Just months after he quit the latest series of Top Gear following a ratings flop, Chris Evans showed fans he can still put on a good show – with thousands headings to Laverstoke Park Farm in Hampshire for the annual CarFest show.
Established by the Radio 2 breakfast presenter in 2012 to raise money for Children in Need, two CarFests are held every year – CarFest North (in Cheshire) and CarFest South (in Hampshire).
So far, CarFest has raised £6.7 million for Children in Need. Weekend family camping tickets cost more than £300, with at least 25% of ticket prices (and any profits made) going to the charity.
Supercars
So what were the highlights at this year’s CarFest South? Visitors could see supercars such as the Jaguar XJ220 and Ferrari F40 up close in the paddock.
Hillclimb
It wasn’t all stationary cars, either – with a variety of classics, supercars and even F1 cars going up the hillclimb.
Chitty Chitty Bang Bang
Evans tried to sell his Chitty Chitty Bang Bang replica at auction last year – but failed. He pleased crowds with it at CarFest – while his children drove a miniature version.
Food Fair
For those not as interested in cars, or just wanting a break from the track action, CarFest’s Food Fair featured a variety of live demos including a roast challenge and a pie eating competition.
James Martin
Celebrity chef James Martin is a regular at the event – appearing this year in his Porsche 911 GT3 RS.
Jody Scheckter
Former F1 champ Jody Scheckter owns Laverstock Farm, where CarFest South is held. Here he is going up the hill in his 1958 Porsche tractor.
Aston Martin Vulcan
Spectators were treated to this rare Aston Martin Vulcan roaring up the hill. Just 24 have been sold worldwide.
Drifting displays
Drifting displays entertained young and old – and yes, that is a taxi you can see in the background.