BRILLIANT sunshine complemented the dazzling high-speed performances on the track to ensure the centenary Shelsley Walsh Hill Climb was a triumph.

Thousands of spectators packed along the sweeping course near Martley to watch the top cars of today - and the stars of decades ago - race around the winding road at the weekend.

The audience encompassed young and old, first-time visitors and hill climb aficionados as the 100th-year anniversary of the world-famous event caught the imagination of all ages.

Even the car park was a testament to the popularity of the sport Shelsley has played home to for a century, liberally sprinkled as it was with classic racing and show cars.

One couple, Chris and Anne Craven, came from all the way from North Yorkshire for the hill climb.

Mrs Craven said: "It is our first time but we wanted to see it, and it's certainly very exciting. It's not even just the racing here - the classic cars are wonderful."

Many of the cars hit speeds of 150mph-plus, while the thermometer topped 25C for much of the weekend's racing, ensuring the barbecue and beer tents enjoyed excellent business.

There were also dozens of other stalls, including the Midlands Automobile Club, clothing stands and fairground-style fun and bouncy castles for kids.