CROWDS of people gathered in the town centre for the start of a motorsport rally.

Hills Ford Rally had its ceremonial start event in Ledbury town centre on Saturday afternoon (September 14) ahead of the first stage of the rally in the evening and five rally stages on Sunday (September 15).

A portion of Ledbury High Street was closed off for spectators to watch as 140 rally cars were one by one shown the ceremonial starting flag to begin the event.

Ledbury Town Council's clerk, Angela Price, said: "It was great to see so many people out and enjoying the sunshine on the day - supporting the rally and all those involved.

"It was also brilliant to see so many children involved in the ceremony and participating.

"I hope the rally has encouraged even more participation in the years ahead."

A diverse range of competitive rally cars were showcased on the day, ranging from Mark 1 Ford Escort rally cars made popular in the 1980s to the very latest models in the sport.

Rally drivers were led along a portion of the High Street in Ledbury for a ceremonial starting flag wave during the afternoon. (Image: Paul Mitchell Photography)

Spectator areas in town centre enabled people to see the cars up close as they lined up for their official Hills Ford Rally start.

Mrs Price said: "From the feedback I've been given, everyone really enjoyed the occasion.

"The event is definitely up there as a big one in Ledbury and is well attended each year by visitors and locals in the town.

"Beyond the spectators we have the drivers visiting Ledbury, their teams and their sponsors, so there is more money coming into the town and it's great for the economy."

Following their ceremonial starts, Hills Ford Rally drivers made their way to Castlemorton for the first official rally stage of the event across the late afternoon and evening on Saturday (September 17).

Five rally stages then took place on roads within Herefordshire, Worcestershire and Gloucestershire on Sunday (September 15).