A campervan kitted out with a mobile DJ booth has taken the title of Van Conversion of the Year at eBay’s 2024 awards.
The Mercedes-Benz Sprinter converted by Jack Lydon, a DJ from Leigh-on-Sea, Essex, fended off hundreds of entries to make it onto the initial shortlist before taking the overall title and £10,000 cash prize.
The awards, judged by TV presenter George Clarke, F1 designer Peter Stevens and hosted by eBay, returned this year after acclaimed success in its inaugural year.
The accolades recognise the UK’s best van conversions from tradespeople, professional converters, catering businesses, van-lifers and holidaymakers.
Lydon’s conversion took the lead in the ‘Best Bespoke Build’ category for its quirky creative concept and design of his mobile DJ booth. Kitted out as a Japanese-inspired contemporary home and professional music space using parts and accessories purchased on eBay, the van will now provide the base for Lydon’s European music tour.
The Sprinter is complete with a fold down bed, a shower cleverly tucked away under the seats, DJ deck stand, plus built-in speakers and turntables. It also includes a record holder that doubles as a divider between the lounge and kitchen, all finished in high-quality oak.
Lydon said: “This conversion has allowed me to blend my passion for music and travel, and I hope it inspires others to think creatively and pursue their passions.”
George Clarke, TV presenter and architect, and head judge, said: “A big congratulations to Jack for his win. The judges and I were extremely impressed by the attention to detail, left-field thinking and big creativity that he demonstrated with his creation. I’ll be following his endeavours as he tours around Europe this year.
“This year’s eBay Van Conversion of the Year Awards have presented an even more diverse line-up of conversions for us to judge. Entries included everything from cleverly customised mobile business vans to weekend getaway campers and full-time van lifer homes on wheels. I was very impressed with the creativity and DIY skills showcased by this year’s entrants.”
Before selecting the overall winner, eBay’s judging panel whittled the shortlist down to seven standout van conversions from the following award categories: Best Electric Vehicle, Best Bespoke Build, Most Creative, Weekend Wanderer, Best Budget Friendly, Best Enterprise Conversion and Special Recognition. Each of the category winners received a £250 vouchers to spend on eBay parts and accessories.
