The weather didn't appear to dampen the spirits of the crowds at this year's Donington Lotus Show. With doors open at 10:30, there was still a queue of about 100 people at 11 - an opportune time to wander around the car park dodging the rain and enjoying the brief sunshine.

Lotus Cortina in non-original colours	Elan, used not polished!

Although the car park immediately in front of the hall has improved over the years, a minor gripe could be aimed at the fact that it was not dominated by Lotii - mundane Land Rovers and Mercedes were parked in what whould ideally be a Lotus only car park given the purpose of the event. This left many vehicles occupying the muddier areas of the parking, but as usual for this event almost every model made was represented making a stroll around the car park a trip through Lotus history.

Rare Shooting Brake version of the Elan	Lotus 11

Once inside there were the usual stalls selling autojumble and parts, plus stands put up and manned by enthusiasts such as the Lotus Carlton owners and the Lotus seven owners and of course the Lotus Drivers Club and the main organisers Club Lotus.

Representing the dealers were Bell and Colvill, Chistopher Neil and Paul Matty to name a few, all of whom did a brisk trade in parts and accessories. Most notable of all the cars for sale was one offered by DJ Dean - a 1987 HC Esprit with only 5,000 miles, previously owned by a royal Arab, a bargain at £25k.

One of three Elise Mk II's at the show, all painted in this colour.	Elite

Cars on display included a Rover V8 engined S3 Esprit, the prototype Excel/Eclat, Hazel Chapmans' own Excel (for sale by Paul Matty), a number of Mk2 Elises, a V8 engined Europa, plus a Mk4, Mk6 and plenty of sevens.

Throughout the day a number of seminars had been organised covering the topics of 'buying a used Lotus', 'Lotus fibreglass and paint' and 'preparing a Lotus for track days' which were well attended.

James Bond style S1 Esprit	A rare Sport 300. Based on the racing X180, rated at 306bhp and lighter than the standard cars. Monster 315/45/17 or 18 tyres on the rear.

Overall the show was (as usual) well attended by both the exhibitors and the public, but with an independent show held at the end of last year which offered a similar experience, it might be necessary to change the formula to keep the show fresh and keep the public coming back for more.