The Austin Allegro is not exactly a classic car and has been described as a shed on wheels.

But for photographer Steve Speller, many old British cars are poetry in motion.

Steve, 39, of New Parade, Worthing, is now using his camera to record the dinosaurs of the road.

He said: "People deride the Austin Allegro but at least it has a bit of character in comparison with a lot of modern cars.

"These days you wouldn't know the difference between a Vectra, Mondeo or a Mitsubishi. They all look the same - dull."

Steve moved from East London to Worthing three years ago and was amazed at the number of old cars on the road.

Some were in pristine condition but others were rusting hulks.

Steve said: "During the past 30 to 40 years, we have seen a dwindling of British cars on the road.

"Some other British manufacturers such as Vauxhall and Jaguar have fared better under American ownership.

"I thought it would be interesting to document old cars before they completely disappear.

"Most of the cars I have photographed are between 20 and 40 years old.

"They are not necessarily sparkling examples of their type but they have been well looked after.

"Many have interesting stories such as the Allegro that had covered only 6,000 miles in 13 years. It was in a spotless condition."

When Steve sees a car he likes, he leaves a note with his number on the windscreen.

While several people think he is joking, most are delighted, including the owners of a very rusty Triumph Toledo, a Wolsley Hornet and a 1950s MG Magnet.

Steve hopes to have collected 80 photographs by next autumn and plans to exhibit them.

He is looking for cars to photograph and anyone with a British car at least 20 years old can call him on 01903 539119.

Owners will receive a free large colour print.