Drivers set for rally challenge

The event is expected to generate millions of pounds

The final leg of a major international rallying event is due to kick off in Perthshire.

The remaining three days of the Intercontinental Rally Challenge (IRC) 2009 will begin at Scone Palace before concluding at Stirling Castle.

Thousands of spectators are expected at the event, which could generate up to £2.6m for the local economy.

Other stages of the Challenge, which takes in 10 countries, will return to Scotland in 2010 and 2011.

First Minister Alex Salmond will wave off the first of more than 50 young and amateur rally drivers competing in the IRC rallying series.

It is ranked immediately below the World Rally Championship and is contested by drivers in 2.0 litre Super2000 cars.

The competition features a number of top British drivers, including this year's IRC champion British driver Kris Meeke, works Skoda UK driver Guy Wilks, current British Champion Keith Cronin and 2009 Scottish Rally Champion David Bogie.

Champagne ceremony

The Scottish round also marks the end of events for Homecoming Scotland, celebrating the 250th anniversary of Robert Burns' birth.

Andrew Coe, chief executive of event organiser International Motor Sports Limited (IMS), said the race would provide a captivating spectacle for those who attended.

He added: "There's so much planned across the three days of the Rally of Scotland and the excitement is really building for this the first event.

"We have worked to ensure that even those who haven't got tickets to the ceremonial start and special stages can still soak up the rally atmosphere free of charge.

"We're looking forward to welcoming some of the world's greatest drivers, media and fans to enjoy everything the rally has to offer."

The rally will kick off at Scone Palace on Thursday 19 November and conclude with a champagne ceremony at Stirling Castle on Saturday 21 November.