At Footman James we believe that the passion for classics should be encouraged in the younger generation, that’s why back in 2014 we created a new insurance proposition for young enthusiasts.
This policy has enabled many young classic owners, some as young as 17 if they’re a member of the Morris Minor Owner’s Club, to get out and about on the open road and enjoy their classic. The innovative scheme means that young drivers who may have previously struggled to obtain insurance for their pride and joy are now able to do so, subject to a range of qualifying criteria.
One such young enthusiast is 21-year-old Matt Tomkins from Buckinghamshire.
Matt explained: “When I was 16 I bought my first Morris Minor; I was bitten by the bug and five years on I have a collection of three. I am an active member and moderator of The Morris Minor Young Members register, which – alongside the Morris Minor Owners Club (MMOC) – offers a great community of friends and enthusiasts which has allowed my passion to blossom. I have just finished restoring my 1969 Morris Minor Traveller and won the Practical Classics Restorer of the Year award. I also own a 1970 Morris Minor 2-door saloon which I drive most days and a 1960 Minor Convertible which has made use of the Footman James European travel Insurance on two occasions to take part in the Minors On Tour trip organised by the MMOC.”
He continued: “Footman James’ commitment to the future of the classic car movement with its young drivers’ scheme and in particular The MMOC Young Members scheme is one that I am keen to support. The competitive price of the policy is an obvious attraction coupled by the quality of the service provided by all its staff as well as the peace of mind of knowing that my car is fully insured with a company that understands the vehicle and its value; all key reasons why I chose to insure with FJ!”
David Bond, Footman James’ Director said: “We are delighted to be able to offer genuine young enthusiasts like Matt affordable insurance that will enable them to get out and about in their classics. Since launching the scheme it has met with widespread approval within the industry and we look forward to extending our insurance offer to even more young enthusiasts who meet the qualifying criteria.”
Matt concluded: “In my first year of driving, while insured with FJ, I had an accident. At the side of the road and in tears, I called Footman James to ask advice on what I needed to do. The operator on the end of the phone was superb. She calmed me down, told me what details I needed to take and advised me on recovery. The police wanted to recover the vehicle to their compound, however the operator advised that if I paid the recovery fee by cheque, the amount would be reimbursed by them, which it was and within a week. I was completely satisfied with the service of the whole team throughout and would recommend FJ to anyone.”
Young enthusiast qualifying criteria for 18-24 year olds include:
Footman James also has an exclusive arrangement with the Morris Minor Owners Club where members can obtain cover from aged 17 for Morris Minors – even with a provisional license.
To find out more about our insurance policies, visit our Classic Car Insurance page.