The twice-yearly event saw a stunning gathering of around 1,000 classic vehicles on display from both specialised car clubs to private owners.

Many had travelled from all over the country to soak up the atmosphere at the event, which has established itself as the leading classic car show in Notts.

A top motoring correspondent was on hand throughout the day giving expert commentary in the arena, which played host to a competition which dished out prizes and trophies to vehicles with the biggest va-va-voom.

Event organiser Andrew Greenwood said the picturesque grounds of Thoresby provided the perfect backdrop for the rally, which has flourished considerably over the years.

”The May Bank Holiday show was our 25th event and it was a fantastic day,” he said.

”The venue has really grown in stature over the years, with the opening of the hotel and the courtyard, and now the show has grown alongside it.”

”We welcomed around 4,000 visitors and the atmosphere was definitely buzzing,” he said.

”And with the amazing weather, it really felt like the first day of summer. You couldn’t have asked for a better day.”

The Independent Porsche Enthusiasts Club was one of the 15 classic car clubs proudly showing off both vintage and newer models, from Triumph Sports and MGs to Capris and Escort OCs.

Eric Finley, one of the directors of the Independent Porsche Enthusiasts, manned the club’s tent, which featured a range of pre and post 1990 models - including his 944 Porsche Cabriolet.

”It has been a fantastic day and I have throroughly enjoyed it,” he said. ”I really got into Porsches a few years back when I discovered that they were reliable and well-priced cars suitable for regular use to the supermarket or work, and have never looked back.”

Mansfield man Colin Burton was one of the private owners displaying his prized possession at the rally – a red 1960 German Messerschmitt car, which he described as being ‘a cross between a car and a motorcycle’.

”It’s a fun car to drive and you just have to lean slightly, depending on which direction you want to go in,” he said. ”The bubble top lets through a lot of light, but after a while you do start to cook - especially in this weather.”

”I think this rally is brilliant - as well as looking at the different cars, I have also been to the auto jumble,’ he added. ”It’s a great social event, and I have enjoyed sitting around talking to friends I have made by coming here over the years.”

Eighty-four-year old Ida Saville, of Forest Town, Mansfield, was one of the thousands of members of the public who had come to bask in the sunshine and explore the various areas the rally had to offer.

”It’s great to meet new people and check out the auto jumble stalls, which are a big attraction, as you’re always needing new car parts,” she said. ”If I could drive off in any car here today it would be a Spitfire.