What better way to celebrate 100 years of Ford in Britain than to send 10 models spanning the full century on a journey that will hit 20 cities in the UK over the next 31 days. The cars assembled today at Tower Bridge marking the start of the Ford Centenary Tour. They were flagged off by BBC Radio 2 presenter and car enthusiast, Chris Evans.
"I'm delighted to be part of Ford UK's centenary celebrations. As with so many people, I have many fond memories of Ford cars. In fact as we speak, I'm actively having a snoop around for a classic Ford Escort Mexico to stick in my garage," Evans explains.
The tour reaches its climax on September 16, 17 and 18, when 100 iconic Ford vehicles will parade around the Goodwood race circuit on each day of the Goodwood Revival in Chichester, West Sussex.
As the Ford Centenary Tour travels around the UK, it will show the role played by Ford in British society. In the Scottish Highlands, for example, it will search for the best driving roads, while in the south, Ford drivers stopping for their first meal of the day will be offered free breakfast rolls by Michelin-starred chef, Phil Thompson.
"2011 is a significant landmark for Ford of Britain. We have an extraordinary heritage to celebrate and an exciting and innovative future ahead. This tour is an opportunity to showcase many achievements including Ford's leadership of the UK car market for 34 years and commercial market for 45 years," added Andy Barratt, Ford of Britain sales director.
"I'm delighted to be part of Ford UK's centenary celebrations. As with so many people, I have many fond memories of Ford cars. In fact as we speak, I'm actively having a snoop around for a classic Ford Escort Mexico to stick in my garage," Evans explains.
The tour reaches its climax on September 16, 17 and 18, when 100 iconic Ford vehicles will parade around the Goodwood race circuit on each day of the Goodwood Revival in Chichester, West Sussex.
As the Ford Centenary Tour travels around the UK, it will show the role played by Ford in British society. In the Scottish Highlands, for example, it will search for the best driving roads, while in the south, Ford drivers stopping for their first meal of the day will be offered free breakfast rolls by Michelin-starred chef, Phil Thompson.
"2011 is a significant landmark for Ford of Britain. We have an extraordinary heritage to celebrate and an exciting and innovative future ahead. This tour is an opportunity to showcase many achievements including Ford's leadership of the UK car market for 34 years and commercial market for 45 years," added Andy Barratt, Ford of Britain sales director.