Definitely going to have to have a full pro respray on the 1981 Fiesta.....original gold metallic 2 pack paint is starting to look a little jaded in several places, too much to touch up really. Thought I may get away with it for a few more years but its time now to consider a full rub down to bare metal and a full respray....

Can anyone recommend a decent paintshop that knows what they are doing and is reasonably priced, pref one that deals with classics......

John Bee Motor Engineers on Abbeydale Road. Just pop in and have a look around. The shop is full of vintage & classics at the minute. Off the top of my head they have got a 1928 Morris Cowley, An Austin 7, A 1985 Capri, a standard 10 andold porsche of some description, an MGB ETC. ETC. They are not the cheapest but they are the best in Sheffield.

Don't suppose you know a rough idea of price? Say how much for a bonnet, or a door?

I plan to get one of mine blown over when I finish my PhD and enter the world of employment. It isn't really rusty it just has some scabby bits coming through, and the customary parking dents and scratches.

You would have to take them in and let them have a look. At a rough estimate you are looking at £27 per hour labour about £70 per panel for paint so it depends how bad they are. The trouble is that when rust has already started showing through it means that the rest of the panel is on it's way out as well.

im a qualified paintsprayer if anybody needs one..