SLEEK sports cars and hot hatchbacks wowed the crowds at the first Worcester Motor Show.

Visitors flocked to the bustling city centre for Saturday's event, run in partnership with the Worcester News and VisitWorcester - an organisation dedicated to promoting the Faithful City and attracting visitors.

The new Mayor of Worcester, Coun Stephen Inman, officially opened the event at 10.30am outside the Guildhall in High Street.

After getting behind the wheel of the impressive BMW 320Ci M Sport, he said: "It's a great idea - Earl's Court has nothing on this.

"Bringing prosperity to Worcester is what it's all about. Getting people to Worcester is vital and I hope it becomes a regular event."

Roger Hunt, of BMW dealer Robert Stern in Worcester's Wainwright Road, said he was thrilled with the success of the day. "It's been non-stop," he said. "We've had a lot of interest, it's been very good.

"Not everybody nowadays can get out to a dealership, or wants to, so it's nice to get out to the people."

Peter Goulding of Edwards at Baynhall Garage, Kempsey, near Worcester, was equally impressed. "We've had a good response and a lot of interest," he said. "This is what Worcester needed.

"Instead of wanting the people to come to the garage, we go to the people."

Kingsley Swaine, of St Peter's Peugeot, Worcester, said the dealership's 307 WRC rally simulator was a hit with visitors, both young and old.

Visitor John Pawley said he enjoyed seeing the range of new models available.

"It's a great idea," said the 56-year-old, of Elbury Park, Worcester. "It's nice to see something up the High Street at last."