Motoring enthusiasts and Mini car hire fans last weekend gathered at Snetterton Race Circuit to commemorate the Mini's 50th anniversary.

Thousands of people gathered at the Norfolk-based circuit for one of many events being held to celebrate the birthday of the iconic model, which has over the years become a cultural symbol.

Mini owners congregated at the facility to showcase their treasured old models as well as modern derivatives, according to the Norwich Evening News, which reported that the climax of the Mini Challenge race series was also staged.

According to Nicci Marget-son, founder of the East Coast club, which is a five-year-old club of 1,200 Mini lovers, the model's popularity is stronger than ever.

She told the newspaper: "There seem to be more Minis on the road and at shows this year than there ever have before. You see a lot of classics going around with 'BMW-free' stickers in their windows, but as long as it has a Mini badge we do not discriminate."

The Mini John Cooper Works, Clubman and Graphite are among later derivatives.

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