It was a sight to make any car fan hot under the bonnet.

And as the sun shone down, thousands of people flocked to Helmingham Hall to see the Festival of Classic and Sports Cars yesterday.

Held in association with the Suffolk Vehicle Enthusiasts Club, about 700 vehicles pulled onto the Tollemache’s estate, representing the last 10 decades of motoring history.

Along with more genteel classic models, the ancient deer park also reverberated to the sounds of Corvettes, Ferraris and Porsches.

Organisers said they hoped donations made by exhibitors would overtake last year’s total of £3,750, which was raised for East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices.

And those not watching the cars were able to enjoy main ring entertainment, craft and trade stalls, birds of prey, live music and local food and drink.