Visitors to stunning Arundel Castle in West Sussex, will be able to admire one of Britain’s best-loved car marques on Sunday 1 April as over 100 MGs line up on the Lower Lawns of the Castle.

Synonymous with fun roadsters, MG began in 1910 when William Morris of Oxford moved from bicycle and motor cycle building into motor car manufacture in 1910. Morris Garages was to be the forerunner of the classic MG make, with the first of the famous Midgets, the sporty ‘M’ type, appearing in 1928. Over the next 50 years, a long line of popular roadsters appeared under the distinctive octagonal logo, proving as popular abroad as in Britain.

MGs may no longer be manufactured, but the various branches of MG Car Club keep the legend living on with regular events and rallies. This rally, organised by the South East branch, allows enthusiasts and onlookers an opportunity to examine the various vintage and classic models close up and chart to their owners. From the 1924 Bullnose and Flatnose vintage models, through 1950s MGAs to 60s and 70s Midgets and MGBs, the display will showcase the development of a legendary marque.

The Rally is included in normal admission to the Castle, which has been the ancestral home to the Dukes of Norfolk for over 900 years. From the 11th-century keep at its heart to the Victorian Gothic chapel, the Castle is a treasure trove of history as family heirlooms such as art, armour, furniture, books and personal possessions tell the story of life in the Castle over nine centuries. Outside, the extensive grounds and formal gardens in an elevated setting above the town of Arundel and the River Arun are an added attraction, making a visit to Arundel a day out for the whole family.

Notes to editors

Arundel Castle has been the home of the Dukes of Norfolk for 900 years; it is the longest inhabited country house in England and furniture, armour, art and antiquities from many periods in its history can be seen. The Castle’s formal gardens create an attractive setting.

Arundel Castle and grounds are open from 31 March to 28 October 2007. 2007 will be the first year that the castle will be open on Saturdays throughout the season; closing on Mondays instead, except for Bank Holidays. Opening times are: Tue-Sun, 10am-5pm (Castle rooms open from 12 noon). Last entry is 4pm.

The historical special events are included in the normal full admission rates which are: £12 for adults, £9.50 for seniors, £7.50 for children and the great value £32 family ticket (2 adults + up to 5 children) for Castle, Fitzalan Chapel, gardens, grounds, gift shop and restaurant.

For further information, contact Arundel Castle on tel: 01903 882173, www.arundelcastle.org, email: info@arundelcastle.org.

For press information and photographs, contact Caroline Edmunds at Pennington PR on01892 616647or e-mail: caroline@penningtonpr.com