Beetle-mania is sweeping the country thanks to two York entrepreneurs.

Classic Volkswagen cars and camper vans - including the much-loved Beetle - are being imported and restored by two separate companies working at Laveracks industrial estate in Elvington.

Keith Turner, 31, owner of VW Relics, imports the vintage vehicles from as far afield as Sweden and Portugal, and then sells them to enthusiasts all over the UK.

Chris Annett, 26, runs next-door business Air-cooled Innovation, specialising in restoring classic VWs to their former glory.

Chris, of Beckfield Lane, Acomb, was a panel beater for ten years before deciding to earn a living out of his passion for the German-made motors built in the 1950s and 1960s.

Chris kick-started his business two months ago after securing a loan from the Prince's Trust.

He said: "Classic Volkswagens have a massive cult following in Britain and we're trying to meet the demand.

"Some Beetle owners I know treat them like babies.

"I've always had an interest in camper vans. There's something wonderful about driving them. People always look with admiration when I pass in the street.

"Making a living out of restoring them is a bonus."

Keith, who is also planning to import classic Porsches in the future, said: "I've been interested in Volkswagens for 15 years.

"They have a classic look to them and are great to drive. I get orders from all over the country."

Updated: 10:39 Tuesday, January 23, 2001