Hundreds enjoy seeing motoring marvels in Burpham

A fleet of Ferrari supercars, Lamborghinis, Corvettes, and even a full-size replica Spitfire fighter plane were among the spectacular sights on offer during the Burpham Motor Racing Club’s (BMRC) third annual classic car and motorbike show.

Not to mention a dragster, which could – if fully fuelled – reach speeds of 300mph in a matter of seconds.

This year’s event, held on the village cricket field, had a 1940s theme and attracted hundreds of people – despite the damp and gloomy weather.

As well as the motoring bonanza, there were energetic jive displays from the Brighton Jive group and traditional tunes from the Three Bells trio, who were performing throughout the afternoon.

Formula One fans were also in for a treat as racing legend and former F1 world champion John Surtees paid a visit to talk about his career.

Trevor and Jay Pullen, along with their two sons Christopher and Charlie, were some of those exhibiting during the day.

The family were displaying their cherished 1969 Lancia Fulvia.

“This is our first time here and it’s been a cracking day,” said Trevor.

“I know the boys are certainly having a real blast, which is nice to see.

“It’s got a really vibrant atmosphere that is totally different from some of the other motoring events I have been to.”

Sunday’s event was a joint effort between John and the racing club and helped to raise money for the Henry Surtees Foundation – a charity set up to help aspiring young racing drivers, following the tragic death of John’s son, Henry, in a freak accident at a race in 2009.

The money is still being counted but is expected to run into the thousands.

BMRC director and organiser Dominic Santana said he was pleased with the turnout during the day but added that the wet weather had played a part in deterring some visitors.

“It’s been a bit of a wet day and that has certainly had an impact on the numbers turning out.

“But up to now it’s been a brilliant event and people here are still having plenty of fun,” he said.