MOTOR enthusiasts are preparing for the North of England's largest historic vehicles rally.

The one-day event will be held at Newby Hall, near Ripon, on Sunday, and is promising to be the best held at the stately home.

More than 1,000 vintage, veteran and classic cars, as well as military vehicles and motorbikes of all ages, are expected to be on show.

It will be the 20th annual rally to be held by the North-East Club for Pre-War Austins and has been growing every year.

Robin Alexander, the hall's opening administrator, said: "From Austins and MGs, to the classics, such as Bentleys, Rolls and Daimlers, this day provides a wonderful array of fine vehicles, that for any enthusiast are certainly a sight worth seeing."

As well as the vehicles on display, the event also offers dedicated owners the chance to meet and discuss their hobby, and swap and search for elusive parts from a choice of more than 100 trade stands.

Entry to the rally, which also includes admission to the gardens and the hall's newly opened sculpture park at Newby Hall, is £5.50 for adults, £4.50 for concessions and £4.00 for children (under-fours admitted free). The event opens at 10.30am.