Top Gear trio Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond and James May popped into Penistone yesterday as part of filming for the show's new series.

The presenters played about with a hovercraft on Penistone showground for one of their famous invention stunts before poking fun at the town's name with a spoof sign.

The gate sign read 'Top Gear Penistone Engineering Workshop', which became 'Top Penis Engine Work' when the gates to skip firm It's For Hire, where filming took place, were opened.

Crowds gathered to catch a glimpse of the presenters but were denied a chance to ask questions, although 50-year-old May did give fans a quick wave.

Staff at nearby Tesco popped down on their breaks to see what was going on, while managers at the store attempted to get a better look by climbing onto the roof of the supermarket.

Top Gear fan Ben Low, of Tennyson Close, Penistone, went down to the showground after receiving a text message from a friend.

"It's one of my favourite shows and very exciting for our little town," he said.

"I watch it all the time but I'll definitely make sure I don't miss this episode."

Crew members and mechanics spent yesterday morning converting a white Ford Transit van into a hovercraft-type craft. It is believed the three presenters will be filmed testing their creation on a nearby reservoir.

In between takes, the trio spent time smoking, talking to crew members and in Julie's Cafe, next to the Trans Pennine Trail, which was closed to the public.