Brackenwood’s annual open weekend held on the 6th and 7th of October at their Basingstoke showroom proved a huge success with the residents across Surrey, Hampshire and Berkshire.

This year, in celebration of their 20th anniversary, Brackenwood enchanted Hampshire with the world’s most famous and easily recognised car, Chitty Chitty Bang Bang.

Much larger in the flesh, the car is a gigantic the 17ft long and was polished to perfection by guest film star and car inheritor Peter Picton.

Still as popular as it was 40 years ago, the iconic car charmed adults and children alike, drawing in visitors from as far away as Twickenham.

From the moment the doors opened at 10 a.m., the showroom was inundated with potential buyers keen to take advantage of Brackenwood’s exceptional offer of 1987 prices on all windows for the first ten individuals who came to the door.

Outside the showroom, crowds flocked on the lawn to admire the car. Peter Picton explained “The car, as named by Ian Fleming in the story book is called Gen 11 and is based on the famous cars of the flamboyant 1920s racing driver, Count Louis Zborowski”.

Inside the showroom, throughout the day kids amused themselves colouring in pictures of Chitty and watching the original film. Whilst the kids were playing, adults indulged in the gourmet buffet and wine and admired the luxurious show room.

To top off the day three children won the once in a lifetime experience to win a ride in Chitty.

Die-hard Chitty fan Harrison Conner based locally in Popley was one of the lucky children to win a ride. Harrison’s mother surprised him by taking him to see Chitty. Eight- year old Harrison delighted, “This is the best day ever - better than scoring at football!”

The event gave visitors the chance to view Brackenwood’s exclusive colour matching service (1500 different colours!), innovative self-cleaning glass (provided by Pilkington) and extensive range of windows and conservatories to fit customers’ requirements, whatever the style and whatever the budget.

Neil Briggs, Sales and Marketing Manager enthused; “We are absolutely thrilled, it’s been a fantastic day. It was wonderful to share our 20th Anniversary with such an iconic and timeless car. We are especially touched that people came so far to see us.”

For Brackenwood, the open weekend was the perfect way to kick off their 20th Anniversary festivities, which will continue well into the winter months.

If you missed out on the open weekend and would like to find out more about Brackenwood, do come and see us. You will find us at Brackenwood House, Kimbell Road, in Basingstoke (just opposite B&Q). Alternatively call 0800 25 35 45 or visit our website www.brackenwood.com