Rolls-Royce Motor Cars celebrated the 100th anniversary of its iconic hood mascot, the Spirit of Ecstasy, with a parade of 100 classic vehicles through London on 6 February. The statue, which shows a young woman in fluttering robes, has adorned Rolls-Royce vehicles since 1911.

Headed by Rolls-Royce Phantom and Ghost models produced at the company’s headquarters in Goodwood, the parade made its way from Belgravia to Syon House, passing a number of significant locations for the Rolls-Royce brand. These included the birthplace of Charles Rolls in Hill Street, Mayfair, the site of the studio where sculptor Charles Sykes is thought to have created his famous Spirit of Ecstasy design on Brompton Road, and Berkeley Square, the 21st-century home of Rolls-Royce in London.

Torsten Müller-Ötvös, CEO of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars, called the Spirit of Ecstasy "perhaps the most famous automotive icon" in the world and "an inspiration to owners and enthusiasts". She added: "The centenary drive was a fitting tribute to such an important figure for our company."