Thousands of petrolheads gather for Beaulieu International Autojumble
CAR enthusiasts feasted their eyes on a wide range of classics as expert talks and sales formed Beaulieu’s International Autojumble.
The popular annual buying and selling event drew around 25,000 on Saturday and Sunday, compered by Danny Hopkins, editor of event media partners Practical Classics magazine.
People browsed for bargains among hundreds of stands filled with spare parts, books, model cars, retro clothing and other automobilia.
This year, the new In Conversation With… stage, sponsored by Lancaster Insurance, hosted speakers sharing their motoring knowledge.
Dominic Chinea, metalwork guru from BBC1’s The Repair Shop, discussed traditional restoration skills and some of his favourite classic vehicle projects.
Renowned custom car builder Andy Saunders was also a big draw as he talked about how lucky car part finds at past Beaulieu Autojumbles helped shape some of his most extraordinary car builds.
He showed off his latest creation, Deja, a roadster created from a derelict Riley and a selection of cast-off spares.
Two very popular talks also told of the landmark restoration of the National Motor Museum’s Sunbeam 1000hp land speed record breaker – the first to break the 200mph barrier.
The best stand award, for a pitch truly capturing the show’s spirit, was won by Sam Glover and Eleanor and Philip Chubb.
The trio had unusual, keenly priced classic car parts sharing space with vintage clothing and mid-century memorabilia.
Stand helper Ed Hughes also played relaxed nostalgic tunes throughout on a grand piano, which was for sale.
Philip, who has run a stand since the first autojumble, said: “We all love old cars and have a number between us, ranging from Citroens and Austins to Tatras.”
Eleanor added: “Sam and I met on the stand eight years ago, and now we’re married!
“The International Autojumble is a cultural experience and we have something for everyone on our stand.”
The trophy was presented by Lord Montagu, Practical Classics deputy editor James Walshe, and Lolly Lee, who every year donates it in memory of her late father and autojumbler Terry Lee.
A diverse range of collectors’ cars and automobilia went under the hammer in the Bonhams Cars auction.
Notable lots on Beau Arena included a 1970 Aston Martin DB6 Mk2 sold for £142,600 including premium, and a rarely-seen 1985 Austin Maestro 700 City van which fetched £7,475 including premium.
Potential buyers were also spoiled for choice by Automart, where all kinds of motors were on offer.
Trunk Traders saw buyers snap up bargains from lights, badges, steering wheels and seats, to body panels, engine parts and model cars.
Practical Classics’ team chatted with showgoers, discussing automotive projects past, present and future.
The Morgan Sports Car Club also displayed a selection of its members’ vehicles.
Beaulieu’s Spring and International Autojumbles will return in 2024, on dates to be confirmed later this year.
Simply French takes place on Sunday, followed by Simply BMW on 17th September, Simply British Classics on 24th September, Simply Tesla on 1st October and Simply Smart on 12th November.
For more information visit beaulieu.co.uk
