Last ever Land Rover Defender rolls off production line

When Maurice Wilks, Rover's Chief Designer, penned the design for the Land Rover in 1947 he probably didn't think he would be responsible for a motoring icon.

He wanted an agricultural version of the highly successful American-built Willis Jeep used throughout the Second World War.

He'd used a Jeep on his farm on Anglesey and so designed the Series 1 Land Rover at Red Wharf Bay.

The body was made from an aluminium alloy called Birmabright because steel was in short supply after the war.

Production started in Solihull in 1948 and was meant to last just a few years but 68 years and many versions later it finally reaches the end of the road.

Motoring journalist Quentin Willson has blamed "EU imbeciles" for the demise of the Land Rover Defender.

Production of the vehicle came to an end after 68 years this morning at the company's plant in Solihull.

Speaking to ITV News, Mr Willson said tough EU emissions tests were to blame for the end of the Land Rover Defender.

• More: Last ever Land Rover Defender rolls off production line

The last ever Land Rover Defender has rolled off the production line at the company's plant in Solihull.

It brings to an end 68 years of production.

The last ever Land Rover Defenders are in production at the company's plant in Solihull.

The final 15 will be completed this morning at an event to mark the end of production after 68 years.