THERE were 5,500 cars and thousands more enthusiasts and visitors in Cofton Park on Saturday (April 15) at the 2017 Pride of Longbridge Rally.
The event attracted people from all over the UK, along with petrol-heads from Germany, Belgium and Holland.
The annual event is a celebration of South Birmingham’s proud car-making history and among the models being showcased were the iconic Mini, vintage Austins, MGs, Rover, Metros, Maestros, Allegros and more.
There was also community stalls, children’s rides, hot and cold food and drink and activities for youngsters to do.
And there was a special surprise for organiser Gemma Cartwright MBE – Princess Diana’s famous Metro turned up, courtesy of the Coventry Transport Museum.
She said: “I was speechless – I have been trying to get that car to one of our rallies for 12 years and they turned up unannounced. It was amazing.”
Speaking about the success of the event she added: “It was perfect – even the weather was just right.
“It was so good to see so many of the ex-workforce there and fantastic to see how much the local community and heritage group value the event which has been held annually since MG Rover’s collapse.
“I’d like to thank everyone who came, all the volunteers who made it possible and to the local residents for putting up with some disruption on the surrounding roads on the day.”
Visit www.prideoflongbridge.co.uk or e-mail [email protected] for more information on the event.
