Glorious sunshine helped ensure this year’s Cholmondeley Pageant of Power extravaganza was every bit as thrilling as organisers had promised.

Huge crowds of 67,000 descended on the Cholmondeley estate for the annual motoring festival of noise, power and speed.

And in honour of what was probably the most anticipated game of the 2014 World Cup, the England vs Italy match which took place during the festival, there was a special Italian theme to proceedings.

A dazzling selection of Italian supercars were displayed in the paddock, with keen petrolheads able to get up close to all the most prestigious marques including Ferrari, Lamborghini and Maserati, who were celebrating their centenary year.

Former A1GP race winner Robbie Kerr clocked the fastest time on track this year, crossing the line in 56.41 seconds in the new 2014 Radical SR8 RX.

Classic and racing cars, motorcycles and spectacular displays in the air and on the water completed three days of high-octane action for the thousand of spectators through the gates.

This year also saw the introduction of an additional concert on Friday night, opening Cholmondeley’s doors to almighty rockers Status Quo supported by Toseland and the RPJ band, who were received by an enthusiastic sell-out crowd.

But the following night was a more classical affair as Cholmondeley carried on their popular tradition of the fireworks concert, complete with patriotic flag waving and special performances from Aled Jones, soprano Laura Wright and popular male ensemble Only Men Aloud.

James Hall, event director, said: “It’s been a fantastic event as ever this year and it’s been great to see so many people enjoying themselves. The gorgeous weather has only enhanced the hundreds of things to see and do at Cholmondeley Pageant of Power.

“We’ve had a real festival feel this year as well with the two concerts, which is something we hope to continue, and we look forward to welcoming even more people back next year.”

Next year’s event will take place from June 12-14.