Venue gears up for rally return

About 100 cars are expected to contest the title

Preparations are under way for the return of a west Wales rallying event following its successful debut last year.

More than 100 cars took part in the 2002 Bumper-to-Bumper Rally at Pendine, and the same number are expected to sign up again for the event this April.

Pendine has a rich history of motor sporting events, so the rally is very welcome here

Carmarthenshire councillor Cyril Davies

Although spectators are not able to watch the bulk of the race on safety grounds, hundreds are expected to watch its start and finish at the Museum of Speed.

The course includes a link section across Pendine Sands, which were the scene of many land speed record attempts by drivers including Captain Campbell in the 1930s.

South Wales is also a venue for the British leg of the Network Q Rally, which starts and ends in Cardiff.

Last year, one stage of the rally - the Brechfa forest stage in Carmarthenshire, was cancelled due to crowd problems.

Returning champions

Local member Councillor Cyril Davies said the Pendine event was great news for the area.

"It's good not just for Pendine but for the whole of west Wales," he said.

"A lot of people will be coming here and, hopefully, will be spending their money.

"Pendine has a rich history of motor sporting events, so the rally is very welcome here," he added.

Cars will race across Pendine Sands

Organiser Kenny Owen, from Llandovery, said although it was a non-spectator event, people would be able to watch the cars setting off at 0800 GMT.

They can also watch the race finishing at around 1630 GMT, followed by the presentation ceremonies.

"Spectatators can also visit a classic car display on the beach, and watch the cars driving up and down the beach to get between the stages - it is an awesome sight," said Mr Owen.

"The Ministry of Defence won't allow us to use the beach competitively, but it is a link section.

"This rally has got a lot of interest and there is a lot of history in the area," he added.

Last year's winning team of Peter Lloyd and Paul Cook will be back to defend their title.

Spectators could also view all the cars at the Museum of Speed on Saturday 12 April - the day before the race.