THIS year’s 30th Classic Car Day was described as the biggest and best with every space in the paddock taken up by a selection of more than 800 exhibitors.

Held at The Deer’s Hut in June, and raising more than £10,000 for local organisations, cheques have now been presented (pictured) to Liphook Scouts and Cubs, Liphook Girlguiding, the local fire service, Liphook Day Centre and the Carnival Committee.

Deer’s Hut owner and supporter of the event, Richard Northcott, called it a real family event, displaying true British spirit.

“It was such a great day, the place was buzzing”, he said.

“Everyone was enjoying themselves - from small children to grandparents, they were having a good time. There was not a single spare space left in the exhibitors paddock and the selection of cars and bikes was amazing.

“The Scouts, Cubs and guides put a lot of hard work into making this day so special and they deserve plenty of praise.”

Pub managing director Debbie Steel added: “It is a truly local event for Liphook and the surrounding area, bringing everyone together, which was again sponsored by Clark Gammon and Wellers.

“We had our 2012 Olympic Bronze medalist Olivia Breen come along with her twin brother Dan and her dad Michael, enjoying themselves and admiring the cars. The quality of the cars and bikes was outstanding this year and there were more than ever before.

“We could not have made it happen without the Scouts, Cubs and Girl Guides who barbecued more than 800 burgers throughout the day and were instrumental in parking all cars safely and efficiently.

“There was a real feel-good factor all day long and the event managed to raise a substantial amount of money for local organisations.”

Cub leader Trevor Holden said: “We have been celebrating the centenary of the Cubs this year and would like to thank The Deer’s Hut for their continuous support throughout the year.

“It was a great day for everyone and we also had a lot of support and help from the children’s parents. The money will go towards buying a new mini-bus, after the current one packed up suddenly and had to be repaired.”

Paul Robinson, the new chairman of Liphook Day Centre, said: “Over the August Bank Holiday the Day Centre will be completely refurbishing the kitchen which is well overdue a makeover. The generous donation from the Classic Car Day will go towards replacing some of the equipment such as the kettle, which recently failed its PAT test, and the purchase of a new refrigerator. 

“The day centre relies on gifts such as this, grants and fundraising to fund 40 per cent of its running costs. We are extremely grateful to the management and the staff of The Deer’s Hut for their continued support.”

Chairman Karen Feeney added: “The Carnival Committee is extremely grateful for the generous donation received from money raised at Classic Car Day.

“The money will be put towards the much-needed refurbishment of the Queen’s float.” 

Members of the Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service based at Liphook, kept children and adults entertained all throughout this year’s Classic Car Day.

Crews at the fire station, off Midhurst Road, have launched a complementary home safe and well visiting service to check out or fit smoke alarms and make sure they are safe. To book a free visit pop along to the station, or check out details online at www.hantsfire.gov.uk Next year’s Classic Car Day will be held on Father’s Day Sunday, June 18.