Personal Information
First Name: Kevin
Last Name: Fagan
Membership No:
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Figaro Information
Colour: No Info
Name: No Info
Reg: No Info
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September & October 2024 Newsletter - Issue No 136 | |
A PERSONAL WELCOME FROM US BOTH | |
Welcome to our vibrant club! We are delighted to have you join us on this exciting journey filled with Figgy adventures.
Led by Sue and myself, our club is a warm and welcoming community dedicated to all things Figaro.
While I may not be a Figaro expert, fear not, as our club is filled with knowledgeable and friendly members who are eager to offer their support and guidance.
Your questions are always encouraged as we strive to make your time with us both enjoyable and enriching. Additionally, we are constantly seeking out fascinating stories and articles to share with our members, so please don't hesitate to reach out and share your Figgy love with us. Let's rev up those little engines and enjoy the ride together.
Beep Beep!
Kevin, Sue & Belle (Figaro)
Contact us here: sales@figaroownersclub.com
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MEET YOUR UK & COUNTRY CHAPTER COORDINATORS | |
TEN UK CHAPTER COORDINATORS
We are thrilled to announce that we have expanded our team of coordinators to cover 10 regions across the UK! Our coordinators are all volunteers who represent our club locally and act as key points of contact for members in their area. We ask that you please support them in their roles and collaborate with them on meetings, events, and networking opportunities. Your contribution will help to strengthen our community and make a positive impact on the lives of our members. Let's give a warm welcome to our amazing coordinators!
CONTACT YOUR CHAPTER COORDINATOR
If you have an idea about an event or can offer help email your local coordinator by Clicking here
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BRIAN CROCKETT
CHANNEL ISLANDS
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CATHERINE HARDY
EAST & WEST MIDLANDS
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MIA BRAINE
NORTH EAST & YORKSHIRE
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VACANCY
SOUTH EAST
(TEMPORARY)
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EIGHT WORLD CHAPTER COORDINATORS
We are pleased to introduce our Country Coordinators, who are 8 dedicated volunteers representing our club outside the UK. They will play a crucial role in organizing meetings, events, and networking opportunities. We request your support and cooperation in helping them fulfil their roles effectively. Please feel free to reach out to them with your ideas and suggestions. Together, let's make our club's presence felt across the globe.
CONTACT YOUR COUNTRY COORDINATOR
If you have an idea about an event or can offer to help email your country coordinator by Clicking here
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JEAN-MICHEL DECROIX
FRANCE
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PASCAL & JOYCE SNELL
HOLLAND
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Figgy events
Simply click on the image below and book your place today!
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To register your place simply click on the link below. | |
YouTube Videos
Our channel has more than 100 videos covering all areas of owning your car
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My brake lights are permanently on?
If your brake lights stay on permanently, even when you remove the keys and lock the car then chances are the Pedal Stopper has broken and fallen off the stopper bracket.
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Over time, the stopper can become brittle and break into multiple pieces. If the stopper is missing then there is nothing to switch the lights off.
BELOW SHOWS THE STOPPER AND SWITCH CONNECTION
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WHERE TO BUY
You can buy the stopper from two suppliers, we suggest looking at the costs of both.
Read more
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Figaro (Airfix Type) Model Kit
Watch me unbox this 'Airfix Type' 1/24 scale model Figaro.
Manufactured using a 3D printer the kit comes with all the parts and comprehensive assembly instructions.
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A fun project for those around-the-corner dark autumn evenings, I plan to shoot a video of the assembly process. One of the key benefits is the fact that you can paint the car any colour, so if you are the owner of a custom colour figgy you can have an identical model displayed in your house!
PRICES
50 USD plus 15 USD S&H for the UK in 1/24 Scale
65 USD and 15 USD in the 1/18 scale
WHERE TO BUY
Send an email to tuneup350@gmail.com
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Seatbelt Webbing Cleaning
If your beloved Nissan Figaro's seatbelts are in need of a little TLC, cleaning them is a simple yet rewarding task that can enhance both their appearance and functionality.
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With just a warm dry day and a bucket of warm water mixed with some washing-up liquid, you can have your seatbelts looking spick and span in about 30 minutes! Not only does a clean seatbelt add to the charm of your Figaro, but it also ensures that it retracts smoothly and operates safely. Embrace this easy project to keep your ride as delightful as it deserves to be!
Please take a look at more of our cleaning videos. Watch now
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Our YouTube Channel has received almost half a million views and features ownership help, past rallies and fun videos too. By subscribing you will not miss a thing! | | | |
General News
The latest figgy news from our members, suppliers and club...
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UK Figaro Numbers Drop By Only 235 In Five Years But The SORN Numbers Are Up!
Last week we received a letter from the DVLA confirming the UK numbers as of 12th May 2024. The number of vehicles with a chassis prefix / VIN:- FK10 followed by 6 numbers was 4,671.
This comprises 2,431 vehicles currently recorded as licensed (taxed), and 2,240 vehicles with a Statuary Off Road Notification (SORN) in force.
Reading into the figures means that a staggering 48% of the Figaros in the UK were off the road in May 2024. Comparing this with previous years (thanks to Nic Caraccio*) this seems much higher.
2018* - Licensed 3,529, SORN 1,415, (29%) TOTAL 4,944.
2019* - Licensed 3,336, SORN 1,572 (33%) TOTAL 4,908.
2024 - Licensed 2,431, SORN 2,240 (48%) TOTAL 4,671.
WHY ARE THE SORN NUMBERS SO HIGH?
The above figures show that the SORN numbers are increasing year on year. Without any hard evidence, we feel this may be for the following reasons.
- To save on the road tax (which has increased to £210 a year) and tax the car when the summer arrives.
- The additional daily cost of £12.50 due to ULEZ in London has caused many owners to limit the amount of time they spend driving their cars.
- Owners may be removing their cars as they are unroadworthy and don't currently have the budget to fix them.
- The car has been scrapped but the paperwork is incomplete so the DVLA still assume it is SORN.
The figures are bittersweet, on a positive note the small drop in numbers is good news and shows that despite the car's age there is still a demand to own a Figaro. The SORN numbers are concerning but as we have covered above there may be several reasons for this.
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Adam Woods Steps In To Help Run The London and South East Chapters
To help the club support South East and London alongside the Eastern region. Adam is hoping to encourage the same kind of success we have seen in the Eastern region he runs. He is going to look to support the arranging of some events which he will look to get to and meet you all. Or look at some events where we may need some help from members in the chapter itself - but with his support as completely understand that organising this kind of thing can feel daunting at first! And we'll see how it goes... In time, if someone who gives a hand feels confident and wants to take on the reigns we can look at doing that, but you'll know that you have my help and support for the long term. Members of these groups will receive an email in September from Adam so look out for that.
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Club Discontinue Figaro Calendar
After over a decade of producing and sharing our calendars featuring stunning Figs in picturesque locations worldwide, it is with a heavy heart that we have made the tough decision to discontinue this tradition.
The reason is threefold. The calendar takes an extraordinary amount of time to design, the escalating logistics of posting them all is again extremely labour intensive and lastly, the very real challenges posed by Brexit, (particularly the significant number of calendars that failed to reach their international destinations last year), which have made it unsustainable for us to continue this endeavour.
Thank you
We want to express our heartfelt gratitude to all the owners who have graced our calendars over the years and to everyone who supported us by purchasing a calendar. Thank you for being a part of this journey with us.
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Member Offers Seat Restoration/Repair Service
Are you fed up with your nasty discoloured Figaro seats? Do you want them to look shiny and impressive again? Club member John Catling is offering to clean, strip and repair all light damage/cracks etc to your seats. Then re-colour in Figaro Ivory Grey and seal in gloss or Matt finish using only the excellent products from the Leather Repair Company whose product is recommended by us.
PRICES
£250 2 x Front Seats or £120 1 x Rear Seat
Note: Serious tears and rips can normally be repaired separately, I can quote/advise following receipt of a photo.
Read more
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Replacement Chrome Plated Window Switches - At Last!
Hats off to The Figaro Shop who have manufactured this much-needed new product. After 33 years of use the existing chrome plating on the switches tends to flake away or worse the actual switch breaks! Until now the only solution was to live with it, try and glue the plating back on or source one from a breaker.
Cost - £47.99 inc VAT. The only issue is you have to buy a set of 3 and may only need 1 but you could maybe team up with another owners. TFS is offering 15% off for the first 20 pre-orders. Read more
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Figaro Bling - Breathe New Life Into Your Chrome For Less Than You Think
Isn’t it amazing how the charming details of the Nissan Figaro can transport us back to a simpler time? One of the most enduring characteristics that adds to its nostalgic appeal is the exquisite chrome parts adorning the car.
Nissan made a bold choice, opting to showcase the rear top boot hinge on the exterior rather than hiding it away like so many other manufacturers. Instead of settling for a flat, cost-effective hinge, they sculpted it into a delightful tactile shape that enhances Figaro's unique character.
However, we know that the elements and the passage of time can dull that brilliant shine, and in some cases, lead to peeling chrome. The good news? These stunning parts can be re-chromed, allowing you to restore that dazzling bling reminiscent of 1991!
We invite you to dive into our extensive library of articles and videos focused on re-chroming specific parts such as the boot hinge, mirror stalk, and door handles. These resources are packed with valuable maintenance tips, and they also guide you on where to purchase these items.
Remember, our club is here to support you every step of the way through your restoration journey. Together, we can keep the spirit of the Figaro alive and shining brightly in our vibrant community!
Wing Mirror Brackets – Rechroming
https://www.figaroownersclub.com/nissan-figaro-wing-mirror-brackets-re-chroming-service
Door Handles – Rechroming
https://www.figaroownersclub.com/nissan-figaro-door-handles-re-chroming-service
Top Boot Brackets - Re-chroming
https://www.figaroownersclub.com/nissan-figaro-top-boot-brackets-re-chroming-service
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V5C Log Book (Registration Certificate UK Only)
When you bought your Figaro, the owner should have handed you a V5C Log Book (Registration Certificate) document of ownership. Within the form, there is a section that requires you to complete to change the ownership status to you.
As a club, over the years we have seen several V5 forms which are incorrect. This can lead to paying a higher yearly road tax. Below is how the form should look along with what the titles mean. The important part to refer to is the P.1 Cylinder capacity (CC) which should say 998 CC. Also, the VIN/Chassis/Frame Number must match what is in the engine frame. Read more
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Invitation to Attend an 'Electric Figaro' Open Morning - September 14th
We have been contacted by Paul Jones who is halfway through a Figaro EV Conversion Project. Paul is keen to show members of the club his conversion. The car is unlikely to be ready until the end of the year but there’s enough progress to illustrate what he is trying to achieve.
Where is it happening
Port Talbot, South Wales.
How do I register
If you wish to attend please email Helen at helenhunter55@yahoo.co.uk
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MOT Inspection Section and Sub-Sections
As promised in our last publication to help you navigate your way around MOT failures we have published the complete list of tests carried out by MOT Inspection Stations.
Read more
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CLUB REACHES 2,000 INSURANCE VALUATION MILESTONE
We’re thrilled to announce that the Figaro Owners Club has reached an impressive milestone of 2,000 insurance valuations, a testament to our unwavering commitment to supporting our members. Among those benefiting from this service is member Paula Kimmel, who recently received her valuation certificate alongside her beloved dog Ernie.
With our easy-to-use online valuation service, members and non-members alike can secure their investments in these cherished vehicles, typically receiving their agreed valuation within just 24 hours. This essential service ensures that, in the unfortunate event of theft or write-off, owners receive 100% of their car's value, providing peace of mind for all Figaro enthusiasts.
Read more
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"Because maybe
You're gonna be the one that saves me
And after all
You're my
wonderwall"
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LOVE IS IN THE AIR
The Image That Makes Us Smile :)
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Sadly, last month saw anti-immigration protests and far-right riots in England and Northern Ireland. They followed a mass stabbing in Southport on 29 July, in which three children were killed. The attacker was falsely alleged on social media to be a Muslim, an asylum seeker or both. Within a few days, anti-racist rallies considerably outnumbered far-right protesters and this AI Image taken from the FIGARO SMILES FACEBOOK PAGE reflects how the majority of the UK felt at the time!! | |
German Chapter Meeting
Friday 5th/Sunday 7th July 2024
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Words and Pictures by German Chapter Coordinator Jörg Middendorf
Our third chapter meeting occurred in Wernigerode in the Harz Mountains from 5-7 July. Eight Figaros travelled through the Harz Mountains, stopping at Michaelstein Monastery, the Rappbodetalsperre dam and the Christianental Wildlife Park.
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"We enjoyed a wonderful tour with mostly good weather and celebrated in the old town centre of Wernigerode in the evening." | | | |
On Sunday, the meeting ended with a tour of Wernigerode Castle. We are looking forward to the next meeting in 2025! | |
Britfest
Thursday 4th/Monday 8th July 2024
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Words and pictures by Scotland Chapter Coordinator Ken Graham
Summer is the time for Figaro’s and also the time for festivals, and I love them both! As many of you will know I was a devotee of CarFest North from 2014 and organised the Club’s attendance from 2015. Sadly, 2022 was the final CarFest North as it wasn’t proving economically viable – If you have a festival where a large proportion of the profit goes to Children’s Charities it’s pointless if it runs at a loss. On a positive note, thanks to Adam Woods, we have a Club presence at ‘One Big CarFest’ (formerly CarFest South) on the August Bank Holiday weekend at Laverstoke Park Farm in Suffolk. Enough about CarFest!
Imagine my delight when, in late 2023, I noticed publicity on Social Media for a brand new festival being held in Cheshire Ashley Hall Showground near Altrincham – The BritFest – with some fantastic music acts and mentioning ‘Car Displays’. I needed no second bidding and contacted the organisers who could not have been more helpful, and were delighted to invite me to bring some Figaro’s along!
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As a new festival, it was on a much smaller scale than CarFest (no bad thing, some may say), and there was almost an element of feeling quite privileged to be at the start of something new that had the potential to develop in the future. Having created the event on the Club’s Events Page and also spoken to some former CarFest attendees, it didn’t take long for interest to be shown and we ended up with nine Figaro’s attending.
We set up on a Thursday evening – 4th July – (postal votes had already been submitted!!) and, as was the practice at CarFest, we all met up for a pub meal. Primarily this allows us all to get to know each other (or to get reacquainted!) but also allows those of us camping to get a decent meal! We had a good mix of campers, caravaners, B&B folk and some members who stayed locally. Our camping area was close to the festival site, and, despite a few (normal) ‘festival toilet issues’! We had a great time. One real benefit of the smaller-scale event was that the organisers were accessible and dealt with any issues quickly.
As usual, we had great interest in our cars during the day and headed off to the music in the afternoon/evening. Some may say (and I can’t disagree) that the music was very ‘age appropriate’ with the likes of Kim Wilde, Bonnie Tyler, Hot Chocolate, T’Pau, Nik Kershaw, Scouting for Girls Tunde (Lighthouse Family) and many, many more. Less well-known acts like The Lottery Winners were fantastic too!
Headlining on the Sunday night, was the amazing Heather Small (M People).
My thanks go to everyone who participated (a couple of members had unforeseen family illnesses which meant they missed a chunk of the event). Whilst I pull things together, these events only happen if folk sign up and get involved, so thanks to – Alan & Sheena Harvey; Katherine & Steve Paget; Heather & Reid Martin; Gillian & Ade Burns; Kit & Andrew Muffet; Michelle & Mark Storer; Kevin Dodd; Jane Harrop and not forgetting Carol Newman who survived under canvas (and the toilets!!)
BritFest 2025 is happening (3rd to 7th July 2025). I have contacted the organisers and hope we will be invited back again. If we are then the event and all the details will be listed on the Events Page – so WATCH THIS SPACE………..
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Cumbria Classic and Motorsport Show
Sunday 18th August 2024
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Words and Pictures by North West Chapter Coordinator Jane Harrop
You had to pre-register directly to attend the Didsbury and South Manchester Classic Car Show and then just turn up on the day! Free to exhibit and free to visitors, it ensured that it was a jam-packed and friendly show. There was a huge variety of classics on display and various side stalls. One of the stands was Manchester Blood Bikes which the show was in aid of this year, a very worthy cause.
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There were four figs on display, two Pale Aqua and two Lapis Grey. As always the quirkiness of our Figaro’s ensured there was plenty of interest and lots of questions. Unfortunately, there were a few showers that day, so it wasn’t safe for anyone to take their roof off. The show was in a great location in Didsbury, just a short walk away from shops and there was a lovely walk through Fletcher Moss Botanical Garden across the road for anyone wanting to take a break from the classics.
"As always all Figaro owners are extra friendly and even though none of us knew each other beforehand, we were all friends by the end of the day."
The show was very well organised and especially with the in and out flow of the traffic, I would recommend this show to any of our club members next year.
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Wadebridge Wheels
Sunday 21st July 2024
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Words and Pictures by Martin Isted
The event was held at the Wadebridge showground in Cornwall on Sunday 21st July 2024 and was organised by the Wadebridge Rotary Club to raise money for local charities. They had over 1100 vehicles registered to attend and were joined by various trade stands and food wagons. This is an annual event and this year around 3,500 visitors attend.
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Last year they raised £21,400 and are hoping that this year will be as good if not better. Our club now have their own allocated section and was attended this year by 5 members. | |
Simply Japanese
Sunday 21st July 2024
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Pictures by Jaymes Gardiner
It was the first time our club had supported this event, which was held at the National Motor Museum, Beaulieu. Ten cars attended and the feedback was positive.
Enjoy some pictures from the day.
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Helmingham Festival of Classic & Sports Cars – Sunday 4th August 2024
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Words and pictures by Eastern Chapter Coordinator Adam Woods
One of the first events we attended after lockdown restrictions were lifted was the Helmingham Festival of Classic and Sports Cars! After three years it was great to return with the club in 2024! Helmingham is a Grade 1 listed moated manor house built around a courtyard in late medieval / Tudor style, begun by John Tollemache in 1480, and which has been owned by the family ever since. The surrounding formal gardens and park are Grade 1 listed too.
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This year in the Eastern Chapter we have organised club attendance to a few shows, and the Festival is particularly enjoyed by members, as there’s a good range of craft stalls, beautiful gardens to visit, and plenty of other distractions alongside the huge array of cars that attend this event year in year out. We had to finalise our attendance a few weeks ago, and were very conscious that last time we had found that the space we were allocated was a little tight – not least because Figaro doors do open quite wide. But the lovely folk at Helmingham remembered our feedback from a few years ago and kindly agreed to make sure that we would have enough space! Another good thing about visiting Helmingham with the club is that it’s great value for money with an entry for two adults including access to the beautiful gardens, being just £12. Of course, attending with the club also means being around for a good chunk of the day, but fortunately, there’s plenty to see and do. | |
“Our final numbers were 6 cars, so we all met at 8.30 at services by the A14 is about 15 minutes from Helmingham so we could drive over in convoy, and have enough time to get things set up, ahead of the event starting at 10 am. As always, Figgy folk are so lovely, and
together we managed to get the cars in position, the gazebo erected,
and the decorations up in time to welcome our visitors.”
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Part of attending a show is the pleasure of being able to chat with all the lovely visitors who come to curiously wonder at the Figaro’s … either that or declare their undying love for them – which is completely understandable of course! This occasion was no exception of course! But, even more importantly, it’s lovely to share these experiences with fellow Figaro owners! Sharing tips and tricks of course, but also just having the chance to have a natter, which is just as important!! Oh, and cake, people brought cake – which was very tasty indeed! The last time we attended we found out afterwards that we were runners-up to winning Best Car Club, so we hoped that our Japanese theming would secure us the win this time. Sadly they didn’t. A club of BMW owners won instead – perhaps they celebrated with a collective turning on of indicators… Who knows!
But that wasn’t going to dampen our spirits… And neither was the occasional light shower! All in all, we shared stories, had a laugh and showcased our Figs to the lovely visitors. A lovely day with lovely people.
WATCH OUR SHORT VIDEO
Enjoy Adam's interview, Fast Forward 1 minute, he did us proud :)
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Armrest Upgrade!
Better comfort, more storage, plus a staggering 9 USB Ports, what's not to like?
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Words and Pictures: Alan Sykes | |
We are continually inspired by the creativity and innovation that our members bring to the table. It’s this supportive spirit that fosters a sense of community, where we celebrate each other’s efforts to enhance our beloved Figaros.
Today, we want to shine a light on a common challenge that many of us have faced: the rather inadequate armrest in our cars.
We all know it too well—the armrest is far too low for comfort, leaving us with little more than enough space for a few sneaky chocolate bars rather than the support we truly need during those long drives.
In a fantastic display of resourcefulness, our member Alan Sykes has taken the initiative to tackle this issue head-on. Inspired by a challenge set by his wife Sue to improve their comfort on long journeys, Alan has once again demonstrated the passion and dedication that makes our club so special.
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His project is not just about fixing a problem; it’s about enhancing the driving experience for all of us.
We are excited to share that we have published an extensive article detailing Alan’s innovative approach to the armrest dilemma. The article includes a comprehensive list of the necessary parts along with an estimated cost of around £45.00, excluding any painting or covering. This is an affordable and practical solution that showcases the ingenuity of our members while providing valuable insights for those looking to make similar improvements.
We invite all our members to check out the article and consider sharing your own experiences or suggestions for enhancements to your Figaros.
Whether it’s a small tweak or a major upgrade, your contributions help us all grow and enjoy our cars even more.
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Bangers & Cash Live
Saturday 10th & Sunday 11th August 2024
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Words and pictures by Mia Braine - North East Chapter Coordinator
Bangers and Cash Live! What an incredibly fun day we had in North Yorkshire on Sunday the 11th of August. The sun was blazing, the cars were shiny and the roads leading to the event were gridlocked as the public made their way to Scampston Hall. By the afternoon, the field was teeming with car enthusiasts who came to admire, to talk, to eat, and to watch the Mathewson family doing what they do best – talk about cars and auction off unusual and rare vehicles.
As a club, we were well represented. This was the first larger get-together we’ve had in the North East and Yorkshire area for a while, and we displayed 13 cars. Quite a few Emeralds and Lapises, a Topaz and an Aqua, and two custom colours: Primrose, a cheery yellow Figaro, and Flossie, a quirky pink Figgy who joined us from Kent. We also had 3 more owners who joined us but who for various reasons couldn’t display their cars, including Dolly Webb who came all the way from Ireland. For Dolly, attending the event had a special
significance, and when she went to meet some of the Mathewson family, they treated her to backstage passes to enjoy some VIP privileges.
The part of the event that I enjoyed the most was getting to know other Club members a bit better. I’ve met some of the group at previous, smaller club events, but this time there were more of us, from further away. As we huddled under far too few parasols to try and hide from the sun a bit, we shared the stories of how we got our Figgys, the stories about why we love them, the trips we had made in them, and what we hope to do on them next. I also loved seeing everyone’s accessories, like the picnic baskets, the car mascots, the air fresheners, the stickers, and of course the outfits! (Mainly the ladies’ outfits, that is…) There were also lots of conversations with visitors who wanted to know more about Figaros, and who admired the Figaro style and quirkiness.
Some of our members were interviewed by the Bangers and Cash main man, Derek. Sue, Alan and Kaveh shared their knowledge and passion with Derek and this interview can be watched here on YouTube, from about 30 minutes in. You can also livestream a highlights program on the UKTV site, by logging in here. Ellen talks about her Flossie at 14 minutes into the program.
So, I hope to meet even more club members next year at the Bangers and Cash Live event. Start planning your trip to North Yorkshire now!
Some more words from Dolly Webb
Well, where do I start? To say that this weekend has blown me away is an understatement.
It all started with Mia from the Figaro Owners Club organising a meet at the Bangers and Cash Live 2024. I have never missed an episode and I love the 3 lads. So I jumped at the chance and contacted Mia with a YES straight away.
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"On arrival I met so many new people from the club, it was so refreshing and oldies of course too (Jayne and Mark and Alex) great to see again The day was a scorcher and all in the world was just perfect."
I managed to even meet Derek, Paul and Dave and their families who welcomed us into their family with open arms and like magic as if the day couldn’t get any better it went to another level. Derek invited us backstage and we got to meet his extended family crew and friends who work on the show. We met the band also. Dave kindly offered us all-day backstage bands. My friend and I were like kids in a candy store. We are so grateful to the Mathewsons family for this experience and Mia for Organising.
Lots of love Dolly and Mag
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Watch The Video
Fast forward to 30 minutes in to see the interview
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Flitwick Car Show
Sunday 18th August 2024
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Words and pictures by Adam Woods/Kevin Fagan (pics & video)
Jim, who runs Flitwick Car Show, had contacted me to ask if the club would like to attend. Sadly in past years we already had something planned around that time, but this year we made sure it was in the diary. We are so glad we did, as the event was so well organised and very well attended with plenty to look around and enjoy.
We all met in the local Tesco car park before heading over to the show to arrive in convoy, getting the stand set up, adopting our Japanese theme that has worked so nicely this year. The stand was so very busy with lots of people coming to ask about the cars and take photos.
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"That’s what the club is – a lovely place for lovely people to meet thanks to their shared love of the Figaro. And that love rubs off on everyone who comes to visit – that enthusiasm and that little bit of Figgy Crazy makes for such a fun afternoon in fantastic company."
It is a joy to own these cars thanks to the amazing people we have the chance to meet.
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Cumbria Classic and Motorsport Show
Sunday 18th August 2024
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Words and Pictures By Jane Harrop UK North West Coordinator
The event at Dalemain Mansion in Penrith is well established and out of the 800 vehicles on display, there were three Figaro’s. They attracted lots of attention and even though we had decided to have a rota so one of us was always there, none of us were away for long, as plenty of visitors or other classic car owners wanted to chat.
For new member Ewa and hubby Steven, it was their first event with the club after having their Fig for just a month. They took advantage of camping on site but came off the field to meet at the Rheged centre so the three Figaros could travel to the show in convoy.
It was interesting to hear from Karen and David about the 150-mile Rose & Thistle tour they had taken part in the previous day in their Figgy, which had started at Houghton Hall Garden Centre near Carlisle with coffee and bacon butties. Leaving with a minute interval between each classic, the scenic morning route took them to Hexham Racecourse where they were given a bag of goodies for lunch and finished at Penrith Golf Club for tea and cakes late afternoon. The route had taken them on some stunning roads, through little villages to open moorland. At one stage of the tour, they had driven alongside Hadrian’s Wall. Arranged by the organisers of the show, Wigton Motor Club they said were made to feel very welcome and would do it again. For any bystanders, it must have been quite special watching ninety-three classics winding their way along country lanes of Cumbria and Northumberland.
"With over 2500 visitors attending the show, there were plenty of trade stands and food stalls. I had a walk up to the café at the mansion where I treated myself to a marmalade glazed sausage roll, not something I had ever had before, it was delicious, and later I had a marmalade ice cream. The connection: The Dalemain World Marmalade Awards which take place there every year!"
It was great to meet club members Diane & David, but without their Figaro, which is very much a work in progress, they sent me a photo of its very sorry state (see pictures) when it was given to them several years ago. Only living down the road in Shap, it will be an ideal show for them to attend with the club when it has been renovated.
As always, there are always one or two people who fall in love with our Figaro’s, Sylvia from Morocco was besotted and thought my pale aqua Fig was made for her, especially as it matched her nail polish!
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And not only that but attending a venue like this helps our quirky cars reach out to the broader car-loving scene. The venue was hospitable and the team were so pleased to see something as different as the Figaro!
We’ll definitely be back again, not just for the Figgys and the Chat, but for the fantastic Figgy Family that the Figaro Owners Club helps nurture and support.
Thanks to everyone who came along… you’re all so fab!!
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Carfest
Thursday 22th /Monday 26th August 2024
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Words and Pictures by Adam Woods UK Eastern Chapter Coordinator | |
We are honoured to have organised the Figaro Owners Club attendance to CarFest again for our third year. There are always last-minute things that need to be done, but you know that it'll all be worth it, not only for the fantastic visitors you meet, and the lasting friendships you make with other Figgy Folk, but because CarFest is all about raising money for children's charities! Sadly CarFest consolidated into one event last year, making the previous CarFest South the sole event for now. The legend that is Ken Graham gave me lots of fantastic advice when I started doing this for the Club... and maybe one year we'll persuade him down if it continues down near Basingstoke. This year's event which has over 100,000 attendees or around 35,000 each day | |
This first story of CarFest is all about the Figgy Folk, the Stand and the Visitors. Last year, we were capped at 12 cars, and again had the full contingent of cars and members! One particularly lovely thing is catching up with those who have attended past years, while also having the opportunity to meet new Figgy Folk and introduce them to the joys of CarFest!
Last year we had hoped to win Best in Show for Car Clubs... but didn't... So this year we asked the class of CarFest 2024 to come up with ideas for decorating the stand. Debbie, Kate and Mandy duly stepped up and did a fantastic job of getting everyone's help building on a Japanese theme! Every car had information on a Figgy Fact, along with speech bubbles to encourage engagement from passing visitors... But more of that in a moment.
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First, we had to get everything set up, so as is now tradition, nearly everyone made it down for dinner on Thursday night; a great opportunity for people to get to know each other! The following morning we all converged on the site, and a new location near the entrance which undoubtedly saw greater footfall. From 10 am we were getting the cars into position, dressing the stand, and all ready in time for noon when the gates opened. Friday was a pretty blustery day, but my goodness, the stand was so very busy!
That busy theme would continue throughout the whole weekend with a fantastic mix of people who always wanted a Fig, those who were seeing them for the first time... and of course, those who had seen them in previous years and either bought one or are making plans to buy into some Figgy happiness
"Over the weekend we handed out around 300 club leaflets, and what was particularly wonderful was to behold the enthusiasm club members have for the cars and chatting with people. Not surprising when the Figs spread so much positive energy, but it's still ever so gratifying to see that shared enthusiasm at work.
The only downer was Saturday morning. After a blustery Friday, Saturday was rather wet... but members were out with brollies chatting to visitors, braving the elements! But, soon enough those frowns were turned upside down, as everyone's hard work paid off! Delighted to report that CarFest recognised Figaro Owners Club as "Best in Show" across the 17 car clubs in attendance! What an amazing achievement! We are so very grateful to all our wonderful members for helping us achieve this!!
Watch us being awarded the BEST IN SHOW
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Sunday is always Fancy Dress Sunday, and again it was brilliant to see everyone embrace this. Particular tributes go to Rachael and Matt with their Gin and Tonic... And of course Ray and Mark whose dinosaur costumes were hilarious! We all certainly helped raise a smile or two from visitors, ending the weekend on a real high! | |
Of course, these are just some of the highlights... The event itself is huge with so much to see with seven festivals in one... And we were also honoured to participate in the Overton Drive Out on Saturday and the Parade Lap on Sunday. We'll cover more info about all these things in other articles and videos coming soon from the Figaro Owners Club.
In the meantime we hope you enjoy the images and 3-minute video celebrating the club's attendance at CarFest 2024 and of course that "Best in Show" award!
Watch Our Video
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Ten cars attended this event over the weekend. Enjoy a few of the pictures | |
SAVE MONEY - USE YOUR DISCOUNT CODES! |
Remember, as a club member you have access to lots of DISCOUNT CODES across a range of Figaro products and services. Click the link below and enter FOCMDC
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Members Gallery
We love it when members send in pics of their figgies so don't be shy.
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THE BEST BIRTHDAY PRESENT EVER!!!
New member Tom Keep surprised his wife Elaine with a beautiful Emerald Green Figaro for her birthday. We worked 'undercover of the night' with Tom to provide the agreed insurance valuation in time for the big day! Elaine christened her Betty.
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AND FINALLY -
A JOKE TO TICKLE YOUR FIGARO
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THANKS TO FIGARO SMILES
The friendliest and most active Nissan Figaro community on Facebook
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Our son Daniel had always wanted a Figaro having seen the car at his local garage when he was just 16. After saving for several years (plus a small contribution from his mum and dad!) he, at last, brought an emerald green model in May 2008 and named it "Figgy".
Following the purchase, Sue and I searched the internet for a club in the hope we could attend events and meet other owners. We were amazed that at that time no club existed so we thought, well why not and on the 1st March 2009 the Figaro Owners Club was born!
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This is a picture of Daniel taken when he was just 19 back in 2008 with Figgy | |
"We decided to build a basic website and forum which took a few months and on the 1st March 2009, pressed the publish button and waited to see if anyone wanted to join. Within a week we had 10 members, a month 35 and a year 478!" | | | |
Today the club has around 1,200 members worldwide in countries including New Zealand, Japan, Australia, USA, Canada, Germany, Spain, France, Belgium, Luxembourg, Sweden and many more.
Kevin & Sue Fagan
Figaro Owners Club
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58 Earl Howe Road, Holmer Green,
High Wycombe, Bucks, HP15 6QT
United Kingdom
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