20 CHARITABLE organisations across Somerset and Dorset benefitted from a record-breaking Sherborne Classic and Supercar Show.

The event, regarded as one of the premier classics and supercar shows in the South of England, has raised more than £430,000 for charities since it first started in 2005.

The show sees more than 1,500 private classic and supercars on display alongside trade stands, an autojumble, craft fair and a catering village.

This year, the show hosted modern supercars such as Lamborghini, Ferrari and Porsche through to classic cars up to 100 years old including this year’s featured marque, Rolls Royce, and Jaguar.

Money was given to the charities at a presentation evening at Sherborne Castle.

Rory O’Donnell, chairman of the organising committee, said: “The show is unique, taking place in the beautiful setting of Sherborne Castle thanks to the Wingfield Digby family, and with four different volunteer groups – Rotary, Round Table, Lions and Friends of the Festival – coming together to manage every aspect of running such a major event.”

Courtesy of West Country Cars, Ben Collins (The Stig) was at the show and set a time on the Brands Hatch simulator of 44.75 seconds.

Mr O’Donnell added: “As one would expect, none of the racing driver aspirants among the crowd could match that time and the closest was 47.8, however a 10-year-old managed 49 seconds – just over four seconds behind.

“Perhaps another Lando Norris in the making!

“We are very grateful to the sponsors particularly Atkins Ferrie whose support helps with the significant set-up costs and ensures that we can donate most of the admission fees to charity.

“We were delighted to celebrate the success of 2024’s event and to host many representatives from the twenty worthy causes chosen by the committee.

“Our donations this year included a massive £10,000 to the Yeovil Opportunity Group.”

Kim Duller, CEO from the Yeovil Opportunity Group said: “As the only specialist pre-school in South Somerset, this money will help to change the lives of even more children and their families, by directly funding us to recruit and train as additional member of our SEND team.”

For the full list of charities benefitting from the show, visit https://shorturl.at/pwZ8J