High Street joins the River Festival for the first time

This year, the High Street will be closed for the River Festival weekend as it plays host to the One Hundred Motoring Display.

Over 100 dazzling vehicles will be displayed down the length of the High Street and around St Paul's Square.

This High Street closure is sponsored by Bedford BID, and will really see the town centre brought into the River Festival as part of this fantastic weekend which, also includes the Embankment, Russell Park, Mill Meadows and St Mary's Gardens.

One of the oldest cars in Britain is expected to appear, a stately 1904 Ford Model C from America. From that to a McClaren 720s supercar, and a whole host of motoring goodies in between with iconic cars from every era and every type from the last century.

While all this is happening on the High Street, Riverside Square will become home to a bevvy of American cars, most of which are too large to be positioned anywhere else. One of them, we understand, has a turning circle of 40 feet!

Mayor Dave Hodgson said "It's fantastic to be able to bring the High Street into the mix of the River Festival hosting the Motoring Display. There will be some spectacular historic and modern sights to see, all adding to the excitement and events of the River Festival which is sure to have something for everyone."

Adrian Grubb, motoring display organiser on behalf of Bedford Borough Council, said "Each vehicle has a story to tell, this is truly a very select collection! Hopefully, something that will be a regular attraction within the River Festival in years to come."