As communities go into lockdown and people self-isolate, the owners of cars bought at auction will have plenty of time to renovate and polish their new motors.

Dorset Vintage and Classic Auctions' (DVCA) March sale was hit by a low turnout as the coronavirus was beginning to bite, but it still was a 'Triumph' of sorts, according to organisers.

DVCA director Brian Chant said the viewing day ahead of the actual sale at Henstridge Airfield saw both the venue and the phone lines busy.

“In the event, I decided the auction should go ahead because we had taken steps to deal with the coronavirus guidelines and everything was in place,” he added.

“On the day we disappointingly had only about 25 per cent of the normal crowd but that didn’t dampen enthusiasm for the automobilia lots in particular, with most being taken home by new owners."

Sales included a 1971 Triumph TR6 rebuilt from the chassis up which went for £16,500; a 1968 Triumph Herald 13/60 saloon which went for £3,400; a restoration project Phillips P39 Gadabout moped from about 1958 sold for £170; a 1936 Ford Model Y two door saloon sold for £4,500.

Mr Chant added: “Perhaps the thought of getting out and about on two wheels, making it easier to keep a social distance, explains their popularity, with all but one of the two-wheeled lots selling – a powerful 1987 BMW R80T touring machine found a new owner for £1,200 while an even bigger touring combination, a 1990 Honda Gold Wing GL 1500 complete with a camping trailer packed with gear, sold for £4,000.

“Plenty of people will have time on their hands for the next few months but likely to be busy is the new owner of a restoration project 1970 Lotus Elan +2S who paid £6,000 for what will turn into a highly desirable and sought-after car once work is complete."

Mr Chant said the planned sale on July 9 is under review but the auction on October 22 remains firmly in the calendar.