THE rain couldn't dampen racer's spirits at the New Milton Pedal Car Grand Prix returned to the town for the sixth time.

Despite gloomy skies and showers, 45 teams representing local businesses, organisations and schools used pedal power to race around the Monaco-style town centre circuit on Sunday.

And the popular event still drew crowds of thousands who enjoyed the quirky challenge as drivers battled for pole position around hairpin bends.

Race director Conrad Curtis said: “It's been an absolutely wonderful day.

"It really did go very well indeed, in spite of the fact that the rain likely put off some potential spectators. It must have reduced the number of people who turned out to watch, but we still had between 2,500 and 3,000 people over the course of the day, and they were very supportive."

The biennial pedal car event is organised by the New Milton Jubilee Committee, a group comprising the Round Table, Lions and Rotary clubs.

Members of the committee aim to provide a fun and entertaining event while supporting local youth and charity organisations.

Every time the race is held, thousands of pounds are raised for charity.

Mr Curtis said the race appeals to those of all ages.

"Lots of youngsters take part alongside the adults," he said.

"It's very inclusive, and it's really about having fun."

Taking the top spot this year was the men's team from New Forest Health and Leisure, with members of the Christchurch Bicycle Club in second and women's team Squeals on Wheels taking the bronze medal.

A team also visited New Milton from Germany in order to take part, narrowly being beaten for the third-place finish.

In the youth category, a team from Ballard School came out on top.

The event also saw entries from firefighters based in Ringwood, as well as police officers from the New Milton station.

Mr Curtis said: "Those cars were really rather good.

"The police and fire teams really did get into it, which was very nice to see."

The next Grand Prix will take place in the town in 2017.