Watch: the moment Sam sees his story in the Hereford Times

A TEENAGER has found a new love for fixing cars thanks to being off school during the current lockdown restrictions.

Sam Watkins, aged 14, from Credenhill, was born with very poor hearing and an unusual syndrome that caused learning difficulties among other problems.

To compound matters, last year he discovered his kidneys aren't working and he will need medication for the rest of his life.

After struggling to manage his home schoolwork Sam's dad Tom Watkins gave him an old Volvo V70 estate to restore.

"Immediately, Sam threw himself into this challenge, dismantling parts of the engine, interior and so on," said dad Tom. "I just hope he remembers where all the parts go!

"He is extremely loving and is almost as funny as his dad when it comes to jokes. Although that could be a hindrance actually."

A Justgiving Page has been created to help raise £995 towards buying Sam his own tools and spare parts to help with his re-building of the car.

You can visit his Justgiving Page HERE

"It quickly became obvious that it would be beneficial for Sam to have his own tools to look after and learn how to use," Mr Watkins added.

"Plus the car needs several items as it has covered relatively high miles and some components are showing their age.

"The biggest problem is the bodywork. It looks shiny but in real life it's all poor with flaking lacquer and scrapes on each corner. "Hopefully Sam will be left with a vehicle which will reflect his hard work, efforts and dedication.

"Cars of this model in good condition are becoming sought after. "Maybe 'Betty' as she's called will be an investment for Sam to use when he reaches 21 for funding other important things in his early adult life.

"He is also thrilled at the idea of showing off his own motor at Volvo Shows and meets.

"He'll even have his own chauffeur (me) to transport him and his car to the events."

Sam has been documenting his work so far by videos on his Youtube channel titled 'Sam's T5 Story'.

Local car dealers Keith Price Garages and Herefordshire Volvo Specialist have already helped Sam after hearing about his project.

So far Sam has raised £200 from his Justgiving page HERE

This has allowed him to buy a small socket set to take the wheels off the car.