Our Story
Our Story
Love at first sight
A young Alan Drayson started his love affair with Porsches from his Mum's garage aged 17. It was a 1967 912 and needed much love. The restoration took him 2 years as he was studying for his A-levels and he financed the restoration by working part-time as a bar tender. But as he recalls, it was worth all the hard work:
"I remember the first time I took that car for a drive - the sheer pleasure of driving a Porsche was like nothing I had ever experienced before".
It was from then Alan was hooked. He restored Porsches as a hobby alongside his academic studies all the way though university until the end of his PhD in 2001 . He finally made the move to make his first love for Porsches his full-time career in 2007, and is now well-known in the industry for his painstaking attention to detail and quality work.
Canford Classics
The Old Hay Barn
Nestled in the lush, rolling hills of Dorset, near the small village of Bere Regis, Canford Classics can be found on a working farm.
Enter the office and you'll meet Dominique (Alan's wife) and Scott, who looks after Operations and helps the team and customers source the parts they need. Across the courtyard, past the showroom, you'll find the prestige workshop with Porsches in various states of transformation. The vibe is relaxed and friendly, whilst at the same time focussed and professional.
The team
Over the years Canford Classics has gained an international reputation for the most exact restorations, with an attention to detail that has become the benchmark within the Classic Porsche fraternity. Alan has surrounded himself with a unique and talented team of craftspeople to deliver his vision of quality and Porsche standards. Chris and John bring an unsurpassed level of knowledge and expertise to restoration and works through the proven methodology of Canford Classics.
The team happily welcome anyone to come and visit. Just contact Dominique.
Everything under one roof
Unlike many restoration workshops, Canford Classics undertake every part of your Porsche restoration, including bodywork, paint-work, mechanical components and trim; even manufacturing rare parts when needed (parts can also be purchased in our little parts shop). To see how we work, have a look at our proven methodology.
Our Vision
Through a deep passion and love for classic Porsches , we strive everyday, in every detail, to keep these iconic vehicles alive for Porsche lovers' enjoyment and investment.
Our Mission
Every car we touch will be transformed to its former glory, irrespective of the original condition.
What people say about us
"Rarely in life do we experience more than 95%; Canford Classics delivered beyond 100%, exceeding expectations in so many ways, the attention to detail is just amazing. My 993 looks as if it were just delivered brand new by Porsche!"
Brendan McMahon
"Just like to say a big thank you to the guys down at Canford, with their huge knowledge and experience these guys live and breathe Porsche. So if you're in the market for a classic please give them a call. You won't be disappointed!"
Andy Baker
"Alan and his team had the patience, the detailed knowledge and amazing attention to detail to produce for me a full, sympathetic rebuild of my '72 911E."
Malcolm Trice
"These guys are so passionate about what they do. My dream car is being completely rebuilt by them."
Mitch Dall
"The team at Canford Classics have looked after my 911's for over six years. I value their attention to detail and extensive knowledge of the history of the marque. I've used Alan to advise on new purchases and he has successfully sourced cars for me from across the world. On top of that, they're a really nice group of people to deal with."
Simon Webb
"Over the last 4 years, Alan and his wonderful team at Canford Classics have worked very closely with me (advising me every step of the way) on the restoration my 1974 2.7 Carrera Targa back to its original condition. Like myself, they have a passion for these cars, and an excellent/professional eye for detail, and I cannot recommend them highly enough."
Richard Hill
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