Vintage car enthusiast Richard Bunning is the owner of a 1930 Rolls-Royce Phantom II which appeared as a hearse in a 1975 episode of the classic BBC sitcom. The episode 'Is there honey still for tea?', featured the Home Guard's undertaker Frazer driving the black Rolls into the distance.

Now 33 years later the car is to take centre stage again in the Norwich Union MSA Classic which sees 900 classic cars from all over the country descend on the world famous Silverstone race circuit.

Mr Bunning, 58, of Ardingly Road, Lindfield, will set off from Dorking, one of eight start points for the event, with his 25-year-old son James at the wheel.

He said: "It did appear in Dad's Army but it looked very different as it was a hearse in that episode. I have had the car for around 25 years and the car has definitely had its fair share of drama so it's great to be taking part in this prestigious event – it's still going strong and is a pleasure to drive so I'm looking forward to it.

"The event stopped for some time but has now been revived. The atmosphere is great and on the way to the event we stop off at historic spots. It is different from a classic car show because you get to see the cars in action."

David Tyers, director, Norwich Union Direct, said: "This is exactly the kind of story that makes the Norwich Union MSA Classic the great event it is - hundreds of cars from all over the country, all with their own fantastic story to tell. It promises to be a memorable event and we wish Richard a safe and enjoyable journey."

This year's event takes place at Silverstone on October 12. For further details go to:
www.msaclassic.co.uk