Some of them were/still are great people no doubt, real gypsies that is, which is why I said earlier "so-called Gypsie's". Regarding their vans, then yes weren't they spotless, really proud of what they had and took care of them mind you they cost a lot of money to buy.
As for the Cortina, I passed my driving test in the Mk1. One father suggestion is that you mentioned the "Tranny van" - is that wise given the proclivity of some "chaps" on here as they will all want one????