AN annual migration of Minis from Oxford to Birmingham took place at the weekend showcasing 100 vintage city-made cars.

The convoy left the Cowley Mini plant at 8.30am on Saturday for the Pride of Longbridge rally in Birmingham, which remembers 6,000 workers who lost their jobs when MG Rover collapsed in 2005.

Oxford Mail:

  • Oxford East MP Andrew Smith, above, waves the flag to send the convoy

For 42 years until 2000, the Cowley plant was part of the Longbridge group. Convoy organiser Tanya Field, who has a collection of 14 classic cars, said: “It was a fantastic morning, it went really well. There were quite a few people watching and waving.”

This was the fourth year the Oxford delegation to the rally has been organised.

Oxford Mail:

  • Tanya Field

Mrs Field, 42, who lives in Headington, said: “It is important for Longbridge to remember the loss of jobs at MG Rover and what that meant for their community. But it is also lovely to bring Cowley and Longbridge back together.”

The classic car fans stayed at the rally for the day before making their way home.

Mrs Field said anyone with a pre-2000 Mini who would like to join next year’s rally can call her on 07929 86828.