AROUND 100 cars raced around the Lower Gardens last night for the start of an historic rally.

The RAC Rally of the Tests has been going since 1932 and yesterday’s event saw the crews gather to get a feel for their forthcoming race days with a prologue race.

Last night saw the 100 cars - which included a 1930s Bentley, as well as a number of classic Minis and Porches - race around the course in the Lower Gardens.

A car left the from start line outside the crazy golf course every minute from 5pm until all the vehicles had tackled the course.

According to deputy clerk of the course Anthony Preston the crews then left the gardens near the Hermitage Hotel and headed to Matchams track near St Leonard’s.

All crews were due to return to the Winter Gardens car park early this morning before setting off on the first stage of the rally.

The three day race will see competitors travel up to Bristol today, then onward to Stoke on Saturday, before finishing in Chester on Sunday.

Mr Preston explained that this is the first time the event, which is in its 15th year, has been back in Bournemouth since 2008.