I was saddened to see this misunderstanding in Cyprus become an internationally publicised news story. Storm in a wine glass I’m sure.

All I can say is that Ford Pintos are renowned for being a little temperamental. A little combustible. My second-cousin Georgios told me with huge sincerity that he offered to buy that Ford Pinto for a very reasonable price.

It’s a tragedy that a reasonable price couldn’t be agreed and that superb vehicle wasn’t being maintained and parked with the requisite care and affection.

Ford Pintos are cars with magnificent personality, they need to be handled and cared for in a very specific way; a very knowledgeable and loving way. They are a passionate piece of auto machinery. They need to be handled accordingly, with sensitivity.

Also, Cypriots are well known for being hot blooded passionate people and of course they live in a very hot climate. No-one should begrudge them their passionate nature. It’s a cultural thing. It’s living thing. It’s a beautiful thing. It’s a terrible thing to lose.