Bernie Bourke is a professional mechanic, classic car specialist, and a prominent cast member of the hit UKTV series Bangers & Cash. Operating primarily from the Mathewsons auction house in Thornton-le-Dale, North Yorkshire, Bernie has become a fan favorite for his technical expertise, dry wit, and ability to revive vehicles that have been dormant for decades. With a career spanning several decades in the motor trade, he serves as a vital bridge between the “barn find” discovery and the auction hammer, ensuring that vintage machines are safe and functional for their new owners.
Bernie Bourke’s Professional Background
Bernie Bourke’s journey in the automotive world began long before the cameras started rolling in Thornton-le-Dale. He is a traditionally trained mechanic who cut his teeth during an era when vehicles required manual tuning, carburetor adjustments, and creative problem-solving rather than computer diagnostics. This foundational experience gave him a “sixth sense” for internal combustion engines, particularly British and European models from the 1960s, 70s, and 80s.
Throughout his career, Bernie has worked across various sectors of the motor trade, ranging from independent local garages to specialized restoration shops. His reputation for honesty and technical precision made him a natural fit for the Mathewsons team when they began expanding their auction operations. Unlike modern “parts changers,” Bernie is known for his ability to repair original components, a skill that is increasingly rare in the 21st century.
The Role in Bangers & Cash
Since the debut of Bangers & Cash on the Yesterday channel in 2019, Bernie has been an integral part of the show’s success. While Derek Mathewson focuses on the business and valuation side, Bernie is often seen in the workshop, elbow-deep in grease, trying to get a long-forgotten engine to fire up. His on-screen presence provides the “mechanical heartbeat” of the show, offering viewers a realistic look at the challenges of classic car ownership.
His interactions with Derek, Paul, and Dave Mathewson are characterized by a genuine camaraderie and a shared love for “honest” cars. Bernie is frequently tasked with the “pre-auction check,” where he assesses a vehicle’s condition to help determine its potential sale price. His candid assessments—sometimes delivered with a skeptical look and a shake of the head—have made him a relatable figure for anyone who has ever struggled with a temperamental vintage motor.
Mechanical Expertise and Philosophy
Bernie Bourke operates under a philosophy of “preservation over replacement.” In the world of classic car restoration, there is often a temptation to replace every old bolt with a new one, but Bernie understands that the value of many vintage vehicles lies in their original patina and components. He specializes in “recommissioning,” which involves making a vehicle roadworthy after a long period of storage without necessarily performing a ground-up aesthetic restoration.
His expertise covers a wide array of mechanical systems, from complex multi-carburetor setups to primitive electrical systems like the infamous “Lucas: Prince of Darkness.” Bernie is particularly adept at diagnosing issues by sound and feel—a trait of a master craftsman. Whether it is a Ford Escort, a Morris Minor, or a more exotic Jaguar E-Type, his approach remains methodical: spark, fuel, and compression are the holy trinity of his workshop.
Mastery of the Barn Find
A “barn find” is often a mechanic’s worst nightmare, filled with seized engines, perished rubber, and rodent damage. Bernie has mastered the art of the “first start,” a high-stakes moment often captured on film where he attempts to breathe life back into an engine after 20 or 30 years. This process requires a delicate touch; simply turning a key can destroy a dry engine, so Bernie uses specialized lubricants and manual rotations to ensure the internal components are ready to move.
His success rate in these endeavors is a testament to his patience. He often speaks about “listening to the car,” identifying the faint knocks or pings that indicate a deeper issue. This deep connection to the machinery is what separates a technician from a true mechanic, and it is the primary reason why collectors trust him with their most valuable automotive investments.
Impact on the Classic Car Community
Beyond the television screen, Bernie Bourke is a respected figure in the North Yorkshire classic car scene. His presence at the Mathewsons site in Thornton-le-Dale has helped turn the village into a destination for motoring enthusiasts. He represents a generation of mechanics whose skills are essential for the survival of the classic car hobby, as younger generations often struggle to maintain vehicles without OBD-II ports.
Bernie’s influence also extends to education; through his segments on the show, he inadvertently teaches thousands of viewers about the basics of vehicle maintenance. By demystifying the internal combustion engine, he encourages owners to pick up a wrench and attempt their own minor repairs. This “DIY” spirit is crucial for the longevity of the classic car movement, ensuring these vehicles stay on the road rather than rotting in garages.
Practical Information and Planning
If you are traveling to North Yorkshire in 2026 to see the world of Bangers & Cash and catch a glimpse of the environment where Bernie works, here are the essential details:
Location: The primary Mathewsons site is in Thornton-le-Dale, while the larger auction and storage facility is in Pickering.
Workshop Access: While the active mechanical workshop is generally a private area for safety reasons, the public can view the vehicles currently being prepared for auction in the Pickering showroom.
Operating Hours: Mathewsons is typically open Monday through Saturday, from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Note that they are closed on Sundays and Bank Holidays.
Auction Dates: Auctions occur roughly every six to eight weeks. If you want to see the team in their busiest state, plan your visit for the “Viewing Days” held in the week leading up to an auction.
Travel Tip: Thornton-le-Dale is a popular tourist village with limited parking. It is highly recommended to use the large public car park on the edge of the village and walk to the Mathewsons forecourt.
The Mechanical Mastery of Bernie Bourke
Bernie Bourke represents a disappearing breed of traditional mechanics who rely on sensory feedback rather than digital diagnostics. Having entered the trade during the 1970s, he developed his skills on a diet of carburetors, points, and manual transmissions—technologies that define the classic car era. His approach is methodical; he often begins a project by simply observing a vehicle, looking for the subtle tell-tale signs of mechanical wear or previous “botched” repairs that a computer would never detect.
This mastery is most evident when he tackles a vehicle that hasn’t run in thirty years. Bernie’s process involves a careful sequence of fluid flushes, manual engine rotations, and electrical checks that minimize the risk of catastrophic failure. For Bernie, an engine isn’t just a machine; it’s a living entity that requires a delicate, almost surgical touch to be revived safely.
Rise to Fame on Bangers & Cash
While Bernie had a long and successful career in the motor trade prior to television, Bangers & Cash catapulted him into the national spotlight. The show, which follows the Mathewson family’s auction business, needed a technical expert who could provide viewers with a realistic look at the “hidden” side of car auctions. Bernie’s natural, unscripted persona—often appearing more interested in the machinery than the cameras—made him an instant hit with audiences who value authenticity.
His role on the show has evolved from a supporting mechanic to a primary expert. In the spin-off series Bangers & Cash: Restoring Classics, Bernie takes an even more hands-on role, guiding more intensive restoration projects. His ability to explain complex mechanical issues in a way that is accessible to the average viewer has made him a vital educational resource for the classic car community.
Partnership with the Mathewsons
The relationship between Bernie Bourke and the Mathewson family—Derek, Paul, and Dave—is built on decades of mutual respect within the North Yorkshire motor trade. Bernie is often the “voice of reason” when Derek’s enthusiasm for a rare vehicle potentially outweighs its mechanical viability. Their on-screen chemistry is genuine, rooted in a shared history of hunting for rare parts and navigating the highs and lows of the auction circuit.
Bernie provides the technical backbone for the Mathewsons’ business, ensuring that the descriptions provided to buyers are accurate and that “non-runners” are given every chance to become “runners.” This professional synergy has been a key factor in the growth of the Mathewsons brand, helping it expand from a local auction house to an international destination for classic car collectors.
Technical Deep-Dive: The First Start
One of the most popular segments of any Bangers & Cash episode is the “First Start” with Bernie. This high-pressure moment involves attempting to fire up an engine that has been dormant for a significant period. Bernie’s technique involves removing spark plugs to lubricate cylinders, checking for “stuck” valves, and using a dedicated external fuel source to bypass contaminated petrol tanks.
[Image placeholder: Bernie Bourke working on a vintage engine]
Watching Bernie perform a first start is a lesson in patience. He often speaks about the “sound” of an engine turning over, identifying the specific rhythm that suggests it’s ready to ignite. When the engine finally coughs into life, accompanied by a cloud of blue smoke and Bernie’s characteristic nod of approval, it provides a sense of triumph that resonates with every DIY mechanic in the audience.
The Workshop and Specialized Tools
Bernie’s workshop is a mix of traditional heavy-duty equipment and specialized vintage tools that are no longer common in modern garages. He relies heavily on high-quality manual tools—wrenches, feeler gauges, and timing lights—that allow for the fine-tuning required by older engines. In his hands, a simple stethoscope becomes a powerful diagnostic tool used to pinpoint internal knocks and rattles.
Unlike modern dealerships that prioritize speed and parts-replacement, Bernie’s workspace is designed for repair. You will often find him stripping down a starter motor or rebuilding a master cylinder rather than simply ordering a new one. This commitment to traditional craftsmanship is what allows him to maintain vehicles for which “off-the-shelf” parts no longer exist.
Impact on British Automotive Culture
Bernie Bourke has become an accidental ambassador for the UK’s heritage vehicle sector. By showcasing the viability of older cars, he has encouraged a “repair culture” that counters the modern trend of disposable consumerism. His work highlights the historical importance of the British motor industry, from the humble Morris Minor to the sophisticated Jaguar.
His influence is particularly strong among “young-timer” enthusiasts—those who grew up with the cars of the 80s and 90s. Bernie’s willingness to work on everything from a rare supercar to a rusted-out Ford Fiesta validates all levels of the hobby. He reinforces the idea that any vehicle with a story is worth saving, provided you have the patience and the right mechanical approach.
Practical Information and Planning
For fans who want to visit the world of Bernie Bourke and the Mathewsons in 2026, here is the essential logistical information:
Primary Showroom: The Mathewsons showroom is located in Pickering, North Yorkshire. This is where most of the auction lots are displayed for public viewing.
Village Shop: The original shop in Thornton-le-Dale remains a popular photo spot and contains a selection of memorabilia and smaller items.
Auction Schedule: Auctions typically occur every 6–8 weeks. It is best to check the official Mathewsons website for the 2026 calendar to ensure your visit coincides with a “Viewing Day.”
Seeing Bernie: While Bernie is a working mechanic and often busy in the private workshop areas, he is frequently seen at the Pickering site during auction previews. Fans are reminded to be respectful of his work schedule.
Local Area: Pickering and Thornton-le-Dale are located on the edge of the North York Moors National Park, making the area an excellent destination for a multi-day driving holiday.
FAQs
Who is Bernie Bourke’s wife?
Bernie Bourke keeps his personal life strictly private. There is no public information regarding his marital status or his family, as he chooses to focus entirely on his mechanical work in his media appearances.
Where does Bernie Bourke live?
Bernie is a long-time resident of North Yorkshire. He lives within commuting distance of the Thornton-le-Dale and Pickering areas where Bangers & Cash is filmed.
Is Bernie Bourke retiring?
As of 2026, there have been no announcements regarding Bernie’s retirement. He remains an active and vital part of both the Mathewsons business and the television show.
How can I get my car fixed by Bernie?
Bernie’s time is primarily dedicated to the vehicles going through the Mathewsons auctions. He generally does not take on outside private commissions from the public due to his heavy filming and auction workload.
What is Bernie’s favorite type of car?
While Bernie is an all-rounder, he has a well-documented affinity for classic British sports cars and “honest” everyday classics that are mechanically logical and rewarding to maintain.
Is Bernie Bourke on social media?
Bernie does not maintain public personal social media accounts. Fans can follow his latest projects through the official Bangers & Cash and Mathewsons social media pages.
How long has Bernie been a mechanic?
Bernie has over 45 years of experience in the motor trade, having started his apprenticeship in the early 1970s.
Is the workshop on the show real?
Yes, the workshop seen on Bangers & Cash is a genuine, working facility. As the business has expanded, they moved into a much larger, purpose-built site in Pickering to accommodate more vehicles.
Does Bernie Bourke do his own stunts?
In the world of classic cars, the “stunts” are the mechanical repairs. Bernie performs all of his own mechanical work on camera, ensuring the technical accuracy of the show.
Is Bernie Bourke related to the Mathewsons?
No, Bernie is a close family friend and professional associate, but he is not a biological member of the Mathewson family.
Why is Bernie called a “Legend” by fans?
Fans refer to him as a legend because of his calm demeanor, his incredible skill at reviving “dead” cars, and his status as a “real” mechanic who isn’t interested in the typical trappings of fame.
Is Bernie Bourke a real mechanic?
Yes, Bernie is a fully qualified and highly experienced mechanic. His role on Bangers & Cash is a true representation of his professional work within the motor trade.
Does Bernie Bourke own his own garage?
Bernie has spent much of his career working in professional workshops. Currently, he is most closely associated with the Mathewsons operation, where he handles the mechanical assessments and light restorations for auction lots.
Where is Bernie Bourke from?
Bernie is based in North Yorkshire, England. His local accent and knowledge of the region are a staple of the Bangers & Cash series.
Can I hire Bernie Bourke to fix my car?
Because of his television commitments and his role at Mathewsons, Bernie’s time for private commissions is extremely limited. Most of his work is focused on the vehicles passing through the auction house.
Is Bernie Bourke still on Bangers & Cash in 2026?
Yes, Bernie continues to be a featured expert on the show, providing technical insights and mechanical support for the Mathewson family’s discoveries.
What is Bernie Bourke’s favorite car?
While he appreciates many makes, Bernie often shows a preference for “honest” British classics like the MG B or vintage Triumphs—cars that are straightforward to work on and rewarding to drive.
What happened to Bernie’s workshop on the show?
The workshop seen on the show is part of the Mathewsons expansion. As the business grew, they moved into more sophisticated facilities in Pickering to handle the high volume of vehicles.
Is Bernie Bourke related to Derek Mathewson?
No, Bernie is not a member of the Mathewson family by blood, but he has been a close professional associate and friend of the family for many years.
Does Bernie Bourke do the “Restoring Classics” spin-off?
Yes, Bernie frequently appears in the spin-off Bangers & Cash: Restoring Classics, where he provides expert guidance on the more intensive rebuild projects.
How long has Bernie Bourke been a mechanic?
Bernie has been in the motor trade for over 40 years, beginning his career during the heyday of the classic cars he now restores.
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