Organisers of the London to Brighton Veteran Car Run claim this year's event will be more popular than ever - despite threats of a boycott and a rival event.

International Motor Sports (IMS) expects a record number of entries to the official run, including Pink Floyd drummer Nick Mason.

He will be driving a 1901 Panhard et Levassor.

A competing run is being planned by drivers angry at a rule-change introduced by IMS.

Vehicles built in 1905 and 1906 will be allowed to take part this year, for the first time in the run's 106-year history.

In the past, only cars, tri-cars and motorcycles from before December 1904 were eligible.

Daniel Ward, of the Veteran Car Club, has predicted that up to 150 drivers will boycott the official event, believing the new rules go against the spirit of the race's traditions.

IMS said the entries had been "flooding in".

Chief executive Andrew Coe said: "The 2002 run is building up to be a very special occasion.

"With even more historic and beautiful cars taking part, spectators are guaranteed an even more spectacular show than ever.

"This year is a new beginning. We have provided a wonderful opportunity to welcome a whole new wave of cars, drivers and crews."

He said improvements to the route and extra policing would help drivers get through traffic more easily during the autumn event.

Last year 400 old cars took part.