A CLASSIC car show for charity was a “celebration of community spirit” last Saturday.

Braintree and Bocking Public Gardens hosted the Charity Classic Car and Bike Show 2024, an annual event which draws car enthusiasts and families alike to celebrate the beauty and history of classic vehicles.

The event was a roaring success with 1950s tunes, classic cars, and over £7,500 raised for charity.

A highlight of the event was the stunning 1962 Riley, owned by Rob Fuller from Toppersfield, who took home the Best In Show trophy.

Classic - Rob's restoration of the Riley was a 25-year-long project. Classic - Rob's restoration of the Riley was a 25-years-long project. (Image: Sinead Yates)

Rob is a proud owner of his magnificent vehicle, which he purchased back in 1997 and restored in a 25-year project.

The labour of love included changing the paint colour, from green to demask red and old English white, as well as revamping the interior from green to red leather.

Since 2018, Rob has been a regular participant in the Braintree car show and says this is his “favourite car show by far.”

There was live music from duo Double Trouble and singer Julie Jive, who belted out songs from the 1950s and modern day, as well as a strong sense of community spirit.

Amazing - The show saw more than 80 classic cars come to the Braintree and Bocking Gardens. Amazing - The show saw more than 80 classic cars come to the Braintree and Bocking Gardens. (Image: Sinead Yates)

Alan Payne from Braintree and Bocking Gardens thanked the exhibitors, local businesses, stall holders and food vendors, and performing musicians.  

He added: “And of course, to the local community for supporting the event again this year, and a huge thank you to Vince Eade and Sinead Yates for organising another successful event.

“It is always wonderful to see the gardens full of happy families enjoying the space and we can’t wait for next year’s event.”

The event also raised vital funds for the upkeep and maintenance of the Braintree and Bocking Gardens to help them remain a welcoming space for all residents to enjoy.

Charity - The event raised vital funds for the maintenance of the public gardensCharity - The event raised vital funds for the maintenance of the public gardens (Image: Sinead Yates)

It costs over £50,000 per year to maintain the gardens, which receive no funding.

Trustees generate income via Corporate Sponsorship, ‘Friends of the Gardens’ and money raised from events such as the Classic Car Show.

‘Friends of the Gardens receive free entry to all ticketed events, 10% off everything in the Coffee House café, and other membership benefits.

Visit www.braintreeandbockinggardens.co.uk/become-a-friend/ for more.