Sunny Dealite – yes that is a grown man driving a tiny car down the High Street. Only in Deal!

A Sunny Dealite

Photographer Kathryn Reilly

If you haven’t yet seen one of Pete’s perfect, petite motors, where have you been? This ingenious inventor brings a smile to the streets

Peter Chittenden has lost count of how many small but perfectly formed cars he’s made. It all started when his first grandchild was born 18 years ago. And as the offspring of the offspring kept coming (and growing) the cars got bigger (there’s even a stretch limo in the fleet). So you’ll often see Pete about in one of his immaculately constructed motors. “I’d love to motor kids up and down the pier for charity donations,” says Pete. Sadly, DDC aren’t playing ball.

Many of Pete’s cars come with speakers, so you might hear him before you see him. (This talented engineer also makes ukuleles out of pressure cookers. Obviously.) The basis for his collection are neglected disability scooters. He gives them another life and raises a smile in the process. It’s another “only in Deal” idiosyncrasy, just part of everyday life in this special town. Nevertheless, it’s hard not to laugh at the sheer silliness of it. Give Pete a wave as he speeds by – this is an endeavour that warrants encouragement.