Shakespeare and Lady Godiva are to join forces as part of a shake-up of celebrations of the car that will also see a cavalcade of historic Jaguars going through Coventry city centre.

A car run is to be held from the city’s Memorial Park after moving from its regular home at Coombe Country Park on 2 September.

A 1961 JAGUAR E-TYPE 3.8 ROADSTER

The event will be a replacement for the old Shakespeare run, following a working party review led by prominent Coventry businessman Joe Elliott.

The intention is that it will grow in 2002 into a full weekend event, with exhibitions, car-related activities and entertainment as well as the traditional run, and will kick off a nine-day programme of Godiva festivities in June.

Two companies have been asked to submit proposals for this year's event. Their brief is to attract at least 400 cars and set out a route that allows the people of the city maximum opportunities to see and enjoy the run. The successful tender will be announced shortly.

Coventry City Council, as principal funders of the event, have asked Coventry and Warwickshire Promotions to oversee the successful delivery of the car run.

A 1948 XK120 ROADSTER

Less than a week later the Sir William Lyons rally will run through Coventry city centre to celebrate the centenary of the founder of the classic marque.

Dozens of historic Jaguars are to take part in the afternoon parade, which is also being organised by CWP.

The company will be organising an afternoon parade of cars in the city centre and an evening of entertainment for participating Jaguar owners and VIP guests.

Dr John Heeley, Chief Executive of Coventry and Warwickshire Promotions, said:

 "I think there has been doubt in some people's minds that a Coventry car run would take place this year.

"I can assure everybody that it will take place from the Memorial Park and that the aim is to build an event for next year that will showcase Coventry's motor industry, past, present and future, in ways that are nationally significant and engage all those involved, from manufacturers and museums to all strands of the community.

“We want to make the car run bigger and better."