Kate ScotterA Lowestoft company director will be taking part in the world's longest-running automotive rally this weekend with help from a local car dealer.Kate Scotter

A Lowestoft company director will be taking part in the world's longest-running automotive rally this weekend with help from a local car dealer.

Bob Adams, from Pakefield, will be participating in the London to Brighton Veteran Car Run on Sunday, after Lowestoft Renault dealer Mitchells offered to lend him a Renault Laguna to tow his vehicle to the start line in Hyde Park.

Mr Adams, a director at Hestia Heating, will be driving a 1901 steam-powered Locomobile in the veteran car run, but needed a hand to get the old vehicle to the event.

The 1901 car was built in Connecticut, USA, and spent many years forgotten in a Mississippi barn. It was rediscovered in 1977 and brought to the UK in 1997. It is currently owned by Dr David West, of Ormskirk, Lancashire, but Mr Adams has been maintaining the vehicle for the past four years.

He said: "The event is steeped in history and it's the first time that either the car or myself has taken part in the run."

Matthew Huke-Jenner, from Mitchells Renault, said: "Renault is very proud of its motoring heritage so we are delighted to help Bob out with the loan of a modern Renault to assist him and his 1901 car with their adventure."