BENTLEY'S new drop-top sports car is proving a hit with footballers and celebrities across the North West.

With scores of deposits taken before the swish new model has even rolled off production lines at the Crewe car plant, the Continental GTC looks set to become the latest fashion statement.

The £130,000 convertible has a top speed of 190mph (with the roof down), and a massive W12 twin-turbocharged six-litre engine.

And although it is not due in showrooms until later this year, dealerships across the county are reporting strong interest.

Bentley Manchester has already taken more than 120 deposits for the sports car.

Managing director Jon Crossley said: "The arrival of a new Bentley is always likely to elicit strong interest as they are exciting and iconic British cars.

"However, the reaction from existing owners in the North West, who are loyal to the marque, has been impressive.

"The encouraging number of deposits suggests this new car's craftsmanship, styling and performance credentials have struck a chord with people."

The launch of the new model is the final piece in the brand's Continental range, which includes the GT coupe and the Flying Spur.

The cars have become a 'must have' accessory for the fashion conscious celebrity with David Beckham and much of football's super rich amongst the devotees of Pym's Lane craftsmanship.

Bentley chief executive Dr Franz-Josef Paefgen said: "The proportions of the Continental GTC are the epitome of the elegant, modern convertible and clearly distinguishable from the GT coup.

"As the first model in the Continental family, the GT has been responsible for building the Bentley brand across the globe, but it is the Continental GTC that is the most emotional car in the range.

"The coup may be the driver's car and the Flying Spur the more practical, but the new Continental GTC is the show piece for Bentley design."