HUNDREDS of classic cars from different eras all built in Birmingham congregated in Cofton Park today for the 2023 Pride of Longbridge Rally.
Marc Drew and his customized interior. Picture by Marcus Mingins 1623002MMR6 www.buyphotos247.com
The event returned last year for the first time since the pandemic and this year, like last, the crowds turned out and the sun shone down on a multitude of vehicles.
Negotiating the mud. Picture by Marcus Mingins 1623002MMR3 www.buyphotos247.com
Among the models were Minis, MGs, Rovers, Metros, Maestros, Allegros and more.
This year is also the centenary of the MG brand, the 40th anniversary of the Maestro and the 20th anniversary of the Rover Streetwise.
Picture by Marcus Mingins 1623002MMR2 www.buyphotos247.com
Maestro owner Dan Ley-Tjoe had journeyed all the way from south Wales.
He said: “I’ve owned my Maestro for seven years – I like it because it’s a spacious car and comfortable to drive.”
He added the car had not had much done to it, apart from the wheel arches, and it was a reliable car.
Dan Ley-TJoe with his Maestro. Picture by Tristan Harris. Copyright Bullivant Media.
Ray Greenwood from Leeds comes most years in his Austin Montego.
He said: “It’s great to celebrate the Longbridge motoring past.
“It’s keeping alive the British motoring industry.”
Drivers from all over the United Kingdom had brought their cars, along with some from Germany and even as far as Hungary and Romania.
POL organiser Gemma Cartwright MBE with visitors from Romania. s
An ex-workers’ meeting place enabled former employees at ‘The Austin’ and MG Rover’ to catch-up and there was community stalls, food and drink, face painting and much more.
One of the cars featured in the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games. Picture by Tristan Harris. Copyright Bullivant Media.
Also there today were some of the cars used in the breath-taking display at the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games opening ceremony. The cars – all Longbridge-built – drove into the arena to form a Union Flag and then dispersed within five minutes.
Stunt driver Paul Swift who choreographed the feat was also at Pride of Longbridge 2023. Click below to see our interview with him where he sheds light on how it was done.
Organiser Gemma Cartwright said this year’s event was much more organised, adding once again there was a fantastic turnout.
“A lot of the ex-workers have come down, not only to catch-up with their former colleagues but also to link up with the enthusiasts to explain what they did in the production of the cars.
“I’d also like to say a massive thank you to all the volunteers who gave their time for us.
“The park held up well, despite the rain in the past couple of days and it was a wonderful event.”
