HUNDREDS of car and bike enthusiasts were out in force as an annual event made its return.

The Braintree and Bocking Car Show was back for 2022 at the town’s public gardens to the delight of many.

Braintree and Witham Times: CLASSIC CARS: There were hundreds of cars on displayCLASSIC CARS: There were hundreds of cars on display

Braintree and Witham Times: TWO WHEELS: The Braintree and Witham Classic Motorcycle Club were in attendanceTWO WHEELS: The Braintree and Witham Classic Motorcycle Club were in attendance

Attendees were treated to live music, stalls and catering outlets, as well as 140 classic cars and bikes.

The best car in show award was handed to father and son Alan and Gary Dines for their restoration of a 1963 Austin Healey Sprite.

Braintree and Witham Times: BEST IN SHOW: Gary and Alan Dines restored a 1963 Austin Healey SpriteBEST IN SHOW: Gary and Alan Dines restored a 1963 Austin Healey Sprite

Gary said: “Dad has worked with cars most of his life and once retired has restored and shown a couple of cars to keep busy.

“I was keen to learn how to do this, so we bought this car to restore together in June 2013.

“I am very proud that we did all the work ourselves and together. We are thrilled our little car was chosen as best in show.”

Braintree and Witham Times: ROLL OUT: There were also army vehicles on the dayROLL OUT: There were also army vehicles on the day

Braintree and Witham Times: BIG VARIETY: Not all cars had four wheelsBIG VARIETY: Not all cars had four wheels

The award was presented by Suzanne Blackburn in memory of her father Les Ely who first established the classic car show.

She said: “The public gardens car show was something very close to my dad’s heart.

“I was honoured to be asked to give out the award for best car in show on behalf of his family.”

Braintree and Witham Times: LOOK INSIDE: Cars came in all shapes and sizesLOOK INSIDE: Cars came in all shapes and sizes

Braintree and Witham Times: PARKED UP: Attendees loved looking at all the vehicles on displayPARKED UP: Attendees loved looking at all the vehicles on display

Organiser Georgie Butler said: “Everyone involved with the gardens was thrilled to see another successful car show on Sunday.

“We’d really like to thank the community for their support and all of the exhibitors who chose to bring their fabulous vehicles to our show. Without that support, the show wouldn’t be possible, as well as the local companies who offered the raffle prizes, especially considering how tough times are for everyone.

“The fundraising day is a vital day for raising funds for the charity for maintaining the gardens and towards keeping them open for the free enjoyment of the community.”

Braintree and Witham Times: OLD SCHOOL: A classic Allis Chalmers tractorOLD SCHOOL: A classic Allis Chalmers tractor

Trustees are also looking for people to join the supporters of the gardens group.

For more information, contact trustee and treasurer George Canvin on 07778 188396 or email gclfa@icloud.com.