FANS of North Yorkshire firm Twisted and the legendary Defender flocked from across the UK and beyond for the company's annual open day.

Held last weekend, the event saw approximately 400 visitors pack-out the iconic vehicles’ Thirsk base.

Visitors young and old enjoyed learning about what goes into each and every Twisted vehicle, spending time in the workshop and speaking to some of the highly-skilled specialist technicians that are dedicated to making the Twisted vehicles the best they can be.

It also gave Defender owners the chance to see the new LR Coach-Works division and all that it offers.

And with a special appearance from world record-breaker and Twisted ambassador Sean Conway, crowds were inspired and wowed by tales of his latest challenge.

Sean recently became the quickest person to cycle across Europe - completing his arduous journey in a mere 24 days.

He was a definite highlight for young adventurers who got to see and climb aboard his specially-adapted Twisted Defender, affectionately-named Colonel Mustard.

The day’s guests included a visitor who travelled up from Barcelona in his own Defender, and his dedication was rewarded with an exclusive ride-out in one of Twisted’s demo vehicles.

The Open Day also marked the launch of the inaugural Twisted Experiences – with 15 Twisted Defender taking to the road in a unique tour of Yorkshire dubbed the ‘Yorkshire 300’.

Coming from all across the country to be part of the experience, the Twisted owners joined founder and managing director Charles Fawcett, as well as Conway, to tour around some of Yorkshire’s finest spots over the course of four days.

The convoy took in the North Yorkshire Moors and Guisborough, before heading through Thimbleby, Masham, Lofthouse, Aysgarth, Muker, Harrogate and Garforth. There were also three evening stays alongside guided tours of the Black Sheep Brewery, Masham, and the Ginetta race car factory, Garforth, making the trip a real success.

Mr Fawcett, said: “We were amazed at how many people came to our Open Day this year; it’s a testament to how hard everyone has worked over the past year to really help put Twisted on the map. It’s great to see all the local faces – and the excitement on children’s faces as they got to explore our vehicles was a delight.

“And the success of the Open Day was topped off by the perfect start to our Twisted Experiences – the Yorkshire 300. Yorkshire really did look its best so I was immensely proud to show off the county to visitors from all over the UK. We’re already looking forward to planning more adventures!”

Conway added: “I always look forward to visiting Twisted HQ, and to be able to show off my prized Colonel Mustard made it even better. I was also hugely privileged to be invited along on the maiden Yorkshire 300 – I know Yorkshire is God’s own country, but last weekend it really was heavenly. Add to that a convoy of 15 Twisted vehicles and it really doesn’t get much better.”

For more information on Twisted Automotive, visit the Twisted website or Facebook page.