Car enthusiasts step back in time

Dozens of classic and vintage and veteran cars made their way to Shropshire to take part in a special event in the shadow of a medieval castle.

Whittington Castle provided the perfect backdrop for Sunday's event, the sixth time it has been held in the village near Oswestry.

The range of vehicles was wide and varied, from a 1930s convertible to a purple hearse.

But it was an immaculate 1961 Vauxhall Cresta that caught the eye of the judges and won the specially made trophy, built from car parts.

Owner, Steve Hazelwood, recently moved from Buckinghamshire to Oswestry.

"I bought the car in 1985," he said.

"The body panels are all original and I had it painted its original colour. I drive a modern car most of the time but I absolutely love driving the Vauxhall Cresta," he said.

"Its easy to drive, relaxing and there are no annoying electronics."

The show's founder, Richard Banks, said: "The April Fools' Car Show is a free local show that features classic, vintage, veteran, and interesting vehicles of all sorts. It is always a very relaxed event and this weekend was no exception.

Owners appreciated the chance to get their vehicles out early in the year and provide a great day out for visitors.

The show was sponsored by Oswestry Classic Car Garage. Tim Hunter, one of the owners, said: "We run our own show each July, in Ellesmere, in support of Macmillan. The April Fools' show provides another perfect opportunity for us to promote classic cars, and to support another worthy cause - a local landmark."

Although entrance to the show was free, Castle manager, Sue Ellis said visitors were asked to make a donation towards the upkeep of the castle.

A 12th century Marches castle, Miss Ellis said it was believed to be the only castle in the UK that was cared for and looked after by a local community trust.

"We have many, many events in the castle grounds throughout the year and this has become a firm favourite with local people and vehicle enthusiasts."

The event was like a walk through time.

A convertible of the past that drew admiring looks was the 1938 Morris Tourer owned by Eddie and Irene Constable. They only had a few miles to drive to Whittington from there home in St Martins.

Fast forward 30 years and visitors could see under the bonnet of a 1968 Ford Anglia owned by Tony Madden from Ellesmere.

Another Ford which brought back plenty of memories for the over 50s was the 1973 Ford Escort Mexico, complete with rally lights on the front.

Commercial vehicles on display included a huge purple hearse complete with a purple coffin.

There was also trucks, including a 1957 Morris Commercial, taken to the show by Simon Darlington from the Oswestry Classic Car Garage and Paint Shop.

John Dawson drove his 1969 Bedford CA from Tarporley to exhibit at the show.