Two competing London-Brighton veteran car runs will take place this year after angry drivers vowed to boycott the official event.

The schism has been caused by a decision to allow vehicles built in 1905 and 1906 to take part.

Previously only cars, tri-cars and motorcycles made before December 1904 were allowed.

Daniel Ward is urging veteran car owners to join his protest against organiser International Motor Sports (IMS), which announced the rule change in March.

Mr Ward, driver of car number one in last year's run, said: "A separate Red Flag Run in the true spirit of the 1896 Motor Tour is being planned as a protest against this ill-conceived change so spectators will not be the losers.

"Tradition dies hard in this country and we are determined the IMS will not be allowed to compromise this unique event."

He predicted that up to 150 drivers would boycott the official run after the IMS upheld its decision last week.

IMS insists the majority of the drivers are delighted more cars are being allowed to take part.

The first London-to-Brighton run was in 1896, following the abolition of the Red Flag Act 4mph speed limit.

The end of 1904 was fixed as defining the veteran period when the Royal Automobile Club started organising the run in 1930.