AN exhibition of classic and vintage cars that drew spectators from all around the region has been hailed a huge success.

Hundreds of vintage cars, vans and motorbikes drove through the grounds of Raby Castle, at Staindrop, County Durham, during yesterday's rally.

About 300 classic cars were joined by vintage trucks, tractors and stationary engines.

Individual entrants and members of classic car clubs from across the North-East exhibited vehicles below the castle walls, before parading through a special arena.

Catherine Turnbull, marketing supervisor at Raby Castle, said: "It's been a huge success. We've had an awful lot of exhibitors and the turnout has been phenomenal.

"Quite a lot of visitors were local, which is great that they are supporting the event. Hopefully, it will become an annual fixture."

Rally organiser Mark Woodward said: "This is, we hope, the first of many classic car rallies at Raby Castle. I have visited this area many times and have always been struck by Raby's spectacular setting. It's a wonderful backdrop for a vintage car rally - and you don't have to be a serious enthusiast or even a classic car owner to enjoy them."