Aston Martin celebrates in Dubai

Aston Martin, the British sports car maker, continued its centenary celebrations in spectacular style at the Burj Al Arab hotel in Dubai, one of the world's most recognisably luxury destinations.

Last Thursday saw the airlift of the GT, the Vanquish onto the helipad at the iconic hotel. It was the first time a car was placed on to the helipad which sits 1,000 ft above the ground at the top of the sail-shaped building.

It's not only James Bond that appreciates his Aston Martin,  as it is one of the most exclusive and sought-after brands in the world. (Sean Connery as James Bond drove the DB5 in Goldfinger).

An exclusive Centenary Edition specification will be available worldwide on just 100 examples of each of the car maker's model lines - V8 Vantage, DB9, Rapide and Vanquish.

BTW did you know that the Aston Martin wings badge has its origins in ancient Egypt - derived from the open wings of the scarab beetle? No? Neither did I.