A Volkswagen fan who is covered in tattoos of cars, camper vans and logos says he is a 'walking billboard' for the car manufacturer.
Chris Redford, who runs Funkmaster Red in Cavendish Place, says his obsession started at a young age.
"I learnt to drive within 14 days at the age of 17 because I was desperate to drive a Beetle — basically because I loved the shape," said the 28-year-old Eastbourne resident.
Chris has never owned a car that was not made by Volkswagen and currently drives a VW Camper and a new customised silver Beetle.
He said, "The camper van is S reg, that is 1978, and the new Beetle has been very customised so it depends whether I want to travel at speed or in style."
Despite its age, Chris's camper has made it to most parts of northern Europe and regularly makes trips to car shows.
Chris says the vehicle is a 'modern take on the hippy van' as it is sprayed with flames and had a skull and cross bone painted on the front. But the Camper is not the only thing that has been decorated as part of Chris' obsession — camper vans, Beetles and the Volkswagen logo have been tattooed across his entire back.
He said, "It started with a camper van on my shoulder in 1998 and then I got more down that arm.
"It was last year that I started to get my back done.
"Everybody thinks I am quite crazy," laughed Chris.
He describes himself as a 'walking billboard' for Volkswagen and has a good relationship with the firm.
"I am currently in talks with VW about taking one of its camper vans across to India which is something I would love to do, especially if it doesn't cost me anything," he said.
Chris recently married Serena and Volkswagen footed the honeymoon bill and a car show visit to Belgium, Germany and Holland.
Chris's new wife shares his interest in the vehicles and the couple travelled on their honeymoon in their new Beetle.
While in Belgium, the Redfords promoted the VW brand at Technoclassica, the world's largest indoor classic car show, and their Beetle took home first prize.
Serena also owns a Golf and another Beetle and Chris says he cannot imagine being without their Volkswagens.
"We are expecting our first child and she has already been tarnished with the VW stick," said Chris.
The little girl's middle names, Victoria Willow, will be a constant reminder of the couple's favourite car manufacturer.
Source:http://www.eastbourneherald.co.uk/news/VW-fan-puts-his-back.3975200.jp