A classic car owner turned detective to track down his beloved first ever motor after it was stolen - and found it seven years later.
The owner never gave up hope after his cherished Austin Mini was taken from his home - and found it more than 200 miles away.
He bought the car in 1994 and had kept it lovingly for 25 years before it was stolen .
But the owner was determined to find out what had happened to it, and trawled listings for classic cars before seeing it online.
He contacted cops and they launched an investigation and the battered red car was found in North Wales.
Thames Valley Police's rural crime taskforce said: "Enquiries began after the victim spotted their stolen vehicle being advertised for sale online.
"Following further investigation, both the recent seller and buyer were traced. Neither was aware the vehicle had been stolen, particularly given its condition and the fact it had been off the road for a significant period of time.
"The Mini had eventually made its way to North Wales and, thanks to some excellent teamwork with our colleagues at North Wales Police, it has now been recovered.
"The best part? This wasn't just any car to its owner - it was his first ever car, which he had owned since 1994. Needless to say, he was absolutely delighted to know he would finally be getting it back, regardless of its condition!
"A fantastic result and a great example of what can be achieved through teamwork."
The car was taken from an address in Wokingham, Berkshire
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