GALLERY: Classic cars go under the hammer

Fifty-two iconic models ranging from a Rolls Royce to an original Fiat 500 (complete with matching caravan) were on display at Classics Centrals’ inaugural auction, held in Thurleigh.

The highest bid was £14,575 for a pristine Citroen DS Pallas in China blue and white.

Classics Central spokeswoman said: “We sold 30 of 52 cars and achieved a sale rate of 58 per cent, which is an extremely positive result for a first auction.

“About 250 people were in attendance at the auction, which included both families and individuals, many of whom travelled in their own classic cars to the event, meaning our carpark was full of fabulous cars from a variety of decades and countries.”

Adding to the spectacle of the cars was the venue itself - Bedford Autodrome, designed by former F1 driver Jonathan Palmer, with its barn-style doors and a wall full of track tyres.

The next auction will be on November 8 at Bedford Autodrome, Thurleigh Business Park, Bedfordshire.

For more information, go to www.classicscentral.co.uk