NEXT year's British International Motor Show has been revamped with interactive attractions and has been brought forward to May from its traditional October date.

Visitors will be able to take part in ride-and-drive activities, including off-road driving, while young drivers will be given the chance to get behind the wheel for the first time at the show.

The event is being headed by Tod Evans, chairman of Peugeot Citroen Automobiles UK, who said: 'Motor Show Live is the new name for a new kind of event with new cars and new opportunities for visitors to drive at the show.

'The industry has decided that the days of visitors looking at static cars on stands have long gone and it's time to roll back the carpet and show the world how it can be done.'

The show will be held at the NEC, Birmingham, from May 26 to June 6, and the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders believes the new dates will encourage more visitors, with longer daylight hours and better weather.

Barry Cleverdon, chief executive of event host NEC Group, said: 'It's an exciting opportunity to put into action a wide range of innovative ideas and approaches that add new dimensions to the event.'