THIS week sees Taunton's County Classics Motor Museum celebrating its first birthday after a historic opening by Richard Hammond.

The former County Stores shop was transformed into a new cultural attraction that has attracted visitors across the UK, since opening in November 2023.

TV petrolhead Richard Hammond pulled up outside the venue in North Street in a classic Porsche to perform the honours watched by a huge crowd, many of whom had travelled from outside the area.

There was a display of classic cars in the street, which was closed to traffic during the opening.

Richard Hammond cutting the ribbon with owner Pat Hawkins in 2023. (Image: Newsquest)

Short speeches were given by him, along with County Classics Motor Museum owner Pat Hawkins, Taunton Deane MP Rebecca Pow, Taunton Mayor Nick O'Donnell and Somerset Council chairman Mike Best.

The stage they spoke from was a classic pick-up truck which Patrick has had in his collection for quite some time.

READ MORE: Richard Hammond opens Taunton County Classics Motor Museum

READ MORE: Haynes Motor Museum's Richard Hammond DriveTribe exhibition

The motor museum has had over 40,000 visitors through its doors since it opened last year on November 20.

It's been a "massive success" and has made a palpable difference to tourism and retail revenues in Taunton.

Owner Pat has had numerous positive comments from shops about the upturn in footfall and sales since the Museum opened and has had many stories of visitors travelling huge distances to see the Museum. 

The launch went viral, being reported as far afield as Singapore, Japan and Australia.

As a result, visitors have included a party of car enthusiasts from Australia who saw the report and decided to come to the UK purely to visit County Classics and explore the local area.

A Japanese teacher came to visit the Museum this year, but after talking to Pat Hawkins, the teacher went to see Taunton School and ended up arranging exchange visits with his students.

Several local Somerset residents have signed up for Season tickets to the Museum after visiting. 

Speaking after he agreed to open the new tourist attraction for Taunton, Richard said: "How fun to see this on a high street.

"The story in this one caught my eye - the timing of it for one thing.

"The theme of this museum I found particularly relevant right now because it's about the cars that many of us will remember."