The small car with a big road presence

The 2017 Toyota Yaris IT’S an annual pilgrimage for true petrolheads and once again your Motors man was there to soak up the fantastic fumes at the Lancaster Insurance Classic Motor show at Birmingham’s NEC exhibition centre.

Five huge halls were packed with almost every classic car you can name - and quite a few you probably can’t - plus 650 auto spares and motoring industry stalls and live restoration shows.

Some very desirable vehicles went under the hammer at the event’s auctions where fast fords from the 1970s, 80s and 90s were up alongside gorgeous, fully-restored Astons, Bentleys, Jaguars and classic motorcycles.

One star car to go under the hammer was Eric Morecambe’s 1969 Jensen Interceptor (£95,000) alongside Lamborghinis, Ferraris and a 1988 Ford Sierra that went for £112,000 - well, it was a mint RS500.

In total, £3.6 million changed hands as almost a third of the lots on offer were sold with the highest price paid being for a 1996 Lamborghini Diablo SE30 at £281,750.

TV Wheeler Dealers stars Mike Brewer and Ant Anstead (below) were on hand to entertain the near 71,000 visitors over the event’s three days.

In total there were 2,500 vehicles to drool over with 257 car clubs taking part - including the Morris Minor Owners Club who even had a Travellerbased hearse on display, complete with coffin.

This year also saw a number of newly launched modern cars showcased alongside the heritage marques such as the new TVR Griffith and the Mazda MX-5 RF as well as displays from manufacturers including Porsche GB and Vauxhall.

The Meguiar’s Club Showcase (above) saw 16 stunning classics put under the judges’ spotlight with a 1959 Morris Mini crowned the winner, making it a win for Mini owners two years in a row.

The dates for next year’s event have been revealed - 9 to 11 November. Get there if you can!