The annual Lotus Festival takes place at Brands Hatch this weekend. And this year’s event will mark 50 years of the Lotus Cortina, with celebrations including a special race for the touring car classic.

The collaboration was the brainchild of an executive at Ford, who sent their Cortina bodyshells to Lotus, where twin-cam engines were installed and suspension modifications were made, with the first Lotus Cortina finished in September 1963.

A string of successes for the motor followed on the national and international stage, culminating with Jim Clark winning the British Saloon Car Championship in 1964.

Owners of both road and race Lotus Cortinas from all over the world are invited to take part in displays and parades during the weekend.

Visitors can also enjoy watching classic Team Lotus F1 displays and demonstrations, a Lotus soap box race, and Lotus rally display.

Other entertainment during the weekend will include a trade village, fun fair, live music and air displays.

Gates open at 8am on Saturday, August 24, and Sunday, August 25. Day tickets are £22 for adults and free for children under 13. Advance online discounts are available. Visit www.brandshatch.co.uk or call 0843 453 9000.