VEHICLES of all shapes and sizes gathered at a rainy Blenheim Palace for a 'festival of transport'.

The show, on Sunday and Monday, was organised by Classic Shows and brought hundreds of rare and historic vehicles to the grounds of the spectacular estate.

For the second year in a row, enthusiasts at the festival could also view a selection of electric cars and motorbikes in the 'Electric Vehicle Zone' .

Including full electric, hybrid, bridging cars and classics converted to electric, many of the cars were available for test drives.

The 13th annual celebration has now become the only joint classic and electric vehicle event in the county and was the premier event of its type happening over the bank holiday weekend.

On Sunday, the rain put off all but the hardiest enthusiasts as the palace was forced to cancel its 'immersive' performance of children's classic Peter Pan elsewhere in the grounds.

Among those braving the elements were Martin and Ling Tyler-Bennett who used their Triumph Roadster to shelter from the rain.

This car, dating from 1947, was one of the first designed after the end of the Second World War and had to be built from aluminium due to steel shortages.

Nick Holland from Bicester also found cover in his vehicle - a 1972 VW Microbus.

A forerunner of modern cargo and passenger vans, the bus has secured iconic status due to its connections with the counterculture movements of the 60s and 70s.

Steve Graham from Witney had the only American car to appear at the first day of the festival - a 1950s GMC pick up.

A 1972 MG Midget was also spotted amongst the crowds along with motorcycles, Minis, VW's, Hot Rods and Kit and Sports Cars.

Many clubs and societies came along en masse with Tesla fans in particular converging on the site with their futuristic electric cars.

Standing out were David Waring from Church Enstone and Danny Walker with their giant American Peterbilt trucks.

These heavy duty machines are better known for rumbling along the vast highways of the United States carrying any number of items.

One version of the truck was even rebranded by Coca Cola for its ever-popular Christmas advert.

This year the vehicle judging was lead by former BBC radio presenter Les Clayton.

Mr Clayton, who completed an apprenticeship at Triumph before moving into radio for19 years, brought his expertise to the live commentary to keep attendees informed.

Vehicles were displayed and judged on the basis of their age and type.

Awards were presented to the winners of categories including pride of ownership, club of the show and car of the show.

In a statement the palace said it was a 'true celebration of motoring history and achievement'.

Last month organisers had to make a further 100 exhibitor tickets available each day due to 'unprecedented demand'.