VINTAGE cars, rally cars and military vehicles from all over the country will gather for a unique one-day festival on Easter Monday.

Coleford Carnival of Transport is a must for all car enthusiasts as well as a wonderful free day out for the whole family.

The bustling town in the Forest of Dean comes alive with exhibitions, music, a funfair - and of course, lots and lots of cars.

Adults and children can admire more than 500, ranging from veteran cars to hot rods and custom-built cars There will also be bikes, buses, and commercial and army vehicles.

This year's theme is competition cars and organisers are hoping to offer visitors the chance to step into a vintage racing car.

There will also be demonstrations of rally driving. Many owners of vintage cars will enter into the spirit of the festival by dressing up in costumes from the same period.

Even for those who are not die-hard enthusiasts, it's still a great day out. Children in particular will love the fairground rides and model railway.

There will also be arts and crafts exhibitions and a flower festival in the community hall. Visitors can listen to live bands playing music from the 60s and 70s as they wander around the stalls or try a home-made tea. The event will kick-off at 9.30am with Radio Gloucestershire broadcasting their morning programme live from the festival.

Organiser Peter Colley says he is hoping it will be even bigger than last year, when more than 15,000 people attended.

Visitors are advised to park their cars at the east and west of Coleford and take the free bus into the centre.

For more information contact 01594 860554. Hazel Mollison