Town remembers 'tremendous' museum founder

Hundreds of people have lined the centre of Taunton to watch the funeral procession of the man who opened the town's classic car museum.

Patrick Hawkins died in August at the age of 68.

The procession, which travelled past his County Classics Motor Museum, included his favourite vehicles, the Ford Capri, with people applauding the cars as they stopped outside the venue.

Town councillor Nick O'Donnell said Patrick had been a "tremendous" man, and was passionate about Taunton.

The motor museum, which includes about 200 cars and motorcycles from the 1960s to 1990s, was opened in 2023.

It gained the attention of former Top Gear and Grand Tour presenter Richard Hammond, who attended the opening to cut the ribbon.

Mr O'Donnell was mayor when the museum opened, and said his work has had a "huge impact" on Taunton, adding the venue made the town "more vibrant".

"It has brought thousands of people to this town," he added.

"I remember when I was standing here talking to the crowd, I asked people to put their hand up if they were visiting Taunton today simply because of this museum, and I was struck by the number of people who had put their hand up.

"I just think that's his legacy - that was his vision."

Patrick's friend and motoring writer Malcolm McKay said it had been a "terrific turnout" to pay tribute him.

Mr McKay added: "It shows how much he was loved by the community... he always used to surprise me, bless him, and that was his way.

"He did so much for Taunton."

Mr McKay said his friend had an "amazing" vision for the town, and hopes the musum will continue to "thrive".

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