THE FIRST ever Festival of Speed at Pentillie Castle in East Cornwall has been hailed a big success, despite challenging weather conditions.

The motor event featuring an adrenaline-fuelled hill climb from the banks of the River Tamar past the majestic castle near St Mellion took place last Saturday and Sunday, attracting around 7,000 people.

There was also a chance to see plenty of classic, performance and rare cars, take a 4x4 for a drive around the estate, have a go at clay pigeon shooting, drive a simulator and/or race cars on a giant Scalectrix track.

Owner of Pentillie Ted Coryton said it had been an exciting opportunity to create a unique and exhilarating event in the West Country:?'The castle grounds are the perfect challenge for motoring fans and have provided a wonderful backdrop to some beautiful cars.'

The event will be repeated over the same weekend next year.

l Pictured are Kieran and Eliot Honey from East Cornwall with one of the Lotus cars on display with Pentillie Castle in the background.

Picture by Alison?Stephenson