Do I need a donor

Looking into donor or not it seems the answer is "it depends". For example:

If you buy an AK for instance and you intend to put a new LS engine in it then the donor is not necessary. Getting the axles from a breakers is sufficient. This would mean a new registration through rather than the original number plate.

Getting a donor car and stripping it is a messy job although can be very rewarding. Buying the parts and a V5 from the breakers should cost £350 - £600 which is easier but the DVLA is talking about getting tougher on donor cars. Pictures of the donor car will be necessary. Also remember, if you strip a donor car then you need a way to scrap the rest, when you have no axles/wheels to roll it onto a trailer.

All food for thought