HISTORIC vehicles and classic cars will filter through the county as preparations step up a gear ahead of the Monte Carlo Rally.

It will be the first time the rally has visited the county since 1962 as it will repeat history and stop off in Banbury's Bridge Street and Market Place.

There is expected to be about 27 vehicles taking part as the rally stops in the town and will feature vehicles built between 1955 and 1980, as well as those in the classique class built from 1911 to 1969.

Cherwell District Council chairman Maurice Billington, said: “Motorsport is part of this region’s DNA and I can’t wait to hear the rumble of those classic cars echo around the town centre.

"We will also be part of their adventure.

"When the historique rally last came to Banbury the streets were filled with people excited to see some fantastic cars.

"Those cars are now beloved classics and I hope as many of you as possible will head in to town on February 1 to greet the intrepid rally drivers and give them a raucous send off."

One team included in the rally is Bicester-based Blue Diamond Riley Services which has entered a 1949 MG TC in to the classique rally.

The Bicester Heritage based business will also be on hand servicing other vehicles during the stop in Bridge Street.

The event is being coordinated locally by Cherwell District Council, with help from partners Banbury Town Council and the Oxford Motor Club.

It will run from 10am to 3.30pm on February 1 and is free.