ALTON town centre will be transported back in time tomorrow for the 13th Herald Classic Car Show and Rally.

Run by the Alton Herald and Alton Town Council, this year’s renewal is already shaping up with more than 180 vehicles booked to exhibit on the day.

Herald special projects manager Alan Wooler is looking forward to welcoming guests and exhibitors alike to the popular annual event and described the number of cars expected as “an excellent response”.

This year, the classic car rally will set off in the morning from Country Market at Kingsley, then travel through 12 miles of East Hampshire countryside, taking in the villages of Bentley, Froyle and Holybourne before arriving at Anstey Park from 9am.

There they will link up with other cars before joining them in a convoy, led by The Herald vehicles, along Anstey Road to park throughout Alton town centre.

The Market Square will host live performances from acts including The Alton College Jazz Collective, the 4Tunes, vocalist Micheal Twiddy, and rockabilly band The Triple Aces.

Keeping everyone informed on the event’s proceedings will be veteran car show master of ceremonies and familiar local voice Paul Le Feuvre.

Vehicles will be judged throughout the day, with deputy Alton mayor Matthew Bayliss presenting winners with cups in categories including best vehicle, best turned out and most interesting at 3pm.

As always there will be something on display to suit all tastes, including military and emergency vehicles, American classics, veteran motorbikes and, at the opposite end of the spectrum, plenty of modern motors too.

For example, making their debut this year are Tesla Motors with their innovative electric cars.

People travelling to the town should be aware that there will be road closures covering the whole of the High Street, Market Street, Cross and Pillory Lane, and the Market Square.

“The Alton Herald and Tindle Newspapers are happy to support Alton Town Council for the 13th year and thank them for all they have done to bring this special day about,” said Mr Wooler. “We welcome participants and visitors to the annual Herald Classic Car Show for a day of fun and entertainment for all the family.”

And he extended thanks in advance to all the “marvellous veteran, vintage and classic cars” set to appear at the show.

“This year, a number of local car dealerships will be in attendance bringing along a selection of new cars, blending the new with the old once more,” he added.

Profits are in aid of the mayor’s charity Home-Start WeyWater and the Alton Lions’ charity Alton Citizens Advice.