June 2025
What a great month for Fuel the Passion!
Introduction
The FTP Vantage D7FTP at the Aston Martin Owners Club (AMOC) Concours at Burghley House, Peterborough, Stamford (June 2025)
Right. Strap yourself in, pour yourself something caffeinated and vaguely unhealthy, and prepare to be dragged—willingly or otherwise—into another gloriously petrol-soaked chapter of Fuel the Passion.
Because this month, things have actually gone rather well. Suspiciously well, if I’m honest. First, and I can barely believe I’m saying this, the Fuel the Passion YouTube channel has finally joined the ranks of monetised content. That means I’ve hit the mythical 4,000 watch hours and 1,000 subscribers, and can now earn approximately the square root of bugger-all every time someone skips an ad to watch me witter on about engines.
But I’m not stopping there. Oh no. I entered the FTP Vantage into not one, but two Concours competitions. That’s right—actual automotive beauty pageants where grown adults judge cars like they’re Westminster show dogs. It required hours of polishing, buffing, and muttering profanities under my breath, and it will, whether you like it or not, take up a large chunk of this month’s blog.
And as if that weren’t enough, I kicked things off with Goodwood Supercar Sunday, where the FTP Vantage rubbed shoulders with machines so fast they can bend time. Somewhere in the middle of all that, my wife and I escaped to Northumberland—because even petrolheads need a break—and I finally ticked off a long-standing bucket list item: visiting the Jim Clark Museum. Spoiler alert: it was brilliant.
So, settle in. Read on. And prepare for the usual mix of fast cars, slow progress, mild chaos, and occasional moments of clarity. This is Fuel the Passion. And frankly, it's about time it paid for its own fuel.
Goodwood Supercar Sunday (Breakfast Club) - my first time showing the car!
Right, picture this: the final day of May, and I’m scooping up the FTP Vantage from Max Care Car in York—where Nick, the detailer/owner, has somehow performed a miracle, turning my car from “needs-a-hose-down” into “show-stopper” in time for not one, but two Concours competitions. And yes, before you can say “wax-on, wax-off,” I’ve driven it all the way down south to Surrey to stay with family because—brace yourself—I’d already booked it into Goodwood Breakfast Club’s Supercar Sunday on 1st June. I arrived on May 31st, dropped the car off, and woke up the next morning in a convoy of supercars. What a way to kick off the month!
Then dawn breaks—not gently, but with the ferocity of a V8 engine starting up—and my dad and I hit the tarmac, heading straight for Goodwood. And by “hit the tarmac,” I mean rolling up at stupid o’clock, with coffee as essential as fuel, because nothing says “Sunday morning” quite like parking your pride and joy among a dozen Lamborghinis before the sun’s even properly up.
FTP Vantage leaving for Goodwood Supercar Sunday
There’s something magical about motoring in the early hours—especially on a Sunday—when the world is still half-asleep and the roads are gloriously yours. And with the FTP Vantage under your fingertips, it’s practically therapy. My route to Goodwood was about 90 minutes from Surrey, with orders to park the Vantage by Woodcote—right at that gripping corner before the chicane, where anticipation crackles in the air.
The game plan? Be there for 8 a.m. and soak in the gradual swell of interesting vehicles joining the convoy. Trust me, it’s always a treat—as you draw closer to Goodwood, the road becomes a magnet for exotica, classic metal, and supercar noise. It’s like a halfway pit‑stop of cool: you don’t roll through alone—you pick up fellow automotive obsessives, and before you know it you’re in a mini convoy of horsepower.
And so it proved. As we edged closer, extraordinary machines began to materialise around us. Our first interesting catch was a petite, sky‑blue Lotus, glinting in that soft sunrise light (see picture below).
Lotus that we joined on the run down to Goodwood Circuit for Supercar Sunday
Driving alongside the Lotus was like an automotive symphony in motion—both of us roaring through the empty, quiet roads, as if we were the last two people left on Earth, fighting for pole position. The drive to Goodwood is a cracker at the best of times, but throw in a few fellow petrolheads, and it becomes something bordering on religious. As we rolled on, we picked up a couple of Porsches and some sports bikes—because of course, nothing says “Sunday morning” quite like a convoy of dangerously attractive machines, all heading towards one of the best motoring events on the planet.
One of the Porsches was a bit of a veteran—a more "mature" model (you know, the kind that’s seen enough to know better but refuses to act its age). The driver wasn’t dawdling, mind. No, he was cracking on—overtaking with impressive speed, yet always keeping it safe. Naturally, the silver Porsche behind him and yours truly in the FTP Vantage, couldn’t resist getting in on the action. When it was clear, we followed suit, as if it were some kind of unspoken, perfectly timed ballet of horsepower (see picture below).
What a cracking drive it was. All within the national speed limit, no dramas—just good, old-fashioned fun, leading us toward what promised to be one hell of a day.
FTP Vantage following and keeping up with two Porsches whilst on route to Goodwood Supercar Sunday
We rolled up to Goodwood, and as usual, the marshals had everything under control, guiding us effortlessly to our parking spot. As per the joining instructions, we ended up right next to that little blue Lotus we’d been tailing earlier, just past the chicane on the iconic start/finish straight. Now, I’ve never driven on a race circuit before—well, not properly—but even parking in the pit area felt like a win, especially with my dad in the passenger seat. You see, Goodwood’s a special place for us—we’ve spent years attending events here, and my dad has been to every Goodwood Revival since it first started. So, to park the FTP Vantage on the track with him by my side? Well, that’s a memory for the ages. Add it to the list.
And then, just when I thought the day couldn’t get any better, I spotted a breakfast van right across from us, slinging out tea, coffee, and breakfast buns. Heaven on wheels. We were set for the day, living the dream, as more cars started to arrive—each more spectacular than the last.
Then, in a truly surreal moment, the driver of a blue Aston Martin Vantage—who’d just parked near to us—walked over and said, "I recognise you! You’re from the YouTube Channel Fuel the Passion!" Blimey. Talk about a surprise. Within five minutes of arriving, someone recognised me—and not just anyone, but a fellow Vantage owner, no less. And not only that, he was kind enough to offer to help promote the channel. Now, I’m not exactly a Facebook guru (I should probably figure it out, right?), but this guy went above and beyond, pushing the channel on a Vantage group he was part of. What a legend.
If that person happens to be reading this—first of all, thank you. It’s moments like these that make the whole thing worthwhile. And it’s not just about the cars; it’s about the community. I’ve always said that doing this full-time has allowed me to meet people who are just as passionate about cars as I am. It’s a privilege to be part of that.
But I won’t keep you here all day, blathering on. I’ve got plenty more to cover, but I’ll just leave it with this: Goodwood Supercar Sunday was an event to remember. The cars? Outstanding. The variety, the calibre, the rarity—it was a feast for the eyes. The standouts for me? Seeing the Aston Martin Valour and Valkyrie up close, along with the Jaguar XJ220—a car that holds a special place in my heart. As a teenager, I spent my Saturday job money on a 1:18 scale model of an XJ220, which lived proudly on my windowsill for years. So seeing the real thing was pretty special. There were only 282 ever made—how many of them are still out there? Where are they now?
And, little did I know at the time, I’d be spotting another XJ220 at the London Concours just a few weeks later. That’s the magic of this hobby—it’s full of surprises.
To get the full experience, check out the video I made on this day. Trust me, it’s worth a watch. So many special cars.
Iconic Ferrari’s on show at Goodwood Supercar Sunday
An amazing Aston Martin Valour on show at Goodwood Supercar Sunday
1 of 282 Jaguar XJ220’s that were made - this being registration L222JJJ, on show at Goodwood Supercar Sunday
After an absolutely epic morning soaking in all the automotive brilliance at Goodwood, it was time to head back to Surrey. Now, don’t get me wrong—the drive home was still enjoyable, but it wasn’t quite the same. The roads, you see, had filled up with everyday cars, going about their business. But hey, the weather was glorious, and the memories from the day were on full rotation in my mind, so the drive was still great!
There’s also something indescribably satisfying about sliding into the FTP Vantage after a few hours of being on your feet, surrounded by a sea of car enthusiasts. That cabin? Absolute bliss. It’s a place where you can just sit, relax, and let the stresses of the world melt away. Pure, unadulterated luxury. For me anyway —the Vantage was the place to be.
My Preparation Day Before the London Concours
Now, the day after Goodwood Supercar Sunday, and the day before the London Concours, was spent getting the Vantage prepped up to showroom perfection. So, I camped out at my parents’ house in Surrey and started getting to work on the car.
It had held up surprisingly well, considering the distance I’d covered—whether it was the drive down from West Yorkshire, or the 90-minute jaunt to Goodwood and back. Nick at Max Care had done an outstanding job, and the Vantage still looked pretty pristine. But of course, it had accumulated the usual suspects: road grime, dead insects (thanks to the infinite number of bugs that seem to have a death wish when it comes to my grille), and just general “road dirt” that you pick up after a few hours on the road.
So, I did what any sensible person would do—I spent hours meticulously cleaning the car. When I say “meticulously,” I mean I treated the Vantage like a newborn baby, giving it the full spa treatment. It was all hands on deck, elbow grease, and a lot of attention to detail.
And if you want to see how this whole process unfolded (and trust me, it’s a spectacle), then head on over to the video I made on the subject. You can watch me transform the car into a mirror finish—if you haven’t seen it already, well, what are you waiting for? Click here to watch it now! (If that’s not a plug, I don’t know what is).
Preparing for the London Concours
One of the reasons I wanted to kick off this blog—apart from my usual need to talk about cars and all things fast—is to share more of the behind-the-scenes action with the FTP Community. You see, when it comes to my YouTube videos, there’s always a tightrope to walk between sharing enough information and not sending you to sleep. Keeping things snappy and entertaining is important, but I know there’s a limit. People, understandably, get bored (and yes, I see the viewer drop-off rates – don’t think I don’t notice).
That’s where this blog comes in. It’s the perfect platform to dive deeper into the nitty-gritty stuff—stuff that I’d love to share with you but just doesn’t fit into the YouTube format. So, if you’re thinking about doing something similar to what I’ve been up to, or maybe you’re considering entering your own car into something like the London Concours, then pull up a chair. This is where the juicy details live.
So, let me break it down for you—what did it take to get my “standard” Aston Martin Vantage into the London Concours as a display car?
Well, it wasn’t just a case of rolling up, tossing the keys to someone, and expecting to be ushered in like a VIP. Oh no. It took far more than that. Let me explain…
London Concours Tickets
First off, I knew I had to attend the London Concours. After all, it’s the perfect event to film and showcase just how extraordinary such a prestigious gathering can be. I was already planning to buy tickets anyway, but what I didn’t know was that each year, they have a specific theme. And talk about perfect timing—this year, they were celebrating ‘A British Icon - ASTON MARTIN’. Now, if that doesn’t make you think fate’s on your side, I don’t know what will.
So, there I was, doing a bit of research on the London Concours website, and I stumbled upon the fact that they were seeking cars from all eras of Aston Martin for the display. Naturally, I clicked the “apply here” button, filled in the form with all the usual details—name, contact info, shoe size, blood type, you know the drill—but also the key information about my car. Now, let’s get this straight: my FTP Vantage is, well, not exactly a limited-edition model. No AMR badges, no rare custom runs. The only thing that might be considered "special" is the Ceramic Grey paint, listed as a Q Special option at a cheeky £3,995. Yes, that’s right—my car came with a hefty price tag for paint. But let me tell you, that Ceramic Grey isn’t just any dull grey. Some may say it’s understated, butI disagree to an extent.
Under the right light, that paint is magic. It can look black, dark grey, or shimmer with flecks of sparkle when the sun hits it just right. I swear, the way the Vantage’s curves catch the light, it almost looks like the paint is alive. It’s a bloody marvel, really. Every time I get in, I find myself staring at the paintwork, thinking, “Is it even possible for a car to look this good?” Yes, it is. It’s the Vantage.
Now, back to the application. I’m pretty sure there was a section where you could provide details about your car that made it unique. And I knew I didn’t have a royal connection or a race-winning pedigree like some of the legendary cars that grace this event. No famous driver had ever owned it, and it didn’t come with any incredible racing history. But for me, it was everything. It’s the FTP Vantage—the very car I’ve always dreamed of owning, the one I can just about afford, and the car I’ve done a ton of stuff with since picking it up from Aston Martin Sevenoaks in August 2024.
But wait—there was one little nugget I forgot to mention in the application. A little thing called Sam from ‘Behind the Glass’. Yes, that’s right. This very FTP Vantage had been driven by Sam himself, on one of his early European Roadtrips, where we ended all the way up the Grossglockner in Austria. And if you’ve seen my early videos, you know how surreal that experience was.
Sam drove my Vantage about 25 meters in all, just to get that perfect shot that i ended up featuring in the video. If you haven’t seen it yet, you absolutely should—check out the video here [CLICK HERE]. The scenery is nothing short of jaw-dropping. Mind you, my channel was still in its infancy at the time, so the editing might not be as slick as I’d like it, but hey, I was learning. And I still am.
Speaking of Sam, he and Tony from ‘Behind the Glass’ have now launched a Road Trip business after the success of two trial tours in 2024. I was lucky enough to be a paying customer on one of those trips—and despite the rain (let’s be honest, it wouldn’t be a proper road trip without a bit of rain), it was an absolutely phenomenal experience. If you're into road trips, sports cars, and stunning European landscapes, I highly recommend checking it out. You can find all the details here: https://www.ontheroad.tours/.
So there you have it. The story behind how my FTP Vantage found its way to the London Concours—a mix of good timing, great connections, and a car that, while standard to some, is extraordinary to me.
Behind the Glass European Tour 2024 (Sam drove the FTP Vantage 25 meters! - Claim to fame!)
Anyhow back to the London Concours!
So within 48 hours, I heard back from the organisers that the FTP Vantage had been accepted. I then clicked on the link, where I had to pay fo the privilage of displaying my car, which I did. What came with this were 2 complimentary tickets for all three days. These tickets were not needed for me, but for friends, family or anyone else who you wanted to give them to, as my Dad and I got free entry with the FTP Vantage. Cost of entering? See the picture below;
The cost of entering the FTP Vantage to the London Concours 2025
Was it worth it?
Well, let’s be honest, when it comes to car shows, there’s always that moment of sticker shock. I was a little taken aback by the cost, but then again, I was probably a bit naïve—having never entered an event like this before. Once I got my head around it, though, and factored in the six tickets (two for each day), the access to the ‘Drivers Lounge’ with free refreshments throughout the day, and the freshly cooked pizza for lunch for both my Dad and I, it started to feel a lot more reasonable.
Was it worth it? Absolutely. I’d been dying to display my FTP Vantage at a prestigious event in the City of London, and let’s face it, this is a chance you don’t just stumble upon every day. On top of that, I was filming it for the Fuel the Passion YouTube Channel, which was the icing on the cake for me. For all the costs involved, I felt it was a privilege—one I was willing to pay for.
So, if you’re thinking about taking your car to a future London Concours, here's the lowdown. If your car meets the criteria for that particular year, expect to pay around £150. This will cover you and one guest, plus access to some really sweet perks like the Drivers Lounge and those pizzas. It's a fantastic experience, and if you're a car enthusiast, I'd say it’s totally worth doing at least once in your life. I'd love to hear about it if you do end up entering in future years—please drop a comment below and let me know how it goes. There’s something special about being part of a community like this, and I’d love to see what cars you’ll be showing off!
The Concours Process
Now, I didn’t really know what to expect from the Concours process. I had the basics down—timing, when the Aston Martin cars would be "examined" or, as I like to call it, "inspected by the judges." But I had no idea how in-depth the inspection would be. Would they check inside the car? Would they open the boot? How much attention would they pay to the engine bay? You can imagine my worry. So, naturally, I prepared the FTP Vantage to the best of my ability, inside and out.
But here’s the kicker. In the back of my mind, I knew the Aston Martin Owners Club (AMOC) Concours at Burghley House was just days away—and that event? Well, let’s just say it was going to be on a whole different level of scrutiny. Fellow AMOC members had warned me about the judging there, and it was enough to make me seriously question my life choices. Picture this: judges in white coats and white gloves—that level of detail. I could already hear the sound of tiny brushes and magnifying glasses at the ready. What had I gotten myself into?
Anyway, more on the AMOC Concours later in the blog. Let’s get back to the London Concours.
As you’ll see in the video, I happened to stumble upon the judges while returning to my car. It seemed like they’d already completed their inspection of the FTP Vantage—they were looking at the car next to mine and heading away. They weren’t in white coats. They didn’t have white gloves. The inspection seemed—how can I put this?—pretty superficial.
Did I think all the hard work was for nothing? Absolutely not. For starters, there was still the AMOC Concours coming up, where I would get the full, excruciatingly detailed inspection. But on top of that, my Vantage had never looked better. It had a mirror shine that would make a mirror feel self-conscious. It looked amazing. In fact, it had probably never looked better since I first got it. Big credit goes to Nick at Max Care Care—he absolutely nailed it.
The judges examining the Aston Martin entries for the Aston Martin Celebration - London Concours 2024 (Judges standing in front of the FTP Vantage)
There was no need to second-guess anything. The judges did their thing, moved on, and I got to enjoy the experience from the sidelines. It wasn’t until the afternoon when the winners started making their way to the presentation area that we got to see the results.
Let’s be real—if you look at the cars around me, it was always going to be a David vs Goliath situation. We had DB2’s, DB5’s, DB6’s, and even the rare Spitfire V12 S Edition Vantage on display. And here I was, rocking a standard FTP Vantage. Let's just say the chances of me winning were about the same as my car pulling off a perfect drift in a parking lot (it’s not gonna happen).
But here’s the thing: I was perfectly fine with it. It was more about the experience—the opportunity to show my car, share it with the Fuel the Passion audience and community, and be part of something special. You know, sometimes it's not about the trophy.
That said, I didn’t exactly leave empty-handed. Oh no. I walked away with a London Concours windscreen sticker, and for me, that’s as prestigious as a Goodwood sticker (trust me, car guys will understand). And of course, there was a lovely certificate (see below), which is a nice little reminder of the whole experience.
Although my Vantage is ‘standard’, I was starting to feel like I was building my own little bit of provenance for the car. Every event, every sticker, every certificate is a piece of the story— and that, to me, is the real prize.
The truth is, a concours isn’t just about the hardware or the accolades. It’s about the memories you create along the way. My FTP Vantage might not have won a prize this time, but it sure as hell looked good doing it, and I’ve got some great stories to share. As they say, it’s the journey, not the destination.
London Concours Certificate for showing the FTP Vantage on Tuesday 3rd June 2025
Meeting the Legends: Richard Groves & Harry Metcalfe
Before I wrap up my thoughts on the London Concours experience, I’d be remiss not to mention a couple of fantastic encounters I had while I was there. It’s moments like these that make events like this truly special.
First up, I had the great pleasure of meeting Richard Groves from the ‘Challenge the Road’ YouTube Channel. Richard’s a bit of a car connoisseur with an amazing and growing collection. He walked around the FTP Vantage, offering his thoughts on what he might do if he owned the car. It was a fantastic conversation. Not only does Richard have a great eye for detail, but his passion for cars is infectious. We talked shop for a while, and it was brilliant to chat with someone who shares such a deep love for all things automotive.
But wait, it gets better!
Later in the day, I spotted none other than Harry Metcalfe from ‘Harry’s Garage’—an absolute giant in the YouTube car world. I had noticed Harry hanging around near his red Porsche early on, and, to be honest, I couldn’t resist the urge to approach him when I saw him near the FTP Vantage. I mean, how could I not?
To my delight, Harry took the time to walk around the Vantage—inside and out—and had nothing but positive comments. To hear such praise from someone who’s been a part of the YouTube car scene for as long as Harry has was a real highlight for me. His feedback made the whole experience feel even more worthwhile.
Both Richard and Harry have been huge influences on me, and I’ve been following their channels for years. They’ve been a source of inspiration in building my own YouTube channel, and to have a chance to speak with them face-to-face was something I’ll never forget.
Who knows, maybe our paths will cross again in the future. You know what they say, the car world is small, and the connections are what make it so special.
Final Thoughts on the London Concours
All in all, my London Concours experience was fantastic. Yes, I didn’t come home with a trophy, but the conversations, the connections, and the memories I made were worth their weight in gold. Sometimes, the real value of events like this lies not in the accolades, but in the people you meet and the shared love of cars.
And to anyone reading this who’s thinking about entering the Concours in future years: do it. Whether you’re after the glory or just the experience, you’ll come away richer in ways you never expected.
Richard Groves from ‘Challenge the Road’ YouTube Channel examining the FTP Vantage at the London Concours 2025
Harry Metcalfe from ‘Harry’s Garage’ YouTube Channel and I standing in front of the FTP Vantage during the London Concours 2025.
To conclude my thoughts on the London Concours—I have to say, it was brilliant! Like so many things in life, it's all about how you approach it. And for me, this event ticked all the right boxes. I love cars, I love London, and I absolutely love experiencing events like this with my car. From the incredible lineup of machines to the opportunity to film and produce a video for you all, it was an experience I’ll cherish.
The cars that were chosen by the judges were nothing short of spectacular—worthy winners all around. But for me, it wasn’t about taking home a trophy; it was about being a part of something special. Getting to display my FTP Vantage amongst such stunning machines felt like a massive privilege.
But the real magic came from the people. Whether it was chatting to fellow car owners, bumping into fellow YouTubers, or just soaking up the camaraderie of the car community, I walked away from the event feeling richer in experiences. It's a community I’m proud to be a part of, and one that continues to inspire me.
Would I Recommend It?
Absolutely. Whether you’re thinking about visiting or entering your car, I’d say do it—at least once! Especially if you’re a car enthusiast. There's something uniquely fulfilling about seeing these machines in their element, and being part of an event that celebrates all the passion, history, and craftsmanship that goes into each and every one.
So, here’s to more events like this, more memories to make, and more cars to admire. I can't wait for what's next—who knows where the next adventure will take me and the FTP Vantage!
The richly deserved winner - A 1967 Aston Martin Volante - Winner of the Aston Martin British Icon Car entries at the London Concours 2025
Aston Martin Owners Club (AMOC) Spring Concours - Burghley House, Peterborough, Stamford - The Big One!
Ah, that feeling! It’s like getting ready for a big exam—you know the stakes are high, you’ve put in the preparation, but there’s always that nagging question: Have I done enough? This was the big one, and I knew the competition would be fierce. Everyone I spoke to in the Aston Martin Owners Club (AMOC) warned me: Concours is serious business. It’s not just about rolling up and showing off your car; it’s about bringing it to a level where it looks like it’s just come off the production line, fresh from the factory.
And when you’ve clocked over 20,000 miles on the odometer (compared to the 7,400 miles when I first got the car), that’s no easy feat. This isn’t a garage queen—this is a car that gets driven, and it gets driven with pride. But that’s what makes it my car.
The AMOC Concours was something I thought would be a great experience. Not just for me, but also for the Fuel the Passion community. I knew it would be an opportunity to share exactly how I prepared, the trials and tribulations of getting the car into showroom condition, and what the process of the Concours would actually entail.
Even though the Vantage was already in good shape, I could see some signs that it needed more than just my usual cleaning routine. Swirl marks, a few signs of wear and tear on the small patch of factory fitted Paint Protection Film (PPF), in front of the rear wheel arches and—don’t even get me started on the stone chips that would appear after a spirited drive! The small patches of PPF had done their job, but unfortunately, I hadn’t covered the whole car with it when I first bought the car. That, I’ll admit, was a big regret.
So, I needed to fix this before the AMOC Concours. The FTP Vantage deserved to look its best, and that meant calling in Nick at Max Care Care for some much-needed professional help. The car was already booked in for some front PPF and side sills protection in July, but for now, it was all about the AMOC Concours prep.
The Day Before: Cleaning Madness
As I did before the London Concours, I spent the entire day before the event cleaning the car. And when I say cleaning, I mean thoroughly cleaning. Every single corner, every panel, every detail. I covered it up when I was done, hoping it would stay pristine for the early morning drive to Burghley House in Peterborough.
I knew I had to get there early—very early—and it was a two-hour drive from Yorkshire. The pressure was on, and I just prayed for a dry morning, knowing there was only a limited amount of time and cleaning gear to get the car looking spotless once it was parked at the event, ready for inspection by the AMOC judges.
Was I nervous? You bet. After all the prep, all the anticipation, this felt like the final exam. Would it be enough? Only time would tell, but I was excited to see what the day would bring and share it all with you guys.
The FTP Vantage, all cleaned and prepared the evening before the AMOC Concours at Burghley House, June 2025
That's a real positive joining the Aston Martin Owners Club (AMOC) and, with your Aston Martin car, it seems like the perfect time to dive into all the AMOC events and the world of Aston Martin enthusiasts. The fact that the car came with free membership for a year from Aston Martin Sevenoaks is a nice touch—an extra perk that sets the stage for even more connections and experiences with the AMOC community.
The AMOC Concours is definitely a great event, with the Burghley House location adding a certain level of prestige. But what stood out here was the fact that £65 wasn’t too bad of a price for entry, considering the number of cars that enter, the level of scrutiny and detail these events are known for. Plus, you’re not just paying for the chance to display your car; you’re also getting access to an entire world of Aston Martin aficionados and members who share the same passion.
Since I was already gearing up for such a high level of prep for my car, it felt great to know that my entry was accepted. The process for getting in seemed straightforward but still very much competitive. I can see how the club offers a great opportunity to connect with others who are just as passionate about the brand as you are, and the Concours itself is a reflection of that shared love.
It also makes sense that joining AMOC gives you access to monthly meetings and various events, making the experience all the more rewarding. National and International events, meetups, and drive-outs all offer a great way to really immerse yourself in the Aston Martin culture, whether you're in the UK or abroad.
If you're looking for more networking and opportunities to get your Aston Martin out on the road, the AMOC is a fantastic platform. If anyone’s reading this and is also considering entering their Aston Martin into a future Concours, the AMOC Concours is definitely the way to go!
FTP Vantage D7FTP AMOC Concours entry fee for Burghey Concours in June 2025
The AMOC Concours was shaping up to be another exciting event, with the atmosphere buzzing even before the inspection process began! The morning prep was all about getting everything perfect, from ensuring the AMOC window sticker was placed correctly to that final check on the paint and trim. The anticipation was building—especially with the weather holding out until the afternoon. I was relieved to avoid the typical British downpour!
Arriving at Burghley House and seeing other Aston Martins lining up was a surreal moment, especially when you’re driving alongside these iconic cars with their owners. The sound of those engines—whether the throaty V6, the growling V8, or the majestic V12—it was music to the ears. And Burghley House itself, with its history and grandeur, is such a stunning location for a Concours event. The ground staff directing everyone only added to the sense of organization and excitement!
The drive within the Burghley House grounds, with all the beautifully maintained Aston Martins, was another highlight in itself—like being part of a moving car show. Once you were in position, though, that’s when it got real, right? Waiting for the inspection and knowing that every little detail was going to be scrutinized.
Aston Martins being directed to their AMOC Concours positions on the showground (June 2025)
Now I look back at the next bit, I can laugh, but at the time I was getting a tad frustrated. Let me explain. So one by one, the cars were shown to their specific parking spot on the field in front of the stunningly beautiful Burghley House. There were some green plastic sticks about 1 metre long sticking out of the ground in a sort of grid system. A nice man in a high vis orange jacket directed me to where I had to go. Then he told me to drive forwards towards one of these specific green sticks. I did just that. The man at this point was standing behind the stick and shouting - “I need you to line up your badge with this” highlighting the green stick. Now, for some reason, I thought he meant the AMOC sticker we had to display on the front of our windscreen in the far corner of the passenger side. So that’s what I did, I thought I lined that AMOC sticker perfectly with the green stick and looked at the man for approval and hopefully a nod or a thumbs up. Instead he pulled a disappointing face which I can’t describe here.. …oh alright, I’ll give it a go - he gave me a look as if to say “Are you joking mate, have you passed your test or what?!” But he didn’t say that. He said calmly, through his disappointing look, “No, you need to re-position. I need your badge to line up.” I thought, ok, well I can’t be far out, as it looks spot on from here, so I moved, what must have been an inch or two, to where I thought this AMOC car sticker lined up with this green stick. Can you imagine the face now! It was one of dismay, to the extent that I think he was considering calling the police there and then and asking them to withdraw my driving licence and seize the car! He repeated his direction again, this time though was different as he pointed and waved both hands either side of the Aston Martin Badge directly in front of the car! At that point and that point only, I cottoned on to what he required of me!
“Oh, I thought you meant the AMOC Window Sticker!” I shouted, trying to alleviate his frustrations. I bet he thought I was a right plonker! A plonker that couldn’t drive! I positioned the car to the exact point I needed and sighed a relief. I think he walked off to have a lie down! It’s interesting, how a tiny bit of confusion (on my part) can lead to complete confusion (certainly with me anyway!) Check out the picture below. You can see I’ve lined the FTP Vantage AMOC window sticker perfectly with the green stick!
FTP Vantage parking up for the AMOC Concours
One by one, the other cars were arriving and quickly finding their parking spots. I was standing there thinking, “What have I gotten myself into?” I watched as some of the other drivers jumped into action. One gent popped out of his Aston, laid down a large mat on the grass, and then proceeded to unload what seemed like an entire cleaning supply store from his boot: a hoover, a generator to power it, a mini jet wash, buckets, sponges, cloths, and every cleaning product imaginable.
Meanwhile, I stood there with my single bucket, sponge, leather, and a wheel cleaner on a stick—feeling a bit under-prepared. I couldn’t help but notice a couple who had just arrived in another Aston. The gent got out, put on overalls over his clothes, and started prepping his car in the same meticulous fashion. I started to panic a bit. Was I doing enough? The pressure was building.
The clock was ticking, and I still had over an hour to prepare. I knew I had to give the car a solid clean before the judges began their inspections. I could already tell that the wheels, wheel arches, and the front of the car had collected enough road grime from the two-hour drive to Burghley House. I had to work out a plan and fast.
I decided to film a few scenes, capturing the other cars arriving and parking, and of course, I had to get some drone footage. I even made a mental note to find where the water supply was so I could top up my bucket. After a quick stop by the toilets for some water, I came back to the car. Time was slipping away faster than I wanted. Now I had only one bucket of water to clean the car, and the pressure was mounting.
I used the water strategically—first wiping down the interior, then the front of the car, finishing with the wheels and arches, and whatever I could reach under the car. I popped the bonnet open and gave it a quick once-over. With three minutes left before the judges would start making their rounds, I emptied the boot to make sure there was nothing left inside—no camera mounts, no packets of Polo mints, nothing. The car had to be spotless. By this point, I had a tidy little pile of personal items about six feet from the car.
Then, I saw them. Dozens of them—the judges. Dressed in pristine white cotton coats and gloves, clipboards in hand, they started moving towards the cars like a slow-moving pincer attack. The tension in my chest grew. Had I done enough? Would they see the little imperfections I couldn’t fix in time? Would my preparation hold up?
At that moment, all I could do was take one last look at the FTP Vantage and hope I had done enough to impress. I knew it was a big moment, and all that was left now was to wait and see how the judges would evaluate everything.
The FTP Vantage looking pristine, still with it’s mirror like shine! AMOC Concours - June 2025
Judges Inspecting at the AMOC Concours, Burghley House - June 2025
I was filming for the Fuel the Passion YouTube Channel, of course, but I was also taking footage for AMOC HQ as they'd asked me to do so. As I tried my best to capture the hustle and bustle around me, I couldn’t help but notice the judges—dressed like something out of a medical drama, with their white coats and gloves, moving around the cars with surgical precision. They were so thorough, placing hands in places I hadn’t even thought to clean!
I kept a watchful eye on the area around my car, trying to gauge when the judges would make their move. The tension was building. Then, it happened. Three judges appeared and surrounded the FTP Vantage.
I took a deep breath and tried to stay calm. I reminded myself of the plan: watch, observe, listen, and assist where I could.
It was time to let go of any nerves and trust in the work I had done.
The three judges who examined the FTP Vantage left no stone unturned. I watched closely as they meticulously inspected every inch of the car—inside and out, from under the bonnet to the rear boot. They checked everything. Each time they moved to a new section of the car, I couldn’t help but wonder, "Had I cleaned that part properly?" I tried to recall when I last washed it, whether it was spotless, whether I had removed every speck of dirt. It was a bit nerve-wracking, especially since I had invested time and money getting the car professionally detailed, followed by days of washing in preparation for both the London Concours and this one. But in the end, I had to remind myself that I was proud of the FTP Vantage. It was my car, my pride, and I felt like it was looking its absolute best.
I’ll admit, it’s probably a biased opinion, but I genuinely felt the car looked blooming good. The amount of effort I put into getting it ready felt worth it. I was happy to have entered this Concours, and it felt like the perfect moment for the judges to see it—well-travelled, well-used, and now looking immaculate. To top it off, the sun peeked through the heavy clouds, adding that perfect sparkle to the shimmering paintwork. Nice touch, right?
Once the judges had wrapped up their inspection, I got back to filming, capturing some of the other examinations taking place around the event. I also took the opportunity to get the drone up and capture some aerial shots. The drone didn’t disappoint, as you’ll see in the video, and I’ve included a couple of shots below to share the experience with you.
At approximately 12.30pm, I walked over to the AMOC Marquee as I had paid for a hamper for my lunch. It came in two cardboard boxes, which were laden with individual food containers - all recyclable. Salad, chicken salad, potato salad, cheese and biscuits, a small cheesecake and more besides. I was hungry by this point so it went down a treat. As I was on my own at one of the wooden patio sets of furniture that had been placed out, I was joined by a number of ‘doctors’ - ok, judges in their white coats, who wanted somewhere to sit and talk about the cars they had just examined. I didn’t listen in (I promise!) too much! They weren’t the judges that examined my car, but they were talking about how high the standard was this year and actually how tricky it was ascertain the class winner (that they were inspecting).
After some more filming and chatting to owners in the afternoon, I noticed some activity in an undercover area, where staff from Burghley House (I presume) arrived, with numerous bottles of Pommery Champagne. Now significantly, Pommery Champagne is one of Aston Martin Owners Clubs (AMOC) sponsors/supporters. The Pommery business is located in Reims, with the house being founded as Pommery & Greno in 1858 by Alexandre Louis Pommery and Narcisse Greno with the primary business at that time, being wool trading.
Anyhow, glasses were being filled and AMOC members could come over and grab a complimentary glass of Pommery Champagne. What a nice gesture!
Pommery Champagne which is AMOC Supporter/Sponsor was on hand with a complimentary glass of champagne for AMOC members - very nice!
After all the champagne had reached all the AMOC members, a short while later it was time for the awards. How well had the FTP Vantage scored in its first AMOC Concours? What came next was so close!
As I entered the Marquee, a long set of tables were now filled with various trophies, glassware and small silver shields for those who qualified to receive them. There were quite a number.
AMOC Concours, Awards all laid out ready for tho worthy winners - Burghley House, June 2025
I filmed the majority of the awards being handed out, but if I included all the footage, the final video on the Fuel the Passion channel would’ve been the length of a Lord of the Rings marathon.. So I included a handful of worthy winners and included my category at the end of this section of the video.
It was brilliant hearing about the winners and the impressive cars they had meticulously prepared for this event. And then, the moment arrived – my class was announced. The third-place winner was called out: a black DBS with 87 points. Then, the head judge said: “Second place goes to Dan Thorpe, in his Vantage.” That’s ME, I thought. I handed my camera off to one of the AMOC team members, made my way to the front, and thankfully accepted my small silver AMOC Concours shield.
I couldn’t believe it. I had scored 90 points, and when you heard what the other cars scored, I was right up there, competing with some seriously good machines. That was a huge win in itself! All the cleaning, the polishing, the endless hours spent obsessing over every single detail of the FTP Vantage – it had all paid off. I had come second in one of the toughest Concours events around (though, I would say that, wouldn't I?). Honestly, AMOC is no joke. These judges are thorough. I think my Fuel the Passion video will give you a good sense of just how intense the whole process is.
But hold on, because it doesn’t end there. The first-place winner was announced. Another DBS. Identical to the black one in third place. 90.5 points. Yes, you read that right. Half a point separated me from first place. HALF A POINT!
Now, you might think I’d be gutted. Maybe I should have been. But in reality, I was actually thrilled. I was so close to winning the top spot, it was almost criminal. And then I realised something—those half-point deductions? It was for the London Concours sticker in my windscreen and my black and silver tyre valve caps. You know, the ones that I swapped out because the plastic ones that came on the car were ugly. If I’d only taken the sticker off and replaced those valve caps with factory-spec ones, I could have had the win!
But you know what? I wasn’t going to lose sleep over it. Sure, second place was great, but what mattered was the experience. 90 points! That’s a score I can hold my head high with. The whole thing—the preparation, the dedication, the early mornings—was worth every single second. Life is like that, isn’t it? You get out what you put in. And let me tell you, I got a ton out of it. I walked away with a lifetime of memories tied to one of the finest British brands around: Aston Martin.
Now, if you haven’t already watched the Concours Series, and you’re thinking about entering a Concours yourself—whether it’s for Aston Martin or whatever brand your heart beats for—I’d highly recommend checking out the videos. I went into this whole thing completely naive about what it takes to enter a Concours. Sure, I asked around, did some research, but I still had no idea what I was really in for. After watching these videos, you’ll see just how incredible the process is. Not only that, but you’ll end up with a car that’s probably in the best shape it’s ever been in, just because you’ve put in that effort.
So, if you’re on the fence about entering a Concours—just do it. Don’t think about it, just dive in! It’s the process, the experience, and the memories that count. And, of course, if you feel inspired, drop a comment below! I’d love to hear your stories and see if I’ve convinced you to join the ranks of those who’ve experienced the madness that is a Concours event.
Paul Spiers, President of Aston Martin Works, awarding me (Dan) with the 2nd Place silver shield for Gaydon Class 3 at the 2025 AMOC Concours - great experience!
One of the rather brilliant things about deciding — quite possibly during a lapse in sanity — to write a blog every month for the ‘Fuel the Passion’ YouTube channel, is that I can finally say all the things I don’t have time to squeeze into the films. You see, I could, in theory, cram everything into the videos. But then they’d be about as long as Titanic, only with fewer sinking ships and more carburettors. And let’s face it: no one wants to sit through three hours of me banging on about oversteer and polishing chrome trim, no matter how charming I think I am.
The aim, of course, is to keep it short, punchy, and just informative enough, without making you late for work. Which brings me rather neatly to what this part of the blog will cover: my FTP Concours score sheet. Yes — behold it below in all its slightly crumpled, biro-scribbled glory.
Now, considering I’d already driven over 100 miles that morning, while attempting to film something halfway coherent, and was left with a grand total of 45 minutes to make the car look presentable... it didn’t go terribly. In fact, reading through it felt exactly like getting your school report — only this time, there were no notes about “lack of focus” or “talking too much in class.” No, this was a proper, grown-up result. And I must say... I’m rather pleased with it. Even if, like most things in life, no one else probably cares. But I care. And that’s what matters.
AMOC Concours, Burghley House, June 2025 - Dan Thorpe, 2019 Aston Martin Vantage (The FTP Vantage) Scorecard - 2nd Place winner!
Burghley House - June 2025 the venue of the AMOC Concours - what a special place!
A short trip to Northumberland including two castles and the Jim Clark Museum
Roughly a week after the Concours — which, as you’ll recall, involved more frantic polishing than a jeweller on Red Bull — my wife and I headed off to Northumberland for a couple of nights. Now, I’d cunningly kept the following week relatively car-free in the diary, which turned out to be a stroke of accidental genius, because it gave me time to begin editing the Concours footage for the Fuel the Passion YouTube Channel.
Now, allow me to explain what “editing a video” actually entails. Most people think it's just dragging and dropping a few clips into a timeline while sipping an oat milk flat white. No. It's four days — four actual days — of downloading files that seem to be the digital equivalent of treacle, sorting them out, picking music that doesn’t sound like elevator jazz, then stitching it all together into something that doesn’t make me want to throw my laptop into the nearest river.
And that’s before we even get to the voiceover, which involves writing something vaguely coherent, recording it without sounding like I’m trapped in a cupboard, syncing it to the footage, making at least seventeen edits because “that bit doesn’t quite feel right,” rendering it, uploading it, designing a thumbnail that doesn’t look like it was made in 2003, writing the description complete with a thousand links, and finally updating my Fuel the Passion website — which is, in fact, the very place you’re reading this.
Deep breath.
Honestly, as someone who only recently entered the gladiatorial coliseum of YouTube content creation, I can confirm it’s an enormous amount of work. It’s like producing a television show, except the only budget is whatever’s in your trouser pocket. But — and here’s the thing — I absolutely love it. Which is fortunate. Otherwise I’d have taken up basket weaving or simply gone to the pub and stayed there indefinitely.
And now, back to Northumberland — a place of sweeping coastlines, crumbling castles, and roads so beautiful they make you want to cry. Yes, there will be a video about this trip coming to the channel very soon. So stay tuned, subscribe, click the bell, sacrifice watching one of the soaps on TV — whatever you have to do — because you won’t want to miss it.
Alnwick Castle, Northumberland
Now, yes — Fuel the Passion is technically supposed to be about cars. Engines. Driving. That sort of thing. But on this particular jaunt to Northumberland, I happened to be piloting the FTP Vantage, which means everything we did is, by default, car-related. So I’ve decided to include a few photos from the trip. And before you start moaning, let me remind you — it’s my blog. If I want to talk about castles and scones, I will.
Our first stop: Alnwick Castle. And yes, that’s the one that looks like Hogwarts, only with fewer broomsticks and more pensioners in waterproof jackets. We had a good wander around the place before heading to the hotel. The grounds were immaculate. The castle itself? Jaw-dropping. Genuinely, it was like walking into a film set designed by someone with unlimited money and a slight addiction to gold leaf.
Sadly, we weren’t allowed to film or photograph the inside, as it’s still a functioning private residence. Which, to be honest, made it even more impressive. The rooms, the ceilings, the furniture — it was like Downton Abbey had swallowed Versailles.
Now, there are also gardens nearby — and these come with their very own separate entry fee. They’ve got waterfalls, hedges, fountains, and presumably some bloke called Nigel pruning a rose bush in silence. We decided to skip it this time. Partly because we’d already had our fill of stately splendour, and partly because I felt that money could be better spent on petrol!
After a solid trek around the castle and the surrounding village, we returned to the FTP Vantage. And I don’t care who you are — walking back to a car you actually love is one of life’s great pleasures. A quick check to make sure no one’s dinged it (all clear — thankfully), and then the moment arrives: finger to the Start button… WHUUMPHH! The V8 fires into life with all the subtlety of a jet fighter sneezing. It’s glorious. And yes — that sound is one of the main reasons I went for the 2019 model. I didn’t buy it for the sat nav or the cup holders. I bought it because it shouts like a lion with a megaphone. And honestly? It never, ever gets old.
FTP Vantage arriving at the Marshall Meadows Manor House, Berwick-Upon-Tweed, Northumberland
The hotel — Marshall Meadows, in case you’re taking notes — was actually rather good. Now, I’m not saying it was the Ritz, or even the Savoy’s second cousin, but it had charm. Character. That slightly grand, slightly faded British seaside elegance that says, “Yes, the carpet might be from the early 2000s, but by God we’ll still serve you a proper breakfast.”
The room itself? Well... let’s just say it had “potential.” A bit tired, in the way a well-used Barbour jacket is tired — still functional, but one good rainstorm away from retirement. But to be fair, the communal areas downstairs more than made up for it. The staff were brilliant — cheerful, friendly, the sort of people who actually seem to want you there, which is frankly rare these days. And the food? Absolutely outstanding. The kind of dinner that makes you involuntarily say “Mmm” out loud after the first bite, even if you’re British and emotionally repressed.
Would I go back? Yes. Without hesitation. Though there is one small negative. The place is rather close to the dual carriageway. And when the wind’s blowing in the wrong direction — which, let’s be honest, it almost always is in Northumberland — you will hear the occasional whoosh of a Vauxhall Insignia doing 78 miles per hour. It's not exactly tranquil countryside vibes. More... countryside with options.
Now, the drive in the photo above? That’s the short stretch from the dual carriageway to the hotel entrance. It’s not a million miles away — in fact, it’s probably about a quarter of a mile away — so if you’re sensitive to noise or allergic to traffic, maybe do a quick recon on Google Maps before you book. Or better yet, wait for the upcoming video on the Fuel the Passion YouTube channel.
Drone shot of Marshall Meadows Hotel, facing east out towards the sea
The main entrance of the Marshall Meadows Hotel
After our first night at the hotel — we set off on our first full day in Northumberland with one very specific destination in mind: the Jim Clark Museum, in Duns. It was only about 40 minutes away, which, in my world, counts as “just round the corner.” In fact, the hotel turned out to be perfectly placed for this little two-night escape. For once, my planning was — dare I say — almost competent.
Now, visiting the Jim Clark Museum had been on my list for a very long time. And not the boring sort of list that includes things like “get new socks” or “pay council tax.” I mean the real kind — the list of things you must do if you claim to care about cars, racing, or people who can drive faster than you with one arm in a sling.
Of course, Jim Clark died before I was even a thought in the universe, but thanks to a motorsport-obsessed father — the kind who’d talk about Cosworths over cornflakes — I grew up hearing all about him. Clark wasn’t just a racer. He was, by all accounts, a quiet, modest Scottish farmer who just happened to be faster than everyone else. The kind of man who’d win a Grand Prix on Sunday and be back feeding sheep on Monday.
And it wasn’t just Formula One, where he dominated with Lotus, hoovering up World Championships in 1963 and 1965 like it was the easiest thing in the world. In '63, he won seven out of ten races. That’s not just success — that’s turning up, thrashing the lot of them, and being home in time for tea. And it wasn’t just F1, either. Sports cars, saloons, IndyCars — you name it, he drove it. And usually faster than anyone else had the nerve to try.
But Jim Clark wasn’t just fast. He was smooth. Calm. Precise. The sort of driver who could make a lap record look like a Sunday drive to Waitrose. A man with so much natural talent that the car seemed to obey him out of sheer respect.
So yes — a museum in his honour? Entirely deserved.
Now, I won’t say I got emotional walking around the place, but I became very reflective. If only Jim Clark was alive today. I did find myself... paused. Completely absorbed. It’s not a huge museum — you won’t get lost in it like a child in IKEA — but what’s in it? Extraordinary. There’s something powerful about standing in front of a trophy, knowing it was held by a man who carved his name into motorsport history with grace, guts, and terrifying skill.
The cars. The kit. The stories. The trophy room, in particular — just… wow. It's like a jewellery box for petrolheads.
I spent a very happy two hours there, and honestly, could’ve stayed longer. Just reading. Just being in that world. A world where racing was pure, and men like Jim Clark did things on four wheels that the rest of us can barely comprehend.
Oh — and yes, I was allowed to film. So if you’re eager for a peek, keep your eyes on the Fuel the Passion YouTube channel. The Northumberland video’s coming soon. And when you see the shot of that trophy room? You’ll know exactly what I mean.
The FTP Vantage parked directly outside the Jim Clark Museum, during a short stay in Northumberland
Inside the Jim Clark Museum - the Trophy Room - WOW, what a place this was!
If you do one thing in the next year that doesn’t involve streaming forgettable Netflix dramas or arguing with Alexa, make it a trip to the Jim Clark Museum. Seriously. Go. Not just because it’s an extraordinary place that captures the life of one of Britain’s greatest-ever racing drivers, but because it's also run by a proper, honest-to-goodness charity. That means your ticket money doesn’t go toward some CEO’s fourth home in the Algarve — it goes towards keeping the legend of Jim Clark alive. And let’s be honest, that’s money well spent.
Because the man was a legend. Not in the overused “footballer scores a goal and is now a legend” way. No. Jim Clark was the real deal — a driver so fast, so precise, and so impossibly calm under pressure that even his rivals admitted they were basically just racing for second.
And like most people with even a drop of petrol in their veins, I do wish I’d been alive to see him race in the flesh. To witness that magical thing he did behind the wheel. But alas, I wasn’t. So instead, I did the next best thing: I emptied my wallet in the museum shop like a complete child in a sweet shop. A few Jim Clark tea towels — because drying dishes should now come with a faint smell of Castrol R. A classy three-button Jim Clark shirt — naturally. And most importantly, a tiny DB4GT Zagato model. Why? Because Jim drove one, it’s an Aston, and I’m not made of stone.
After I'd hoovered up most of the shop’s contents, I wandered outside to find my wife — who’d sensibly buggered off to the Jim Clark Café while I spent what felt like the gestation period of a horse admiring Jim Clarks life and trophies. I joined her, of course, for a very decent slice of cake and a coffee that actually tasted like coffee, and ended up chatting with a local chap — lovely bloke, lived in Duns, knew the area like the back of his hand. Naturally, the conversation turned to Jim Clark. And here’s the twist: he told me Clark’s grave was just twenty minutes away.
So, off I went. Because when you’ve spent hours immersed in a man’s life and achievements, it seems only right to close the loop and visit the final chapter. Now, I’m not particularly religious — unless the Church of Internal Combustion counts — but something about it felt right. So we drove there. I found the church. Walked quietly through the grounds. And then, there it was: the final resting place of a man who could drive anything, anywhere, faster than anyone. I paid my respects. I spent a quiet moment off camera, just… stood there for a moment. It was humbling. And it gave the whole trip a sense of gravity I hadn’t expected.
From there, the mood lifted — as it tends to when you’re heading to something as peculiar and brilliant as the Lindisfarne Causeway. A road that appears only when the sea feels like it. Honestly. One minute you’ve got tarmac, the next it’s just fish and foam. It’s like a Mario Kart track with weather-based DLC. (Photo below, obviously.)
So yes. The museum. The grave. The road that disappears. It all added up to a truly unforgettable day. And it’s all coming soon — in glorious cinematic form — to the Fuel the Passion YouTube channel. You’d be mad to miss it.
The FTP Vantage parked up alongside a road which is often submerged by the sea - Lindisfarne Causeway
Ah yes — the Lindisfarne Causeway. A three-mile strip of road that appears twice a day like some sort of biblical magic trick, then disappears again under the sea faster than you can say “Where’s the sat nav gone?”. It connects the Holy Island of Lindisfarne to the Northumberland mainland — but only when the tide decides to be in a good mood. Otherwise? It’s not a road. It’s a swimming lesson with an audience of confused puffins.
Now, we could have pressed on and driven all the way across into the island, but we didn’t. Why? Because we had a date with another castle. And because I’m quite fond of keeping water on the outside of the car, not sloshing about inside it like I’ve just done a lap of Monaco in a submarine.
Still, as detours go, this was a good one. The weather was being charming for once, the sun was dancing off the Ceramic Grey flanks of the FTP Vantage, and the light made the whole thing look like a Richard Curtis film — only with more horsepower and fewer emotionally constipated Hugh Grants.
From there, it was onwards — to a castle so visually staggering it looks like it’s been photoshopped onto the landscape by a seven-year-old obsessed with Game of Thrones. Bamburgh Castle.
Now, approaching Bamburgh is an event in itself. You catch teasing glimpses of it over the hedgerows — like a celebrity hiding behind a lamppost — and then suddenly, boom. There it is. In all its stone-clad, turreted glory. And your first instinct is: I must park somewhere and stare at it until my eyes hurt.
Naturally, the sensible visitors in front of us all turned into the village car parks — those neatly signposted, family-friendly zones designed for coach parties and people who wear walking boots even in supermarkets. But we weren’t having that. No, we powered past all of them in the FTP Vantage — partly to avoid people with backpacks and ice creams, and partly because, let’s be honest, we wanted VIP parking.
And we found it.
There’s a slip road to the right as you get close, and if you follow that, there’s a hidden car park perched right by the castle itself. It’s £6 for the day — which, given you're literally parked underneath a medieval fortress, is a bargain. Better yet, the car park attendant seemed rather taken with the Vantage. So much so, he plonked us next to his hut for “added security”. Translation: he wanted to stare at it all day, and frankly, I don’t blame him.
Now, if you don’t fancy playing Guess The Slip Road, there’s also a massive car park opposite the castle just around the bend. Perfectly acceptable, but obviously not as prestigious as being parked 12 feet from a gun canon turret.
The only downside? The car park surface was gravel. Not the nice sort — more like driving across a collection of discarded Lego bricks and regrets. But the Vantage didn’t mind. It rumbled in, low and proud, and settled itself like a knight returning from battle. Probably wondering why its owner keeps dragging it around historical monuments instead of Spa-Francorchamps.
Anyway, castle spotted. Car safely parked. And another glorious stop added to a road trip that’s quickly turning into the British version of Top Gear meets Time Team.
Stay tuned for the video.
The view of Bamburgh Castle from the FTP Vantage
After thoroughly inspecting every inch of Bamburgh Castle — inside, outside, and from every angle short of abseiling off a turret — we ventured into the village for a nose around. And I have to say, it’s charming in that particularly British way where everything looks like it was designed by a Sunday afternoon and a pot of tea. You’ve got your pubs, your bakers, your butchers... No candlestick maker, which frankly felt like a missed opportunity.
There are gift shops for people who enjoy tea towels with castles on them, and enough places to grab a coffee and a traybake to satisfy even the most Instagram-hungry wanderer. But this isn’t Vegas — you’re not here for the nightlife. You’re here for the vibe. And possibly a pork pie.
After a lazy mooch through the village, we strolled down to the beach — and what a beach. Not a narrow stretch of pebbles and despair, but an absolutely vast desert of sand, thanks to the tide being out. It was like walking across the set of Lawrence of Arabia, only with more dog walkers and fewer camels. You could’ve landed a light aircraft on it. Several, in fact.
Eventually, we trudged back up the hill to the car, which, as always, was a joy to behold. There’s something deeply satisfying about returning to your car, especially when it happens to be a snarling, muscular slab of British V8 excellence, (although I appreciate the engine came from AMG - it still gets tampered with by the British Aston Martin Brand engineers!) The FTP Vantage. Still there. Still glinting in the sun. Still not stolen. Excellent.
And then — the best bit. Back to the hotel for dinner. No cooking. No shopping. No arguing about who’s washing up. Just the agonising decision of whether to order the steak or the lamb shank, followed by someone else bringing it to you while you sit there smugly sipping a cold pint. It’s civilised. It’s luxurious. It’s... exactly how life should be.
Frankly, the only downside was that the Vantage had to sit out in the car park while I stuffed myself on sticky toffee pudding. But I suspect it understood.
The stunning village of Bambugh with the infamous castle in the background
The FTP Vantage Throws a Tantrum
Now, up until this point in the trip, things had been going rather well. Castles had been admired. Beaches had been conquered. Dinner had been devoured without so much as lifting a finger — and the FTP Vantage had performed like a thoroughbred on a light steroid cycle.
And then... disaster.
We returned to the hotel after a day of exploring Bamburgh, parked the Aston right outside the front doors like a pair of VIPs — because of course — and began unloading our worldly possessions. My wife went on ahead with bags in tow, while I stayed behind to perform the usual post-drive ritual of fiddling with camera gear and making it look like I knew what I was doing.
Then, I did what every Aston Martin owner does with a smug flourish: I pressed the key fob to lock the car.
Nothing.
No click. No beep. No lights. Not even the faint whimper of a confused British V8 wondering why it was being ignored.
I pressed it again. Then again. And again. As if, by sheer repetition, the car would suddenly snap out of its tantrum and behave like a well-bred automotive butler again.
Still nothing.
Now, I don’t know if you’ve ever stood outside a £84,950+ car that refuses to lock (I’m just quoting the price I paid for it, I appreciate it’s depreciating all the time!), in front of a hotel, with people peering out of the lounge window sipping wine and judging your life choices — but I can assure you, it’s not an enjoyable experience. Leaving the car unlocked was not an option. Not with that glorious grille and those seductive curves exposed to the elements and opportunists alike.
Yes, I was aware there was a manual key buried within the fob, a sort of secret agent escape plan, but without the metal emergency locking tool, it was about as useful as a chocolate brake pad.
So, in the spirit of British resilience and mild panic, I did what any desperate man would do — I tore the fob apart in the hotel lobby and waved the tiny battery at the receptionist like it was the last slice of civilisation.
“Ever seen one of these?” I asked, hopefully.
“No,” she replied. “But I can Google it.”
Within minutes, we had a plan. Argos, bless them, had the battery in stock. Ten minutes down the road. Still open. Off we went, with my wife acting as security detail — because there was no way I was leaving the car alone in a retail park while I went battery shopping.
Inside the shop, I bought four coin batteries. Because if I was going down, I was going down fully charged. I replaced the dead battery with the energy equivalent of a Red Bull and a slap to the face — and instantly the Vantage came back to life, like a defibrillated racehorse.
Crisis averted. Heart rate returning to normal.
And let me tell you, if this had happened somewhere deep in Europe — say, on a cobbled back street in rural Slovenia — it would've been an entirely different story. Finding a CR2032 battery in a village that still thinks electricity is witchcraft? Forget it.
From this day forward, I will never travel without spare batteries, a precision screwdriver, and perhaps a ceremonial chant to keep the Vantage gods appeased. Because as I learned that night — technology will betray you the moment it knows you’re in love.
And if this is what it’s like when a key fob battery dies... imagine the horror when your entire car is a battery.
I’ll stick with my V8, thanks.
Parking outside the Hotel, I then discovered no power left in the car fob key, so I couldn’t lock the car. Aaahh!?
Fish, Chips & Forty Cylinders – A Day Off (Sort Of)
Now, after all the drama of key fob batteries, tidal causeways, and castles rising out of the mist like something from a Ridley Scott film, you might think I’d had enough excitement for one week. But no. Just a few days later, there was another entry in the diary: an Aston Martin Owners Club drive out to Whitby.
It had everything you could want from a British motoring day out: scenery, seafood, and a small army of hand-built GT cars humming across the moors like a Bond film on a tea break.
But here's the thing. I made a decision.
No filming.
Yes, I know. Shocking. Unsubscribe. Unfollow. Send help. But hear me out. You see, I already had six — yes, six — film projects sat on hard drives, glaring at me like hungry dogs waiting to be fed. The editing backlog was becoming a bit ridiculous, and frankly, my brain was beginning to resemble the inside of a Canon lens cap.
So I did the unthinkable for a man whose YouTube channel revolves around fuel, passion, and pushing V8s to their operatic limits: I put the camera down.
Well… almost.
I did still take a few shots. Because I’m not a lunatic.
But the rest of the day was spent doing what Aston Martins were made for: driving, eating, and enjoying good company, without having to worry about framing a B-roll shot or whether my microphone was picking up wind noise and Yorkshire sheep.
The weather was warm, the fish was fried, and the view over the sea at Whitby was as magnificent as ever — though, unfortunately, half of Britain seemed to agree. The place was rammed. Streets overflowing, chip queues snaking like Nürburgring corners, and every other person wielding a seagull-attracting ice cream cone.
But then again, it was Saturday, and the sun was out. This was exactly what we expected — and somehow, the madness of the crowds only added to the charm.
Before the seafront chaos, we’d all met at NY500 in Pickering — a petrolhead’s sanctuary with Minis on the roof and coffee strong enough to power a DB11. Area 6 of AMOC (Yorkshire’s finest, naturally) had gathered, and with around 25 Astons lined up, it looked like a concours event had broken loose and decided to go for a drive.
And what a drive it was.
A glorious two-hour convoy across the North York Moors, with that unmistakable Aston Martin soundtrack echoing through the hills — a symphony of naturally aspirated joy. Locals stood agog at the side of the road, mouths open, cameras raised, as one glorious shape followed another.
I glanced in the rearview mirror and saw a line of Aston Martins stretching back like a V8-powered train of elegance and excess. In front, more gleaming bonnets, sweeping over the road like a pack of perfectly tailored wolves.
And in that moment, I thought:
How did I get here?
And more importantly...
Why didn’t I film this for a video on YouTube?!
What a Month That Was…
And just like that — June is in the rear-view mirror. What a month.
From dual carriageways outside hotel windows, to trophy rooms filled with the legacy of Jim Clark, via tidal causeways, medieval castles, moorland convoys and a slightly stressful trip to Argos — this one had it all. There were highlights, hiccups, heartwarming moments, and horsepower.
But it doesn’t stop there. Not even close.
You see, June wasn’t just about road trips and museum visits. It was also a planning month. A logistical symphony involving maps, dates, and weather apps. Because July? July’s shaping up to be another belter. There's more filming, more driving, more storytelling, and (inevitably) more trips to petrol stations that demand the GDP of a small country for a full tank.
First up, I’m heading to Snowdonia. Because apparently there’s a group of roads known as the EVO Triangle that petrolheads have been whispering about in reverent tones for years. So it’s time to see what all the fuss is about — properly — in the FTP Vantage. If you’re not familiar with it, think Top Gear, moody skies, and corners that want to hug you and throw you off a cliff at the same time.
This will all be coming soon to the Fuel the Passion YouTube Channel — so if you’ve made it this far down the blog (and thank you, sincerely, if you have), please consider subscribing. It helps massively, and it fuels the creation of more films, blogs, and ridiculous moments involving V8 engines and poor decision-making in remote car parks.
And hey — I’d love to hear from you.
Was this blog too long? Too short? Did I waffle on about Jim Clark too much? Not enough? Would you rather see more behind-the-scenes insight or more location guides? Leave a comment down below and let me know.
Until next time, thank you again for coming along for the ride.
See you in the next video — and hopefully somewhere out there on the road.
Take care, drive safe, and always carry spare key fob batteries!
– Dan, otherwise known as FTP!
