AN appeal for locally-owned Minis to take part in this year’s Bromyard Gala received an overwhelming response.

Organisers are now hoping to find one for every year of the diminutive car’s half century.

Local firm Holden Vintage and Classic Ltd usually arrange a collection of classic vehicles for the popular country show and this year hit upon the idea of marking the 50th anniversary of the British manufacturing icon.

Pam Hennessy, accounts manager for Holden, said: “We have had loads and loads of people ring. We’ve got about 46 at the moment so we’re close to getting all the way to 50.”

Among the cars signed up for the two-day event, held in early July, are pick-ups, Rover and Austin Minis, Mini 7s and Mini Clubmans.

Mrs Hennessy added: “One was driven by [Finnish rally driver] Rauno Aaltonen in the 1962 Monte Carlo Rally.”

The company is also trying to secure the appearance of the last “classic” Mini to roll off the production line in 2000.

The Bromyard Gala, a regular event for almost 40 years, will also feature displays of country pursuits, steam and traction engines.