It's the Italian Job . . . in Bridgnorth - with video and pictures

Organisers of the Bridgnorth Automoto Festival were thrilled when 200 vehicles turned up to take part in the event, which closed off the town centre. They had been hoping for around 60.

The festival showcased some top class Italian engineering, whether in the shape of four wheels or two.

David Morris, who brought the festival from Bristol to Bridgnorth three years ago, said he had looked across the country for a new venue and the amount of people turning out in Shropshire has vindicated the decision to choose the town.

“We attracted about 200, which is a phenomenal amount,” he said. “The number of scooters also surprised us, about 80, while we had Ducati clubs from the West Midlands and Cheshire do a ride out to the festival, the Cheshire riders coming straight from the Isle of Man.”

Mr Morris, who lives near Shrewsbury, said the festival had brought thousands of pounds into the local economy.

He said: "Everyone who brought along a car or a bike or scooter would eat and drink in the town and many will have made it a weekend, staying in B&Bs and hotels."

"They could also enjoy the Bridgnorth Continental Market that was also on and visit attractions such as the Cliff Railway and Steam Railway."

Bridgnorth Ukulele Band was also entertaining visitors in the grounds of Bridgnorth Castle.

He said he hoped the event would now be a permanent fixture in the Bridgnorth calendar.

"With so many people turning up we just need to ensure we have our health and safely plans tightly in place," he said.

Among the hundreds of parked vehicles, Stephen Harris could be seen tending to his Ferrari Italia, which is considered to be one the finest looking super cars of all time. “It’s a beautiful piece of engineering, everything from the shape to the smell and the history, it’s absolutely lovely to drive,” said Mr Harris.

“Everybody loves Ferraris and everybody loves the iconic red, the cars are obviously big on the Formula 1 scene and big in the motor racing world.

“They also make lots of noise, so they usually attract lots of attention when out and about. It is all about passion.”