Steve Marshall with an Aston Martin V8 Vantage

STEVE Marshall has always had a driving passion for great cars - and now he's set up a business that aims to give more people in and around Basingstoke the chance to get behind the wheel of something special.

If you have ever longed to meander along Hampshire's winding country roads in a vintage E-type Jaguar or cruise along the motorway down to the coast in an Aston Martin Vantage, but just can't stretch the household finances that far, then Mr Marshall aims to make your dream come true.

Driving Spirit is the name of his concept car club with a difference. Unlike many supercar clubs and classic car clubs, which specialise in a small number of makes and models of car, the new venture is bringing together a range of cars, from the luxurious Bentley Turbo R to the retro charm of the Mini 1275 Cooper S.

The family-run company also caters for those looking for a bit more "look at me" appeal, with Aston Martin's V8 Vantage or the Ferrari F355 GTS.

Mr Marshall said: "I have always had a passion for cars so setting up this business is a dream come true for me."

He added: "I was driving along one day when I came up with the idea. There are lots of supercar clubs London way, but half the battle is getting out of London.

"Being based here in Basingstoke, you've got the M3 and the M4 on your doorstep, so it's a great location to head off anywhere from the south coast or across to the Welsh countryside."

Mr Marshall, who lives in Mapledurwell, expects it will take a few years for the company to really take off, as he needs between 80 and 100 members to make the venture successful.

His son Tom is also involved, preparing and servicing all the cars to ensure they are in tip-top condition for people to hire.

Prices start at £3,700 per year, plus a one-off joining fee of £500, rising to the top tier of pricing at £4,800 per year, plus the joining fee.

Members are then given a number of points to "spend" and, depending on the cars and days they choose, can expect to enjoy between 20 and 70 driving days per year.

Membership covers two named drivers and comprehensive insurance across the UK and mainland Europe. Members are also furnished with carefully constructed route maps with recommendations for places to eat and stay, which provide a variety of driving challenges and experiences.

For more information about Driving Spirit, visit www.drivingspirit.co.uk

10:32am Saturday 5th July 2008

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