Thousands of people are expected to gather in Paisley later for the UK start of the Monte Carlo Classic Rally.

About 70 classic cars – including Porsches, Mini Coopers and Linwood-built Hillman   Imps – will set off from from Paisley Abbey at about 18:45.

They will join competing cars from the other start cities of Barcelona, Turin, Copenhagen and Reims on the 1,670-mile (2,688km) route to the French Riviera.

The rally is expected to generate more than £1m for the Renfrewshire economy.

The Monte Carlo Classic Rally was created by Prince Albert I of Monaco in 1911 and initially featured 23 cars starting from six different European cities.
‘Memorable night’

Only 16 completed it, with Henri Rougier winning in a Turcat-Mery.

The 104th rally marks the second consecutive year that Paisley has hosted the only UK start.

Renfrewshire’s Provost Anne Hall, who will help wave the drivers off from the start ramp, said: “We are delighted to be able to host the world-famous event here in the historic town centre of Paisley.

“Last year’s event was a really memorable night with a great atmosphere and the sight of the cars setting off from outside Paisley Abbey made for a magnificent spectacle.

“We have a programme of entertainment laid on from 4pm and we look forward to seeing another bumper crowd on the day.”

SOURCE: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-glasgow-west-31005514 – 28th January 2015