London Concours 2024

On Wednesday 5th June 2024 I attended the London Concours – a luxurious three-day automotive garden party. This hugely exciting automobile extravaganza showcases 80 of the world’s most precious cars gathered in the gardens of the historic and beautiful Honourable Artillery Company Headquarters in the heart of the City.

The day I went along paid homage to one of the greatest and most enduring icons of automotive design – the Jaguar E-type.

This automobile has stood the test of time, with all the evolutions and variants on display that have become synonymous with elegance, class and sophistication. It was designed with purpose and reliability. It still turns heads whenever you see one on the road or at an event such as this. Selected owners were invited to feature their pride and joy for all to admire.

This link takes you to all the Winners of the three-day event at London Concours 2024.

If you would like to attend next year’s three day event be sure to put this in your diary 3 - 5 June 2025.

In the meantime I’m going to let the following photographs from the day do the talking.

Thanks!

Stella

Concours on Savile Row 2024

Concours on Savile Row 2024

On May 22nd and 23rd I attended Concours on Savile Row to experience the creative two worlds of bespoke tailoring and automotive design – the perfect partnership for excellence.

For this two-day event Savile Row was closed to traffic and transformed into a concours presenting cars and bikes that span the history of the automotive world, from the earliest coach built machinery to the latest electric-powered hypercars – all in association with the very finest tailors on Savile Row.

Ducati showcase their 2024 deBolex dw25

The tailors of Savile Row have a longstanding relationship with the automotive industry, having created everything from driving suits and driving jackets to car interiors. Sharing the same values – craftsmanship, beautiful design, high quality materials, attention to detail and extremely discerning customers.

The All-electric CALLUM SKYE makes its debut.

Company founder Ian Callum was on hand to introduce his new creation to our streets. Take a look at the video below to find out more.

Ian Callum unveils his latest creation the CALLUM SKYE

An aerial view of the CALLUM SKYE. To the left is a 1963 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster. To the left is a 2024 Jensen Interceptor R Supercharged

The CALLUM SKYE an all-electric vehicle, it’s powered by a 42kWh battery with anticipated range of 170 miles.

A clay prototype of the CALLUM SKYE. One of many designs before the final one.

CALLUM SKYE Measuring 4,047mm in length and 1,900mm in width, and weighing just 1,150kg, it boasts sportscar performance with 0-60mph achieved in under four seconds.

Scroll through the captioned images to learn more. Viewing on a smart phone in portrait format doesn’t show captions, change to landscape to view them.

David Gandy talks about his love of cars and his 1954 Jaguar XK120 proudly displayed on the concours.

This superb Jaguar XK120 belongs to renowed male model David Gandy

This superb Jaguar XK120 belongs to renowed male model David Gandy who commissioned its rebuild and bespoke fittings from Jaguar Classic.

Music to entertain the crowds

Richard James continue their partnership with Audi and displayed a Q8 E-Tron –perfectly presented to reflect the craft of tailoring and stitching.

Jarvis Cocker resting in a Riley. How better to enjoy the day.

It's a dogs life! Meet Jarvis Cocker.

Tailors patterns hanging upstairs at 13 Savile Row – Cad & The Dandy

It's all about about individual style and the very best craftsmanship.

Upstairs in the workroom at 13 Savile Row – Cad & The Dandy

Cad & The Dandy 7-8 Savile Row – the tailoring process

Upstairs at 13 Savile Row – Cad & The Dandy

Upstairs at 13 Savile Row – Cad & The Dandy

1954 Alfa Romeo 1900 Super Sprint Coupé Touring Superleggera at Cad & The Dandy 7-8 Savile Row

Time to play on screen at Cad & The Dandy 7-8 Savile Row

Gieves & Hawkes – No 1 Savile Row Royal Tailors since 1789

Gieves & Hawkes – No 1 Savile Row Royal Tailors since 1789

A recreation of John Lennon’s Rolls Royce Phantom V. Look at the artwork detail. The Beatles were regular customer of Savile Row in the 60s.

Can you image the atmosphere in Saville Row when this took place!

If you love fine craftsmanship and London town look out for this free event next year.

Coming soon my blog about my collaboration with Scabal - A Passion for Cloth

In 1972, Scabal settled into number 12 Savile Row and has been crafting traditional and modern style suits from this coveted address ever since – the street’s long-standing sartorial success woven into every garment.
Scabal Savile Row offers a full made-to-measure service: suits, jackets, leather outerwear and formal eveningwear. More than 5,000 of the world’s finest fabrics are on offer, and fittings can be made anywhere – at home, in the office, at a hotel. It is also home to a selection of elegant ready-to-wear pieces and shirts, belts and other accessories.

Scabal 12 Savile Row

Thank you for reading!

Until next time, Stella

Welcoming Streeter Marshall Solicitors & Notaries to Oxted, Surrey

This month Oxted welcomed a new business to our lovely town in Surrey. Streeter Marshall Solicitors & Notaries marked its presence with a launch party inviting clients and businesses from the town to learn more about them in the luxurious surroundings of Hammond’s Wine Bar – another new Oxted eatery that launched in Novmeber last year.

I was asked to visually document the event and to tell you more about the evening and the history of Streeter Marshall and its incorporation with Teresa M Cornwell.

Charlotte Holfert left and Teresa Cornwell right

Streeter Marshall, one of the oldest and largest firms of solicitors in Croydon and the surrounding areas, is excited to announce its incorporation of Teresa M Cornwell Solicitors, a friendly practice that has been serving the Oxted community since 1989. The acquisition marks a significant milestone for both firms, bringing together their complementary strengths to better serve their clients.

Teresa M Cornwell has earned a reputation for providing a personal and caring service in relation to a range of family matters whilst maintaining long standing professional relationships with their clients and families. 

“We are excited to welcome Teresa M Cornwell Solicitors to the Streeter Marshall family,” said Charlotte Holfert, Partner in charge of the new Oxted office of Streeter Marshall. “Teresa has built a practice that is highly regarded in Oxted, and we are confident that her clients will benefit from the additional resources and expertise that Streeter Marshall can provide. We look forward to working with her and her team to continue providing first class legal services to the community.”

Teresa added, “We are thrilled to join forces with Streeter Marshall. We share a commitment to providing a high level of service to our clients, and we believe that by working together, we can achieve even better results. We look forward to a bright future as part of the Streeter Marshall team.”

Overall, the acquisition of Teresa M Cornwell Solicitors by Streeter Marshall is an exciting development for both firms and their clients. With their combined expertise and resources, they are well-positioned to continue providing high quality legal services to the community for many years to come.

From left to right Partner Richard Curran, Solicitor Joanna Colwill and Partners Neil Brocklehurst, Inderjit Dosanjh, Charlotte Holfert, Solicitor Teresa Cornwell, Senior Partner David Moore and Partners Robert Sotiro, Alistair McKie, Gill Vargerson and Philip Barnes.

Senior Partner David Moore with Chairman of Tandridge District Council Jackie Wren and Solicitor Teresa Cornwell.

Established over 200 years, Streeter Marshall maintains its position as a leading firm of Croydon Solicitors, serving the Croydon, Surrey, and Greater London areas.

Streeter Marshall can trace its origins back to 1790 and represents an amalgamation of a number of former Croydon Solicitors and Surrey firms. With offices in Croydon, Warlingham, Purley, Coulsdon, and now Oxted.

Streeter Marshall is a modern and progressive firm which has made a substantial investment in IT over the years and is able to provide a high standard of service to clients at a price that represents value for money.

Alistair McKie and Nikki Newton from the Purley Office

Alison Stimpson and Peter Russell from the Coulsdon Office.

A wonderful selection of canapés crafted by head chef Tommy Morriss. A fantastic evening enjoyed by all, thanks to John Hammond, Ross and all the team at Hammond’s.

It was a pleasure to photograph the event and to introduce you to Streeter Marshall Solicitors & Notaries and Hammond’s Restaurant, Wine Bar and Courtyard.

You can find out more about Streeter Marshall Here and Hammond’s Wine Bar Here.

If you have an event or project you have in mind for documenting please get in touch on 0777 181 0105 or by email.

Thank you

Stella

Bonhams London to Brighton Veteran Car Run - 3 November 2019

This year’s Bonhams London to Brighton Veteran Car Run took place on Sunday 3 November 2019. For the fifth year running, I had the pleasure of photographing the arrivals of these veteran cars as they crossed the finishing line on Madeira Drive, Brighton on what proved to be a warm and sunny day.

A little bit of background history to set the scene, the first run was in 1896, and it has taken place most years since its initial revival in 1927. To qualify, the cars must have been built before 1905. It is also the world's largest gathering of veteran cars.

This year at Hyde Park, at precisely 06:56am sunrise, the first of the horseless carriages were flagged away with the earliest of the Victorian vehicles leading the way through Wellington Arch, down Constitution Hill, past Buckingham Palace, Whitehall and Parliament Square and then over Lambeth Bridge. Here the 60-mile route split into two alleviating traffic congestion in South London.

As in recent years, the Bonhams Veteran Car Run provided a fitting finale to the Royal Automobile Club’s busy London Motor Week. The penultimate event in the week was the free-to-view Illinois Route 66 Regent Street Motor Show, on Saturday 2 November, which turned London’s flagship shopping street into a motoring showcase that put the spotlight on veterans and moderns alike and attracted hundreds of thousands of visitors. This was my first time photographing this event, it was interesting to see the lead up to the Sunday Car Run.

All the photographs below have captions on each to tell you more about the two days events.

The Illinois Route 66 - Over one hundred stunning, historic cars were on display within the Bonhams Veteran Car Zone, featuring the Concours d’Elegance, at the Show

These vehicles were all lovingly restored by their owners, many of whom attended in period dress!

A wet day didn’t stop the crowds from coming to visit in admiration.

All the veteran cars were built before 1905.

Winner of ‘Period Motoring Attire’ car number 83, a 1901 Albion went to Mark Farrall and his passenger.

The judges overseas award went to car number 166, a 1903 Oldsmobile, driven by Michael Seidemann.

The Historic Veteran Car Award went to car number 27, an 1899 Daimler, driven by Robert Abrey.

Original and Unrestored Veteran Car Award went to car number 386 an 1899 De Dion Bouton, driven by Dirk Van Praag.

Concours d’Elegance Light Vehicle Award went to car number 1, an 1894 Benz driven by Mr Hermann Layher

The trophy for the Veteran Car Concours d’Elegance Light Vehicle.

Concours d’Equipe award went to the vehicle, driver & passengers who wore the appropriate period dress that, in the view of the judges symbolises the veteran era. Went to car number 124, a 1902 Peugeot, driven by Mark Sabbe.

Concours d’Elegance Overall Winner went to car number 381, a 1904 Mercedes, driven by Albert Eberhard, shown here with broadcaster Alan Titchmarsh.

The Spectators Special Award, as voted by the public for their favourite Veteran of the day. Winner car number 124, a 1902 Peugeot driven by Mark Sabbe seen here with his wife.

Over 100 veteran cars were displayed ahead of the Car Run from Hyde Park to Maderia Drive, Brighton the next day for the Bonhams London to Brighton Veteran Car Run on Sunday 3 November.

Over one hundred stunning veteran cars were on display within the Bonhams Veteran Car Zone at the Illinois Route 66, Regent Street Motor Show, featuring the Concours d’Elegance. The cars were judged by a panel of experts and several awards were given out at the Show. A showcase of 125 years of motoring including veteran, vintage, classic, and modern-day cars.

First to cross the finishing line Andreas Melkus for the third year running in his 1902 Oldsmobile.

Car number 15 an 1898 Daley driven by Keith Pearson

Motorcycle A a 1903 Dreadnought ridden by Jonathan Hill.

Car 226 a 1903 Renault driven by Shane Houlihan.

Car 051 a 1900 Darracq, driven by Tim Summers.

Car 348 a 1904 Gladiator driven by Adam Fergusson and car 256 a 1904 De Dion Bouton driven by Mark Green.

Car 200 a 1903c Cadillac driven by Richard Skipworth and car 298 a 1904 De Dion Bouton driven by Andrew North.

Car 219 a 1903 Darracq driven by Peter Boulding.

Car 180 a 1903 Cadillac, rear entrance tonneau driven by Michael Kadoorie.

Car 132 a 1902 Panhard et Levassor, rear entrance tonneau, driven by Charles Clark.

Car 176 a 1903 De Dion Bouton driven by Thomas Morgan.

In total, nearly ninety percent of the 400 plus starters made it to Brighton before the 4.30pm deadline to claim a coveted finishers’ medal.

First back was car number 95, a 1902 Oldsmobile, driven by Andreas Melkus who crossed the finishing line at 10.08am. Andreas has been the first to cross the finishing line for the past three years, well done to him and his Oldsmobile!

While the Run is famously not a race, the popular A. Lange & Söhne Regularity Time Trial provided a competitive element. More than 230 entrants elected to take part in the Trial by attempting to keep to a strict average speed for the stretch between Crawley and Burgess Hill. The winner was Paul Emile Bessade a 1904 Darracq who covered the 13 miles at an average speed of 10.1mph compared to his 10mph target.

Car 125 a 1902 Darracq driven by Allan White.

Car 78 a 1901 Darracq driven by Paul Hoskins.

Car 149 a 1902 De Dietrich, rear entrance tonneau driven by F Van Haren.

Car 231 a 1903 Berliet, closed swing-seat tonneau, driven by John Bentley.

Tricycle number 9 an 1898 Margot Gardon, ridden by John Wilton.

Car number 82 a 1901 Renault driven by Ron Walker.

Motorcycle letter C a 1904 Kerry ridden by Alan Williams.

Car 139 a 1902 Panhard et Levassor driven by Thomas Hill.

In total, 120 different marques ranging from Adler (built in Frankfurt, Germany) to Yale (from Toledo in Ohio, US) were represented on this year’s Run – some, like Cadillac, Renault, Vauxhall and Mercedes, still well-known today, but the vast majority long since forgotten. Many cars and crews sported moustaches in support of Movember, the event’s official Charity Partner.

The veteran car drivers and passengers enjoyed an unseasonably mild day, it was especially warm at the finishing line - Madeira Drive, Brighton.

Half of the participants followed the traditional A23 route via Kennington, Brixton and Streatham Common; the other half journeyed via Vauxhall, Clapham Common and Tooting. The two routes then merged on the A236 just north of Croydon with the entire cavalcade reunited as it headed to the spectator-friendly halfway point in Crawley High Street, the South Downs and eventually the Madeira Drive seafront in Brighton.

To see a copy of the route please click here

As the sun began to set the last of the cars arrived at Madeira Drive.

Well, that concludes a warm Sunday on Madeira Drive, always a pleasure to photograph this event. It’s a huge contrast to the Formula One & Two events I have photographed over the past two years, it just shows how far the automobile has come!

It’s always interesting to hear the stories from the drivers and passengers as they stop at the finishing line to say a few words about their journey and the history of their vehicle and personal experiences. Some of the participants told the story about how they have been taking part in the race for the past 50 years, first as babes in arms with grandparents, to eventually sitting in the coveted driver’s seat, a true family tradition.

Thanks for reading.

Stella

The Classic Motor Hub - Coffee & Classics - Italian Event 5 May 2019

On Sunday 5th May between 10am and 1pm The Classic Motor Hub in Bibury, Gloucestershire will be hosting another of their much loved Coffee & Classics events.

This time they are holding a particularly special Italian edition for anyone with an Italian classic or vintage, modern performance car, super car, or motorcycle.

The event promises to offer a little bit of Italian elegance with a live Jazz Band and food with a Mediterranean influence and much more going on too, adding to what is always a fun and exciting three hours on a Sunday!

If you haven’t visited The Classic Motor Hub before you are in for a real treat, you can check-out the award winning showrooms, see the on-site private collection and browse their shop.

On this particular occasion I’ll be there showcasing my collection of limited edition photographs of a few Italian favourites and will be available to discuss an exclusive photo-shoot of one of your cars or motorcycles in a location meaningful to you.

To come along you will however need to register your Italian car or motorcycle, but you can rest assured you will be in fine company of many other classic and modern Italian cars and motorcycles, but don’t leave it too long as spaces in their parking area fill up fast!

You can register via this link to their website.

I look forward to meeting you!

Stella

Showcasing 'Stella' Lifestyle Photography for 2019

Happy New Year, I hope the Christmas break was a good one and you are now well and truly settled in 2019 with plans and goals in place for a successful year.

This is a blog I have been meaning to write for a while but didn’t quite find the right time, it’s about my marketing book that I produced last summer, that has proved to be a vital tool to showcase my photography and all that I can offer my discerning customers.

The book, printed in the UK, features automotive events, commissions and photographs from private classic and supercar collections over the years - it turned out to be a lengthy process, selecting the images, and working with the printers, designer and copywriter to get the best results as quality and the fine details are so important to me.

This book is unlike others that I have encountered, it is printed both sides on photographic paper, I chose to go for a lustre finish and even more different is the way the pages meet in the middle to lay flat, it’s pretty unique because it uses a transparent plastic ‘clip’ so the registration of the two pages align perfectly side by side, which is impressive.

The size of each page is A3 so when it’s fully open it certainly does have the wow factor. Working with a designer meant I could think about how best to show each page spread and the power of visual imagery to promote my craft at it’s very best and the service I can offer you, the customer.

To add the finishing touches my words were used to tell the story of each event, including commissions from Silverstone Classic, Salon Privé and the Goodwood Revival.

If you have an up and coming project in the pipeline or are looking for a photographer with over 30 years experience working with people, cars and places to create new and exciting imagery for you personally, your company or a brand you represent then please do get in touch. I would love the opportunity to introduce myself, discuss your ideas and present the book in person, either at your place of work or my Surrey based studio.

Thank you

Stella

The Classic Motor Hub - ‘Stella’ Photography Exhibition on Sunday 7 October 2018

I have some exciting news to share with you, on Sunday October 7th I have been invited to showcase my automotive exhibition of limited edition photographs called ‘A Drive Down Memory Lane’ at The Classic Motor Hub in Bibury, Gloucestershire as part of their Coffee & Classics event, from 10am - 1pm.

Some of you may remember this exhibition from the inaugural event at Chartwell in Westerham in October 2014. Since then it has featured at many events including the Royal Automobile Club, Pall Mall, in Mayfair and at an exclusive day at Bremont in South Audley Street, Mayfair. Since then there have been additions to the collection with further exclusive photographs included, each photograph is limited to editions of 25.

There will be an opportunity for all visitors to enter a competition to win one of the limited edition framed photographs, by identifying a key element of different prestigious cars.

The Classic Motor Hub is more than just a show room and has something for everyone in a five-acre site dedicated to classic motoring, including events, classic cars & bikes, modern performance machines and all manner of automotive ephemera.

I hope you can make it, it promises to be a fabulous event with visitors arriving in their classic cars & bikes to mingle and enjoy the atmosphere and to visit the showrooms of wonderful cars where I’ll be waiting to greet you with my exhibition.

Visitors are invited by pre-registration only, I have been advised that capacity is full for vehicles post 1990 and there is limited availability for vehicles pre 1990. Further details to register your attendance can be found here, but please hurry to avoid disappointment!

Stella

Images below supplied courtesy of The Classic Motor Hub, thank you.

Silverstone Classic 2018

What an eventful day it proved to be at Silverstone Classic on Saturday 21st July, the morning started at the Media Centre to collect my media pass and Official Photographers bib which gave me access track side. Some very nice Tesla owners gave up their day to drive media people and VIP's to designated points during the event. 

The first 5 races took place at the National Paddock during the morning with the remaining 7races taking place at the International Paddock in the afternoon.

The variety of photographs from the days events show track side activity, World GP Bike Legends before an exciting demonstration. On the podium there was happiness and victory for the likes of Christophe D’Ansembourg, William Nuthall, Jake Hill, Steve Tandy and Nick Padmore amongst others. 

For those of you who are interested in my kit, I used Nikon bodies D750 and D700 with prime lenses 18mm and 50mm and zooms 70-200mm and 24-120mm with a Nikon Speedlight SB-910, I also introduced to the mix a Fuji XT-2 body with a16-55mm lens for when the other bodies became too heavy!

I hope you enjoy the photographs and the story they each tell of an action packed day, scroll down to see the link to further images and the results of the day.

View fullsize

View fullsize

View fullsize

View fullsize

View fullsize

View fullsize

To view further images of the day please follow this link and to find out the results of the races please click here.

Thanks for reading.

Stella

British Grand Prix 2018

I gained accreditation to attend the pre-race days at the Silverstone British Grand Prix on Thursday 5th and Friday 6th July to photograph Sergey Sirotkin.

Sergey is the young Russian driver currently competing with Williams-Martini, one of the worlds leading Formula One teams, to give a behind-the-scenes look at what this up and coming racing driver does in the Paddock before a race. The photographs will feature in a Russian, London Lifestyle Magazine called Rutáge, which is due for publication in August, once this has taken place I will be able to share my blog about Sergey next month.

Whilst I was in between photo-calls I managed to capture other Formula One racing greats, including Lewis Hamilton and Valtteri Bottas from Mercedes AMG Petronas; Ferrari drivers Sebastian Vettel and Kimi Räikkonen; Team Principal Christian Horner of Red Bull Racing and drivers Daniel Ricciardo and Max Verstappen; Vijay Mallya, Team Principal of Sahara Force India and drivers Sergio Perez and Esteban Ocon. Others to look out for are Stoffel Vandoorne and Fernando Alonso from the McLaren Formula 1 Team, and Brendan Hartley and Pierre Gasly from Scuderai Toro Rosso, also George Russell currently competing in Formula 2. 

View fullsize

View fullsize

View fullsize

View fullsize

The Paddock was a hive of activity with drivers, technicians, engineers, media teams and crews, Team Principals and visitors, including tours for small groups of school children and children from Great Ormond Street Hospital - there were racing heroes from the past including Damon Hill signing autographs.

The photographs above are a selection from my two days, showing the Sky Sports F1 live broadcast on the grid featuring fun and games in front of the fans in the grandstands, autograph signing and interviews. To see a wider selection of images simply click here to the events section of the website.

To obtain media accreditation to the British Grand Prix I had to apply to the FIA requesting permission, stating the nature of my intended visit, once permission was granted I was able to bring my ideas together for the feature on Sergey Sirotkin.

The scrolling photographs above show the different passes that all media accredited people are given for security purposes, and to make their time and workflow efficient, these include car parking, media room, Pit Lane and Paddock access.

It was a fascinating and fully engaging experience which opened my eyes to the wonderful world of Formula One. 

Thank you to the FIA for issuing me with a Paddock Pass, Williams-Martini for their hospitality and co-operation, Rutáge for commissioning the story, and the other people behind-the-scenes at my studio, but not forgetting a very big thank you to Martin Turner for steering me in the right direction, without him this would not have happened!

I interviewed and photographed Martin last month for an 'In Conversation with..' blog which can be read here. 

Coming in August my blog about Sergey Sirotkin 'Under the Helmet' ...

Thank you

Stella

Masterpiece London 2018

I photographed at the Preview Day on 27 June at Masterpiece London which majestically sits for the duration of the fair in the grounds of the Royal Hospital Chelsea. This is like no other art fair and is a wonderland of treasures. The 160 international exhibitors are selected by reputation to give buyers confidence, while everything on display is vetted by specialists.

I found it a wonderful learning opportunity and saw works of art  from paintings by L.S Lowry and Picasso to Meissen Porcelain. There was also the Henry Moore, Mother and Child bronze, edition 4 of 9  with a price tag of over £3m. It really is an art lovers paradise to be able to get so close to these works of art and to talk to the experts about them.

The show is on until 4 July, more details from the Masterpiece website and to see additional images from the event please follow this link.

Stella

The London Motor Show 2018

On Thursday 17 May The London Motor Show at ExCel opened it's doors to an exclusive afternoon to the press, trade and VIP's to showcase all the event has to offer.

HRH Prince Michael of Kent officially opened the show with an entertaining mix of cars and interviews with professionals in the industry. I enjoyed photographing the afternoon at it's new venue having previously been in Battersea Park from its beginnings three years ago.

View fullsize

View fullsize

View fullsize

View fullsize

Former F1 driver Karun Chandhok interviewed DriveTribe CEO Jonathan Morris and Chief Marketing Officer Jim Murray-Jones as well as interviews hosted by Steve Nash (CEO IMI) with guests David Williams - Technical Director at AXA and Fuzz Townshend from TV show CAR S.O.S

Below are a few of the highlights from the evening. The show is on until 20 May with doors closing at 5pm this is the link to their website. To see additional images from the event please follow this link.

It was a fun afternoon and good to meet old friends, make new ones too and of course to see what's new in the world of cars. Enjoy!

Stella

The London Classic Car Show 2018

On Thursday 15 February, I packed up my camera and headed over to London’s ExCel’s Exhibition Centre for the fourth annual London Classic Car Show. For those of you who have not been, the show celebrates beautiful, classic motoring nostalgia in a dramatic setting and it is one of the highlights of my year!

This year’s show was opened in a dramatic fashion by three well-known TV motoring presenters; Alex Riley (BBC One Show), Jonny Smith (Fifth Gear and Mud, Sweat & Gears) and Quentin Willson (BBC Top Gear, Fifth Gear and The Classic Car Show).  It was clear right from the opening that the show was going to be bigger and better than ever before. 

Once again, an enormous indoor race track, known as the ‘Grand Avenue’, ran through the centre of the ExCel, enthralling visitors and allowing them to see – and hear – some of their favourite classics in action. The car above is a 1907 Stanley H4 Gentleman's Speedy Roadster, the hypercar of its era.

Getaway Cars

The show paid homage to ‘Getaway Cars’.  This was an evocative tribute to those vehicles made famous in movies or used in headline grabbing real-life robberies and was curated by Philip Glenister, aka DCI Gene Hunt from BBC police dramas Life on Mars and Ashes to Ashes.  

Alongside the vehicles made famous for dramatic escapes, the show welcomed their very own celebrity drivers with actor Nick Moran of Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels reliving various of his film roles at the special display. 

Nick Reynolds, the son of Bruce Reynolds, was reunited with the very Lotus Cortina that his late father used to stake out the Great Train Robbery in 1963. The Lotus has just 3,500 miles on the clock and is still fitted with the same tyres that helped the police to hunt down the gang!

Nick Moran with the Italian Job Mini Cooper brought to London.

Nick Reynolds with his father Bruce Reynolds' Lotus Cortina used in The Great Train Robbery.

RAF Red Arrows and Aston Martin Owners Club

Squadron Leader Adam Collins from the RAF Red Arrows was on the Aston Martin Owners Club stand with a Vanquish S Red Arrows limited edition model, which was recently raffled for a huge £1.5m, earning for the RAF Benevolent Fund. He was joined by Humphrey Bradley from south east London – the lucky man who won the car.

Lister Thunder Launch on the Grand Avenue

The opening evening witnessed a pair of major global car launches with two of Britain's most iconic marques unveiling spotlight-stealing new models. First Morgan took the wraps on its latest +4 Club Sport and then Lister revealed its never-seen-before Thunder. 

This year’s theme was ‘Specials’, which put the spotlight on an eye-catching gathering of road and race cars steeped in history and mystique. No fewer than 60 hand-picked classics were fired up for jaw-dropping, not to mention very noisy, displays on The Grand Avenue.

As the dramatic live show came towards its conclusion, the show opening trio of Riley, Smith and Willson selected four stand-out cars with a combined value of more than £3m to join the parade: a 1931 Bentley 8-litre; a highly-original 1961 Jaguar E-type; a 1992 Jaguar XJ220 and a 2015 McLaren P1 hypercar – a classic car of the future. 

The trio was joined by former Blue Peter and GMTV presenter Anthea Turner for the photograph next to the Lister Thunder.

The Morgan latest +4 Club Sport takes its place on the Grand Avenue.

Presenter Alex Riley with the 1961 Jaguar E-Type and 1931 Bentley 8 litre.

A 1934 Rolls-Royce 20/25 Gurney Nutting - a shimmering silver masterpiece of the coachbuilders' art.

A 1989 Lotus Judd Type 101, Chassis no 3 - an aerodynamically ambitious Camel.

Nigel Mansell CBE, closes the show

On Sunday, the racing legend Nigel Mansell CBE arrived at the show to talk about a special collection of his racing cars and to provide a fitting close to the event.

The 1992 F1 World Champion wowed Sunday crowds with some wonderful driving displays on the Grand Avenue, which included a wheel-spinning entrance behind the wheel of a Jaguar E-type inspired Eagle Speedster.

He later returned in a red Ferrari 246 Dino F1 front-engined F1 car from the late fifties and was also reunited with some of the cars which he raced during his roller-coaster career. 

At the end of his performance on the Grand Avenue, Nigel was awarded the 2018 London Classic Car Show Icon award.

My closing thoughts

All in all, this year’s show was a brilliant experience from start to finish. Nigel Mansell CBE was a real highlight for me, especially his performances on the Grand Avenue, his interview at the Supaguard Theatre and his presentation of the London Classic Car Show Icon award. 

I hear the show attracted over 38,000 visitors and featured close to 700 of the world’s finest classic cars worth more than £300m. Next year’s dates for your diary are 14-17 February 2019 - I am looking forward to it already!

To see a variety of other photographs from the event please click on this link to the 'Events' page.

Please follow me on Instagram for new pictures and stories of future events on @stellasms and @stellascordellis.

Thank you.

Stella

Bonhams London to Brighton Veteran Car Run 5 November 2017

The London to Brighton Veteran Car Run is the longest-running motoring event in the world. More than 400 pioneering veteran cars (built before 1905), their drivers and passengers gathered in Hyde Park on Sunday 5 November waiting for daybreak to signal the start of the annual Bonhams London to Brighton Veteran Car Run supported by Hiscox.

Participants headed off for a nostalgic drive to the Sussex coast, where I was waiting to photograph them cross the finishing line to the rapturous cheers and applause of the crowds at Madeira Drive, Brighton.

This year the Run featured the largest entry in recent years, staged as it has been since 1930, by the Royal Automobile Club. The route this year took a detour to avoid the roadworks in Brixton as the map below shows.

Although a number of cars were diverted following a road traffic accident involving one of the participating vehicles, 315 of the 401 starters made it to Brighton to claim a coveted finishers’ medal before sunset at 4.30pm. 

This year's Veteran Car Run marked 121 years since the original 'Emancipation Run', which was held in 1896 to celebrate the Locomotive on the Highway Act. This raised the speed limit for ‘light locomotives’ from 4 to 14 mph and abolished the need for a man to walk ahead waving a red flag to warn pedestrians and horse riders of its approach. The event’s ceremonial start includes the tearing in half of one such red flag, a poignant reminder of the liberation we commemorate on this annual ‘Emancipation Run'.

I particularly enjoy photographing this annual event because of the atmosphere and the fascinating history associated with each car, I have included some of the histories to accompany a few of the photographs from the day.

The maximum speed the cars can travel is 20 mph, the first car above, to cross the finishing line at 10.45am - number 111, a 1902 Oldsmobile, 1 cylinder 4.5 HP driven by Andreas Melkus from Austria.

Not far behind, above in car number 034, Robert Abery driving an 1899 Daimler, 2 cylinders 8 HP and car number 150 driven by Jiri Horice a 1902 Autocar, 2 cylinders 10 HP.

In all, 23 countries are represented in an entry list, which includes 34 new participants on the Run, while a further 18 have returned after missing the 2016 event.

John Dennis driving the car above number 125, knows exactly where he was on Sunday, 1 November 1959, he knows exactly where he was on Sunday, 6 November 1960, too.
 
In fact, he can pinpoint where he was on the first Sunday of November of every year, ever since - bar one year in the 1990s, when he was in America on a business trip. On the first Sunday of every November, Dennis has been behind the wheel of his veteran car, making his way from London to Brighton.
 
Not just any veteran car either, but one made by his grandfather’s company 115 years ago. It’s a 1902 Dennis Tonneau, 1 cylinder 8 HP, built by the Guildford-based Dennis Brothers, a company better known today for its buses, trucks and fire appliances. This year, John Dennis OBE drove the same car – registered P 26 – for the 58th time on the annual Bonhams London to Brighton Veteran Car Run. The car however, will be on its 66th Run, having completed eight Runs with John’s father at the wheel in the late 1940s and early 1950s.

John and two other drivers who have taken part in 50 or more Runs are to be given special Gold Medals by the Royal Automobile Club in recognition of their remarkable achievements. John will be joined at the ceremony by John Kemsley and John Newens below driving car number 312, his 1904 Star, 2 cylinders 7 HP - who have participated in 50 and 61 Runs respectively.

Passenger, Charley Boorman TV presenter, travel writer and actor with driver Damon Hill OBE, British former racing driver, above in a 1904 Rover, 1 cylinder 8 HP from the British Motor Musem.

Above photograph of Malcolm Barber Co-Chairman of the Bonhams Group, driving car number 260 a 1903 Peerless, 2 cylinder 16 HP.

Guy Middleton above, has been the proud owner of car number 218, a 1903 Wolseley Tonneau, 2 cylinders 7.5 HP for the past seven years, and his father before him the owner since 1984.

Guy has taken part in the Run on and off since 1983 as a passenger, he then completed a series of Runs in a single cylinder Bare as the driver.

I asked him to share any special memories about any of the Runs, this is his reply: "The first Run we had a puncture in Croydon High Street. Fortunately, we had inner tubes, a jack and some tyre levers and when we got going again we received an amazing round of applause for changing a tyre in about half an hour! A few Runs later we hired mobile phones (the ones that look like a brick with a rat tail), we had to keep it in the umbrella basket!"

I was also curious to know if he owns any other cars, and if so which was his favourite and why, Guy explained: "No, this is the only one and I have to look after it. We used it on our wedding day, to go from the church to our reception, so it does have a lot of great memories. At one point we had three cars in the Run, including my mother in a 1901 Baker electric. I shall wait and see if my daughters get the bug!"

Guy above, driving with his friends.

Ms Quirina Louwman above with her children and with her father driving 'Genevieve' their 1904 Darracq, 2 cylinders 12 HP, from the Louwman Museum in the Netherlands.

This car was the star of the 1953 British comedy film 'Genevieve' - about two couples who took part in the Run. Always a pleasure to see 'Genevieve' and her faithful occupants at the Run!

Above a 1901 De Dion, 1 cylinder 4.5 HP driven by Jerome Stevens.

Following the Run were 60 auction winners who bid for a seat on one of three vintage buses.

The 60 Go Bonkers to Brighton auction was organised by BBC Radio 2 DJ Chris Evans to raise money for BBC Children in Need. In the three years Children in Need has been involved in the Run, more than £741,000 has been raised for the charity. Many congratulations to them for raising much-needed funds for such a worthy cause!

Above Chris Evans, seen here with Pudsey Bear, drove one of the busses - the passengers were the auction winners who bid for a seat to raise money for BBC Children in Need.

Above presenter Alex Jones from BBC One, The One Show driving one of the 1950s Bedford coaches.

(Photograph supplied by MPA Creative)

Although the Run is not a race, in recent years the Chopard Regularity Trial has introduced an additional interesting element to the Run.

The Regularity Time Trial starts halfway through the Run after participants have regrouped at the Crawley half-way checkpoint. The Time Trial starts at Crawley High Street and finishes 13 miles later at another checkpoint at Burgess Hill in Sussex. 

Before the Run, each entrant will nominate the average speed they think they will maintain over the 13 miles – the options are 8 mph, 10 mph, 12 mph, 14 mph, 16 mph and 18 mph. If no speed is nominated, the default average speed is set at 12 mph. The car and driver that gets closest to its nominated average speed wins the watch.

This year’s winner of a Chopard Mille Miglia Chronograph, worth £4,900 is Ymer Sletter, who opted for a 12 mph average between the two points and came closest to his nominated speed. Driving a Cadillac dating back to 1904 shown in the photograph above (supplied), Sletter’s actual speed for the allocated section in the Sussex Downs was an amazing 12.01 mph.

The crowds gathered to cheer and applaud the participants and their wonderful array of veteran cars on a sunny, but chilly Sunday.

Above, an 1899 steam Locomobile, 2 cylinders 3.5 HP driven by Kempton Moody finished just before sunset.

Safely back on the trailer and homeward bound!

Thanks for reading, I'm already looking forward to Bonhams London to Brighton Veteran Car Run 2018!

To view more photographs from the day please follow this link to my website. I'll be back soon with more news in the next week or so.

Bye for now.

Stella

Chubb Insurance Concours D'Elégance 2017

Thursday 31 August was the opening of the world renowned Salon Privé in the grounds of Blenheim Palace, majestically placed on the South Lawn, now in its 3rd consecutive year.

Salon Privé continues to attract some of the most important collector cars in the world - with a 12-year history, Salon Privé is firmly established as the UK’s most prestigious luxury Classic and Supercar Show & Concours d’Elégance.

I had the pleasure of photographing the day for the 2nd year and this year's show didn't disappoint. As well as photographing I spoke to a few of the owners to hear about the history of their cars, one in particular stuck in my mind - a stunning 1973 Ferrari 365 GTS/4 'Daytona Spider', bought in the late 80s, this very car won the trophy for the People's Choice and quite rightly too.

The selection of photographs below tells you a little more about how the day unfolded.

The day started with the world premiere of the all-new ATS GT - the first ATS for more than half a century - Automobili Turismo e Sports owner Daniele Martian explained the ethos of the team of talented young people bringing back this historically important brand.

Trophies basking in the sunlight, lined up ready for the afternoon presentations.

Judge, Vincent Van Der Vinne - automotive historian, and writer speaking to the owner of the 1973 Ferrari 365 GTS/4 Daytona Spider.

This year the panel of judges were: Derek Bell as Chief Judge, Keith Bluemel, Henry Cole, Fabio Filippini, Marco Makaus, John Mayston-Taylor, Yasmin Le Bon, Hugo Modderman, Steve Parrish, Jeff Smith MBE, Frank Stephenson, Giles Taylor, Vincent Van der Vinne and youth judges, Ben Barkaway, Harvey Stanley and Marcus Willis with Max Girardo - Master of Ceremonies.
Seen above (l-r) Jeff Smith MBE, Steve Parrish, Max Girardo, His Grace, the 12th Duke of Marlborough, Yasmin Le Bon, John Mayston-Taylor, Frank Stephenson and Marco Makaus.

Some of the motorcycles needed a push!

Most OTT Motorbike: 1971 Kawasaki Millyard H1 500LC.

Jalil Rehman - Executive Vice President and Chief Business Operations Officer of Chubb Insurance, with Master of Ceremonies Max Girardo and His Grace, the 12th Duke of Marlborough (l-r).

Taking home top honours, with the Best of Show Trophy, was the revered and much-discussed 1960 Alfa Romeo 6C 3000 CM Pininfarina Superflow IV. This rare Alfa Romeo is the final evolution of four concept cars in one. The car initially began as a 6C 3000 CM race car, (driven by none other than Juan Manuel Fangio, taking 2nd place in the 1953 Mille Miglia), of the eight 6C 3000 CM's built, two were converted to street cars. Chassis #00128 was then given to Italian designer, Pininfarina, who used the chassis to evolve four prototype design studies ending with the Superflow IV with its Plexi roof.

Trophy presentation by His Grace, the 12th Duke of Marlborough and Jalil Rehaman - a car that hadn’t been shown in the UK until Thursday’s Salon Privé Concours debut; it shook off fierce competition in the Curvaceous Coupes Class, and will return to its home in the USA with not only the Best in Show Trophy but also a Best in Class award.

I can see why this Alfa Romeo won the Best in Class award as well the Best of Show trophy, it really is a car with class and style, I spoke to the owner who said people refer to it as the bubble car, I'm not sure that does it justice!

Andrew Bagley, Concours Chairman announcing the Special Award for Most Original Post-War: 1969 Aston Martin DB6 MkII.  
Built in 1969, this car is in exceptional condition with unbroken history and matching numbers. Chassis #4312 is a multiple award-winning car in both Concour d'Elégance and rallies. It is one of 5 in this particular colour Bahama Yellow and special to its kind, it has the capacity of changing the perceived colour depending on the lighting conditions.

Judges Henry Cole, Derek Bell MBE, Steve Parrish and youth judge Harvey Stanley.

This special 1967 Lamborghini Miura P400 having only returned from Italy and Lamborghini’s in-house restoration team, Polo Storico, in July, took home top honours in the Evolution of the Supercar Pin-Ups Class.

The current owners and recipients of the award. This car was delivered to its original owner in late 1967, who gave it the nickname 'Tamuira' after his fiancée and reigning Miss Italia Tamara Baroni. 

One-of-37 ‘covered headlamp’ 1961 Ferrari 250 GT SWB California Spider restored in the UK during 2012, this exceptional SWB-variant California Spider wowed judges, becoming Best in Show runner-up, and taking home a Best-in-Class win in the Riviera Cruising category.

His Grace, the 12th Duke of Marlborough presenting the trophy. I think you'll agree this is one of the most desirable open top GT cars ever made.

Other winners of Italian descent include the last-ever UK-delivered, right-hand-drive 1973 Ferrari 365 GTS/4 ‘Daytona’ Spider, one of just 122 that originally left the Maranello factory in that specification. Remaining with its current owner for over 30 years, it won the hearts of Salon Privé guests and took home the People’s Choice Award.

Thanks for reading, I'm already looking forward to next year at Salon Privé - to view more photographs from the day please follow this link to my website.

I'll be back next month with more news!

Bye for now.

Stella

Silverstone Classic 2017

The Silverstone Classic is firmly established as the world’s biggest classic motor racing festival. The epic event attracts more than 1,000 race entries and draws crowds of more than 100,000. The spectacular classic car celebration is staged at the famous Silverstone circuit in Northamptonshire, the birthplace of the FIA Formula One World Championship and home to the Formula 1 British Grand Prix. The three-day festival features the very best of classic and historic motor racing covering more than eight decades of motor sport, as well as live music from iconic rock bands and a wealth of family entertainment. In 2016, over 100 car clubs displayed more than 10,000 classic cars.

This is the reason why I look forward to photographing at Silverstone Classic, with accreditation to officially photograph - this blog shows a small selection of photographs I captured on the Friday and Saturday - to see more images from this prestigious event please click on each photograph to take you to the 'Events' section of my website.

Henry Hope-Frost on the screen before the Royal Automobile Club Woodcote Trophy for Pre '56 Sports Cars - car number 6 - 1953 Cooper Bristol T24/25 - Qualifying.

Friendly banter before the Kidston Trophy for Pre War Sports Cars - Qualifying.

Crispin Harris in a 1960 Austin Healy 3000 about to take to the track in the Gallet International Trophy for Classic GT Cars (Pre '66) - Qualifying.

Georg Kjallgren preparing to take to the track in a 1989 Courage C26S - Qualifying.

Engineers with Team Captain Anthony Reid's Austin A35 preparing for the Silverstone Classic Celebrity Challenge Trophy Race. 

Theo Paphitis, part of the Screen Stars team, owner and the driver of this Austin A35 in the Silverstone Classic Celebrity Challenge Trophy Race.

Ant Anstead, with friend and co-presenter Philip Glenister from Channel 4's 'For The Love of Cars' in a jovial mood before the Silverstone Classic Celebrity Challenge Trophy Race.

After the Maserati Trophy for HGPCA Pre '66 Grand Prix Cars. Wiliam Nuthall came 3rd in car number 10 - 1960 Cooper T53 and Julian Bronson drove car number 30 - 1960 Scarab Offenhauser.

Jonathan Kennard came 2nd in the FIA Masters Historic Formula One.

Ant Anstead (Screen Stars) with Olympic Gold Medalist Rower Mark Hunter (Going For Gold), before the Silverstone Classic Celebrity Challenge Trophy Race.

Brian Johnson lead singer from rock band AC/DC before the Silverstone Classic Celebrity Challenge Trophy Race (Rocking & Racing) - he didn't take part in the race following the qualifying session.

Andy Wolfe preparing in a 1982 Tyrrell 011 for the FIA Masters Historic Formula One Race.

Entrants in the pit-lane for the FIA Masters Historic Formula One Race.

Greg Thornton won the FIA Masters Historic Formula One in a 1976 Lotus 77.

Martin Donnelly (Rocking & Rolling), Steve Soper (Bike Legend) and Mark Blundell (Screen Stars) in a celebratory mood on the podium for the Silverstone Challenge Trophy - Pro Class.

The Screen Stars team won the Silverstone Classic Celebrity Challenge Trophy Race – a new addition to the action-packed programme on Saturday 29 July. Led by former Formula 1 ace and Le Mans winner Mark Blundell, the winning team included Dragon’s Den host Theo Paphitis, Wheeler Dealers presenter Ant Anstead, BBC Radio 2 sports presenter Vassos Alexander, Sky Sports F1 pundit Tony Jardine and former Top Gear anchor Tiff Needell. Between them, the speedy sextet helped towards raising £10,000 for the event’s official charity partner, Prostate Cancer UK.

Left to Right: Tony Jardine, Vassos Alexander, Theo Paphitis, Mark Blundell, Ant Anstead and Tiff Needell.

Thanks for reading - at the end of August I'll be photographing at Salon Privé Concours D'Elégance with a blog to follow later in September.

Bye for now.

Stella

The London Classic Car Show 2017

Jacky Ickx left with Derek Bell, reunited with their victorious Porsche 956.

On Thursday 23 February I packed my kit and made my way over to London’s ExCeL’s exhibition centre as the London Classic Car Show and sister show Historic Motorsport International opened their doors for a four-day feast of classic motoring nostalgia.

No fewer than five Le Mans legends – with an incredible 18 wins between them were there to open the event. These photographs I took tell the story of my visit.

The great Belgian, Jacky Ickx - who won 8 Grand Prix, poses next to his beautiful Brabham BT26A which brought him to second place in the 1969 Formula 1 world championship.

Jacky Ickx  – London Classic Car Show, Guest of Honour, where he was reunited with a number of cars from his racing past. A special display included his Ferrari 312 B2 and Brabham BT26 Grand Prix winning cars, and the Gulf Mirage GR8 and Porsche 956 that he shared with Derek Bell to claim two of their Le Mans victories.

Jacky Ickx being interviewed about his illustrious motor racing career.

Gulf Mirage GR8.

Jacky Ickx (centre), Derek Bell (right of centre) and Emanuele Pirro  (far right) were stars of the opening day’s gala evening celebrations, where they were joined by two more Le Mans winners, Jackie Oliver (far left) and Jürgen Barth (left of centre).

Jacky Ickx shared Le Mans wins with: Jackie Oliver (1969), Jürgen Barth (1977) and Derek Bell (1975, 1981 and 1982).

Jacky Ickx with his Le Mans winning co-driver Jackie Oliver in front of a photograph of them taken in 1969.

Derek Bell with the Porsche 956 he once raced in.

Advice for those looking to buy a classic was available from respected TV expert Quentin Willson.

He was present throughout the show and his latest ‘Smart Buys’ were showcased on the Classic Car magazine stand.

 Dario Franchitti with Joe Macari.

Another great racing name, Dario Franchitti (right), opening one of the show’s many highlights, a Ferrari Tribute comprising of 21 iconic Ferrari roads cars together worth an estimated £120 million. This year marks Ferrari’s 70th anniversary and the display, curated by Ferrari specialist dealer Joe Macari, brought together Ferraris old and new, from the early fifties 375MM to the latest hypercar, LaFerrari.

1963 Ferrari 250 GTO once owned by Pink Floyd drummer Nick Mason sold in 2013 for £52 million, making it the world's most expensive car. He bought the car in 1977 for £35,000 - what a great return!

The iconic La Ferrari - On December 3, 2016, a LaFerrari auctioned off for $7 million, making this car the most valuable 21st century automobile ever sold at auction.

This 1961 Ferrari 250 GT SWB California Spyder once owned by actor James Coburn for 25 years.

And at 6:30pm sharp, engines were started as a number of ultra rare classics took to The Grand Avenue, a quarter-mile long highway running through the centre of the show.

On the Grand Avenue this 1937 Alvin 4.3 Lancefield Concealed Hood.

This year’s theme was 'The Perfect 10', putting the spotlight on the best six examples of 10 different body styles which then were paraded on the catwalk allowing enthralled visitors to see – and hear – some of their favourite classics in action.

Dario Franchitti parading a Ferrari F40, named to celebrate Ferrari's fortieth anniversary.

TV Chef and petrol head James Martin, Joe Macari and Quentin Wilson discussing James Martin's love of Ferrari's.

Derek Bell presenting one of racing's greatest all-round drivers, Jacky Ickx, with the London Classic Car Icon Award.

The Icon trophy presented to Jacky Ickx on behalf of the London Classic Car Show.

Dario Franchitti and Jacky Ickx between the Ferrari F40 and Porsche 911 GT3-RS.

Emanuele Pirro, Quentin Wilson, Dario Franchitti, Derek Bell, Jacky Ickx, Jackie Oliver, Jürgen Barth, James Martin and Joe Macari.

I found this years show was bigger and much improved from previous years. I hear there were over 37,000 visitors over the 4 day event. Confirmed dates for next year, 15-18 February 2018 to put in your diary.

If you are interested in reading my blogs from the previous two years please click on the dates - 2015 2016

Thanks for reading, bye for now.

Stella

Bonhams London to Brighton Veteran Car Run 6th November 2016

I had the pleasure of photographing the arrival of hundreds of Veteran Cars arriving at Madeira Drive.

The 436 pre-1905 entries translated to 393 starters from Hyde Park on their journey to Brighton, with hundreds of spectators to cheer them on during the 60-mile route, which was bathed in autumnal sunshine.

Below are a small selection of photographs from the day.

Maderia Drive Brighton, the finishing line for over 300 veteran cars.

There were 344 finishers, with the 25 patrols, 3 recovery trucks and 2 passenger ‘Taxi’s’ provided by RAC Motoring Services - complemented by the TOTAL mobile welding unit - attending around 175 breakdowns (some cars up to 5 times!), providing recovery for 12 cars to service points at Honda Redhill and Gatwick, and providing welding services for 6 cars. 

The spectator route guide.

I got to meet some very interesting people who told me about their family history with their cars; in particular a young man who remembers each year being a small passenger in his parents 1904 Cadillac, and this year is the driver with his parents as passengers, the VCR has played an important part in their lives.

Commentators getting ready to interview the drivers to hear about their journey.

Around 10.15am, some two hours after leaving Hyde Park the first participants crossed the finishing line, car number 263 a 1903 Mercedes driven by Mr. Chris Scott.

First car back Mercedes 1903.

Car 253 a 1903 Panhard et Levassor driven by Dr. Terence Bramall CBE.

Car 051 a 1900  De Dion Bouton, driven by Mr. Simeon Barringer.

Joy and delight for car number 203 a 1903 Cadillac driven by Mr. Philip Kadoorie.

Following a respectful distance behind the early starters, were BBC Radio 2 DJ Chris Evans, plus BBC The One Show host Alex Jones, driving vintage buses full of passengers who paid for their ride of a lifetime by jointly raising more than £180,000 for BBC Children in Need. 

The 1950 Bedford OB buses provided by Lodge Coaches of Chelsmford, Essex.

BBC The One Show presenter Alex Jones drove one of the coaches.

Chris Evans, Alex Jones and dancing professionals from BBC One Strictly Come Dancing, Kevin Clifton and his wife Karen Hauer, who were amongst the passengers.

Car number 158 a 1902 Mors driven by Mr. Philip Oldman.

All welcome to come and watch.

Car number 116 a 1902 Panhard Levassor driven by Mr. Tim Dickson.

Brass Band entertainment too!

Car number 388 a 1904 Darracq driven by Mr. Graham Gregory.

Family fun for car number 309 a 1904 Alldays driven by Mr. Christopher Thomas.

Car number 379 a 1904 Darracq from the Louwman Museum driven by Mr. Louwman, seen here with his daughter Quirina and grandson Freddie.

This is the car that played the lead in the 1953 film ‘Genevieve’ set against the background of the London to Brighton run. In the film this 1904 Darracq is the hobby of Alan McKim, a barrister played by the actor John Gregson; an interesting detail is that Gregson does steer the car in the film, but couldn’t actually drive!

Thanks for reading, I'll be back in the New Year with more news from my world of cars and photography.

Bye for now.

Stella

Salon Privé 2016

David Cohen - 1957 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Coupe Gullwing

The Salon Privé Concours d’Elegance is hailed as one of the finest concours competitions yet. This year, the 11th annual event, Concours d'Elegance has seen some of the world's rarest and most alluring cars on the lawns of the prestigious Blenheim Palace in Woodstock, held on the 1-3 September 2016.

Boodles Ladies' Day Pass

I had the pleasure of attending Boodles Ladies' Day on Friday 2nd September and quickly immersed myself amongst the stunning selection of more than 75 cars and bikes on display. We were treated to a wonderful Champagne lobster luncheon, English afternoon tea and complimentary bar, the perfect setting for a thoughtfully presented exclusive event.

Closest to Furthest - Ferrari F50, Ferrari F355, Lamborghini Countach, Ferrari 458 Specialé, R35 Nismo Nissan GT-R GT3, BMW Z4 GTE.

Lamborghini Huracan Spider (Left) Lamborghini Huracan (Right)

1964 Alfa Romeo 101 Giulia Spider

Tom Hartley showcasing some top class stock; Ferrari Dino (Left) Ferrari 275 GTB (Middle) and Ferrari F50 (Right)

The best bit for me was watching, photographing and hearing the commentary for the Concours d'Elegance event, the judging for which had taken place the previous day. 

1955 AC Ace

Mark Aldridge - 1955 AC Ace

Ferrari F40

1973 Porsche 2.7RS Touring

1969 Ferrari 365 GT 2+2

Me at work, not my usual attire!

1973 Lamboghini Countach LP400 ' Periscopio'

1953 Ferrari 250 Europa Short Chassis Prototype -  Winner 'The Great V12 Ferraris' category

Entered by Nick Bailey, this 1992 Ferrari F40 won the 'Dream Machines' category

1954 Maserati A6 GCS Berlinetta - Winner 'People's Choice Category'

This 1956 Ferrari 500 Testa Rossa fended off rivals to steal the 'Best of Show' Salon Privé 2016 winner.

Winner 'Best of Show' Salon Privé 2016.

Taking 8 years to find and 2 years to restore, it made its post restoration debut at the 2015 Goodwood Revival Meeting.

1956 Ferrari 500 Testa Rossa

1973 Porsche 2.7RS Touring (Left) 1969 Porsche 911 (Right)

1969 Porsche 911 - Runner Up Trophy, finished third

This 1965 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray C2 sold for £60,750 in the Silverstone Auction on Saturday 3rd September at Salon Privé.

1965 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray C2

Leaving Salon Privé on the majestic grounds of Blenheim Palace, until next year

Thanks for reading, I'll be back soon with more news from my world of cars and photography.

Bye for now.

Stella

Silverstone Classic 2016

The majestic Silverstone sign

On Saturday 30 July I collected my media pass, track side vest and then immersed myself in the world of motor racing, boy did I have fun! I'd like to share with you a few moments I captured from the day.

1955 Austin-Healey 100m pit stop - Royal Automobile Club Woodcote Trophy pre '56 Sports Cars

Christophe D'ansembourg before getting into his WilliamsFW07/C 1981 for the FIA Historic Formula One Race

Sam Hancock at the podium, a very worthy winner of the Stirling Moss Trophy for pre-'61 Sports Cars in the Ferrari 246S, 20 laps

Rick Carlino in 1975 Hesketh 308C

Winner Rob Hall's 1974 Matra MS670B/C in the Can-Am 50 Interserie Challenge

Chris Wilks in a 1960 Deep Sanderson FJ in position to take the track

Ant Anstead interviewing racing legend Mike Beckwith for Channel 4's 'For The Love Of Cars'

Ant Anstead having a moment of reflection before taking the recently restored 1958 Lotus Elite Series 1 out for the next race

FIA Masters Historic Formula One back in the pit lane after the race

Thanks for reading, I'll be back soon with more news from my world of cars and photography.

Bye for now.

Stella