10 November, 2014
Classic car enthusiasts from all quarters converged on Shepton Mallet last weekend for the 14th Footman James Classic Vehicle Restoration Show.
A fantastic (and dry) time was enjoyed by all in attendance at the Royal Bath & West showground, which was packed out by almost 7,000 members of the classic car community.
A buzzing atmosphere on the day was enhanced by the mild weather, providing perfect conditions to enjoy over 700 visiting classic vehicles on show.
Record-breaking weekend
The show was spread out over four indoor arenas, all part of a packed weekend of live displays and expert advice.
Attendees met fellow classic addicts, and some even drove away in a new vintage model.
It was a hugely successful weekend for the event's organisers as 2013's unprecedented attendance of 6,500 was smashed by this year's total.
There was plenty going on to keep the visitors both entertained and informed, with restorers and classic car clubs running live displays and handing out lots of useful hints and tips.
Cream of the crop
A glittering awards ceremony was a fitting climax to the weekend's festivities, with the Bristol R5 Owners Club scooping the prize for best stand.
The club just managed to fend off stiff competition from the Daimler and Lanchester Owners Club and Austin A30 Club who claimed the runners-up spots.
The prize for most interesting vehicle went to a rare Healey Boat designed by the famous car manufacturer Donald Healey. Second prize, meanwhile, went to a classic Ford Capri 3.0 powered by a V6 engine.
The most interesting car award went to a 1905 Wolseley Baby X-type 5hp two-seater Phaeton. The classic vehicle is the only recorded 5hp known in the world and has recently been acquired by its owner, Frank Loft, for display in his Moretonhampstead Motor Museum in Devon.
More to come in 2015...
Preparations for next year's calendar of events are already under way with show organiser, Nigel Stevens, promising a spectacular Great Western Autojumble with a stylish, retro feel.
Returning for its fifth year on February 14 and 15, the event will have a rock and roll theme celebrating the Mods and Rockers years. Clubs are invited to show off cars from the 50s, 60s and early 70s at the event which will include two halls of autojumble and an auction by Charterhouse.
Award winners:
Best Club Stand
1. Bristol RS Owners Club
2. Daimler & Lanchester OC
3. Austin A30
Most Interesting Vehicle
1. Healey Boat
2. Ford Capri 3.0 V6
Most Interesting Car
1. Wolseley Baby 1905
2. Volvo P1800 ST1 Saint Car
Best Demonstration
1. Norton Radstock CVC
2. Somerset TSSC
Best Trade Stand
1. Stafford Vehicle Components
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