A Collaboration with Dylan Miles – Purveyors of Rare Automobiles and Motorcycles

Purveyors of Rare Automobiles and Motorcycles in Royal Tunbridge Wells.

In a prominent position in Royal Tunbridge Wells you’ll find a magnificent car showroom – but not any car showroom, this one is a purveyor of rare automobiles and motorcycles called Dylan Miles.

It’s my absolute pleasure to tell you so much more….

I met up with Dylan and his team on 11th September 2023 when he arrived back from an action packed weekend at the Goodwood Revival on a hot and sunny day.

Dylan is no stranger to cars and motorcycles they have been a major part of his life since he was born. His father, Simon dedicated his life to restoring rare Brough Superiors (a high-performance motorcycle designed for speed and luxury). However, It was his father’s Aston Martin DB5 Convertible and a Ferrari Daytona that really captured his interest and his fascination to pursue a career in his lifelong passion.

I first met Dylan Miles back in 2017 when he worked at JD Classics in Mayfair, our paths crossed a few times after at various automotive events, including at Salon Privé where I was photographing the event and he had just launched Dylan Miles Ltd and was exhibiting his collection of cars for sale.

A luxurious showroom beautifully designed with attention to detail to house some of the most sought after automobiles and motorcycles.

An inspiring collection of automotive artworks adorn the walls. Including two of my limited edition photographs seen at the top of this photograph of a 1963 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Coupe from a private collection – these Artist Proofs are available for purchase.

My collaboration with Dylan Miles combines our shared passion for the design and detail of fine automobiles and motorcycles to give first-class personal customer service and an experience to enjoy.

As well as photographing people, I love photographing their personal collections of classic & supercars and motorcycles to create provenance and visual memory for wall art and tailor-made coffee table books – unique to each recipient. Each automobile is photographed in locations meaningful to the owner to reflect their lifestyle. This link tells you more.

Take a further look inside the Dylan Miles showroom via the images below. The Camaro on the forecourt is a fully restored 1969 Chevrolet Camaro Z28 in its original colour of Rallye Green.

Below photograph of Dylan Miles centre, with Showroom Manager Matt Landers, left, and Josh Holmes, Showroom Assistant right.

More about Dylan and the history of the showroom…

Dylan says:

I’ve worked with some great companies, including RM Sotheby’s, Fiskens, Autosport Designs in New York, and JD Classics. Lots of people joked about how many different jobs I’ve had in the motor trade, but then there’s method to my madness because I’ve forged very good relationships with a lot of significant and influential people, from whom I’ve learned a lot. And today, everyone who I’ve worked with in the past I’m still doing regular business with, so it’s paying dividends.

The history of the showroom:

Stevenson as it was back in 1909.

Then in the 1960s franchised for Standard Triumph.

A former garden furniture showroom at 12-16 London Road, next to Tunbridge Wells Common.

Photo by Dylan Miles.

Transformed over nine months an extensive restoration programe was undertaken and opened in January 2023.

A building with strong automotive links. Directly next door at number 11 London Road stood a respected Victorian carriage company that constructed lavish horse-drawn carriages called AA Cundell. In 1907 the site was taken over by J. Rawsons and Sons who held the concession for Austin, Daimler, Essex and other British marques. In 1909 the showrooms 12-16 London Road were erected directly next door at the request of Mr. G Stevenson, who, at the time was director of Rawsons. He established G. Stevenson Engineers – The Kent and Sussex Garage Ltd and offered both sales and maintenance, becoming a concession for Humber, Wolseley and many other marques of the day. The building remained occupied by Stevensons well into the 1960s who by then were a franchised dealer for Standard Triumph.

By the late 1970s, the building was taken over by Pace Petroleum, acting as a petrol station, and later became home to a local Suzuki dealership. For the past few years the building was taken over by Westminster Outdoor Living until Dylan Miles acquired it in April 2022. The rest, as they say, is history! Well done to Dylan for restoring the building – a tremendous asset to London Road and Royal Tunbridge Wells.

The building has to be one of the last remaining working showrooms that exists worldwide today. Dylan’s empathy and a nod to a bygone era are evident for all to see. Viewings at the showroom are by appointment.

Watch this space for further updates on collaborations with Dylan Miles.

If you or someone you know has a classic & supercar collection worthy of a photo shoot I’d love to hear from you, simply call me on 0777 181 0105 or email me.

You can contact the friendly team at Dylan Miles via their website here.

Thanks for reading!

Stella

Stella Scordellis and The Classic Motor Hub Italian Event 2019

On Sunday 5th May I had the pleasure of showcasing my photography at The Classic Motor Hub in Bibury, Gloucestershire as part of their Coffee & Classics Italian event which attracted a huge crowd of marvellous guests and their wonderful Italian Classics.

It was great to be amongst some of the finest Italian cars and motorcycles, from Ferrari to Ducatti and Lamborghini to Lambretta and so much more!

Whilst I wasn’t behind my ‘desk’ discussing potential commissions, I took a brief few moments to grab my camera to capture the essence of the event to give you a flavour of the occasion.

The cars and bikes arrived in quick succession with a live band adding to the Italian atmosphere and many familiar faces who frequent these occasions and new ones too, eager to see what the Hub has to offer and to share their love of cars.

It was good to speak to the drivers and their passengers to hear a little bit more about their cars and the history behind them, they each had an interesting story to tell.

Scroll on down to soak up the atmosphere…

You really have to see the showrooms for yourselves because this is not like any other showroom I have encountered, The Classic Motor Hub sits in a five-acre former RAF site dedicated to classic motor sales and events, it is a haven of mixed delights in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere which resembles a museum, a museum where you can buy the ‘goods’ is a match made in heaven.

The team at the Hub certainly know how to put on events, they take place the first Sunday of the month between April and October from 10am - 1pm with a different theme each time.

The Classic Motor Hub is open Tuesday to Friday 10am -5pm and Saturday 9am-3pm.

I’ll be back there again on Sunday 2nd June for their next event and to sell my limited edition framed photographs and to discuss any commissions you have in mind.

A few cars from other parts of Europe were included to add to the mix too, the Citroën is from 1948!

That’s it for now, I’ll be back again soon with other updates about my work, in the meantime if you are interested in taking one of your cars or bikes to the next event on Sunday 2nd June, follow this link to find out more.

Thanks for reading, bye for now…

Stella

The Classic Motor Hub Coffee & Classics Day

On Sunday 7 October I was invited by The Classic Motor Hub in Bibury, Gloucestershire to be a part of their final Coffee & Classics event of the year, and what a fabulous event it was! With over 250 vehicles and over 500 visitors arriving in their pride and joy to share and display with other collectors and enthusiasts.

The Classic Motor Hub is more than just a showroom, it’s a classic motorist’s dream. Based at the site of the historic RAF Bibury, The Classic Motor Hub has something for everyone, set in a five-acre site dedicated to classic motoring sales, events, classic cars & bikes, modern performance machines and all manner of automotive ephemera on offer.

I arrived at 8am to display a selection of limited edition photographs from my exhibition called ‘A Drive Down Memory Lane’ in one of the showrooms. I was in good company amongst some very prestigious cars including - a silver Ferrari 275GT convertible, a Mercedes CLS AMG in satin silver and a beautiful 1937 Delage D8 120 cabriolet which won “Most Opulent” at Salon Privé on 30 August and quite righty so.

Right on cue the first of the cars arrived at 10am with a steady flow arriving soon after, it was a lovely sunny morning with a nip in the air and the smell of fresh coffee and sizzling bacon, an ideal welcome.

I can see why the event was fully booked, these events are proving to be very popular, not only is there the opportunity to see other cars and bikes, it’s a chance to mingle and explore the showrooms, to shop and to tuck into a bacon roll and enjoy a cup of coffee from the barista. With the choice to purchase other goods and services from local vendors.

I enjoyed meeting many new faces and hearing about their love of cars and to have been given the opportunity to showcase my photography of other collectors cars and to gain new commissions in a fitting setting.

The next Coffee & Classics events is on New Year’s Day 2019 with other dates soon to be published, to find out more about The Classic Motor Hub just click on the link.

To take a peek at others photographs taken at the event click here.

Thanks

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

Exclusive Automotive Photographs to Purchase

It has been three years since the launch of my inaugural exhibition 'A Drive Down Memory Lane' - and I can't believe where the time has gone! 

Since then, the exhibition has featured at the Royal Automobile Club, Pall Mall, Mayfair, London - Hever Castle, Kent - Eve Gallery at Top Foto, Edenbridge, Kent and for an invitation-only day at the Bremont Boutique, Mayfair, London - where attendees were given the opportunity to purchase the framed photographs in limited editions of 25.

I am now delighted to share with you the news that for this Christmas season only, the exhibition is on display at my studio SMS Creative Photography in Oxted, Surrey to allow you to select a favourite photograph for yourself or to treat a loved one. The photographs can be purchased framed or unframed.

To view the collection of the 44 photographs online you are welcome to click here - and if you spot an image that might interest another car lover please feel free to share the link, thank you!

Each photograph is personally signed and I can also personalise it for you if it's a gift for someone special. Please call SMS Creative Photography on 01883 722282 if you are interested in this exclusive Christmas offer.

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

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

London Classic Car Show 2016

I was delighted to have been given the opportunity to photograph the Preview Evening of The London Classic Car Show on Thursday 18th February, having photographed the first show last year I was keen to see what was in store for 2016.

Guests included Jenson Button, Gordon Murray, Ari Vatanen, Bruno Senna, Jodie Kidd, Tom Ford, Jonny Smith and the evening was hosted by Suzi Perry.

One of the show’s main events was the Classic Six Nations Cup in which teams of ten iconic classic cars from the six leading car-producing nations vied for votes from visitors.

And when all the votes had been counted, the UK team – which included such varied machines at the original Mini, the Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost, Le Mans Bentley, McLaren F1 supercar, Aston Martin DB5, Land Rover and Graham Hill’s 1968 title winning Lotus 49 Grand Prix car – narrowly beat an Italian team full of Ferraris, Maseratis and Lamborghinis. 

Below are my highlights of The London Classic Car Show 2016 Preview Evening.

Jenson Button, the 2009 Formula One World Champion, made an impressive entrance driving a McLaren F1 – the supercar was celebrated at the show in a special display curated by its designer Gordon Murray.

Suzi Perry, Jensen Button and Jodie Kidd with the McLaren F1.

Classic car dealers crammed the halls with impressive displays of rare and valuable classic cars, many with six figure price tags. By the end of the show they delightedly reported sales of many millions of pounds.

A quote from the Event Director Bas Bungish:-
“If we were delighted by how the first London Classic Car Show was received in 2015, we were blown away by the response to the 2016 edition. From the moment the show opened right until the final curtain each day, the halls were buzzing with visitors. They loved the special displays and really got involved with the show: more than 9,000 for example, voted in the Classic Six Nations Cup.

“And the really good news is that we are already starting work to make the 2017 London Classic Car Show even better. Make a note in your diaries now: 23-26 February 2017,” said Bungish.

That's a date in my diary I don't want to miss!

If you have enjoyed reading this newsletter and would like to read previous ones you may have missed please click this link.

Thanks for reading, I'll be back once a month with updates.

Stella

Goodwood Revival 2015

On Sunday 13 September I attended the Goodwood Revival, I always look forward to going to this three-day festival held each September. This event isn't just for car and motor sport lovers it's an event for all the family to enjoy, the whole experience of living in a bygone era, with a merry go round and lots of fun things to see, do and buy. It's an educational visit for everyone!

Featuring all types of road racing cars and motorcycles that would have competed during the circuit's original period - 1948–1966. It is one of the world's most popular motor race meetings and the only event which recreates the golden era of motor sport in the UK. I love the fact that most people dress in period clothes and everything around you reflects this, from the tea stands, police boxes and memorabilia.

The car park even becomes part of the show as visitors line up their classics.

This Youthquake display celebrates 50 years of the miniskirt.

An original Land Rover Defender - still stable when tilted at 45 degrees, as these Revival visitors found out

Preparation for the next race on the Goodwood Circuit.

St. Mary's Trophy part 2. Ford Galaxie 500 1963 and BMW 1800 TiSA 1965

Mini's and Cortina during the St. Mary's Trophy part 2.

It was a time of glitz and glamour, it felt like taking a step back in time.

Goodwood's Earls Court Motor Show is a celebration of the greatest Ferrari road cars, including the 166 MM Barchetta from 1950.

Each visitor to the Earls Court Motor Show at the Revival is given the opportunity to cast a vote for their favourite car and in doing so support the chosen charity. This year, in keeping with the commemoration of 75 years since the Battle of Britain, the Revival lent its support to the RAF Benevolent Fund, which supports serving and former members of the RAF in the UK and around the world. This years winner is the 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO.

I hope you have enjoyed reading a little about the Goodwood Revival and it has inspired you to book your tickets for next year. To see more photographs from the event please take a look at Instagram and Twitter @StellaSMS

Thanks for reading I'll be back in two weeks time with more news.

Bye for now, enjoy the weekend.

Stella

John Surtees OBE at Hever Castle

On Sunday 21 June in partnership with John Surtees OBE and the Henry Surtees Foundation, Hever Castle presented a collection of F1 cars, classic cars and motor bikes from the John Surtees collection.

John Surtees OBE is a force to be reckoned with, not only did he achieve world championships on both two wheels and four wheels and the only person ever to have done so, he was a four-time 500cc motorcycle World Champion too.

John also founded the Henry Surtees Foundation as a result of a freak accident that ended his 18 year old sons life at Brands Hatch on 19th July 2009. Henry was one of the best young drivers of his era. The foundation was created to assist people with brain or physical injuries caused by accident to return to community living by the provision of support for equipment and facilities.

The day was very well attended, John shared a few of his racing memories with his audience, many had their own little piece of history to share with him, about how their grandfather knew his father, or when they watched him race at Crystal Palace, it really showed what a great man he is, his spirit shone.

John spent much of the day signing memorabilia sold to raise funds. It is through events like this that the Henry Surtees Foundation is helping so many people recover from brain or physical injuries. To buy a copy of the book 'My Incredible Life on Two & Four Wheels' please click here.

A Drive Down Memory Lane

During the day on display in The Moat Restaurant were a selection of my classic and super car photographs from my exhibition " A Drive Down Memory Lane". To be amongst the first to buy a framed photograph, limited to 25 per image, please click this link, ten percent of all sales will be donated to the Henry Surtees Foundation. The exhibition will be at the RAC, Pall Mall, London in the autumn.

Visit Hever Castle & Gardens for the perfect day out in Kent. The gardens are stunning all year round, set in 125 acres, I took the photographs below on the day.

Thanks for reading I'll be back in two weeks time with more news.

Bye for now, enjoy the sunshine!

Stella

Bond in Motion London Film Museum

Bond in Motion London Film MuseumOn Monday evening I was invited to enjoy a private view at the London Film Museum, Covent Garden to see the 'Bond in Motion' exhibition. The evening was hosted by Clive from Prestige Promotions for his members to see the largest official collection of original James Bond vehicles ever staged in London.

This exhibition is certainly worth a visit, you can immerse yourself in movie history, I was in my element. The best part for me, other than the cars, was that beside each vehicle you could watch footage from the particular movie it appeared in. I felt like I wanted to go and watch all the movies again from start to finish!

Can you guess which movies the above vehicles featured in? Bottom right photograph

Serena Gordon and Philip inside the DB5 with the original scene in the background.

Aston Martin DB5

Amongst the cars on display I particularly liked the Aston Martin DB5, this iconic car has appeared in many of the movies, however this particular DB5 was from the 1995 movie'Golden Eye'. It featured in the chase with a Ferrari 355 in Monte Carlo with James Bond(Piers Brosnan) driving and his passenger Caroline (Serena Gordon).The added bonus to photographing the car was that Serena Gordon came to the event, it was lovely to meet her. I photographed her next to the DB5 and also inside, this time it wasn't with Piers Brosnan but with Philip, who came as a guest and bid £600 to sit next to her in the very seat James Bond once sat in.

Serena said it brought back many memories of that eventful journey in Monte Carlo twenty

years ago, looks like a hair-raising experience to me!

Above a selection of images I took during the evening, the bottom right photograph from

left to right, Clive Thomas, Serena Gordon, Philip (the gentleman who bid £600) and

Imogen Stubbs.

Above Clive Thomas and Serena Gordon with the DB5 from the movie 'Golden Eye' and footage on the screen.

Rolls-Royce

Now this one didn't appear in any of the James Bond movies, but it can be yours. 

I photographed this Rolls - Royce Phantom I Newmark Tourer convertible 1929.

Coach built by Brewster & Co in the US, with a left hand drive. 

This Rolls Royce is a rarity and a fantastic investment opportunity for a collector to own a piece of history.

Thanks for reading, I'll be back in two weeks with more news.

Enjoy the sunshine!

Bye for now.

Stella

London Classic Car Show 2015

All I can say is WOW and well done to Brand Events the creators, who staged the preview launch for the inaugural 'London Classic Car Show'. A show that won't disappointed any car lover. I've been to a variety of car shows, indoors and outdoors, in many varied locations and this one is definitely in my top three. The show, at the ExCel exhibition centre in east London is easy to access, with in my opinion, the right amount of content. You get to see, hear and smell the cars, an intoxicating mix of car heaven. Brand Events have achieved what they set out to do, by putting London back on the classic car map. On until Sunday 11 January.

The two James’  May and Martin, officially opening the show. Both are avid car collectors, with James Martin commenting that he has two passions in life, cooking and cars. With the the opportunity to enjoy some of his recipes at his ‘Classic Cafe’, three cleverly converted food wagons. James May believes that there are 13 cars that had a profound effect on the motor car as we know it today, and tells all. During his interview with Chris Evans he revealed that he thought the car that changed the world the most was in fact very personal to him, and was the famous Corgi model toy of the ‘James Bond Aston Martin’, complete with ejector seat.

James Martin posing in a mini with his 'Classic Cafe' in the background. The pulled pork sandwich I had was delicious.

Adrian Newey is being honoured at the show. He is the all-time most successful designer in Formula 1, and revealed during his interview with Chris Evans later in the show, that all his drawings are drawn free hand. He learnt his craft whilst a young boy helping his father build cars, in particular a Lotus Elan sprint road car. You can find out more about his incredible career at the show and see on display an array of cars that have played a significant part in both his professional and private lives. I was fascinated to read how much he has achieved and to meet him. Be sure to visit the 'Motor Sport Hall of Fame Showcase' to learn more about him and others.

Chris Evans just before he went on stage to interview James Martin, James May, Adrian Newey, Christian Horner, David Coulthard, Martin Brundle and the event director Bas Bungish.

During Chris Evans interviews, he asked each of the guys to share with us, their memories of their first cars. Adrian Newey's first car was a yellow Lotus Elan which was previously owned by his father and last seen in 1980. It was interesting to hear him describe with a passion how he restored it. The show organisers had tracked down the car and Chris introduced it as a surprise addition to the evening when it was driven down the Grand Avenue for all to see and enjoy, Adrian was visibly thrilled to be reunited.

Adrian drove the car down the Grand Avenue with Chris as passenger for the Lotus Elan to take its place in the procession alongside other classic, veteran and super cars.

We were wowed with a first class display in the Grand Avenue, a runway that I can only describe as a motoring catwalk. Featured were some of the most valuable, rare and desirable classic cars in the world to kick start the new year with an aural explosion. With many of the cars from James Martin's and Adrian Newey's personal collections. Seen here a Mercedes Benz 300SL, with the enclosure behind and the elevated stage, where Chris Evans interviewed the motoring aficionados and organisers. This is just a brief account of a fun filled, educational evening. I highly recommend you go and see for yourselves, the show is on until Sunday 11 January. Thanks for reading I'll be back next month with more news.

Bye for now.

Stella

Wilton Classic and Supercar Show 2014

Wilton Classic and Supercar Show 2014

I'd been looking forward to going to the Wilton Classic and Supercar Show for a while now. 

The show took place in the grounds of the Wilton House Estate, near Salisbury.

The Wilton Classic and Supercar Show 2014 is an annual event, now in it's sixth year,

and took place on Sunday10th August. The show is the brain child of Lord Pembroke

the current resident of this ancestral home and his friend Jay Broom,

and was set up to share their love of classic and supercars with the public.

The show was suitable for all the family and had something to offer the local residents as well as avid petrol heads.

Major car manufactures were given the opportunity to showcase their latest cars, hot off the production line.

This years event hosted a demonstration rally event too.

The weather on Sunday started off wet and windy but it didn't discourage the crowds

who travelled from all over the UK to share a little bit of car culture.

Let me tell you more...

What Was On Display

There was a broad selection of cars on display including the only Aston Martin Bertone Jet in the world.

McLaren P1 a selection of Ferrari's

including a 1957 250 Testa Rossa and the Bugatti EB10 and the car above the 1959 Chevrolet Corvette.

The centre piece for the "head to head" theme for the show,

in which classic icons met their modern counterparts, was the Mercedes 300 SL Gullwing

and SLS AMG,  and also showcasing the BMW M1 and i8, Lamborghini Miura and Huracan.

The parade of over 150 supercars featured marques such as Bugatti, Pagani, McLaren, Ferrari and Aston Martin.

In front of Wilton House’s south façade, on the South Lawn, visitors could get up close to some rarely seen classics,

fortunately by this time the sun was out, umbrellas down, coats off and engines roaring.

Rally Car Display

The grounds also boasted a real life high-speed demonstration of superb Group B rally cars on an authentic rally stage,

with the Race2Recovery team joining

the action in the Bowler Wildcats that they fielded in the gruelling Dakar Rally earlier this year.

My Car Photography Exhibition

I will be launching my inaugural exhibition at Chartwell in Westerham, Kent, the family home of Sir Winston Churchill, featuring some of the most iconic cars from each of the decades he lived there, between 1922 until his death in 1965.

Sir Winston Churchill had a great sense of style and appreciated the finer things in life.

The exhibition will be open to the public for two weeks in October. I will tell you more about this event in forthcoming newsletters.

I am in the early stages of planning which photographs to exhibit and who to send press releases to. Amongst the photographs on

display there will be classic and supercars, my www.stellascordellis.com website will tell you more about me in this field.

Oh, by the way, the title to my exhibition is:-

"A Drive Down Memory Lane"

Where This All Began

My passion for car photography started when I was a child and shared my brothers'

interest in anything with wheels and an engine.

I started my photographic career at just 15 years old when I went to work at a

photographic studio in Croydon as a Saturday girl.

I left school the following year to start an apprenticeship with a three year

day release course at their commercial studio.

It's been a long and varied journey and my love of photographing people as well as cars has

led me to explore this exciting direction my business takes me to.

The Rolls Royce, Silver Cloud 1963 below was photographed as part of my course work whilst at college,

and looking back this is where it all began...

Thanks for reading. If you didn't go to the Wilton Classic and Supercar Show  this year,

its well worth going to next year, you won't be disappointed!

Bye for now.

Stella

Edenbridge Car Pageant

On Monday 26th May I drove a few miles south to Edenbridge to see (and hear) for myself what the car pageant I had read about had to offer. The weather was overcast and wet, not ideal for such an occasion. The event was organized by the Eden Valley Chamber of Commerce as part of the Edenbridge Fun Day. As a member of the Oxted Chamber of Commerce I caught site of an email from our chairman letting us know what another local chamber were up to over the Bank Holiday weekend. I’m very glad I took note of this because what unfolded filled me with delight and added so much to my visual and mental portfolio of cars! All on my doorstep in Fircroft Way, Edenbridge, Kent.

John Surtees OBE

Edenbridge is the hometown of Motor sport legend John Surtees OBE.

This year John is celebrating 50 years since he won his Formula 1 World Championship title as well as his 80th birthday. John Surtees OBE is a one off; the only person to have won World Championships on both two and four wheels. John proudly showcased his F1 bikes and cars outside his Bradford shop, Station Road, the Surtees team factory and business base for the past 56 years. The cars were built at this address and mainly by local residents. Edenbridge High Street was closed to allow the parade to take centre stage. It was led by John in the Ferrari 158 which he won the 1964 Formula One Driver’s World Championship, and was followed by Team Surtees Formula 1 cars of the Seventies driven by Scott Malvern and Robbie Kerr.

Exhibition and Book

John will be launching his book “My Incredible Life on Two and Four Wheels” on June 19th 2014. The book contains over 250 photographs some of which were on display at TOPFOTO Gallery also in Fircroft Way. The photographs are an incredible account of an incredible man. The majority of the photographs were taken by John Topham a documentary photographer who lived in Edenbridge until he died in 1992, please follow the link to find out more about him http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_Topham_(photographer).

The book can be ordered from Evro Publishing.

The exhibition was an added bonus to my afternoon as it showcased some of John’s finest moments, even better, it was an opportunity to own a limited edition print signed by John Surtees and very reasonably priced too, £50 for an unframed A3 print.

Fund Raising

The event raised funds for the Kent Surrey and Sussex Air Ambulance Association and The Henry Surtees Foundation.

The foundation was set up in memory of John’s son Henry who was tragically killed in a freak accident at Brands Hatch in 2009 aged just 18 years, whilst competing.

The Pageant

I was pleasantly surprised to see so many owners turn up with their cars and bikes, they had travelled from all over the country to take part in this prestigious event. I chatted to a few of them who were happy to tell me the history of their cars, one man told me he bought his MG when he was just 18 years old and has owned it for the past 36 years, and was passing it over to his son to enjoy.

Amongst the parade were Ferrari, Aston Martin, MG, Corvette Stingray, Lotus, BMW, Morris Cowley to name just a few. They followed John’s parade of cars and gathered at the Lingfield Road recreation ground, the other end of town, for all to enjoy as part of the fun day.

It was a very enjoyable Bank Holiday Monday afternoon, thanks to all involved who made this the great success it was, despite the great British weather.

All part of my other passion in life photographing Classic and Super cars. You can see and read a bit more about this on my website www.stellascordellis.com

If you would like to commission me to take photographs of you, your family, or your cars, then please get in touch.

Bye for now!

Thanks for reading, my next newsletter will be in two weeks time.

Stella

Top Marques Monaco 2014

I have had the pleasure of photographing many Super Cars over the past year so I was very excited to be going to Monaco last month to visit the Top Marques event, the most exclusive Super Car Show in the World!

It took place over the Easter Bank holiday, but luckily for me it started on Thursday 17th April so I could get there just for the day on the first flight out of Gatwick and the last one back before Monaco was heaving with all the Easter holiday makers on Good Friday.

My Journey

I flew to Nice airport and got the train from a little train station a short bus ride from the airport called "Nice St Augustin". For a few euros I took the 30 minute journey along the coast line which must be one of the prettiest train journeys I've taken, it certainly beats the East Grinstead to Victoria line that I'm more familiar with.

We stopped at seven stations on the way and the train was certainly filling up with many people visiting Monaco for the tennis or the Top Marque Show. Once I got to Monaco it was an easy walk to the Grimaldi Forum home of the show. As I was approaching the forum I was just in the right place at the right time to photograph the arrival of the Lamborghini Aventador which took pride of place at the entrance to the show and was supplied by aaarentcars .

A Little Bit About Monaco

Monaco officially the principality of Monaco is the second most densely populated country in the world! Prince Albert II is the head of state and has immense political power. Monaco has a coast line of 2.5 miles and the state has no incometax, low business tax and is well known for being a tax haven and is attractive the super wealthy.

The roads were very congested due to the ongoing building work as the new Yacht Club takes shape and the preparation for the Grand Prix in May.

Grimaldi Forum

The Grimaldi Forum is the main exhibition centre and very impressive too. On arrival I was just in time to join in the walk about that was going on with Prince Albert II, I managed to tag along with the press to get a few shots.

The cars on display were an incredible array of dynamic performance and aesthetic genius. With the added option of being able to test drive a selected few, this I'm sure was a big attraction to the many visitors over this four day event!

Super Cars

On display were cars by a variety of manufacturers Noble, Ferrari, Jaguar, McLaren, Quant, Tushek, Tesla, Lexus, Mercedes, Bentley, to name just a few. I was there to promote my photography of Classic and Super cars and met with the spectators to show case my book which is designed with the serious collector in mind who would like to have their car or cars photographed to add value to their collection, but most importantly to document their car as a work of art and to reflect the owners lifestyle and finished in a bespoke limited edition book, this part of my website will tell you more.

If you would like to take time out in Monaco next year the Top Marques Show is from April 16th- 19th April 2015 I'll be back again to soak up a little more of my passion and of course the Cote D'Azur.

Thanks for reading

Stella