RALLY legend Paddy Hopkirk will attend this year’s Rally Drivers’ Ball, which will see Accrington town centre transformed into Monte Carlo early next month.

The Irishman, who won the Monte Carlo Rally in a Mini Cooper in 1964, will see a cavalcade of historic cars roll into Hyndburn from 11am on Saturday, September 6.

Around 25 historic cars of various makes, models and ages will set off in a convoy from the Dunkenhalgh Hotel and Spa in Clayton-le-Moors, making their way to Broadway as part of the daytime celebrations of the ball.

Organisers said: “We can’t wait to welcome Paddy to East Lancashire for what is set to be an amazing day.

“We are also hoping to enjoy the company of BTCC champion Jason Plato, current Citroen WRC driver Kris Meeke, and many other drivers.”

The parade and ball will raise money for ex-professional rally driver, Chris Wood.

The Burnley man fell off his bike a few days before Christmas two years ago, leaving him with little or no movement below his neck.

The collection will showcase a variety of classic racing cars, including rally cars, several entrants from the Le Mans 24-hour race, and even a Formula One car from 100 years ago, all of which will be cruising through Accrington for all to see.

The event will pay tribute to the Accrington Pals in the centenary year of the First World War, and there will be a collection in the town centre to raise money for future Pals projects. “There will be the chance for a photo call outside Accrington town hall, so no-one will miss the once in a lifetime opportunity to capture these spectacular vehicles all in one place,” organisers added.

The cars will then return to the Dunkenhalgh Hotel, where they will remain on view for the rest of the day.

If you have a historical car you’d like to display at the motor show, call Kevin Furber on 07850 732867 or alternatively you can email kevin@scottdawson.co.uk.