A record crowd of 83,500 people attended this month's Silverstone Classic, where spectators enjoyed 24 races featuring cars spanning 70 years of motorsport.

Event director Nick Wigley hailed the best turnout in the meeting's 22-year history, which was achieved despite the unseasonably bad weather in the preceding days.

"Thankfully the sun finally came out and what a show we had!" he said.

"The quantity and quality of the racing was astonishing and the car club displays were every bit as impressive."

More than 1,000 cars took part in competitive action on the famous Silverstone Grand Prix circuit, with many of the races thrilling the crowd by going right down to the chequered flag.      

The Celebrity Challenge on Saturday July 21st saw Emmerdale star Kelvin Fletcher claim first place on the podium, with AC/DC frontman Brian Johnson taking second after Jay Kay was hit with a five-second penalty for exceeding the track limits.

Each famous driver took part in a competition-prepared Morgan racing car to raise money for charity.

"It was really good fun. I had an amazing time and a good battle with Jay Kay before edging away. Everyone came back unscathed which was the main thing," said Fletcher, who plays Andy Sugden in the ITV1 soap.

Other highlights of the weekend included the return of the Daily Express International Trophy, which saw Bill Coombs drive a Tyrrell 009 to victory by overcoming the challenge of Steve Hartley's 1982 Arrows A4.

Past winners of the prestigious prize include Stirling Moss, Jackie Stewart and Graham Hill.

On Sunday July 22nd, Silverstone was treated to the sight of 60 Ferrari F40s lapping the circuit in celebration of the Italian supercar's 25th birthday.

If you're looking for cover for your classic or cherished car, speak to the classic insurance experts at Performance Direct – one of the UK's leading specialist insurers.

Posted by Michael Yates

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