HE exuded charm and style and won critical acclaim for his leading roles - now the car that once belonged to Hollywood legend Stewart Granger is taking its place in the spotlight.
The Bentley Mark VI Coupe that was commissioned by the actor and his wife, Jean Simmons, in 1947 has taken centre stage with the help of its present owner, North-East businessman Alan Bentley.
Mr Bentley, chairman of Jennings Ford garages, entered the car in the classic competition, the Rolls Royce Enthusiasts Club Concours and Rally, and swept the board of awards.
More than 700 Bentleys and Rolls Royces from all over the world were entered in the contest, in Northamptonshire.
It is the first time Mr Bentley has shown the car, which is the only one of its kind.
Two were made, but it looks as though the other is lost forever after being the once-cherished vehicle of a Thai prince. It was last seen in the 1950s.
Mr Bentley's car was ahead of its time when it was built in 1947, with electric windows and three cigar lighters.
Mr Bentley, 50, of Whitley Bay, has been a life-long fan of his namesake Bentley cars. He brought the Mark VI after seeing it advertised and has spent 18 months restoring it with the help of his team at Jennings, in Morpeth, Northumberland.
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