Importance Score: 45 / 100 🔵
Dream Ferrari Wrecked by Mice, Says Former Bodyguard
A former bodyguard of Michael Jackson has revealed his cherished Ferrari, estimated to be worth £200,000, has been severely damaged – by rodents. Matt Fiddes, a self-defence expert, acquired the iconic red 355 GTS at the age of 19, fulfilling a lifelong aspiration of owning the prestigious sports car. The entrepreneur, now 45, recounted how images of the Ferrari served as a potent source of drive as he established his martial arts enterprise. However, he recently discovered that mice had infiltrated the vehicle, gnawing through crucial wiring and shredding important documents.
Rodent Infestation Leads to Devastation
Fiddes believes the rodents sought refuge inside the Ferrari during the cold winter months seeking warmth. He admitted he had not considered checking the vehicle for pests. The Ferrari, boasting a mere 18,000 miles, was previously in excellent condition, complete with a classic cassette player and a retractable roof, according to Fiddes.
Financial Blow and Sentimental Loss
Upon taking the car to a repair shop, Fiddes was delivered the devastating news that his prized possession, once valued at a potential £200,000, was now worth a mere £1,000. The scarcity of parts for the vintage vehicle has left the millionaire with the disheartening decision to scrap it. He lamented, “The mice had essentially made my car their home due to the cold. They have consumed all of the car’s electrical components and everything within.”
‘A £200k Mouse House’
Despite owning numerous other vehicles, Fiddes emphasized the unique sentimental value of this particular Ferrari. “This car held symbolic importance for me. It represented my boyhood dream. It is truly upsetting,” he stated. He added, “Those mice have been incredibly costly. It has become a £200,000 mouse house.”
Ferrari’s Role in Business Success and Celebrity Connection
Fiddes expressed his disbelief that rodents would seek warmth inside his “beautiful Ferrari” during the winter. He had been informed that his vehicle was an exemplary model of the Ferrari 355 globally, resembling a brand-new car. While acknowledging his family’s safety as paramount, he remarked, “I can always purchase another Ferrari, but it won’t hold the same memories.”
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He indicated a shift towards modern vehicles moving forward. Recalling the expansion of his franchise, Fiddes revealed he frequently drove the Ferrari, purchased for £150,000, to business meetings to impress prospective clients, a tactic he now credits as contributing to his business triumphs. The car was imbued with cherished memories, including an occasion when Michael Jackson rode in it and “loved it,” even playfully nicknaming it ‘The Frog’ due to its pop-up headlights.
From Childhood Dream to Reality
Reflecting on his early ambitions, the father-of-six from Devon recounted, “My childhood aspiration was to become a millionaire by the age of 20. I adorned my walls with Ferrari posters to keep me motivated.” He fondly remembered the day of purchase: “I was examining Ferraris at 19, dressed in a tracksuit and cap. They didn’t initially take me seriously until I presented them with a cheque.”
Proving Doubters Wrong
“I would simply stand in my driveway and admire it, thinking ‘I achieved it’,” Fiddes explained. “I disproved all the bullies, I disproved my parents, everyone who ever doubted me. I had succeeded.” He further detailed, “As I expanded my franchises, I would travel across the UK in that car, and people were invariably impressed. People have often told me they might not have invested in my franchises if it weren’t for that car.”
Martial Arts Empire and Car Collection
Fiddes initiated his martial arts business with a mere £100, and it has recently been valued at £120 million, representing the largest privately-owned portfolio in Devon. The successful businessman possesses a collection of seven sports cars, including multiple Ferraris, a Lamborghini, and two Mercedes vehicles.