Show, held at Birmingham’s NEC from 9th to 11th November.

The brown classic, used by TV coppers DCI Sam Tyler and DCI Gene Hunt, will be driven on stage by owner Paul Shedden from Darlaston. Paul shelled out £10,000 for the famous motor on Ebay after being a fan of Life on Mars ever since its first episode. He will talk about the car, its history and the fans’ reaction to the vehicle with stage host and TV motoring expert Mike Brewer, who’ll also be trying to slide across the bonnet in true 70’s cop style.

Paul said: "The car has been voted the most iconic and recognisable car in the UK, so it's a real honour to own it. When I heard it was for sale, I couldn't resist buying it. Up until now I've kept it secret from most of my friends and family as I wanted to enjoy it on my own for a while first so I kept it to myself but I didn't buy the car to make money out of it though and It's a famous car that people deserve to enjoy."

Ford Cortina's normally cost around £3,500, but Paul said he had to have the Life on Mars car, despite its £10,000 asking price. However he got more than he bargained for when he found a priceless piece of Life on Mars memorabilia in the Cortina's glovebox. Bafta-winning Life on Mars became a huge TV hit when first aired in January 2006, with over seven million tuning in to its final episode in April this year.

Spanning five halls and half-a-million square feet, the Classic Motor Show also includes over 300 trade stands selling a wide range of parts, spares, tools, motoring services and memorabilia. Features include an energetic Live Stage hosted by TV motoring expert Mike Brewer, who’ll be challenging mechanic Edd China to restore and build a classic car every day before it is given away to one lucky visitor. There is also an impressive Restoration Theatre has a team of mechanics ready to show visitors exactly how to tackle all aspects of restoring a cherished classic car.

For information on the Classic Motor Show, visit necclassicmotorshow.com.