THOUSANDS of car enthusiasts took to the High Street at the third annual Andover Festival of Motoring on Sunday.

More than 100 vehicles were on display, from classic MGs and Austins to Triumph motorbikes, modified hot rods and muscle cars.

The event had a record number of visitors of around 5,000 petrolheads.

Retailers said they had a big increase in trade, including Café Nero manager, Mia Ramirez, who said: "More staff had to be called in to handle the extra demand due to the festival, which created a fantastic buzz on the High Street.”

The mayor of Test Valley, councillor Carl Borg-Neal, had the difficult task of choosing the winners of the six categories and overall Best in Show which Barry Mulroy's Austin Clifton won.

The event was organised by Gemma Thompson, of Andover Town Centre Partnership, Sheryl Scott-Clarke and Hampshire Hot Rides.

Financial support came from Test Valley Borough Council, Andover Town Council and the Tesco Bags of Help Scheme.

Gemma said: “We would like to thank everyone who came along and supported the event and gave generously to our chosen charity, the Anton Rotary Club - £500 was collected for this worthy cause.

"We look forward to seeing you all again at next year’s event on September 23."

Images: Linda Gates