Derek Mathewson is a name synonymous with classic cars, auctions, and television fame. The British automotive expert, entrepreneur, and TV personality is best known for founding Mathewsons Auctions and starring in the UKTV series Bangers & Cash. Derek’s journey from a young car enthusiast to a multi-millionaire with a television empire is a remarkable testament to how passion, dedication, and hard work can turn into a thriving business.
As of 2025, Derek Mathewson continues to inspire fans and aspiring entrepreneurs with his expertise, engaging personality, and commitment to classic vehicles. This article delves into his early life, rise to fame, career, and the lasting impact he has had on the automotive world.
Quick Bio
| Attribute | Details |
| Full Name | Derek Mathewson |
| Born | October 13, 1951, UK |
| Occupation | Classic Car Expert, Entrepreneur, TV Personality |
| Notable Roles | Founder of Mathewsons Auctions, Star of Bangers & Cash |
| Net Worth (2025) | $2 million to $5 million |
| Famous For | Classic car auctions, TV series Bangers & Cash, Car restoration expertise |
| Family | Married to Sue Mathewson (formerly), two sons: Paul and David |
| Key Achievements | Established Mathewsons Auctions, TV stardom, Over 50 years of automotive experience |
| Personal Collection | 75+ classic cars, 50+ motorcycles, rare memorabilia |
| Current Age | 73 years old |
Early Life and Background of Derek Mathewson
Born on October 13, 1951, in the UK, Derek Mathewson displayed an early passion for automobiles. His interest wasn’t limited to just driving cars — he was deeply fascinated by the mechanical and aesthetic beauty of vintage vehicles. Unlike many, Derek’s love for cars didn’t fade with age. Instead, it grew stronger and paved the way for his future career.
Derek did not come from a family of wealth or business owners. Instead, his journey started with hands-on experience and a deep curiosity about how cars worked under the bonnet. This practical knowledge gave him the foundation needed to eventually build one of the most respected names in the classic car industry.
The Beginning of Mathewsons: A Dream in Motion
In 1970, at just 19 years old, Derek took his first step into the world of cars by buying and selling modern vehicles. However, by the late 1980s, Derek noticed a growing market for vintage and classic cars. This observation would become the turning point of his career.
In 1988, Derek relocated to Thornton-le-Dale in North Yorkshire, a picturesque village that soon became the heart of his Mathewsons Auctions. It was here that he saw the opportunity to build a unique business centered around rare, collectible cars.
Milestones in Mathewsons Auctions’ Growth:
| Year | Event |
| 1988 | Derek relocates to Thornton-le-Dale and begins buying classic cars. |
| 2011 | Mathewsons Classic Car Auctions is officially founded. |
| 2019 | Launch of Bangers & Cash on UKTV, propelling Derek into national fame. |
Derek’s Television Fame: Bangers & Cash and Beyond
Derek’s fame skyrocketed when UKTV launched the reality documentary series Bangers & Cash in 2019. The show offers an honest and unfiltered look at the Mathewsons Auctions family business. Unlike most reality shows, which are often over-dramatized, Bangers & Cash prides itself on being authentic, showing the true behind-the-scenes operations of Derek and his family’s car auctions.
Derek’s calm and knowledgeable demeanor made him a natural star, and his deep expertise in automotive restoration and classic car valuation earned him the respect of viewers and industry professionals alike. The success of the show led to multiple seasons, spin-offs like Restoring Classics, and live auction events, further cementing Derek’s place as a prominent TV personality and automotive authority.
Television Highlights:
| Year | TV Milestone |
| 2019 | Bangers & Cash airs on UKTV, bringing Derek nationwide fame. |
| 2020-2023 | Spin-off shows like Restoring Classics and live auction events. |
Derek Mathewson’s Personal Life and Family Legacy
Derek Mathewson’s personal life has always been closely intertwined with his business. He was married to Sue Mathewson for over 40 years, and together, they raised two sons, David and Paul Mathewson, who are both actively involved in the family business and regularly appear on Bangers & Cash. The strong family presence at Mathewsons Auctions is a hallmark of the brand, emphasizing trust, integrity, and a close-knit work ethic.
Derek has always been candid about the importance of family in both his personal and professional life. His commitment to keeping the auction house a family-run operation has resonated deeply with customers, who appreciate the authenticity and personal touch that comes with the business.
In 2023, Derek’s personal life made headlines when news broke that he had entered a relationship with Vicki Ivens, a younger former colleague. This relationship attracted media attention, partly due to the significant age gap and the circumstances surrounding his separation from Sue. Despite the public interest, Derek has maintained a low profile regarding his personal affairs, continuing to focus on his business and his passion for cars.
Derek Mathewson’s Net Worth: How Much Is He Worth in 2025?
As of 2025, Derek Mathewson’s net worth is estimated to be between $2 million and $5 million. His wealth has been built through several income streams, primarily from his classic car auctions, television appearances, and personal collection.
Here’s a breakdown of his primary income sources:
- Mathewsons Auctions: This is the core of Derek’s earnings. The auction house sees thousands of cars and rare memorabilia auctioned each year, attracting bidders from all over the world.
- Television Appearances: Derek’s role in Bangers & Cash and other related specials has contributed significantly to his wealth, including income from endorsements and special live events.
- Personal Collection: Derek owns a vast collection of over 75 classic cars, 50 motorcycles, and rare memorabilia, some of which are worth hundreds of thousands of pounds.
- Brand Influence: The Mathewsons brand has grown in value, with Derek’s reputation for integrity allowing for additional revenue streams from merchandise, events, and sponsorship deals.
| Income Stream | Contribution to Net Worth |
| Mathewsons Auctions | Core business, annual auctions |
| Television & Media Appearances | Bangers & Cash and related specials |
| Personal Car Collection | Value of vintage cars, memorabilia |
| Brand Influence | Merchandise, sponsorships, and events |
Inside Mathewsons Auctions: A Legacy in Motion
Mathewsons Auctions isn’t just an auction house; it’s a destination for collectors, enthusiasts, and TV viewers alike. The business is held around 9 times per year, attracting large crowds to Thornton-le-Dale, the village that has become synonymous with the Mathewsons brand.
What sets Mathewsons Auctions apart is its family-oriented approach, ensuring that every customer, whether a millionaire collector or a first-time buyer, is treated with respect and care. The auction house offers an array of vehicles — from beautifully restored classics to barn finds — and provides a one-of-a-kind experience that can’t be matched by corporate auction houses.
In addition to the auctions, there is also a public showroom and an on-site museum showcasing Derek’s personal favorites, some of which hold significant historical value. Visitors can enjoy exploring the collection and learning more about the cars that have shaped Derek’s journey.
What Makes Derek Mathewson So Respected?
Derek Mathewson’s reputation in the classic car world is built on three key pillars:
- Authenticity: Derek is genuine both on and off-screen. His honest, approachable personality has made him a beloved figure among fans and collectors.
- Expertise: With over 50 years of experience in the automotive industry, Derek’s knowledge of classic car restoration, valuation, and collection is unmatched. His ability to spot rare parts or subtle restoration flaws makes him a sought-after expert.
- Passion: Derek’s love for cars is more than just a business — it’s his life’s work. His enthusiasm for classic cars is infectious, drawing people to Mathewsons Auctions and ensuring the continued success of the business. Also read: Rylie Rowan
The Future of Derek Mathewson and Mathewsons Auctions
As Derek enters his mid-70s, questions about the future of Mathewsons Auctions naturally arise. While he has hinted at spending more time with his family and potentially slowing down, there’s no sign that he’s ready to step away completely. In fact, his sons Paul and David have taken on increasing responsibility within the business, ensuring that the Mathewson legacy will continue for generations to come.
The business is also evolving to keep up with modern trends, with the inclusion of digital auctions, expanding online audiences, and increasing media partnerships. Even in a world dominated by technology, Derek’s old-school values of trust and personal connection continue to resonate with clients.
Conclusion
Derek Mathewson is more than just a classic car enthusiast. He is a self-made businessman, a TV personality, and a family man whose dedication to his passion has made him a household name. From humble beginnings to national fame, Derek has proven that with hard work, authenticity, and passion, success follows.
Whether in the auction house, on television, or in the hearts of classic car enthusiasts, Derek Mathewson’s legacy is one of integrity and inspiration. His story is a powerful reminder that following your passion with purpose can lead to a lifetime of achievement.
