TOP racing driver Barrie 'Whizzo' Williams had a big surprise last Sunday when he found 120 guests waiting to celebrate his 65th birthday at the Falcon Hotel in Bromyard.

Williams' career dates from 1957. Since then he has contested over 800 races and 200 rallies.

He first came to prominence with a sensational win in the 1964 Welsh International Rally when driving a self-prepared Mini-Cooper S.

Following many successes in races and rallies, he is now best known to racing fans for his exuberant driving style in historic single seaters, saloons and sports cars.

The party guest list included old friends from Herefordshire Motor Club, leading rallyists from the 1960s and racing personalities who have competed with Barrie throughout his career.

Congratulatory messages were sent by Sir Stirling Moss, Pat and Erik Moss-Carlsson and Murray Walker.