IN one of the region's biggest ever car launches, more than 800 people flocked to Scotthall Hampshire's unveiling of the new BMW 3 Series. Demand was so high for the event, held at Hampshire Cricket's Rose Bowl, that Scotthall had to extend it from two hours to six.

Scotthall Hampshire marketing manager Rob Pritchard said: "There is huge interest in the car.

"Normally you might expect to get about 300 people to a launch but the phones had been ringing for months with people asking us to ensure they were on the guest list for the new BMW 3 Series.

"The 3 Series has been a phenomenal seller but, judging by this, the new shape is going to eclipse them all. We have taken advanced bookings of more than 50 cars already which just indicates the demand for the new 3 Series.''

As well as providing demonstrations of the new vehicle, Scotthall provided a line-up of previous BMW 3 Series models so visitors could see how the model had evolved.

Guests were also able to enjoy entertainment ranging from a Formula One simulator to another new innovation, a chocolate fountain. There was also the opportunity to try to win a new 3 Series BMW in a roulette-style game.

To test drive the new 3 Series call Scotthall on 023 8068 9800.

For further details see: www.scotthallhampshirebmw.co.uk