Kieron Dyer – I’m A Celebrity…Get Me Out Of Here!

He is somewhat notorious for his bad boy behaviour during his lengthy stint as a premier league footballer.

But Keiron Dyer has revealed is hoping to alter the public’s perceptions of him when he appears in this year’s series of ITV reality show I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here!

Now happily married to partner Holly and a proud father of four, the 36-year-old sports star claims his controversial behaviour is very much a thing of the past.

Beginning his footballing career at the tender age of 18 at Ipswich Town, Kieron’s sporting ability eventually saw him snapped up by Newcastle United at 21 for £6 million, with the star admitting his accompanying fortune soon got the better of him.

‘I was earning fortunes having grown up in a poor background and you did end up in trouble. But you do mature, you learn from those errors. Now I’m in my thirties, I’m nothing like I was in my twenties, thank God,’ Kieron explained.

The Ipswich-born athlete has been embroiled in his fair share of controversy over the years having been involved in a sex tape and a speeding ban, as well as his infamous fight on the pitch against teammate Lee Bowyer at Newcastle.

But despite his tumultuous past, Kieron believes his settled lifestyle has made him a reformed man.

‘Fatherhood does change you, and just getting older and wiser. It’s a combination of everything – age, being a father, being a husband. I’ve been married a year now, things settle you down,’ he confessed to The Daily Mirror.

However, Kieron insists he isn’t entering the jungle in a bid to alter the public’s perceptions of him and is instead doing it ‘for my kids and for charity’.

‘When I told my kids I had the chance to do it, I think they want to see daddy embarrass himself on telly, going to do the trials.’

Kieran is donating a fee for the ITV show to the Jude Brady Foundation, which helps families coping with stillbirth and raises awareness of neonatal death.

Occupation: Former England football star

Age: 36

Phobias: I don’t like spiders or snakes but there is no way I am going to look a wuss on the trials!
Biggest misconception you want to dispel in the Jungle: I’d like to change people’s perceptions about footballers in general but I know my family and friends know the real me – and that is what matters

Role in the Camp: Definitely not the chef! I’d like to provide banter to keep us all amused

Miss most: Aside from my wife and kids, my mobile phone and not being able to have any control over decisions I make

Dream Campmate: Brian May and Kim Kardashian

Celebrities enter the Jungle for many a reason. For former England footballer Kieron, it was to earn some serious dad-points.

“I’m A Celebrity… is a favourite in our house,” says Kieron. “I watch it with my children and they wanted me to do it. They begged me to go on!”

It wasn’t just his kids pushing him into it though – he’s also doing it for charity, donating his entire fee to the Jude Brady Foundation. But Kieron’s up for having a laugh whilst doing some good, with his eye firmly on the role of Camp clown: “I like to stir things up and I am a mickey taker,” he says. “I will amuse myself and have a banter with everyone.” Let’s hope they’re actually in the mood for some laughter…

Ed Sheeran passes his driving text in Ipswich

Ed Sheeran can ditch the L-plates after passing his practical driving test… less than three months after smashing theory.

He might be 24, but as one of the world’s top musicians, it’s fair to say he’s has a busy few years.

But singer Ed Sheeran can finally ditch the L-plates after he passed his practical driving test in Ipswich, Suffolk on Thursday.

The Thinking Out Loud hit-maker took to Twitter to confirm the news, writing to his 15.6million followers: ‘Passed my driving test yesterday, zoom zoom zoom’.

The news was reiterated by driving school Total Driving who took to Facebook on Thursday to congratulate the Grammy-nominated star on his achievement.

The post read: ‘Congratulations to Ed S who passed his car test with us in Ipswich this afternoon. Good effort Ed!!!’

The caption was accompanied by a picture of the smiling redhead posing with his certificate in his hands.

Ed’s happy news comes three months after he proudly passed his theory test, and was seen waving his certificate about as he emerged from a test centre in Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk.

He was greeted by a small group of fans who he willingly showed his results to, proudly showing off the piece of paper as he snapped selfies with an office worker.

After bidding farewell to the handful of admirers, the chart-topping singer headed to his car with a female companion, possibly his driving instructor.

Ed jumped in the driver’s seat and drove off without divulging whether it’d been a successful test or not.

It’s been an extremely busy few months for the chart-topper, with the Suffolk-born star receiving an honorary degree for his outstanding contribution to music at University Campus Suffolk earlier this month.

It was soon followed by the premiere of his new movie Jumpers For Goalposts, then a presenting stint hosting the MTV EMAs with Ruby Rose in Milan, followed by a cameo appearance in Home and Away this week.

Better test your brakes before driving this route!

Better test your brakes before driving this route!

Incredible images show nerve-shredding cliff-side road in China – with 45 deadly hairpins in just three miles.

A spectacular mountain road in southwest China has become the new talking point among petrolheads after pictures of the mind-boggling motorway emerged on the Internet.

Breathtaking photographs on People’s Daily Online capture the dozens of deadly hairpin turns on the winding road, which stretches for 3.5 miles (5,757 metres) in Xiushan county, Chongqing municipality.

The cliff-side motorway, dubbed ‘Road to Heaven’, has become one of the must-visit destinations for Chinese driving enthusiasts.

The nerve-shredding road is carved into the side of a steep mountain and is surrounded by luscious greenery.

Elevating from 2,050 feet to 3,855 feet above the sea level, it has an astonishingly 45 hairpins.

The formidably road connects Chuanhegai, a 1,000-family mountain village situated at an altitude of 3,117 feet high, with its nearest town called Pingma.

The local government plans to brand the monster motorway as a main tourist attraction and hopes it will bring more visitors to the remote region.

Some future classics spotted today by Gordon of Bridge Classic Cars

at Dubai Mall…must be a doughnut shop near by!

Bridge Classic Cars spends evening at Moray Motor Museum.

There’s a magical place,
We’re on our way there,
With toys in their millions,
All under one roof,

It’s called…Moray Motor Museum

Being very good friends with racing legend Darren McWhirter does come with some huge perks! Like spending a good few evenings at Moray Motor Museum and seeing some of the incredible vehicles he personally owns and is happy to show to us all.

Moray Motor Museum

Based in the centre of Elgin (the capital of Morayshire, close to the Cooper Park), Moray Motor Museum is housed in a light and airy old mill building, part of which dates back to the era of the Cathedral when the Bishops of Moray ruled Moravia, and was used by them as a grain mill.
The Moray Motor Museum houses a superb collection of veteran, vintage, classic cars and motorbikes. Most of which are on the button ready to go. Added to this are the model cars and automobilia which make this a visit not be missed.

So please feel free to browse the website and find out more about the museum, the exhibits, and events which we partake in.  And don’t forget to contact us if you require any more information.

The Mills and Stills Tour 2015

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Joining Bridge Classic Cars in the beautiful Mansion House Hotel in Elgin, Morayshire, are the drivers and their companions on the “Mills and Stills Tour” 2015.

The week long event that promises to be suitable for all sizes and types of veteran cars.

The Laich of Moray’s quiet country roads are ideal for the early motorist to enjoy a worry and stress free break doing what they like best – touring with their pride and joy!

Four daily routes are planned covering approximately 60 -80 miles a day – travelling north, south, east and west – beautiful scenery with plenty interesting attractions en route.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_gallery type=”image_grid” interval=”3″ images=”1253,1254,1255,1256,1257,1258,1259,1260,1261,1262,1263,1264,1265,1266,1267,1268,1269,1270,1271,1272,1273,1274,1275,1276,1277,1278,1279,1280,1281,1282,1283,1284,1285,1286,1287,1288,1289,1290,1291,1292,1293,1294,1295,1296,1297,1298,1299,1300″ onclick=”link_image” custom_links_target=”_self”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_column_text]

The Laich of Moray or Laigh of Moray is the rich agricultural coastal plain in Moray. Laich of Moray is from Fochabers to Brodie and also includes the towns of Elgin, Forres, Lossiemouth, Burghead, Hopeman and Lhanbryde.

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Welcome to The Mansion House Hotel & Country Club

The Mansion House Hotel & Country Club is nestled on the banks of the River Lossie within beautiful grounds, yet only a few minutes walk to the historical centre of Elgin.

Rated at 4-Stars by both the AA and VisitScotland.com, The Mansion House Hotel & Country Club is the perfect destination for business, pleasure or a special celebration. Decorated in an elegant country house style this 19th century Baronial mansion combines the grace of a bygone age with all the modern amenities of a 21st century hotel.

The Mansion House Hotel & Country Club with its own Health and Leisure Club Facilities and many Golf Courses nearby, offers a unique experience of a truly magnificent setting and Scottish hospitality. Set on the famous “Whisky Trail” and near many of Scotland’s major attractions, The Mansion House Hotel & Country Club provides a perfect venue for Special Events such as Weddings, Anniversary Breaks, Birthday Celebrations or just a relaxing holiday.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_gallery type=”image_grid” interval=”3″ images=”1301,1302,1303,1304,1305,1306,1307,1308,1309,1310,1311,1312,1313,1314,1315,1316,1317,1318,1319,1320,1321,1322,1323,1324,1325,1326,1327,1328,1329,1330,1331,1332,1333,1334,1335,1336,1337,1338,1339,1340,1341,1342,1343,1344,1345,1346,1347,1348,1349,1350,1351,1352,1353,1354,1355,1356,1357,1358,1359,1360,1361,1362,1363,1364,1365,1366,1367,1368,1369,1370,1371,1372,1373,1374,1375,1376,1377,1378,1379,1380,1381,1382,1383,1384,1385,1386,1387,1388,1389,1390,1391,1392,1393,1394,1395,1396,1397,1398,1399,1400,1401,1402,1403″ onclick=”link_image” custom_links_target=”_self” title=”The Mansion House Hotel & Country Club”][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Modern classics, a sound investment

Classic experts from across the globe share market intelligence on the models gaining in value – and highlight the ones that are struggling. Market experts from both sides of the Atlantic say prices for 1980s and 1990s modern classics will continue to rise – and they’re predicting that cars from the early 2000s will become hot investment tips.

The Porsche 968, Honda S2000 and Mitsubishi Evo are among those tipped by members of a panel assembled by Hagerty International to assess the current state of the market. They also identified that British classics from the 1950s, particularly Ford saloons and Rootes Group models, are struggling to set the market alight.

The price experts also highlighted – using sales data from the US and Europe – that investment in the classic market is currently offering a quicker return than either gold or the FTSE100, but while they think a price crash similar to the late 1980s is unlikely they did warn that speculators still had the potential to destablise a buoyant market. The panel also said it expected performance cars from the 2000s to be the next ones to find favour with classic car collectors. 

Hagerty International managing director Angus Forsyth said: ‘The future cars of interest will be those which would be a screen saver for tomorrow’s collectors – we call it the Top Gear effect, because we know a wide audience including teenagers enjoy seeing the cars that the show features. It’s these cars that are predicted to be the next collectibles of the classic car market.’ 

The future is bright at Bridge Classic Cars

Today’s the day Jack Smith, Bridge Classic Car’s exceptional young talent starts his 2 year apprenticeship at Colchester Institute.

Jack is a very gifted individual with the flair and qualities you’d expect to find in someone with many more years of experience.

The future looks bright for Jack as he starts his journey on a 2 year course in Motor Mechanics and Bodywork.

In addition to his course, Jack will also be attending the Classic Car Restoration course that Colchester Institute has to offer.

Top Gear presenter Chris Evans auctioning £11 MILLION worth of classic cars including Chitty Chitty Bang Bang

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]New Top Gear presenter Chris Evans, is selling off £11million worth of classic cars at auction next month.

Evans, who is replacing Jeremy Clarkson as the new presenter for the BBC show, has consigned 13 cars to the Bonhams Goodwood Revival Sale including Chitty Chitty Bang Bang.

Evans revealed that he had bought the 1936 Chitty Chitty Bang Bang car, the same model used in the 1968 children’s film, in 2012 and has since restored the 17ft motor which comes complete with multi-coloured “wings”.

The items include the rare right-hand drive 1966 Ferrari 275 GTB/6C Alloy, with an estimate of £2.6-2.9m, the 1971 Ferrari 365 GTS/4 ‘Daytona’ Spider, estimate £2.3-£2.6m and the 1964 Ferrari 250 GT/L ‘Lusso’, estimate £1.4-£1.8m.

Sholto Gilbertson, Bonhams Director of Motor cars, said: “Chris Evans is offering 13 incredible motor cars at Bonhams sale, a stable which includes six outstanding Ferraris.

“Chris has been a long-standing client of Bonhams, so we’re delighted to offer his incredible motor cars at Bonhams Goodwood Revival Sale.

“In refreshing his collection, others will have the opportunity to enjoy Chris’ fantastic cars after all, you never ‘own’ a classic car, you enjoy it, look after it, and pass it on for others to appreciate.”

More than 140 lots of Evans’ Automobilia will also be offered, the proceeds of which will be donated to BBC charity, Children in Need.

Other motor cars offered from Chris Evans include a 1949 Jaguar XK120 ‘Alloy’ Roadster estimate between £500K-£600K and a 1967 Jaguar XKSS ‘Lynx’ estimated £325K-£375K.

* The sale takes place on September 12 at Goodwood in Chichester, West Sussex

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Stonham Barns Classic Car Show 2015

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]The Stonham Barns Classic Car Show received more than 800+ entries in 2014, and even more showed up this year. A better turn out of a wide range of amazing classic cars too.

Car clubs are the absolute lifeblood of the classic car scene and there was plenty of clubs present offering information, and of course showing off their marquees and models to the public.

Other show attractions such as a family funfair, fine food and a licensed bar.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_gallery type=”image_grid” interval=”3″ images=”956,957,958,959,960,961,962,963,964,965,966,967,968,969,970,971,972,973,974″ onclick=”link_image” custom_links_target=”_self”][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Festival of Classic and Sports Cars

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Sunday 2nd August 2015: 10:00am – 5:00pm

Held in association with the Suffolk Vehicle Enthusiasts Club (SVEC).

Over 5,000 people attended the 2014 festival. The event attracts classic and sports car owners who exhibit their cars some of which parade up and down the main drive on the two concourse runs throughout the day.
Over 700 vehicles attend, representing the last 10 decades of motoring history, including many from Britain’s motoring heyday – marques on display included Alvis, Bristol, Jensen, AC Riley, Armstong Sideley, Lea Francis, Crossley, BSA, Lagonda, Lanchester and Gordon Keeble. The oldest vehicle seen on display was a 1914 Ford Model T and the latest sports car models have included the Chevrolet Corvette and a Ford Mustang as well as Ferraris’ and Porsche.

This amazing collection of vehicles is displayed against the magnificent back drop of Helmingham Hall and its surrounding moat which sits in the middle of the ancient deer park.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_gallery type=”image_grid” interval=”3″ images=”907,908,909,910,911,913,914,915,916,917,918,919″ onclick=”link_image” custom_links_target=”_self”][/vc_column][/vc_row]

The Merak’s V6

The Merak’s V6 engine descended from the 2.7 L Tipo C.114, originally designed by Giulio Alfieri in 1967 for use in the Citroën SM, that was bored out to 91.6 mm (piston stroke remained 75 mm) to displace 3 litres (2,965 cc).

It was a chain-driven double overhead camshaft, 12-valve unit featuring an unusual 90° angle between the cylinder banks.

The lubrication system used a wet sump and an oil cooler. This V6 did not end its days on the Merak: it was later modified and made into the first ever production twin-turbocharged engine in the Biturbo, ending its career in the 1990s Ghibli after reaching the highest specific output of any production engine at the time. The powerplant was mounted longitudinally behind the passenger compartment, and joined through a single-plate dry clutch to a 5-speed, all syncromesh Citroën transaxle gearbox and a limited-slip differential.

Number Plate News

PEN 15

The government has recently issued a 46-page report outlining the registrations that have been withdrawn from issue for risk of causing offence.

It’s a thankless task, over which the licensing authorities have often been ridiculed. But UK number plates have never been intended to represent names or words; it’s just a happy – and valuable – coincidence arising from a random process.

Almost since inception the guardians of the system have had to be on their guard. But times, fashions and language change. Very early on, the sequence ‘BF’ was blocked because of the now innocuous and laughable interpretation ‘bloody fool’.

Inevitably, some howlers have slipped through and it is rare for them to be recalled after the event.BO11 LUX was released in 2011, then withdrawn, but the owner took on the DVLA and it is now back on the road.

Perhaps the most infamous example is that of the registration PEN 15. The representation cannot be considered offensive on any grounds yet, since it has been in the possession of Regtransfers, it has fallen foul of more than one newspaper publisher reluctant to feature its promotion.

PEN 15 is being offered for sale at online auction until 11.30am Monday 6 July.

One Direction

Unless they’re your initials, the letters DUK probably won’t mean much to you. But, to fans of the pop group One Direction – and, quite possibly, the members of the ensemble themselves – the registration 1 DUK says one thing: ‘1 D’ [One Direction] ‘UK’ [United Kingdom]. Consequently, a high price is anticipated when it goes up for auction in Stourbridge, West Midlands, on 6 July.

Of course, the plate dates back to 1963, when it was first issued by Wolverhampton County Borough Council and would be a desirable and distinctive combination in its own right.

Organisers of the sale are expecting the hammer to fall at between £25k and £30K. This respectable price is nothing compared to what was paid for the simple 1 D plate, which fetched a staggering £352,000 in 2009, the year before One Direction were formed.

1949 Armstrong Siddeley Lancaster arrives at Bridge Classic Cars

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Bridge Classic Cars have just taken delivery of a beautiful car collection. All the cars are being recommissioned in our workshops in Ipswich.

1949 – Armstrong Siddeley Lancaster – Older sympathetic restoration.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_gallery type=”image_grid” interval=”3″ images=”837,838,839,840,841,842,843,844,845,846,847,848,849,850,851,852,853″ onclick=”link_image” custom_links_target=”_self”][/vc_column][/vc_row]

1934 Austin Seven Top Hat arrives at Bridge Classic Cars

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Bridge Classic Cars have just taken delivery of a beautiful car collection. All the cars are being recommissioned in our workshops in Ipswich.

1934 – Austin Seven Top Hat. Beautiful condition[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_gallery type=”image_grid” interval=”3″ images=”679,761,760,759,758,757,756,755,762,763,764,765,771,770,769,768,767,766,860,866,865,864,863,862,861,772,773,857,858,859,668,674,673,672,666,667,671,670,868,869,669,867,665,664,678,677,662,663,661,660,676,675″ onclick=”link_image” custom_links_target=”_self”][/vc_column][/vc_row]

1933 Austin Seven Special arrives at Bridge Classic Cars

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Bridge Classic Cars have just taken delivery of a beautiful car collection. All the cars are being recommissioned in our workshops in Ipswich.

1933 – Austin Seven Special – Fantastic condition, engineer designed and built. Something special![/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_gallery type=”image_grid” interval=”3″ images=”753,752,751,750,749,748,747,746,745,744″ onclick=”link_image” custom_links_target=”_self”][/vc_column][/vc_row]

1937 Austin Nippy has arrived at Bridge Classic Cars

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Bridge Classic Cars have just taken delivery of a beautiful car collection. All the cars are being recommissioned in our workshops in Ipswich.

1937 – Austin Nippy – Truly beautiful and in fantastic condition.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_gallery type=”image_grid” interval=”3″ images=”873,872,723,639,633,638,636,635,634,880,879,877,875,733,730,729,728,727,725,719,724,722,721,720″ onclick=”link_image” custom_links_target=”_self”][/vc_column][/vc_row]

1967 MGBGT has arrived at Bridge Classic Cars

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Bridge Classic Cars have just taken delivery of a beautiful car collection. All the cars are being recommissioned in our workshops in Ipswich.

1967 – MGBGT – Signal Red, black leather piped in red…lovely![/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_gallery type=”image_grid” interval=”3″ images=”618,619,620,621,622,623,624,625,626,627,628,629,617″ onclick=”link_image” custom_links_target=”_self”][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Great things happening to Ipswich Town Centre

Tower Ramparts: Work to convert the shopping centre into “Sailmakers” is well under way, costing £4 million. This has prompted existing tenants like Top Shop to commit themselves to the centre while new stores like Pandora jewellery are on the way.

Buttermarket: The first phase of the conversion of the shopping centre into a shopping and leisure centre has started – experts estimate the total value of the project could top £10 million.

St Mary at Quay: Work to convert the historic church into a wellbeing centre is nearing completion, largely thanks to a multi-million pound lottery grant.

Electric House: Its conversion into luxury flats is well under way. The estate agency will remain on the ground floor. The investment is costing about £2.5 million.

Tavern Street: New stores are being fitted out for Tiger, next to HMV, and a discount retailer going into the former River Island unit.

The Walk: The roof is being upgraded and new lighting installed to make the town’s original shopping precinct more attractive to shoppers.

Fison House: Work is now well under way to convert the former headquarters of the pharmaceutical company into a high-specification office development.

Work about to start:

Queen Street/Princes Street: Work to turn this into a pedestrianised area and possible home for Ipswich Market is due to start in the late summer. The first phase should be completed by Christmas, with the second and final phase being completed by Easter next year.

Ipswich Railway Station: The booking hall, news stand and station cafe is being redeveloped and the forecourt is due to be significantly improved. Work is due to start later this year.

Regatta Quay: Work to complete the “Wine Rack” should start before the end of the year.

Crown Street Car Park: Ipswich Council is hoping to start work on building a new multi-storey car park on the site early next year, with the aim that it should be completed by Christmas 2016.

Princes Street: New office blocks on the site of Rileys – which will be the headquarters of law firm Birketts – and in the longer term on the opposite side of the road.

Cornhill: Work to rebuild the Cornhill could start in early 2017, being completed in time for the Christmas lights switch on at the end of that year.

Longer term projects:

Waterfront: The borough has bought the derelict buildings next to Dance East and will be working with the owners of other sites to come up with a suitable development for the “entrance” to the area.

Ipswich Museum: Fundraising efforts to gain money to upgrade the museum and turn it into a major cultural hub are continuing.

Wet Dock Crossing: A government decision on whether to press ahead with full funding for the proposed scheme is due next year. If this is successful the project is likely to be completed within the next five years.

The Lancaster Insurance Classic Motor Show 2015

If you’ve got a passion for motoring then head to the NEC this November to The Lancaster Insurance Classic Motor Show. With over 1,800 classic cars, 300 motorcycles, 600 trade stands, and the biggest indoor Autojumble plus incredible motoring features, it’s the UK’s biggest and best classic motoring celebration of the year!

Over 250 of Britain’s classic car clubs present rare marques whilst Meguiar’s Club Showcase reveals its concours Car of the Year. Wheeler Dealers Mike Brewer and Edd China host the live stage and restore a car over three days whilst leading motoring experts tackle all aspects of restoration in the Restoration Theatre. You can also buy your next classic vehicle or memorabilia in Silverstone Auctions’ two-day sale.

As well as stunning car displays, come and enjoy the Classic Motorbike Show featuring special guests, bike club displays, a motorcycle concours and a Vintage Wall of Death.

If you book your ticket before Saturday 31st October at midnight you not only save money but you can also win the Classic Car restored on the Live stage at the show!

Opening Times 

Friday 13th November: 10.00am – 6.30pm
Saturday 14th November: 9.00am – 6.30pm
Sunday 15th November: 9.00am – 5.30pm

Chris Evans to be new Top Gear presenter

TV and radio personality Chris Evans will replace Jeremy Clarkson as the lead presenter of an all-new Top Gear line-up, the BBC has announced.

Evans said he was “thrilled” to get the job, describing the motoring show as his “favourite programme of all time”.

“I promise I will do everything I possibly can to respect what has gone on before and take the show forward,” he added.

Clarkson was dropped in March after punching a producer while on location.

Car enthusiast Evans, who has signed a three-year deal with the BBC Two show, had been tipped to replace his good friend Clarkson but had previously insisted he was not interested.

An “all-new” line-up means Clarkson’s co-hosts Richard Hammond and James May will not be involved.

The BBC’s David Sillito said that while Chris Evans was a household name, Clarkson had a long-running association with Top Gear and his were big shoes to fill.

Analysis: David Sillito, BBC media and arts correspondent

When Jeremy Clarkson relaunched Top Gear in 2002 it ceased to be a programme about cars; it became a programme about slightly tragic men who loved cars.

The essence was banter, lists and brilliant film-making. The problem is what happens when you lose the blokes.

Chris Evans is one of Britain’s most successful broadcasters. He loves cars, he understands how to make television and he’s a friend of Jeremy Clarkson. But he ain’t Jeremy Clarkson.

Around the World Top Gear has appeared in different forms. The ones that work best have Jeremy Clarkson – even if he has to be dubbed into Farsi.

“Everything about Top Gear was Clarkson, May and Hammond, primarily Clarkson,” he said.

“We have no idea who Evans will be filming the new series with. It could be one presenter, two, a whole team, or it could be a different set of presenters every week.”

Top Gear is watched by some 350 million viewers worldwide and is one of the BBC’s biggest shows, with overseas sales worth an estimated £50m a year.

‘Cheeky unpredictability’

Once the news broke, Evans tweeted: “First tweet as new Top Gear host. I would like to say Jeremy, Richard & James are the greatest. And NO I’m not leaving the R2 Breakfast Show.”

And in a statement, he said: “I’m thrilled, Top Gear is my favourite programme of all time.

“Created by a host of brilliant minds who love cars and understand how to make the massively complicated come across as fun, devil-may-care and effortless.

“When in fact of course, it’s anything but and that’s the genius of Top Gear’s global success.”

Back in March, Evans had denied that he was taking over the show’s presenting duties, tweeting: “I can categorically say I am not and will NEVER be running for office. Pls discount my candidacy.”

Controller of BBC Two and BBC Four Kim Shillinglaw said she was “delighted” that Evans would be presenting the next series of Top Gear.

“His knowledge of and passion for cars are well known, and combined with his sheer inventiveness and cheeky unpredictability, he is the perfect choice to take our much-loved show into the future,” she said.

“Chris is a huge fan of Top Gear and has great respect for the craft and work ethic of one of the best production teams in the world.

“He knows the phenomenal attention to detail it takes to make a single sequence of Top Gear, let alone a whole series. He is already full of brilliant ideas and I can’t wait for him to get started.”

Analysis: Mark Savage – BBC News entertainment reporter

There’s a very telling line in Chris Evans’ statement: “I promise I will do everything I possibly can to respect what has gone on before and take the show forward.”

The 49-year-old is acutely aware of Top Gear’s reputation – and the reaction his appointment will provoke.

On paper, he’s a perfect replacement for his good friend Jeremy Clarkson. A car nut with a motor mouth and a track record in steering a television juggernaut to success.

But he’s also a divisive figure, with many viewers put off by the unruly, egotistical behaviour of his tabloid years.

Evans even admitted there was a “50/50 split” among Top Gear fans over whether his involvement was a good idea.

However, he added: “In TV or radio, if you get a 50/50 love/hate reaction that usually equals massive hit.”

Only time will tell.

Production on the new series of Top Gear will start in the next few weeks and the BBC said more information would be announced in due course.

Jeremy Clarkson was suspended, then dropped, by the BBC in March following a “fracas” with a producer at a hotel.

His final appearance on Top Gear will be shown on 28 June. The episode will be made up of two films shot before Clarkson was suspended, with Hammond and May presenting links from the studio.

Viewers will see Clarkson, Hammond and May behind the wheel of classic cars and beaten-up 4x4s in their final challenges as a trio.

I think someone’s a fan of #OrangeIsTheNewBlack

£43 million private car collection…

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]For sale: £43 million private car collection.
It’s so extensive they’ve had to open up another day just to flog them all. Ladies and gentlemen, on 13 August 2015 at the RM Sotheby’s Monterey auction, a private collection of 30 cars will be offered up for sale.
What makes this newsworthy however, is that the cars are all part of a single collection – a single private collection, no less – and represent some of the finest machinery men with tools have ever built.
There are such automotive luminaries as the very first Bugatti Veyron, chassis number 001, the Lamborghini Reventon, a 1964 Ferrari 250 LM and a 1998 McLaren F1 LM.
Though RM Sotheby’s has yet to reveal the full list of 30 cars, the value of the whole lot – sold individually, of course, not as a collective – is said to comfortably exceed all previous private car collections sold at auction, which currently stands at over $65.9 million. That’s a cool £43 million, at the very minimum.
“While many of the world’s most impressive collections were established in the public eye of the car collecting world,” says RM’s Shelby Myers, “the ‘Pinnacle Portfolio’ was assembled with a clandestine, surgical precision unlike any other that has come to market.”
As mentioned, RM has had to extend its Monterey auction, with this collection being sold off during an exclusive, standalone auction.
We’ve got some highlights for you here, so have a scan through and choose your favourite. The Pope’s old Enzo, anyone?[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_gallery type=”image_grid” interval=”3″ images=”590,591,592,593,594,595,596,597,589″ onclick=”link_image” custom_links_target=”_self”][/vc_column][/vc_row]

A classic act by Mr Charlie ‘Pimlico’ Mullins!

It’s not everyday that the plumber turns up wearing top hat and tails in the company van – but then it’s not every day a plumber is summoned to Buckingham Palace by the Queen.

The occasion was last month when Charlie Mullins, founder of London-based Pimlico Plumbers, was awarded an OBE for services to plumbing, recognising at the same time his work to promote and raise social status of apprenticeships.

Mullins set up the business – now the capital’s largest independent plumbing and service supplier – in 1979 after completing and apprenticeship, determined to raise standards and the status of plumbing.

“I hope that I can be an inspiration to others, particularly young people who should see our industry as a great place to work and, by completing an apprenticeship, set themselves up for a long and prosperous career,” he said.

Jaguar XJS Convertible – 63000 miles

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]JAGUAR XJS CONVERTIBLE

Automatic
5.3 V12
63000 miles with FJSH

Solent Blue with Magnolia Leather.

Kept and loved by one fastidious owner for the last 23 years.

Stored in a heated garage and maintained regardless of cost covering a mere 500 plus miles a year between MOT’s.

Apparently as every XJS that has ever been made this one also suffered the dreaded “Bolster Wear”. Most owners live with it, sometimes replace the worn bolster. This owner replaces the complete interior with beautiful brand new Magnolia Leather and colour codes it.

There are a couple of very small age related marks in the paint but I am being very critical.

Lets sum it up:

• Beautiful Solent Blue paintwork
• Brand new Magnolia Leather interior
• Super woodwork
• Unmarked fully functioning soft top with clear glass and covers
• Only 63000 miles with full Jaguar main dealer service history
• Factory oil pressure and water temperature
• All original books and supplements
• Immaculate engine bay
• Immaculate boot area with tools
• Unmarked alloy wheels with excellent tyres
• Lovely chrome
• Multi disc CD player with dash mounted remote
• On board computer

Full 1 years MOT

This really is one of the best you can buy and comes with the Bridge Classic Cars 3 months parts and labour warranty

They will not be for sale at this price for very long. Classics are rising between 10% and 40% a year just look at the Etype.

“BUY THE BEST YOU CAN AFFORD”

If you have any questions please call Gordon on 07796175064

I accept credit and debit cards subject to terms. We won’t take an offer so please don’t ask.

• Come and see us.
• Pay for the car.
• Drive it home.
• We can deliver it to your door. (subject to extra cost)

This beautiful XJS will be fully serviced prior to sale.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_gallery type=”image_grid” interval=”3″ images=”483,484,485,486,487,488,489,490,491,492,493,494,495,496,497,498,499,500,501,502,503,504,505,506,507,508,509,510,511,512,513,514,515,516,481″ onclick=”link_image” custom_links_target=”_self”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_button title=”Click Here For Pricing Information” target=”_blank” color=”wpb_button” icon=”none” size=”wpb_regularsize” href=”http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/171792531911?ssPageName=STRK:MESELX:IT&_trksid=p3984.m1555.l2649″][/vc_column][/vc_row]

Discovered tucked away in a garage, it’s time to bring her back to life…

1954 – Morris Minor

More than 2,000 classic cars lined up for world-record attempts through Coventry city centre.

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Parade will start from Ricoh Arena in Coventry on Sunday June 14 and also include around 1,000 Jaguars.

Thousands of classic cars will parade through Coventry in an ambitious bid to set two new world records at the same time.

Coventry Transport Museum has teamed up with classic car insurance brokers Footman James and the Ricoh Arena to bring over 2,000 vehicles to the city for the massive parade this summer.

Organisers are hoping to see about 1,000 Jaguars among the hordes of classic motors as they simultaneously attempt to break the Guinness World Records for the Largest Parade of Classic Cars and the Largest Parade of Jaguar cars.

The current record for the Largest Parade of Classic Cars was set in Mexico City in 2014 and stands at 1,674 vehicles, while the Largest Parade of Jaguar Cars is currently held by organisers of the Silverstone Classic, who organised a parade of 767 Jaguar E-types in 2011.

The record attempts are planned for Sunday, June 14 – the week before the museum’s official relaunch following a £9million refurbishment – and organisers are encouraging classic car owners to get involved by registering to bring their vehicles to the streets of Coventry on the day.

Gary Hall, chief executive of Culture Coventry, the trust that runs Coventry Transport Museum, said: “We are thrilled to be teaming up with Footman James and the Ricoh Arena to bring these two world records home to Coventry, the spiritual home of the British motor industry.

“There couldn’t be a more fitting way to celebrate the re-launch of Coventry Transport Museum than to bring classic cars from all over the country to the city which designed, built and inspired so many gorgeous and pioneering machines.

“We expect demand to take part in this event to be high, so we are asking people to register their interest as soon as possible.”

To qualify for the parade, each car must be at least 30 years old and have its original registration documents on the day of the event.

David Bond, director at Footman James, said: “This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for classic enthusiasts to take part in a truly memorable event and we are really excited to be partnering with Coventry Transport Museum as part of their celebrations.

“It’ll be great for people to see so many classics in one place, out on the British roads being used and enjoyed as intended – and in the process if we can beat the world records then it will be an added bonus.”

Classic car owners who would like to take part are asked to register their interest by April 30 at www.footmanjames.co.uk .

* Culture Coventry announced earlier this month that it was pulling the plug on the Coventry Festival of Motoring due to a lack of funding.

The popular car show, which attracts tens of thousands of visitors Stoneleigh Park every summer, had been running for 30 years.

It is, however, not linked to Coventry Motofest which will be held in the city centre from May 29-31.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/1″][vc_gallery type=”image_grid” interval=”3″ images=”403,402,395,396,397,398,399,400,401,394,393,392,391,390,389,388,381,382,383,384,385,386,387,380,379,378,377,376,375,374,369,370,371,372,373″ onclick=”link_image” custom_links_target=”_self” img_size=”155×105″][/vc_column][/vc_row]