A spectacular convoy of classic cars has been winding its way around Norfolk's roads today for a very special celebration of motoring and our county's historic churches.

Eastern Daily Press: People taking part in the 8th Norfolk Open Churches Classic Car Run gather at Norwich Cathedral at the begining of the rally.People taking part in the 8th Norfolk Open Churches Classic Car Run gather at Norwich Cathedral at the begining of the rally. (Image: Archant Norfolk Photographic © 2015)

Jaguars, MGs, Morgans, Morris Minors and Naylors were among the pristine vintage vehicles that took part in the 8th Norfolk Open Churches Classic Car Run.

Eastern Daily Press: People taking part in the 8th Norfolk Open Churches Classic Car Run gather at Norwich Cathedral at the begining of the rally.The Rt Rev Graham James, Bishop of Norwich with Robin (left) and Alison Green and their Jaguar car which he chose as the winner of The Bishop's Choice Award.People taking part in the 8th Norfolk Open Churches Classic Car Run gather at Norwich Cathedral at the begining of the rally.The Rt Rev Graham James, Bishop of Norwich with Robin (left) and Alison Green and their Jaguar car which he chose as the winner of The Bishop's Choice Award. (Image: Archant Norfolk Photographic © 2015)

The 64-mile trip - part of Norfolk Open Churches Week - began at Norwich Cathedral where The Bishop of Norwich, the Rt Rev Graham James, waved the party off. He also presented Robin and Alison Green, from Bawburgh, with the Bishop's Choice Award for their 1960 Jaguar XK150.

Bishop Graham said: 'One of the delights of this event is that it has become such a part of the Norfolk calendar. It has become something lots of people look forward to, not just as a car rally but as an exploration of our county and our historic churches. It is wonderful the way people welcome everyone along the route and show what they are proud of in their churches, just as the car enthusiasts are proud of their cars. There is a lovely sort of symmetry to it.'

He added: 'It is a very modern form of creating a pilgrimage between the churches as well as being a happy day for all involved.'

The event was organised by Richard Mitchell and Maurice Gowen who were delighted with the turnout of more than 90 cars.

Mr Mitchell said: 'This is the biggest classic car run so far. The event started quite small with about 30 cars and this year we have more than trebled that. It's become a well established classic car event in the Norfolk calendar, and we would like to thank everybody who took part this year.'

This year the tour stopped at: St Andrew, Framingham Pigot, St Peter, Bramerton; St Margaret's Church, Hardley; St Mary's Church, Sisland; All Saints Church, Kirby Cane; St Mary the Virgin Church, Burgh St Peter; St Michael's Church, Geldeston; and St Mary's Church, Ellingham.

The final stop was at Emmaus Café and St Mary's Church, Ditchingham, where Bishop Graham led a short service.

Money raised from the event will be donated to Norwich Cathedral.