Lakes Autos: The Last of the Old-School Breakers’ Yards
In the heart of Bedfordshire, between Luton and Peterborough, lies Lakes Autos, a unique scrapyard that stands out from the rest. With its jumble of rusting metal, Lakes Autos is like an ancient forest of discarded motors. But what sets this yard apart is its exclusive focus on breaking down Volvos.
The automobile industry has undergone significant changes in recent years, with new regulations aimed at cleaning up the industry. As a result, many small and independent breakers’ yards have been forced to shut down, leaving only a handful of old-school yards like Lakes Autos. However, Lakes Autos has managed to survive and thrive by specializing in Volvos.
Wandering through the three acres of disintegrating motors at Lakes Autos is like stepping back in time. The site is filled with classic models from Volvo’s golden age, including 960s, 940s, 740s, and even an ancient 244 DL. These cars serve as reminders of a time when electric cars were merely a distant idea.
Barry Coppen, the 77-year-old owner of Lakes Autos, inherited the business from his father. Born in London and trained as an engineer, Coppen initially worked on groundbreaking projects like Concorde and the Jaguar attack jet. However, after his brothers fell ill, he decided to focus his efforts on the family business.
With the closure of other scrapyards in the area, Coppen saw an opportunity to specialize in one make of car. He chose Volvos because of their reputation for toughness and the dedication of their owners to keeping them running for as long as possible. It was a smart move that paid off.
Over the past 40 years, Coppen has developed an incredible knowledge of Volvo parts. He can identify and locate any part within his vast inventory without needing to consult a catalog. His expertise has made him a trusted resource for Volvo enthusiasts who turn to him for advice and hard-to-find parts.
As we tour the yard, Coppen points out the most popular items he sells: lights, door mirrors, radios, and parcel shelves. These parts are in high demand, but Coppen removes them from the cars to prevent theft. He knows exactly which model each part fits, a testament to his deep knowledge of Volvos.
Despite his age and health issues, Coppen has no plans to retire. He believes his customers still need him because few people know old Volvos as well as he does. His dedication to his craft and the trust he has built with his customers have made Lakes Autos a haven for Volvo enthusiasts.
In a world where technology and innovation constantly push us forward, it’s comforting to know that there are places like Lakes Autos that preserve the past. By specializing in Volvos, Coppen has created a unique business that not only provides valuable parts but also keeps the spirit of these classic cars alive.
So, if you find yourself in Bedfordshire, take a detour off the beaten path and step into Lakes Autos. It’s a journey through time and a testament to the enduring legacy of Volvo.
