PAISLEY is set to roll out the red carpet as the glitz and the glamour of the Monte Carlo classic car rally comes to town.

Up to 100 vehicles, some dating from the 1920s, will gather in the town centre tomorrow before heading for the French Riviera.

Thousands are expected to turn out for the event when classic cars will set off from outside Paisley Abbey on the 1670-mile adventure, which goes via the Channel Tunnel and the French Alps.

Legendary racing driver Paddy Hopkirk and Renfrewshire's Provost Anne Hall will wave the classic cars off on the journey to Monte Carlo.

Paisley has been chosen as one of five start points for this year's event - with the others being Barcelona, Stockholm, Oslo and Reims.

Renfrewshire Council Leader Mark Macmillan said the town was "delighted" to welcome the prestigious and world-famous event.

He added: "Being able to attract an occasion of this calibre is a reflection of Paisley's growing reputation as a home for top-class events.

"The distinctive architecture of Paisley Abbey and Town Hall will provide a unique backdrop to the Rally."

Councillor Macmillan yesterday met rally competitors including Malcolm Oswald.

Since the event returned to Scotland in 2011, more than 30,000 spectators have seen cars such as Imps, Triumphs, Porsches and Bentleys leave for France, bringing a £4million boost to Scotland's economy.

Mr Oswlad, said: "My father was mad keen on the Monte Carlo rallies in the 1950s and I grew up with it.

"I always wanted to do it so I put my application in this year.

"The car was basically days from being scrapped.

"We've done quite a bit of work on it, and, if we can make it, it will be a wonderful feat."