This past July, Britain’s Beaulieu could have been mistaken for one of its French counterparts, as around 200 French vehicles rolled up into the Beaulieu parkland to create a beautiful display on the grounds of the National Motor Museum for its inaugural “Simply French” event.

While much of the weekend was cold and wet, Sunday turned out to be fine and dry. All manner of French marques and models could be seen at the event, both classic and modern. Throughout the day, Beaulieu’s visitors voted for their favorite French vehicles in the People’s Choice Awards, with the top 15 vehicles taking part in a cavalcade around the grounds.

The winner of the People’s Choice Award was a Facel Vega owned by Bob Robinson from London, who has been in possession of the vehicle for 15 years. Bob was presented with a special edition Beaulieu Trophy, commemorating the 60th anniversary of the Beaulieu attraction, by The Hon. Ralph Montagu. The runner-up was Mr Kemp from Alton with his blue Panhard, who also received a trophy from Mr Montagu.

Simply French is part of a growing calendar of Simply rallies which has expanded to include a wide variety of themes covering many makes and models. The provisional date for next year’s Simply French rally is Sunday July 7, 2013. Further information visit www.beaulieuevents.co.uk