Being 'The Stig'

Chelmer and I were quite pleased that What Car supported our own thoughts, which were that we should be looking out for a Corsa or a Fiesta. We wasted no time in arranging test drives for both types of car, which we needed to do as we've never owned a Corsa, and there weren't many of us around the last time our minder bought a Fiesta (which was 17 years ago).

The Fiesta was good to drive and was a distinct possibilty for our new Bearmobile. However, it was pipped at the post by the new Corsa. Of course this was partly due to the fact that it was the new Corsa model that we test drove, and this model has not been out for long. It drove very well and looked really good, especially in air blue, as you can see.


I did half wonder whether Chelmer was biased towards the Corsa because, being a bit of a ladies bear, he took rather a shine to the attractive young sales lady who took us out. Mind you, this worked in my favour, as while Chelmer kept her talking, I was able to concentrate on the car and how she drove.

Our test drive took place in the dark, so Chelmer and I went back a couple of days later to take a closer look at the car in daylight, and to show her to the rest of the Norfolk Branch and see what they thought.


She certainly passed my intense scrutiny. I looked hard for any signs of wear and tear but I couldn't find any. Although just over 6 months old, she looked just like a new car. The other guys gave the thumbs up, so as soon as we could, we went back to secure the deal.

Keep reading to see how we got on.

Lots of love, Blue Bear, Chelmer and all at the Norfolk Branch xxx