MORE than a dozen vintage cars were on show at the first meeting of the North-East Club for Pre-War Austins.

Owners and enthusiasts gathered at the Lakeside Farm Shop and Cafe, between Scorton and Northallerton, this week.

The club will meet at the farm shop on the second Wednesday of every month, at 10.30am.

Tony Pelton, executive chairman, said the cars were a natural icebreaker for members.

He said: "The club is a social gathering for people who are interested in classic cars. It was a fun morning.

"We don't need to go around introducing people to one another when there are cars involved - the cars speak for themselves.

"We expect more and more people to come along as the weather improves."

The club is open to non-members and new members.

Mr Pelton said: "It is not just about Austins, we welcome all classic cars and their owners. It is open to any make of vehicle."

Graeme Thompson, manager of the farm shop, said the meetings would be held throughout the summer.

For more information about the club, call Mr Pelton on 01748-818703 or David White on 01325-374303. The farm shop can be contacted on 01748-818382.