A RECORD number of people attended the 18th annual Isle of Wight International Charity Classic Car Extravaganza at the weekend.

An estimated 16,000 people — the biggest ever for the event — visited Ryde and Newport during the two days.

There were around 800 cars on show, and a further 200 driving around the Island.

The event took place at Newport Quay on Saturday, raising money for children's charities through the IW Round Table, and Ryde Esplanade on Sunday, for Mountbatten.

The Island’s MP, Bob Seely, and transport minister Chris Heaton-Harris attended.

Show founder Vic Gallucci said: “The event continues to evolve, we’re now able to attract people from the mainland to come and stay for six or seven days.

“I give them a list of fantastic places to visit, some not in the tourist guide, so it becomes a weekend to explore lesser promoted parts of this beautiful setting.

“There are so many people to thank for the enduring success of the show, who are so incredibly supportive, and we were delighted to see actor Graham Cole devote a lot of time to us.

“Most importantly, we raised money for two fantastic causes.

"We couldn’t have done that without the assistance of the Isle of Wight Council and Ryde Council.”

More than £1,700 was raised on Saturday for the Round Table. Member Lee Morey said: “It is amazing looking at the history of motoring that comes to our lovely Island for this weekend.

“You have vintage vehicles more than 100 years old alongside future classics and supercars.

“This is a free event, so if you haven’t been before, make sure to attend future shows as they are fantastic.”

This year the Round Table’s efforts were assisted by Tanya Harder from the Ladies Circle, who visited from Southampton as part of a 4,000 mile rowing challenge in aid of the RNLI.

Funds collected on the Sunday went to Mountbatten, with close to £3,000 donated.

People interested in exhibiting their vehicle next year should contact Vic Gallucci on 02084 397871.

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