FOR more than 50 years, Detroit iron has played a significant part in America's love affair with the automobile.

At times, its following has diminished as a result of war, petrol crisis, and lobby after lobby to ban the mighty V8.

However, there's a hardcore element of followers who continue to pursue Detroit's finest legends - Ford, Chevrolet and Chrysler - and, as a tribute to those followers who have kept the marque's alive now prepare for the second coming of the 'Classic American Nationals' at Shakespeare County Raceway this weekend.

Once again the beautiful Vale of Evesham will resound to the throb of mighty thumping V8s giving it all as they rumble through the countryside.

The smoke and colour of Warwickshire's quarter-mile - the drag strip will play host to some of the quickest and fastest slabs of American muscle.

There's a burnout contest, show 'n' shine, horsepower cruise and live music.

The Outlaw racers (Super-charged/Anglia) will have a hand in celebrating the American culture as will the nostalgia Wild Bunch racers, and the National Street Car Challengers.

If you've never seen or heard any of these cars at full throttle before, be prepared for a shock!

Spend all weekend looking at American cars, talking about them, racing them, cruising them, polishing them. Buying, selling and swapping them.

If it's American, it's welcome. Likewise, any hot-rods and customs that want to come out and race, but will be subject to basic scrutineering.

All cars must have a radiator overflow catch can, a seatbelt or lapbelt if originally fitted (or running quicker than 14 seconds) and be up to basic MOT standards.

Drivers have to present a valid licence and should have a crash helmet and long-sleeved top.

It's a complete weekend's entertainment for the American car enthusiast as all roads lead to Shakespeare County Raceway, Stratford's favoured speed zone.

The action starts at 10am on Saturday and 11am the next morning. Admission is £10 per day or £18 for the weekend.

Run What Ya Brung fees are £15 per day and £25 (weekend). Contact 01379 740100 or click on www.shakespearecountyraceway.com