Bobby dazzlers; Me and my cars: Alex Norton.

Byline: Brian McIver

HE'S normally in a car with a flashing blue light on the top, but Taggart star Alex Norton has been used to a more diverse line-up of motors over the years. The actor started off with a pre-Italian Job Mini and since then has had everything from classic restoration jobs to 80s flash cars and the modern family runaround.

The Most Fun Austin FX3, IN 1968, I had an old London taxi, an Austin FX3, and that was great fun. I lived in Glasgow and would drive around in it feeling great. It was funny, though, because there were no locks on the doors and people used to jump in at the lights. I'd have to explain it wasn't a taxi, but I'd sometimes give them a lift anyway.

Verdict Slow starter but guaranteed to bring lots of fun SHEEPSKIN RATING ***

The Grown-up Number BMW 3 Series convertible

In the 80s I had a BMW 3 Series convertible which I thought was just brilliant. It was imported from South Africa, so was very special. It had electric windows and air-conditioning and an unusual colour, champagne. It was very 80s and I loved driving around London in it, but kids came along soon after and I had to give it up for a Mercedes Estate.

Verdict Sexy little number with great handling SHEEPSKIN RATING ****

The Love affair

1949 Alvis TA 14 Coupe The car I loved the most was my old Alvis. It was a 1949 Alvis TA 14 Coupe. I paid a fiver for it in 1969. It was fantastic. I restored it and looked after it. It was just wonderful to drive, and it's the car I loved the most down the years. I got rid of it in the 70s and I've always regretted it.

Verdict Just gorgeous - they don't make them like this now. SHEEPSKIN RATING *****

The First one 1967 Mini

My first car was a Mini in 1967, and it was second-hand. I made every mistake in the book. I had just been paid for a TV job and I walked into the showroom, fell in love with it and paid the asking price of pounds 140 in full. I can't believe how daft I was. It was a terrible piece of crap, but I loved it. This was before the Italian Job, but it was still the trendiest thing around.

Verdict Terrific fun and perfect for town - and cool, too. SHEEPSKIN RATING ****

The Holiday Getaway 1978 Land Rover Series B

We have a home in the middle of the French countryside, Languedoc, and I wanted a car for the country so I was set on getting a military-style Land Rover. I'd always wanted one. I managed to source one which is left-hand drive because it had originally been sold to the Dutch army in 1978, but it was returned and never used. I got it for pounds 6500 and it's great fun, perfect for when we go away, and I really enjoy getting to take it out.

Verdict The most beautiful car of all time bar none SHEEPSKIN RATING *****

The Dream Car 1934 Triumph Gloria

It was around 1970 while I had the Alvis that a mechanic spotted my car and asked if I liked old cars.He showed me this amazing red sports car from the 30s. I was really tempted, but I knew I couldn't afford to get it properly restored. I still think of it.

Verdict Vintage jalopy that's hard to beat in the style stakes SHEEPSKIN RATING *****