When he began selling refurbished Citroen 2CVS back to France years ago Tony Shields faced ridicule from colleagues.
But the ‘coals to Newcastle’ type saga has left Tony having the last laugh as business is booming with a six month order book.
A single order alone has seen 30 of the Citroen Dolly, which has not been manufactured for almost 15 years, been transported to France in a shipment.
Citreon 2CVs are one of the world’s most singular and quirky cars, sometimes nicknamed the ‘upside down umbrella’.
They are not designed for the novice as they are renowned for being somewhat difficult to drive.
Owners have to concentrate hard if they are to get to grips with the intricacies of the iconic car.
Tony, of Brighouse, says that although sales of restored models are doing well over here it is the French market that has caught the eye.
Buyers across the Channel are busy latching on to the merits of his galvanised 2CV chassis which are despatched from 2CV City, his Bradford-based vehicle restoration and parts company.
Tony said: “Business has gone up about 40% over the last three or four years.”
And he joked: “ I got into this business 20 years ago and everyone thought I was mad but it appears the clown is having the last laugh.”
The original style chassis are still made in France but buyers find they can often get a better deal over here.
