We was called back in 2025 by a chap called David who told us his cousin Janet’s partner Joe had passed away and was part through a restoration of his beloved VW Beetle. They were asking if we would be interested in finishing the car and helping sell it with all profits over the restoration costs going to charity.
So, Magic explained from what you say about the car at the moment the restoration would out weigh the sale costs and maybe leave Jan in the position she has put money in to the rebuild that she would not get back also leaving nothing to donated to her chosen charity. Magic suggested a visit to the see the car with the possibility of us taking over the rebuild for Santa’s a Gangster as this would cost them nothing with all ticket sales going to help Children and families at Christmas .
The visit happened and the car was worse than expected, but had loads of really good quality new parts with it. They chatted about the option of using the car and parts as a donor to build another and/or sell off all parts with all funds going towards the next car build. The plan was hatched ,Jan and Dave were happy that it was all going to help others which Joe would of loved
Fast forward to 2026 and the decision was made to build the next car, Magic, Den, and Dave go out to see Jan and collect the (non rolling shell ) and all parts making sure Jan was OK with the parts car aspect still. As Magic left, Jan passed him the log book and said this is a picture of Joe which Magic replied “I know Joe love, I just didn’t want to say at the time”. He opened the log book and inside there was one of the old Volksmagic post cards.
Jan melted and Magic felt himself going too, so farewells all round and off the the yard we went! When we got back, Magic had a close look at the log book to see it was not just an orange 1303, but a gold 1303S! This changed everything as it’s even a special edition car. A little research was carried out and we were certain it’s what was called a Big Bug as
Correct colour on the log book
Seat remains are corduroy centres
Wheels are the wider Lemirtz
Wooden dash facers
A chat with the team at Volksmagic and the decision was made Joes Big Bug was to be rebuilt. Magic chatted with the Express and Star who were also doing the hand over of the Harlequin VW Polo from 2025 to the lucky winner. The feature started right there with the focus on no one letting Jan know this was happening!
Two big revivals to happen one round at Jan’s house the second at Bristol VolksFest where Santa’s a Gangster and Volksmagic always out there new car!
Keep watching as the story evolves with trade sponsors coming on board along with the help of so many talented people on Joes 1303 Big Bug …. More to come
Magic & Co x
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Mr Magic is Behind bars!
The cells are filling up… and Lee is behind bars!
He has been sentenced to one challenge: raise as much money as possible before he faces the judge to Set Him Free!
His only chance of an early release? Raising vital funds for local children and communities supported by Cash for Kids and LoveBrum.
Every donation helps make a real difference across the Midlands while bringing him one step closer to freedom.
Think he’s earned an early release? Head to the link below, support his fundraising and help decide his fate!
Set me Free!
This year, we have not one, not two, but three stunning prizes up for grabs!
How Can You Help Santa?
Please, rest assured that if you have purchased a raffle ticket, it will be included. Check your Paypal messages for more details!
What you need to know!
We Do Not Donate Cash!
All cash received by us is used to purchase gifts.
No Running Costs!
We swallow all of these costs in house.
The Car Build!
All paid for and supplied by our surrounding trades.
Scan Now!
Mission Christmas: Cash for Kids
Gifts Galore
Each year, Santa’s a Gangster comes together with all of their many supporters to collect toys and gifts for people that need them. Our goal is to try and ensure that no-one wakes up without a gift under the tree on Christmas morning. To this end, we have joined forced with Free Radio’s Mission Christmas: Cash for Kids as they have the network in place to ensure the gifts we donate, go where they are most needed.
We could do none of this without the support of our many sponsors and it’s not too late to join them!
Parts and Services
We are always looking for new traders to come on board and help up build these amazing giveaway cars.
Cash Donations
Cash donations help us find all of those finishing touches that make our cars stand out from the crowd.
Ade Mason
Big Magic
Sean
Boz
Brad
Daz the Tea Boy
Dennis
Dep
Disco Steve and Jen
Matt Pinker
Lee Ashbourne
Johny Royce
Dougie
Paige
Augustus
Paul (Dens Dad)
Uncle and Auntie Marmalade
Chad
and let’s not forget the army of people that make the magic happen …..
The 2026 draw will be for our eighth Santa’s a Gangster build. These are the amazing cars we have given away in the past!
2019
2020
2021
2022
2023
2024
Never Forgotten
Jim Cousins R.I.P
Yes, he checked out in November 2019 and headed to a galaxy far, far away and we so miss him. Jim and Louise have been a massive part of Santa’s a Gangster from day one, not only sorting out advertising and printing, but also being a huge collection point for us. This years car give away is that little bit more special because it was actually Jims own buggy, kindly donated by his family, and when you see it, you won’t believe your eyes!
Louise has carried on helping, collecting, and promoting; She’s a true super star!
Magic & Co x