Tell us about John Brown, How did John Brown 4x4 get started?

John Brown 4x4 started in the same way that many successful businesses do - as an enthusiastic hobby in spare time. John's enthusiasm for Land Rovers® and eye for detail soon forced his hobby to become a small business which has steadily grown over the years into what is now one of the Nations leading suppliers of Vintage Land Rovers®.

What services do you offer?

Our main focus is preparing vehicles for sale, and therefore vintage sales are at the core of the business. We also refurbish and fully restore Land Rovers® too and even provide bespoke vehicles on customers request. From time to time, our services are called upon to cure faults with these vehicles that other outfits struggle to rectify. We are also heavily involved in retail and fashion, and have been involved and worked with various high-profile fashion houses and celebrities.

Why do you like working with Land Rovers? Tell us about your experience with Land Rovers

Working with any elderly vehicle can sometimes pose challenges, but our experience allows us to diagnose and cure faults quickly and effectively. It is always very satisfying to take a barn-find or non-running vehicle and transform it into something which looks brand-new and functions beautifully.

What is your favourite Land Rover?

My favourite Land Rover® would be the first Land Rover® I owned - Land Rover® Lightweight Soft-Top. Their simple design and military good looks make them a real joy to own and run.

And your favourite build/project to have worked on?

Almost certainly our most involved and exciting build was the restoration of Hugh Fearnley Whittingstall's Gastrowagon from his TV show 'A Cook On The Wild Side'. We managed to purchase the whole vehicle - much of it in boxes in the rear, so restoring and rebuilding it was like assembling the largest 3D puzzle you can imagine. The build took many months and was a real labour of love but the finished item was quite unique and superb.

What's the most unusual request/feature you've built into a Land Rover? 

We conducted a full rebuild for a customer who wanted to take the kids down to the beach, it had to have ample space to cool drinks and so a large fridge was fitted into the rear!!

Why should people choose to work with you?

We are a family run, friendly company with traditional morals and old-fashioned customer service.

Finally, what are your thoughts on the new Defender replacement?

We have yet to see the replacement for the Defender - but we feel it will likely look very different to the original models and perhaps not benefit from the bolt-on-bolt-off nature of the these. I am sure it will be just as good off road and look great - just perhaps not the 'Defender' we know!

Where can people reach John Brown?

You can contact us, between the hours of 8am and 4pm, weekdays on 01845 525440. Make sure to visit our website www.johnbrown4x4.com