There are few people who have the privilege of driving a car formerly owned by a World War II pilot, who battled against Luftwaffe bombers in a Spitfire.
Retired solicitor Chris Silver who lives on the Black Isle believes it is an honour to own the 1966 MGB-GT which he brought from wing commander and OBE Alistair M Grant.
Mr Grant, who passed away 16 years ago, was called up at the start of World War II as a member of 602 City of Glasgow Squadron.
It is understood that he took part in the first aerial skirmish of the war when Luftwaffe bombers attacked Rosyth and were engaged by both 602 Squadron and 603 City of Edinburgh Squadron.
For Chris, 65, the MGB, which he paid just £5,000 for, has taken him on a long journey over the past 20-plus years. It has undergone two restorations in its lifetime due to rust though, and Chris has spent roughly £15,000 on various modifications to it.
“I’ve got no regrets, it’s a privilege to own it, I owned MGs in the seventies but by the time I got it, it was because I really wanted a classic car,” said Chris.
“Originally it was grey then burgundy red and now it’s riviera blue, I think the main thing is keeping on top of the rust.”
It was last rebuilt in 1997 and has also had new suspension and an upgraded engine.
The upkeep doesn’t come cheap but it has been worth it for Chris, and the MGB has been to dozens of classic car shows over the years.
“I have to admit that I haven’t used her as much this year but I think the best thing about this car is that you know you’ve been on a journey,” he said.
“When you’re on the A9 it’s pretty noisy and you can feel the wind, we love going for a ride about in it.”
Even Chris’s wife, Gill, is a fan, although she hasn’t previously known about the repair costs.
“I don’t have anything against modern cars but I think what people don’t understand about classics is that you actually have to drive them, and I mean really drive them,” said Chris.
“There’s no technology and you have to concentrate pretty hard, it’s a job in itself but that’s what I love about it.”
Chris also owns a classic Saab and is now considering selling the MGB, although it would have to go to the right owner.
“I’m undecided at the moment but it would have to be someone who really appreciated her history,” said Chris.
“After I got the car all spruced up I took her back to see Alistair before he died.
“He was so pleased and although I only met him a handful of times, he really was a remarkable man,” said Chris. “The car was nicely restored and re-sprayed, he was delighted with the result.”
Chris is careful to keep the car protected during the winter, but she’s more at risk of rust due to the picturesque location in the seaside village of Rosemarkie.
“We’re lucky to live here and taking her out on a nice night is just wonderful,” said Chris.
“You’ve always got to be aware of the sea salt though as it can do some damage.”
But for every costly repair, there’s nothing quite like driving the MGB – knowing she has the most extraordinary history.
“I think what people don’t understand about classics is that you actually have to drive them, and I mean really drive them”
