CAR and bike enthusiasts flocked to a popular beauty spot as an annual event returned.

The Braintree and Bocking Car Show was back for 2023 at the town’s public gardens at the weekend.

More than 1,500 people attended and enjoyed the vehicles on show, as well as live music, face painters, food vendors and stalls.

The best car in show award was presented to David Hallett, for his 1961 Ford Consul 315 Classic in turquoise blue.

David bought the car in 1972 and in about 2012, began a seven-year journey of fully restoring the car, inside and out.

He said he was “very surprised” to win, adding he was “really proud of the feedback and friendliness”.

“I thoroughly enjoy this show as it’s got such a lovely community feel and it’s more intimate than the larger shows,” he said.

“I appreciate the hard work that goes into organising this event and it’s even better money raised on the day helps in supporting the gardens and keeping them open.”

A spokesman for the event said: “The event was again a huge success and a great team effort organised by Vince, Sinead and our incredible group of volunteers. 

“It’s a small and friendly show, with great enthusiasm from so many of the exhibitors, and the appreciation from the visitors for the classic cars and bikes on display.

“Without the exhibitors and the public, the show would just not happen, so we truly appreciate everyone who supports our event each year.

“We had some generous raffle prizes donated by businesses including the Notleys Golf Club, The House by Hilly Gant, CJ Yates Construction, Toast and Bishop Nick Brewery.

They continued: “It’s a vital fundraising event for the Public Gardens Trust, as no funding is received for the upkeep of the gardens. 

“The cost of maintaining the gardens has increased to about £40,000 a year and the charity is totally dependent upon financial donations from the general public, businesses, corporate sponsors and fundraising events.

“The gardens are also looking for more corporate sponsors willing to donate to a raffle for Christmas and people to become supporters of the gardens.

“Thank you to all the exhibitors, bands, singers, stall-holders, everyone who attended, and to the extremely hardworking volunteers who work to make this show a continued success.”

For more information, contact the Facebook page or visit the website.