EAST Sussex College Eastbourne welcomed a film crew from the hit UK TV series Bangers & Cash, turning the college’s Motor Vehicle department into a temporary TV set and giving students the chance of a lifetime.
Across two action-packed days of filming recently, students worked under the spotlight on a classic Ford Escort, showcasing their skills for an upcoming episode of the classic car restoration show, which will be broadcast on the Yesterday channel later this year.
Filming kicked off with behind-the-scenes footage of the students tackling mechanical and bodywork repairs. On the second day, excitement reached top gear as fan-favourite auctioneer David Mathewson arrived on campus.
He met with the student team, learned about their meticulous restoration efforts and took the car back to Yorkshire for auction – with the proceeds set to benefit St Wilfrid’s Hospice.
Not only did students gain hands-on experience restoring a classic icon, but they also stepped into the world of television production, learning what it takes to bring a project to life on-screen. Several were interviewed for the show, including students Beth Payne and Harrison Rolfe.
Beth said, “I’m proud of the process and the team of people who worked on the car. They’ve been great. I’d definitely do this project again!”
Harrison agreed: “I’d 100% do this again. Working on the bodywork and the mechanical side of things has been so rewarding. The tutors have been amazing and really supported us throughout.”
The project served as a showcase of the college’s technical training and community spirit, with most of the car’s sale proceeds supporting a local cause.
Deputy Head of Curriculum Mark Streeter said: “This has been a fantastic opportunity for our students to shine on a national stage. It’s something they’ll remember for years, and we’re incredibly proud of how they represented East Sussex College.”
David Mathewson also praised the college and its students: “It was a real pleasure to meet the fantastic staff and students of East Sussex College. There’s a real energy and passion here, backed up by first-class facilities. These students are clearly on the road to success.”
The episode featuring Eastbourne’s rising automotive stars is due to hit screens later this year.
