TVR car enthusiasts rally support

TVR had earlier agreed to stay in Blackpool

Car enthusiasts have been showing their support for workers at car-makers TVR before production moves abroad.

The Blackpool factory is to close, with the loss of 250 jobs, after bosses decided to move production abroad.

The move sees the company go back on an earlier agreement to keep production in the Lancashire resort.

About 150 TVR owners gathered in Blackpool for a "noisy salute" to the staff for their "dedication and craftsmanship", organisers said.

Drivers from all over the UK gathered at the factory gates and workers came outside to see the cars.

Dave Chant, rally organiser, said: "We've got some great support for this. We're really pleased with the way it's going.

TVR owners travelled from across the UK

"It's a way for TVR owners all across the country to thank the workers for the craftsmanship and dedication to the car."

Established in 1947, TVR was bought by young Russian tycoon Nikolai Smolensky in 2004 and is Britain's largest independent sports car-maker.

In September, TVR said it would be staying in Blackpool, firstly at its current site in Bispham until 2008, and then at a new permanent home at Blackpool Business Park.

But a month later the firm said it was ceasing production in the UK and switching to a new site in mainland Europe.

It is now expected to open a new factory within the next three months as production winds down at Blackpool.