Silverstone Classic 2017

The Silverstone Classic is firmly established as the world’s biggest classic motor racing festival. The epic event attracts more than 1,000 race entries and draws crowds of more than 100,000. The spectacular classic car celebration is staged at the famous Silverstone circuit in Northamptonshire, the birthplace of the FIA Formula One World Championship and home to the Formula 1 British Grand Prix. The three-day festival features the very best of classic and historic motor racing covering more than eight decades of motor sport, as well as live music from iconic rock bands and a wealth of family entertainment. In 2016, over 100 car clubs displayed more than 10,000 classic cars.

This is the reason why I look forward to photographing at Silverstone Classic, with accreditation to officially photograph - this blog shows a small selection of photographs I captured on the Friday and Saturday - to see more images from this prestigious event please click on each photograph to take you to the 'Events' section of my website.

Henry Hope-Frost on the screen before the Royal Automobile Club Woodcote Trophy for Pre '56 Sports Cars - car number 6 - 1953 Cooper Bristol T24/25 - Qualifying.

Friendly banter before the Kidston Trophy for Pre War Sports Cars - Qualifying.

Crispin Harris in a 1960 Austin Healy 3000 about to take to the track in the Gallet International Trophy for Classic GT Cars (Pre '66) - Qualifying.

Georg Kjallgren preparing to take to the track in a 1989 Courage C26S - Qualifying.

Engineers with Team Captain Anthony Reid's Austin A35 preparing for the Silverstone Classic Celebrity Challenge Trophy Race. 

Theo Paphitis, part of the Screen Stars team, owner and the driver of this Austin A35 in the Silverstone Classic Celebrity Challenge Trophy Race.

Ant Anstead, with friend and co-presenter Philip Glenister from Channel 4's 'For The Love of Cars' in a jovial mood before the Silverstone Classic Celebrity Challenge Trophy Race.

After the Maserati Trophy for HGPCA Pre '66 Grand Prix Cars. Wiliam Nuthall came 3rd in car number 10 - 1960 Cooper T53 and Julian Bronson drove car number 30 - 1960 Scarab Offenhauser.

Jonathan Kennard came 2nd in the FIA Masters Historic Formula One.

Ant Anstead (Screen Stars) with Olympic Gold Medalist Rower Mark Hunter (Going For Gold), before the Silverstone Classic Celebrity Challenge Trophy Race.

Brian Johnson lead singer from rock band AC/DC before the Silverstone Classic Celebrity Challenge Trophy Race (Rocking & Racing) - he didn't take part in the race following the qualifying session.

Andy Wolfe preparing in a 1982 Tyrrell 011 for the FIA Masters Historic Formula One Race.

Entrants in the pit-lane for the FIA Masters Historic Formula One Race.

Greg Thornton won the FIA Masters Historic Formula One in a 1976 Lotus 77.

Martin Donnelly (Rocking & Rolling), Steve Soper (Bike Legend) and Mark Blundell (Screen Stars) in a celebratory mood on the podium for the Silverstone Challenge Trophy - Pro Class.

The Screen Stars team won the Silverstone Classic Celebrity Challenge Trophy Race – a new addition to the action-packed programme on Saturday 29 July. Led by former Formula 1 ace and Le Mans winner Mark Blundell, the winning team included Dragon’s Den host Theo Paphitis, Wheeler Dealers presenter Ant Anstead, BBC Radio 2 sports presenter Vassos Alexander, Sky Sports F1 pundit Tony Jardine and former Top Gear anchor Tiff Needell. Between them, the speedy sextet helped towards raising £10,000 for the event’s official charity partner, Prostate Cancer UK.

Left to Right: Tony Jardine, Vassos Alexander, Theo Paphitis, Mark Blundell, Ant Anstead and Tiff Needell.

Thanks for reading - at the end of August I'll be photographing at Salon Privé Concours D'Elégance with a blog to follow later in September.

Bye for now.

Stella

The London Classic Car Show 2017

Jacky Ickx left with Derek Bell, reunited with their victorious Porsche 956.

On Thursday 23 February I packed my kit and made my way over to London’s ExCeL’s exhibition centre as the London Classic Car Show and sister show Historic Motorsport International opened their doors for a four-day feast of classic motoring nostalgia.

No fewer than five Le Mans legends – with an incredible 18 wins between them were there to open the event. These photographs I took tell the story of my visit.

The great Belgian, Jacky Ickx - who won 8 Grand Prix, poses next to his beautiful Brabham BT26A which brought him to second place in the 1969 Formula 1 world championship.

Jacky Ickx  – London Classic Car Show, Guest of Honour, where he was reunited with a number of cars from his racing past. A special display included his Ferrari 312 B2 and Brabham BT26 Grand Prix winning cars, and the Gulf Mirage GR8 and Porsche 956 that he shared with Derek Bell to claim two of their Le Mans victories.

Jacky Ickx being interviewed about his illustrious motor racing career.

Gulf Mirage GR8.

Jacky Ickx (centre), Derek Bell (right of centre) and Emanuele Pirro  (far right) were stars of the opening day’s gala evening celebrations, where they were joined by two more Le Mans winners, Jackie Oliver (far left) and Jürgen Barth (left of centre).

Jacky Ickx shared Le Mans wins with: Jackie Oliver (1969), Jürgen Barth (1977) and Derek Bell (1975, 1981 and 1982).

Jacky Ickx with his Le Mans winning co-driver Jackie Oliver in front of a photograph of them taken in 1969.

Derek Bell with the Porsche 956 he once raced in.

Advice for those looking to buy a classic was available from respected TV expert Quentin Willson.

He was present throughout the show and his latest ‘Smart Buys’ were showcased on the Classic Car magazine stand.

 Dario Franchitti with Joe Macari.

Another great racing name, Dario Franchitti (right), opening one of the show’s many highlights, a Ferrari Tribute comprising of 21 iconic Ferrari roads cars together worth an estimated £120 million. This year marks Ferrari’s 70th anniversary and the display, curated by Ferrari specialist dealer Joe Macari, brought together Ferraris old and new, from the early fifties 375MM to the latest hypercar, LaFerrari.

1963 Ferrari 250 GTO once owned by Pink Floyd drummer Nick Mason sold in 2013 for £52 million, making it the world's most expensive car. He bought the car in 1977 for £35,000 - what a great return!

The iconic La Ferrari - On December 3, 2016, a LaFerrari auctioned off for $7 million, making this car the most valuable 21st century automobile ever sold at auction.

This 1961 Ferrari 250 GT SWB California Spyder once owned by actor James Coburn for 25 years.

And at 6:30pm sharp, engines were started as a number of ultra rare classics took to The Grand Avenue, a quarter-mile long highway running through the centre of the show.

On the Grand Avenue this 1937 Alvin 4.3 Lancefield Concealed Hood.

This year’s theme was 'The Perfect 10', putting the spotlight on the best six examples of 10 different body styles which then were paraded on the catwalk allowing enthralled visitors to see – and hear – some of their favourite classics in action.

Dario Franchitti parading a Ferrari F40, named to celebrate Ferrari's fortieth anniversary.

TV Chef and petrol head James Martin, Joe Macari and Quentin Wilson discussing James Martin's love of Ferrari's.

Derek Bell presenting one of racing's greatest all-round drivers, Jacky Ickx, with the London Classic Car Icon Award.

The Icon trophy presented to Jacky Ickx on behalf of the London Classic Car Show.

Dario Franchitti and Jacky Ickx between the Ferrari F40 and Porsche 911 GT3-RS.

Emanuele Pirro, Quentin Wilson, Dario Franchitti, Derek Bell, Jacky Ickx, Jackie Oliver, Jürgen Barth, James Martin and Joe Macari.

I found this years show was bigger and much improved from previous years. I hear there were over 37,000 visitors over the 4 day event. Confirmed dates for next year, 15-18 February 2018 to put in your diary.

If you are interested in reading my blogs from the previous two years please click on the dates - 2015 2016

Thanks for reading, bye for now.

Stella

Bonhams London to Brighton Veteran Car Run 6th November 2016

I had the pleasure of photographing the arrival of hundreds of Veteran Cars arriving at Madeira Drive.

The 436 pre-1905 entries translated to 393 starters from Hyde Park on their journey to Brighton, with hundreds of spectators to cheer them on during the 60-mile route, which was bathed in autumnal sunshine.

Below are a small selection of photographs from the day.

Maderia Drive Brighton, the finishing line for over 300 veteran cars.

There were 344 finishers, with the 25 patrols, 3 recovery trucks and 2 passenger ‘Taxi’s’ provided by RAC Motoring Services - complemented by the TOTAL mobile welding unit - attending around 175 breakdowns (some cars up to 5 times!), providing recovery for 12 cars to service points at Honda Redhill and Gatwick, and providing welding services for 6 cars. 

The spectator route guide.

I got to meet some very interesting people who told me about their family history with their cars; in particular a young man who remembers each year being a small passenger in his parents 1904 Cadillac, and this year is the driver with his parents as passengers, the VCR has played an important part in their lives.

Commentators getting ready to interview the drivers to hear about their journey.

Around 10.15am, some two hours after leaving Hyde Park the first participants crossed the finishing line, car number 263 a 1903 Mercedes driven by Mr. Chris Scott.

First car back Mercedes 1903.

Car 253 a 1903 Panhard et Levassor driven by Dr. Terence Bramall CBE.

Car 051 a 1900  De Dion Bouton, driven by Mr. Simeon Barringer.

Joy and delight for car number 203 a 1903 Cadillac driven by Mr. Philip Kadoorie.

Following a respectful distance behind the early starters, were BBC Radio 2 DJ Chris Evans, plus BBC The One Show host Alex Jones, driving vintage buses full of passengers who paid for their ride of a lifetime by jointly raising more than £180,000 for BBC Children in Need. 

The 1950 Bedford OB buses provided by Lodge Coaches of Chelsmford, Essex.

BBC The One Show presenter Alex Jones drove one of the coaches.

Chris Evans, Alex Jones and dancing professionals from BBC One Strictly Come Dancing, Kevin Clifton and his wife Karen Hauer, who were amongst the passengers.

Car number 158 a 1902 Mors driven by Mr. Philip Oldman.

All welcome to come and watch.

Car number 116 a 1902 Panhard Levassor driven by Mr. Tim Dickson.

Brass Band entertainment too!

Car number 388 a 1904 Darracq driven by Mr. Graham Gregory.

Family fun for car number 309 a 1904 Alldays driven by Mr. Christopher Thomas.

Car number 379 a 1904 Darracq from the Louwman Museum driven by Mr. Louwman, seen here with his daughter Quirina and grandson Freddie.

This is the car that played the lead in the 1953 film ‘Genevieve’ set against the background of the London to Brighton run. In the film this 1904 Darracq is the hobby of Alan McKim, a barrister played by the actor John Gregson; an interesting detail is that Gregson does steer the car in the film, but couldn’t actually drive!

Thanks for reading, I'll be back in the New Year with more news from my world of cars and photography.

Bye for now.

Stella

Salon Privé 2016

David Cohen - 1957 Mercedes-Benz 300SL Coupe Gullwing

The Salon Privé Concours d’Elegance is hailed as one of the finest concours competitions yet. This year, the 11th annual event, Concours d'Elegance has seen some of the world's rarest and most alluring cars on the lawns of the prestigious Blenheim Palace in Woodstock, held on the 1-3 September 2016.

Boodles Ladies' Day Pass

I had the pleasure of attending Boodles Ladies' Day on Friday 2nd September and quickly immersed myself amongst the stunning selection of more than 75 cars and bikes on display. We were treated to a wonderful Champagne lobster luncheon, English afternoon tea and complimentary bar, the perfect setting for a thoughtfully presented exclusive event.

Closest to Furthest - Ferrari F50, Ferrari F355, Lamborghini Countach, Ferrari 458 Specialé, R35 Nismo Nissan GT-R GT3, BMW Z4 GTE.

Lamborghini Huracan Spider (Left) Lamborghini Huracan (Right)

1964 Alfa Romeo 101 Giulia Spider

Tom Hartley showcasing some top class stock; Ferrari Dino (Left) Ferrari 275 GTB (Middle) and Ferrari F50 (Right)

The best bit for me was watching, photographing and hearing the commentary for the Concours d'Elegance event, the judging for which had taken place the previous day. 

1955 AC Ace

Mark Aldridge - 1955 AC Ace

Ferrari F40

1973 Porsche 2.7RS Touring

1969 Ferrari 365 GT 2+2

Me at work, not my usual attire!

1973 Lamboghini Countach LP400 ' Periscopio'

1953 Ferrari 250 Europa Short Chassis Prototype -  Winner 'The Great V12 Ferraris' category

Entered by Nick Bailey, this 1992 Ferrari F40 won the 'Dream Machines' category

1954 Maserati A6 GCS Berlinetta - Winner 'People's Choice Category'

This 1956 Ferrari 500 Testa Rossa fended off rivals to steal the 'Best of Show' Salon Privé 2016 winner.

Winner 'Best of Show' Salon Privé 2016.

Taking 8 years to find and 2 years to restore, it made its post restoration debut at the 2015 Goodwood Revival Meeting.

1956 Ferrari 500 Testa Rossa

1973 Porsche 2.7RS Touring (Left) 1969 Porsche 911 (Right)

1969 Porsche 911 - Runner Up Trophy, finished third

This 1965 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray C2 sold for £60,750 in the Silverstone Auction on Saturday 3rd September at Salon Privé.

1965 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray C2

Leaving Salon Privé on the majestic grounds of Blenheim Palace, until next year

Thanks for reading, I'll be back soon with more news from my world of cars and photography.

Bye for now.

Stella

Silverstone Classic 2016

The majestic Silverstone sign

On Saturday 30 July I collected my media pass, track side vest and then immersed myself in the world of motor racing, boy did I have fun! I'd like to share with you a few moments I captured from the day.

1955 Austin-Healey 100m pit stop - Royal Automobile Club Woodcote Trophy pre '56 Sports Cars

Christophe D'ansembourg before getting into his WilliamsFW07/C 1981 for the FIA Historic Formula One Race

Sam Hancock at the podium, a very worthy winner of the Stirling Moss Trophy for pre-'61 Sports Cars in the Ferrari 246S, 20 laps

Rick Carlino in 1975 Hesketh 308C

Winner Rob Hall's 1974 Matra MS670B/C in the Can-Am 50 Interserie Challenge

Chris Wilks in a 1960 Deep Sanderson FJ in position to take the track

Ant Anstead interviewing racing legend Mike Beckwith for Channel 4's 'For The Love Of Cars'

Ant Anstead having a moment of reflection before taking the recently restored 1958 Lotus Elite Series 1 out for the next race

FIA Masters Historic Formula One back in the pit lane after the race

Thanks for reading, I'll be back soon with more news from my world of cars and photography.

Bye for now.

Stella

'Steering Wheels'

The Elite London Show 2016

On June 3rd and 4th I was given the opportunity to showcase my classic and supercar photography at the Elite London Show, a luxury lifestyle event.

To add a little bit of fun to the occasion, visitors were invited to take part in a competition to win one of the Limited Edition 'Steering Wheels' framed photographs - one of only 25 - shown on the far right of the above image. They had to identify which make and model of car the steering wheels belong to.

We were overwhelmed with the response, the lucky winner, from a random draw of correct answers was Ben King, from DS Virgin Racing Formula-E Team. The photograph below shows me presenting Ben with his prize which he was delighted to receive, and plans on hanging above his desk at home.

Presenting Ben King with his prize

This is what Ben says about DS Virgin Racing Formula-E Team:-

“Harnessing the pioneering spirit of Sir Richard Branson and the Virgin group, and the DS brand's spirit of avant garde, DS Virgin Racing Formula E Team exists to POWER INNOVATION in order to positively impact on peoples' lives.

As the world's first global electric vehicle championship, FIA Formula E is a truly ground-breaking endeavour. Not only does it push the boundaries of automotive technology, in ways that are directly relevant to the man on the street, but it engages fans in ways never before seen at the top levels of world sport, through music, social media and gaming, and we intend to be at the forefront of these areas as well.

In short, Formula E represents the best possible combination of sport, technology and entertainment.”

Ben's position at DS Virgin Racing is Business Development - he works to bring in strategic partners to the team that seek to develop related technologies to electric vehicles and reap the commercial benefits from aligning with DS Virgin Racing team’s activities in Formula E.

Thanks for reading, I'll be back soon.

Bye for now.

Stella

The Elite London Luxury Brand Show 3 - 4 June 2016

The Elite London 2015.

Last year I had the pleasure of photographing The Elite London 2015. If you are into the jet-set luxury lifestyle and have a passion for cars and aviation then come out to play, and enjoy a day or two at this exclusive event at a private location in Kent.

This year I'll be showcasing my classic and supercar photography of Limited Edition framed photographs, or, to commission a shoot of your own collection to have a bespoke book crafted, the perfect gift for the man or woman who has everything, come and find my stand, D7.

Now in it's third year, there is a whole host of luxury items to experience and enjoy at this unique summer event, to browse the very best the luxury and lifestyle industries have to offer.

I have 10 pairs of complimentary tickets on a first come first serve basis, please email me your address stella@stellascordellis.com so I can send them to you.

This link to The Elite London 2016 website will tell you more about what's in store. Look forward to seeing you!

Always an opportunity to take a photograph!

Overfinch showcasing a Range Rover

Lamborghini Aventador courtesy of Romans International

Jets and more...

There's watches and jewellery too...

And a pair of shoes...

And a Spitfire display to complete the day.

Thanks for reading, I'll be back once a month with updates.

Stella

London Classic Car Show 2016

I was delighted to have been given the opportunity to photograph the Preview Evening of The London Classic Car Show on Thursday 18th February, having photographed the first show last year I was keen to see what was in store for 2016.

Guests included Jenson Button, Gordon Murray, Ari Vatanen, Bruno Senna, Jodie Kidd, Tom Ford, Jonny Smith and the evening was hosted by Suzi Perry.

One of the show’s main events was the Classic Six Nations Cup in which teams of ten iconic classic cars from the six leading car-producing nations vied for votes from visitors.

And when all the votes had been counted, the UK team – which included such varied machines at the original Mini, the Rolls-Royce Silver Ghost, Le Mans Bentley, McLaren F1 supercar, Aston Martin DB5, Land Rover and Graham Hill’s 1968 title winning Lotus 49 Grand Prix car – narrowly beat an Italian team full of Ferraris, Maseratis and Lamborghinis. 

Below are my highlights of The London Classic Car Show 2016 Preview Evening.

Jenson Button, the 2009 Formula One World Champion, made an impressive entrance driving a McLaren F1 – the supercar was celebrated at the show in a special display curated by its designer Gordon Murray.

Suzi Perry, Jensen Button and Jodie Kidd with the McLaren F1.

Classic car dealers crammed the halls with impressive displays of rare and valuable classic cars, many with six figure price tags. By the end of the show they delightedly reported sales of many millions of pounds.

A quote from the Event Director Bas Bungish:-
“If we were delighted by how the first London Classic Car Show was received in 2015, we were blown away by the response to the 2016 edition. From the moment the show opened right until the final curtain each day, the halls were buzzing with visitors. They loved the special displays and really got involved with the show: more than 9,000 for example, voted in the Classic Six Nations Cup.

“And the really good news is that we are already starting work to make the 2017 London Classic Car Show even better. Make a note in your diaries now: 23-26 February 2017,” said Bungish.

That's a date in my diary I don't want to miss!

If you have enjoyed reading this newsletter and would like to read previous ones you may have missed please click this link.

Thanks for reading, I'll be back once a month with updates.

Stella

Bonhams London to Brighton Veteran Car Run 2015

Bonhams London to Brighton Veteran Car Run 2015 I had been looking forward to the Bonhams London to Brighton Veteran Car Run for some time, particularly after I had photographed the Best of West Kent Veteran Car Run back in July.

The London to Brighton run scheduled on Sunday 1st November is the world's longest running motor event, this year celebrates the 119th Anniversary Run, the pioneering cars from the pre-1905 era, the only event anywhere on Earth where so many veteran cars parade in such numbers, the participants dressed in period attire.

Bonhams Auction 30 October

Preceding the run an auction of veteran cars and memorabilia was held at Bonhams in New Bond Street, London. I went to photograph a little of what was on display - just to soak up a some of the atmosphere and learn more about this prestigious event. The centre photograph below shows four cars, the 1904 rear entrance Tonneau (front on the right) sold for £51,750 and the 1904 Winton (corner bottom left) sold for £130,000 including premiums. I found it fascinating to see the photographs on display from the early years, it put into perspective just how much effort goes into the run and how passionate the entrants still are to this day.

Regent Street Motor Show Saturday 31 October

Always well attended this truly unique motoring event represents the dawn of motoring, and right at the heart of the display, was a remarkable collection of 100 pre-1905 machines. As a curtain raiser to Sunday’s running of the annual Bonhams London to Brighton Veteran Car Run. This year’s star-studded judging panel included multiple-title winning F1 team principal Ross Brawn and TV personality Edd China. The remarkable 1901 De Dion Bouton Vis- à-Vis owned by Mr and Mrs Gigi Baulino was awarded with the overall prize. The outstandingly original machine has been in storage in Italy for nearly a century and is making its VCR debut this year. I wasn't able to get to photograph and enjoy this event, the supplied photographs below capture the splendor of the day showing Regent Street and the winning car.

Below the winning car with the owners and entrants with co- chairman of Bonhams, Malcom Barber on the left who conducted the auction on Friday and Ross Brawn back centre and Edd China back right.

Veteran Car Run Sunday 1 November 2015

On Sunday 1st November at the crack of dawn more than 380 veteran cars dating back to 1898 started their engines at Hyde Park for the start of this year's 60 mile journey south through a misty London to Madeira Drive Brighton for the 119th Anniversary Run. I live half way between London and Brighton and made the decision to get to Brighton bright and early to capture the scene before the arrival of the first car over the finishing line.

For only the third time in more than half a century, this year’s route took the intrepid participants ­– past Buckingham Palace and down The Mall before heading past Big Ben and over Westminster Bridge. The capital’s early morning mist added to the period Victorian atmosphere. The route took the cars through Lambeth, Norbury, Redhill, Gatwick, Crawley - the mid-way check point, down to Hammer Hill, Cuckfield and down into Brighton.

I waited in anticipation to capture the first car over the finishing line, in unseasonably warm weather it was thrilling to see the first car back shortly after 10.00am - a 1903 Berliet, the participants were greeted by cheering crowds, blue skies and sunshine!

Amongst the veteran cars were three classic buses supplied by Lodge Coaches and driven by Radio 2 DJs Chris Evans and Ken Bruce and the One Show presenter Alex Jones, raising nearly £350,00 for BBC Children in Need, thanks to the generosity of their 40 passengers. The adventure – dubbed ‘40 Go Bonkers to Brighton’ was a huge success. Everyone looked do joyous and triumphant.

Also taking part, Nick Mason drummer of Pink Floyd with the oldest car in his vast collection, a 1903 Panhard et Levassor.

In total 342 of the starters managed to complete thejourney from Hyde Park to the Sussex coast before the 4.30pm deadline, thus receiving a coveted finisher medal.

Of the 427 vehicles entered, only 342 cars made it over the finish line: 14 withdrew, 27 did not start and 44 retired.

Below the first car back a 1903 Berliot.

Camaraderie Hearing the commentary about how the generations of entrants had enjoyed the run from an early age and how they continued a family tradition made it all the more wonderful, everybody had their own special story to tell. The camaraderie was plain to see with many cars arriving together as they bonded on the way arriving in groups.

I shall be back next year, but would love to be a participant, anyone have a spare seat for me?

Thanks for reading I'll be back in two weeks time with more news.

Bye for now, enjoy the weekend.

Stella

A Drive Down Memory Lane Photography Exhibition

Limited Edition Framed Photographs

Delighted to announce my classic and super car photography exhibition is currently on at the Royal Automobile Club, Pall Mall, London until 23 October for members and their guests.

The photographs on display are some of the rarest and most sought after cars in the world and are limited to editions of 25, signed complete with a certificate of authenticity.

Printed on Fuji museum archival quality Fine Art Photo Rag paper and framed in black wood with a natural grain by master craftsmen. Finished with art glass to reveal the true colours of the photograph and eliminates reflection to one percent and scratch resistant.

A wider selection of framed photographs can be purchased, just click here to view the collection.

Thanks for reading I'll be back in two weeks time with more news.

Bye for now, enjoy the weekend.

Stella

Goodwood Revival 2015

On Sunday 13 September I attended the Goodwood Revival, I always look forward to going to this three-day festival held each September. This event isn't just for car and motor sport lovers it's an event for all the family to enjoy, the whole experience of living in a bygone era, with a merry go round and lots of fun things to see, do and buy. It's an educational visit for everyone!

Featuring all types of road racing cars and motorcycles that would have competed during the circuit's original period - 1948–1966. It is one of the world's most popular motor race meetings and the only event which recreates the golden era of motor sport in the UK. I love the fact that most people dress in period clothes and everything around you reflects this, from the tea stands, police boxes and memorabilia.

The car park even becomes part of the show as visitors line up their classics.

This Youthquake display celebrates 50 years of the miniskirt.

An original Land Rover Defender - still stable when tilted at 45 degrees, as these Revival visitors found out

Preparation for the next race on the Goodwood Circuit.

St. Mary's Trophy part 2. Ford Galaxie 500 1963 and BMW 1800 TiSA 1965

Mini's and Cortina during the St. Mary's Trophy part 2.

It was a time of glitz and glamour, it felt like taking a step back in time.

Goodwood's Earls Court Motor Show is a celebration of the greatest Ferrari road cars, including the 166 MM Barchetta from 1950.

Each visitor to the Earls Court Motor Show at the Revival is given the opportunity to cast a vote for their favourite car and in doing so support the chosen charity. This year, in keeping with the commemoration of 75 years since the Battle of Britain, the Revival lent its support to the RAF Benevolent Fund, which supports serving and former members of the RAF in the UK and around the world. This years winner is the 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO.

I hope you have enjoyed reading a little about the Goodwood Revival and it has inspired you to book your tickets for next year. To see more photographs from the event please take a look at Instagram and Twitter @StellaSMS

Thanks for reading I'll be back in two weeks time with more news.

Bye for now, enjoy the weekend.

Stella

RM Sotheby’s London Auction

Blue Chip Automobiles

On Monday 7 September I took a trip to Battersea Park to see a spectacular array of classic and supercars for the annual RM Sotheby’s London auction. As usual RM Sotheby’s didn’t disappoint with this line up of 75 blue-chip automobiles, displayed for viewing during a champagne reception on Sunday 6 and Monday 7 September. The above Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster didn’t meet the reserve of £650,000 – £850,000

Auctioneer

The lots were numbered between 101-176 and the auction was streamed live. For any of you who have seen auctioneer Max Girardo in action will know he conducts the auction with panache and zeal, communicating in English, French and Italian depending on the bidder. Max always makes these events exciting and entertaining with the help of Peter Wallman (left) who introduces each of the lots with a potted history.

Lots

Below are a selection of the cars, they were each presented with military precision, either driven or rolled on and off the stage for all to admire. Stunning photographs taken on location of each car were displayed on screens above. My favorite was the 1953 Porsche 356 Pre-A 1500 coupé, with the 1973 Ferrari 365 GTB/4 Daytona Spider a close second

The star of the show, a 1958 Ferrari 250 GT Berlinetta Competizione ‘Tour de France’ which went for £4,250,000 on the hammer making competition history, it was exciting to watch as the telephone bids were coming in thick and fast. Ferraris as usual stole the show, with total sales achieved of more than £16.6 million.

To find out more and to see the prices they were sold for please click here.

Thanks for reading, I’ll be back in two weeks with more to share.

Enjoy the weekend! Bye for now.

Stella

Ferrari 488 GTB

The Ferrari 488 GTB Introducing the new addition to the Ferrari family, the Ferrari 488 GTB. I paid a visit to H.R Owen Ferrari Atelier yesterday to see what all the fuss was about, now this IS a stunning car.

The 488 GTB will set you back £231,820 if you have it kitted out like the one on display, this is the only one in the country and orders are being taken. It's an extremely powerful car reaching 62 mph in just 3 seconds, and a maximum speed of 205 mph.

Personalised

There is a huge choice of interior and exterior colours and finishes to choose from to have your car personalised. To help you decide, your options and choices are displayed on a huge screen as computer generated images in the comfort of Mark Spence's office. Best to be sure before you commit to signing on the dotted line. This link will take you to the website.

If you are in Knightsbridge, London, over the Bank Holiday weekend call in and take a look for yourself, if you have a spare quarter of a million pounds this could be just the car for you.

Thanks for reading I'll be back in two weeks time with more news.

Bye for now, enjoy the weekend.

Stella

Best of West Kent Veteran Car Run 2015 at Hever Castle Kent

Best of West Kent Veteran Car Run 2015 at Hever Castle Kent On Wednesday 29th July I photographed the Hever Castle part of the Best of West Kent Veteran Car Run.

This is an annual event organised by The Veteran Car Club of Great Britain, with over sixty cars taking part, dating back to 1898 and the majority up to the end of 1918. The owners looked very proud as they drove their cars into the grounds of Hever Castle, having first arrived in the morning at Chartwell, Westerham, Kent, then onto Chiddingstone Castle and finishing at Hever Castle for a picnic lunch.

It was wonderful to see so many cars over one hundred years old looking so resplendent in this picturesque part of the Kent countryside steeped in history.

My photographs below tell some of the story.

1915 polished Lanchester.

Dennis 1909 and detail of the side light

1898 Peugeot

Important top up of oil for this 1900 Peugeot and a Conrad 1903

De Dion Bouton 1904

Talbot 1914.

Thanks for reading I'll be back in two weeks time with more news.

Bye for now, enjoy the weekend.

Stella

Buckmore Park Launch with John Surtees OBE and Paul Hollywood

Buckmore Park Launch with John Surtees OBE and Paul Hollywood On Wednesday 15 July I was invited to the launch of the new Buckmore Park Kart Circuit, in Chatham, Kent. John Surtees OBE who is the only person ever to have achieved world championships on both two and four wheels, has recently taken ownership and wanted to spread the word.

This is the track where Lewis Hamilton and Jenson Button practiced as youngsters. It is also where John’s own son Henry began driving as a child. John’s passion and enthusiasm will help to make Buckmore Park a major feeder for youngsters to further their career in motorsport, what better place to start. Buckmore Park is recognised as one of the UK’s premier outdoor karting circuits.

A group of enthusiastic friends, associates, press and media individuals watched as John introduced us to the John Button Suite in memory of Jenson Button’s late father.

John Surtees OBE founded the Henry Surtees Foundation as a result of a freak accident that ended his 18 year old sons life at Brands Hatch on 19th July 2009. Henry was one of the best young drivers of his era. The foundation was created to assist people with brain or physical injuries caused by accident to help them with their recovery.

The John Button Suite in honour of John Button, Jenson Button’s father. These beautiful photographs were unveiled at the launch of them together.

Photograph above of John introducing us to the track with his PA Sharon Bowness on the right and Rebecca Leppard on the left his PR manager.

Paul Hollywood the ‘Great British Bake Off ‘ presenter took time away from filming to unveil a new fleet of 50 karts and demonstrated the 2016 modelSodi RT8 390cc before we were allowed loose on the track. Scott Malvern racing driver, driving the striking blue and yellow Formula 2 car used by John to win the 1972 Japanese Grand Prix. The photographs below show John in the middle with Paul Hollywood on the left and Scott Malvern on the right.

I was amongst the first people to test drive the karts, I felt the adrenaline rush as I prepared in my red race overalls, protective gear and helmet, taking my place in kart number 5. It was a fun 7 laps, I don’t think I’ll take racing driving up any time soon as I managed to come last in my team. It was great fun, I can highly recommend it! I found it a great opportunity to capture this historic moment and to watch others enjoy it too, there was a lot camaraderie taking place.

For those who preferred to experience the track from the comfort of the clubhouse there was a simulator which was just as popular.

Photograph above of me in kart 5, thanks to Mariusz Goslicki for taking this one and the one below of me with Paul Hollywood and his son Josh.

Good to meet the guys above from The Drone Company who shot this brilliant footage.

Photographs above left Paul Hollywood in a reflective mood with his son Josh and on the right John Surtees OBE looking very proud.

Above on the track, everyone was keen to have a go

Photographs above a map of the track and my results. A great day out for all the family to have some fun time. Thanks for reading, I’ll be back in two weeks with more to share. Bye for now.

Stella

John Surtees OBE at Hever Castle

On Sunday 21 June in partnership with John Surtees OBE and the Henry Surtees Foundation, Hever Castle presented a collection of F1 cars, classic cars and motor bikes from the John Surtees collection.

John Surtees OBE is a force to be reckoned with, not only did he achieve world championships on both two wheels and four wheels and the only person ever to have done so, he was a four-time 500cc motorcycle World Champion too.

John also founded the Henry Surtees Foundation as a result of a freak accident that ended his 18 year old sons life at Brands Hatch on 19th July 2009. Henry was one of the best young drivers of his era. The foundation was created to assist people with brain or physical injuries caused by accident to return to community living by the provision of support for equipment and facilities.

The day was very well attended, John shared a few of his racing memories with his audience, many had their own little piece of history to share with him, about how their grandfather knew his father, or when they watched him race at Crystal Palace, it really showed what a great man he is, his spirit shone.

John spent much of the day signing memorabilia sold to raise funds. It is through events like this that the Henry Surtees Foundation is helping so many people recover from brain or physical injuries. To buy a copy of the book 'My Incredible Life on Two & Four Wheels' please click here.

A Drive Down Memory Lane

During the day on display in The Moat Restaurant were a selection of my classic and super car photographs from my exhibition " A Drive Down Memory Lane". To be amongst the first to buy a framed photograph, limited to 25 per image, please click this link, ten percent of all sales will be donated to the Henry Surtees Foundation. The exhibition will be at the RAC, Pall Mall, London in the autumn.

Visit Hever Castle & Gardens for the perfect day out in Kent. The gardens are stunning all year round, set in 125 acres, I took the photographs below on the day.

Thanks for reading I'll be back in two weeks time with more news.

Bye for now, enjoy the sunshine!

Stella

Classic Sports Car Club at Brands Hatch

On a wet and cold Sunday morning at the end of May I drove to Brands Hatch to watch the Classic Sports Car Club Summer Special Race meeting and to take a few photographs. The qualifying races took place in the morning and the main event in the afternoon. The previous day was warm and sunny and featured cars from the 60's and 70's and was much busier than the Sunday.

With it's iconic track and the wet surface, the Brands Hatch circuit was going to be a challenge for the most experienced driver. There were six races featuring the Modern Classics Series, Toyo Tires Jaguar championship, Magnificent Sevens, New Millennium and Dunlop Puma Cup Series and Tin Tops.

The photographs below show how it all panned out.

The photograph above shows Tom Eden driving a Caterham 7 who came 2nd in the CSCC Gold Arts Magnificent Sevens Group 2.

Above - The Modern Classic Series showing a bumper grid of 90's machinery with Miles Maserati driving car number 46 as the winner.

Above - Toyo Tires Jaguar Saloons were the second race of the day with Sam Clarke Jnr. taking 1st place in car number 126 and David Howard in car number 55 in 2nd place.

Above - The winner of the CSCC Gold Arts Magnificent Sevens - Group 2 was Peter Ratcliffe in car number 1 with Tom Eden in 2nd place in car number 64 and Jonathan Gibbs in 3rd place in car number 41.

Above - CSCC New Millennium & Dunlop Puma Cup, father and son Alan and James Broad in 1st place in car number 76.

Above - CSCC New Millennium & Dunlop Puma Cup in 2nd place Nikolas Barton in car 199.

Above - Liam Crilly filling up his Mazda RX8.

Above - CSCC Gold Arts Magnificent Sevens Group 1 Stephen Mansell in 1st place in car number 5.

Above - It wasn't smooth going for everyone though.

Above - The last race of the day CSCC Tin Tops with MS Society, I was cold and wet to see the end of this one so can't let you know who won, but this is what it looked like at the start! A big thank you to Hugo Holder the Competitions Director and Club Secretary, at Classic Sports Car Club for inviting me to enjoy this event.

Don't forget to treat your dad on Father's Day - June 21st at Hever Castle

Say thank you to your dad this Father’s Day and spoil him with a memorable day out. In partnership with John Surtees and the Henry Surtees Foundation, Hever Castle presents a collection of F1 cars, classic cars and motor bikes from the John Surtees collection. I have been invited to showcase my classic and supercar photography at this prestigious event with framed Limited Edition photographs for sale.

Featuring the photograph below, home of the Spitfire taken at the Biggin Hill Heritage Hangar, and an F-Type Jag courtesy of AutoPrive, using a Leica medium format camera. What I particularly love about photographing with a Leica is the quality of the lens, capturing crystal clear clarity.

Thanks for reading I'll be back in two weeks time with more to share.

Bye for now, enjoy the weekend!

Stella

Bond in Motion London Film Museum

Bond in Motion London Film MuseumOn Monday evening I was invited to enjoy a private view at the London Film Museum, Covent Garden to see the 'Bond in Motion' exhibition. The evening was hosted by Clive from Prestige Promotions for his members to see the largest official collection of original James Bond vehicles ever staged in London.

This exhibition is certainly worth a visit, you can immerse yourself in movie history, I was in my element. The best part for me, other than the cars, was that beside each vehicle you could watch footage from the particular movie it appeared in. I felt like I wanted to go and watch all the movies again from start to finish!

Can you guess which movies the above vehicles featured in? Bottom right photograph

Serena Gordon and Philip inside the DB5 with the original scene in the background.

Aston Martin DB5

Amongst the cars on display I particularly liked the Aston Martin DB5, this iconic car has appeared in many of the movies, however this particular DB5 was from the 1995 movie'Golden Eye'. It featured in the chase with a Ferrari 355 in Monte Carlo with James Bond(Piers Brosnan) driving and his passenger Caroline (Serena Gordon).The added bonus to photographing the car was that Serena Gordon came to the event, it was lovely to meet her. I photographed her next to the DB5 and also inside, this time it wasn't with Piers Brosnan but with Philip, who came as a guest and bid £600 to sit next to her in the very seat James Bond once sat in.

Serena said it brought back many memories of that eventful journey in Monte Carlo twenty

years ago, looks like a hair-raising experience to me!

Above a selection of images I took during the evening, the bottom right photograph from

left to right, Clive Thomas, Serena Gordon, Philip (the gentleman who bid £600) and

Imogen Stubbs.

Above Clive Thomas and Serena Gordon with the DB5 from the movie 'Golden Eye' and footage on the screen.

Rolls-Royce

Now this one didn't appear in any of the James Bond movies, but it can be yours. 

I photographed this Rolls - Royce Phantom I Newmark Tourer convertible 1929.

Coach built by Brewster & Co in the US, with a left hand drive. 

This Rolls Royce is a rarity and a fantastic investment opportunity for a collector to own a piece of history.

Thanks for reading, I'll be back in two weeks with more news.

Enjoy the sunshine!

Bye for now.

Stella

Elite London Show Days May 2015

Following on from my last newsletter about the setting up of The Elite London Show a luxury lifestyle experience, set in the opulent surroundings of the Rizon Jet facility at Biggin Hill Airport.

The Elite London Show days on Friday and Saturday didn’t fail to wow the audience with a prestigious array of ‘boys toys’ guaranteed to satisfy the most discerning customer. I had the pleasure of interacting with the exhibitors and customers alike, to photograph the emotion of the second Elite London Show. What stood out the most for me was the passion the exhibitors had for their products and craft.

Here are a few of the photographs I took at the Elite London show days with a brief description underneath.

The photographs above show some of the exhibitors showcasing helicopters, supercars and inspirational sculptures.  All the images were taken using Nikon equipment with a 70-200mm f2.8 lens.

The photograph of the hangar above was taken using Nikon equipment with a 24-120mm lens.

The HDR process which I wrote about on my previous newsletter will tell you how it is produced.

The photographs above capture different moments at the show in particular the Spitfire flypast, bottom right.

The WWII plane captivated the audience with agile acrobatics, a fast shutter speed was a must for this shot.

Say thank you to your dad this Father’s Day and spoil him with a memorable day out. In partnership with John Surtees

and the Henry Surtees Foundation, Hever Castle presents a collection of F1 cars, classic cars and motor bikes from the John Surtees collection. I have been invited to showcase my classic and supercar photography at this prestigious event with framed Limited Edition photographs for sale.

Featuring the photograph below, home of the Spitfire taken at the Biggin Hill Heritage Hangar, and an F-Type Jag courtesy of AutoPrive,

using a Leica medium format camera. What I particularly love about photographing with a Leica is the quality of the lens, capturing crystal clear clarity.

Thanks for reading I’ll be back in two weeks time with more news.

Bye for now.

Stella

The Elite Show London 8 and 9 May 2015

On Wednesday and Thursday I photographed the setting up of The Elite Show London, a luxury lifestyle experience, set in the opulent surroundings of Rizon Jet at Biggin Hill Airport.

The scene has been set with an array of super cars and jets on display amongst a select variety of luxury goods.

Below are a few of the images I took just to whet your appetite.

HDR Photography

The photograph above was taken using 5 images spliced together, this is called High Dynamic Range.

The reason for taking a series of images at different exposures is because it's not possible to get a consistent exposure in one single shot. The light inside the hangar is much darker than outside.

By taking 5 images in rapid succession at varying exposures and processing in Photoshop one image with an even exposure is made.

The images below starting top left and finishing bottom right show the five images that were used to create the final one.

Spitfire

The spitfire below is on display at Intrepid Design alongside some innovative furniture created using decommissioned and recycled aircraft parts. You can even visit the guys from the Heritage Hangar to book a short flight in a Spitfire too!

Yesterday Afternoon

The photograph below is how it looked yesterday afternoon, before the cars and jets arrived. The lodge back right is by Waterside Holidays, by the end of the day I felt like curling up and going to sleep, it's so homely! If you get the chance to visit, either today Friday 8 May, or tomorrow Saturday 9 May you're in for a luxurious time. This link will tell you more.

Thanks for reading I'll be back next month with more news.

Bye for now!

Stella