CALNE'S Atwell-Wilson Motor Museum is gearing up for a special fun-fueled centenary celebration on June 15.

It's the 100th birthday of Ford motorcars, and so the museum is gearing up for a huge celebration party to mark the occasion.

The museum, which has several vintage Fords in its extensive collection, is inviting motoring enthusiasts to join them to celebrate the opening of Henry Ford's first factory at Detroit, in the USA, on June 16, 1903.

Visitors are invited to come to a lunchtime picnic and see the museum's 1924 Ford Model T, the car credited with bringing motoring to the masses.

The museum also has a 1937 Ford 8 model Y, made in Ford's Dagenham factory, which was built in 1931, and several other Ford models.

Museum trustee Peter Tate, said: "The day is intended to be a celebration in paying homage to Henry Ford and his products.

"The first Ford, the model T, was called the 'Tin Lizzy,' and was immensely strong, durable and could go across all sorts of terrain.

"When two model T's passed each other people would say 'what time is it? It's tin past tin.'"

The museum has called the day 'SplendFord in Grass' after the 1961 film Splendor in the Grass and is hoping Chris Searle, from Points West, will drive his 1914 Ford Model T to the event.

One of the highlights of the day, which starts at 11am on June 15, will be the "bring and brag" show for people who have brought their Fords with them.

Entrance is free for Ford drivers and a passenger, who will also receive a participation plaque and a chance to vote in the competition for the best pre- and post-1960 Ford at the show.

There will also be a prize for the most distance travelled by a visiting Ford.

Tickets cost £2.50 for adults, £2 for senior citizens and just £1 for children.

For more information call the museum on (01249) 813119.