< Previous60 LINCOLNSHIRE TODAY COUNTY MOTORING We’re no strangers to supercars or famous motors here in Lincolnshire Today, but sometimes we like to take a break from that every now and then. Even those parking luxury motors in their driveways will often have a secondary, often more reliable, car with which they take on everyday life. Expensive cars do, after all, come with expensive repair costs. Often, that secondary car will be a more down to earth used car of some mileage. Chances are everyone has had to buy a used car at some point in their life. Whether it’s the commuter car to eat the miles rather than our favourite motor or an investment for our children’s sake, and whether it’s at a car dealership or a private seller, there’s nothing quite as exciting or trying as purchasing a new car. Knowing what to buy can be a more difficult task. Used cars always carry that element of risk, hence why checks exist online where prospective buyers can find out if a car has been previously motors Reliable Reliable Thanks to an independent study we now have rankings of the most and least reliable car brands. Lincolnshire Today investigates. 60-63.qxp_Layout 1 29/07/2020 12:25 Page 1LINCOLNSHIRE TODAY 61 COUNTY MOTORING stolen or damaged. Another choice, however, is what brand of car to choose. If it’s not for the purpose of showing off an Aston Martin or BMW i8 but for more sedate and reliable driving, what brands are best to purchase? It’s been an age-old question and thanks to Warrantywise, a UK car warranty provider, we now have a list of the most (and least) reliable used car brands. The data is compiled from over 131,000 warranty plans and while it considers the entire UK and not just Lincolnshire, the results do make for interesting reading. The data looks at the frequency with which certain brands new repairs to their cars, and the average cost of those repairs. There’s little point saying a car that only needs to be repaired once is the most reliable if said repairs cost half a million. Reliability is after all a balance of many factors, but something of importance in a secondary vehicle. The study itself investigated many different brands but we’ll be bringing you the best five today, along with the five least reliable cars. Top 5 Reliable Brands Honda Lexus Toyota Suzuki Dacia It may come as no surprise to see Japanese brands having a strong presence in reliability rankings. © Shutterstock /PaulLP 62 Á 60-63.qxp_Layout 1 29/07/2020 12:26 Page 262 LINCOLNSHIRE TODAY COUNTY MOTORING Japanese manufacturers have often had a reputation for excellent engineering. With four of the top five being Japanese brands, it’s a strong showing for the country. Somewhat surprising is Dacia, a Romanian brand making it into the top five, but a greater surprise from our point of view is the absence of German brands, who always have such a good reputation. That’s not to say our favourite German models performed badly. There are also no German brands in the ten worst performing brands, placing them somewhere firmly in the middle – and perhaps the bigger sign is not that those brands performed poorly, but that they couldn’t match up to the Japanese giants. Top 5 Least Reliable Brands Ferrari McLaren Rolls-Royce Bentley Lamborghini It’s perhaps little surprise to see famous super car brands making the most of the lowest reliability levels. These companies have long since relied on branding to sell their products, and it’s worth noting that Warrantywise’s research doesn’t show us what cars are more likely to fail – only how expensive owning such a car can be based on average repair costs and how often they need to be repaired. © Shutterstock /yousang 60-63.qxp_Layout 1 29/07/2020 12:26 Page 3LINCOLNSHIRE TODAY 63 COUNTY MOTORING Upsetting to see is the UK’s presence on this list, with three of the least reliable brands being British. It’s worth noting these are British luxury brands, so many have performed better. The Jaguars, Aston Martin and Mini brands are nowhere to be seen on the unreliable motors scale. Still, the costs involved in maintaining the above brands can be somewhat staggering – including just under £5,000 per a year for the Ferrari on repair costs alone, and over £4,100 for the McLaren. Not a good look for some of the biggest British brands. All the data was compiled based on a minimum of one hundred cars per model and make, so rest assured these are not one or two cars performing poorly. The Bentley Continental GT ranked as the number one least reliable used motor in the entire study. What is the take away from this? Other than that Japanese brands are deserving of their reputation as reliable and efficient vehicles, the overall message appears to be that luxury cars aren’t as reliable as common motors, but that’s something we’ve all known for a long time. At the end of the day, if driving is your passion then shell out on what makes you happy. But if you want to keep a spare motor around for emergencies, best make it Japanese. © Shutterstock /BoJack © Shutterstock /jejim 60-63.qxp_Layout 1 29/07/2020 12:27 Page 464 LINCOLNSHIRE TODAY Aries Mar 21 - Apr 20 Your communications skills are improving daily, and a close friend will ask you for your advice. A romantic proposal may set your heart fluttering initially, but not everything that glitters is gold, especially if there are financial problems lurking behind the scenes. Taurus Apr 21 - May 21 Recent events have probably proved turbulent and traumatic in many was and you could still be recovering from the shock of all the changes that have been forced upon you. Instead of worrying about find the right words to say to someone you care deeply about, just be open and honest and allow the relationship to flow naturally, at its own pace. Gemini May 22 - June 21 You may not necessarily see yourself as being clever, but something you say or do could make a huge impact in the lives of those closest to you. Your social life is changing enormously as a result of several tense and dramatic experiences that have taken place recently. Cancer Jun 22 - Jul 23 What is meant for you will not go past you and if you are interested in meeting a soul mate because you feel alone and incomplete, don’t make the mistake of going out looking for love because when the time is right, your new partner will cross your pathway. Leo Jul 24 - Aug 23 As one door opens, another one shuts bang in your face. The continuous slog to try to turn your life around over recent months has proved testing to say the least. As soon as one problem gets sorted out, alone comes the next one, but stay strong and remain patience because a major breakthrough is on its way. Virgo Aug 24 - Sep 23 Because you are tremendously loyal to your family, you are always the one who wants to help and assist in any way possible, but it’s possible that you are taking your kindness one step too far. Sometimes people must be left to their own devices to discover ways of dealing with stuff themselves. Libra Sep 24 - Oct 23 Quite a lot is being asked of you and you may feel as though too many people want a piece of you and some of your positive energy to rub off onto them. Be firm and start putting down some important boundaries because now it has to be your time, and a little pampering and relaxation away from all the drama and chaos will enable your ailing batteries to recharge. Scorpio Oct 24 - Nov 22 It’s been a challenging year so far and your patience has been seriously tested in several areas, especially regarding certain friendships and personal relationships. If people tell you that you have changed, reply by telling them that you have finally found yourself and that you like the real you who is now operating in a very positive and confident manner. Sagittarius Nov 23 - Dec 21 You have so many great ideas, but one stands out head and shoulders above the rest, but like with all things, sacrifices will have to be made if you are pursue your dream and realise a long standing ambition close to your heart. Astrology by Linda Lancashire 0776 4466381 www.lindalancashire.co.uk teresastanley1@btinternet.co.uk Capricorn Dec 22 - Jan 20 There is no point hiding your feelings because in the end you will feel compelled to speak your mind regarding the behaviour and attitude of either a close relative or business associate. You may not like what you discover over the coming weeks, but you will be forced to come to terms with the fact that your financial situation has to change. Aquarius Jan 21 - Feb 19 No matter how great you feel over the coming few weeks, it’s important that you stay grounded because there is much going on behind the scenes. If you are still undecided about whether to move house or not, change career or not or end a specific relationship, take time out to think things through before taking action. Pisces Feb 20 - Mar 20 Be gentle with a loved one because their nerves could be fragile and will not respond well to sharp words and issued ultimatums. Now is not the time to make unreasonable demands if you are to win support and respect from people you may well need by your side at a later date. SUDOKU competition Closing date for entries is: 20th AUGUST 2020 To enter just email the numbers that appear in the yellow squares to: competitions@blmgroup.co.uk Win a £20 voucher to spend with any of our advertisers in this issue. Last month’s solution A1P7R M1A7R your stars Lincolnshire Today’s guide to the astro month ahead... Image courtesy of shutterstock/Meowu 94 5 7 12 6 38 2 7 6 3 85 4 19 3 8 1 6 49 7 52 5 6 9 2 74 3 81 4 2 7 1 38 9 65 8 1 35 9 62 7 4 7 3 2 9 51 8 46 1 9 8 4 63 5 27 6 54 8 2 7 19 3 5 7 8 29 6 3 4 1 6 94 1 3 72 8 5 1 32 45 8 9 6 7 78 1 34 5 6 2 9 4 56 72 9 1 3 8 92 3 6 8 1 7 5 4 3 4 9 81 2 5 76 8 65 9 7 3 4 1 2 2 1 7 56 4 89 3 64.qxp_Layout 1 29/07/2020 13:07 Page 1We’re looking for those with a zest for life to join Lincolnshire Today’s sales team! You don’t have to be an adrenalin junkie to work here but it helps… Contact Michael Fisher on 01472 310305 MONDAYS? Is this how work makes you feel on a Monday morning? classified To advertise your services call Angela Cooper at Lincolnshire Today on 01472 310310 British Classics Heritage Motors Parts 1948 to date Retail Trade Export Special Projects Restorations Manufacturing Modifications Country Workshops Risegate, Nr Spalding, Lincs, PE11 4EZ Classic Landrovers Tel/Fax 01775 750223 www.british4x4centre.co.uk Motors Stuart Wilde Photography Ltd The best photography is about much more than taking a picture. It’s about capturing a moment, telling a story, preserving a memory. Sometimes it’s about looking at things a little bit differently. Tel: 07974 695626 www.stuartwildephotography.com The essential b and G the B guide m ooG B d r t LINCOLNSHIRETODAY. WWW WEDDINGS/ NET.Y S Planning for your special day? If you are getting married then this guide is your must have accessory. It’s full of advice, hints and tips from the county’s top wedding specialists and will provide you with inspiration for your big day. To receive a copy of the county’s most prestigious, full colour Wedding Guide, send a S.A.E. to: Lincolnshire Today Wedding Guide, Armstrong House, Armstrong Street, Grimsby, North East Lincs DN31 2QE Alternatively visit: www.lincolnshiretoday.net/weddings Weddings To Let • Superb Location - Close to the ports of Grimsby & Immingham - Great motorway links - Close to the town centre • Secure off street parking • High speed internet availability • Easy in/out terms • A range of affordable office sizes Armstrong House, Armstrong Street, Grimsby DN31 2QE Tel: (01472) 310301 Email: s.fisher@blmgroup.co.uk LINCOLNSHIRE TODAY 65 Ground floor offices to let - prime location in Grimsby Photography 65.qxp_Layout 1 29/07/2020 13:08 Page 1At the drive-in Far be it from the human spirit to bow down and accept its lot. In the face of coronavirus, we’re determined not to be kotowed. Of course, in order to enjoy the things we’re used to, certain compromises must be made – but that’s not necessarily a bad thing. While the drive-in is more of an American pastime, in a post-COVID society, it’s looking like it will become increasingly common across the UK and here in Lincolnshire. There are dates lined up for drive-in concerts, movies and even fireworks in the months to come. We can’t but wonder just how far this could go. Drive-in sunbathing? watercooler 66 LINCOLNSHIRE TODAY LincolnshireToday @lincstoday lincolnshiretoday.net Have we missed anything? Send your rib-ticklers to d.cuthbert@blmgroup.co.uk The lockdown has been hard on all of us, but it’s also brought out the best of humanity and demonstrated the true meaning of community. In this special edition of By the Watercooler, we bring you three stories that have emerged over the lockdown that have made us smile and, we hope, will also bring you joy. Best of both worlds Inspired to help battle coronavirus in any way she could, Grimsby native, Megan Dunne, has sewn PPE masks that boast a clear panel over the mouth for the benefit of people with hearing issues. For those who rely on lip-reading, the widespread adoption of masks has been difficult to adjust to, leaving many feeling alienated. But with this new mask, which Megan started sewing after her university was cancelled in light of the pandemic, they can still see lips moving whilst ensuring everyone remains safe. It’s admirable and we hope to see this type of mask become more common place. However, we can’t help but think they look a bit like beards. By the Tears of a clown Pretty much every industry has suffered because of coronavirus – and that includes the circus. Recently, a troupe of acrobats hailing from Morocco, and a Brazilian clown, were due to perform with Spilsby’s Circus Mondao, arriving on our shores ahead of lockdown. But they found themselves stranded, unable to perform. Months later and the circus still has no income and no sign it will open again. “The government seems to have forgotten us,” said Ringmistress Petra Jackson. Sadly, no amount of tumbling, trapezing or juggling will get them out of this one. © Megan Dunne © Shutterstock/Asier Romero © Shutterstock/FotosbyFee 66.qxp_Layout 1 29/07/2020 13:09 Page 167.qxp_Layout 1 29/07/2020 13:09 Page 1Unplug for adventure with a test drive*. To book yours, call 01234 567890. [Extremely long retailer name MINI] [Address line 1] [Address line 2] [Address line 3] Looking for a roomy SUV that combines lively performance with impressive technology? The MINI Countryman Plug-in Hybrid. cameras and Head-Up Screen mean you and four passengers can dive into adventure followed by a seamless switch to a TwinTurbo petrol engine for longer journeys. *Test drive subject to applicant status and availability. THE MINI COUNTRYMAN PLUG-IN HYBRID. Unplug for adventure with a test drive*. To book yours, call 01522 688889. Soper MINI Roman Way South Hykeham Lincoln LN6 9UH 68.qxp_Layout 1 29/07/2020 15:07 Page 1Next >