A POPULAR annual bus rally will return to Clacton this weekend.

The event, which is organised by Colne Estuary Preserved Buses, will take place at Clacton Factory Outlet on Sunday from 11am to 5pm.

It will see 50 buses converge on the shopping centre’s car park.

Many of the buses are preserved historical vehicles, representing fleets from all over the country.

Richard Walker, of the Colne Estuary Preserved Buses group, said some were more than 70 years old and still going strong.

“We love this event every year,” he said. “The owners and drivers, together with other local groups and nearby transportmuseums, really enjoy recreating a piece of social history.

“With the nostalgia of the old buses, the sights, the sounds and even the smell of the old moquette seats, we’re sure this will be a fun event thatwill reallyget people talking.”

Some of the preserved buses, including open-toppers, will be giving free rides to Clacton’s station and town centre, as well as along the seafront or scenic routes.

Allan Hassell, Clacton Factory Outlet manager, said: “This is a marvellous event that we are lucky enough to host each year.

“It will be a day stackedwith fun memories and tales of adventure, travelling on the old buses. There can be no doubt that the day will be filled with nostalgia and remind people of good times, sitting back comfortably and travelling by bus and coach.”

Last year, the event attracted more than 3,000 people.