Wales Rally GB heading to Mid Wales
Dozens of high-powered rally cars will be passing through Mid Wales next week as the Wales Rally GB competes in three stages close to the county border.
The rally will run from November 12 to 15, with 78 cars competing in the international rally and 88 crews contesting the national event.
The line-up includes the world's top stars including the newly-crowned 2015 World Rally Champion Sébastien Ogier, former F1 star Robert Kubica and Welsh driver Elfyn Evans.
And the dramatic high-speed action will start near Llanidloes with a service stop in Newtown.
On the Friday the action will move north to pass through Llanbrynmair, Llangadfan, Llangynog, Penybontfawr, Llansantffriad-ym-Mechain and Meifod.
The event isn't just a treat for rallying fans – it will also provide an economic boost with tens of thousands descending on the region.
Councillor Avril York, Powys County Council cabinet member for regeneration, said: "We are thrilled that Wales Rally GB are once again bringing stages to our county. The area lends itself so well to rallying as we have the forests, mountains and magnificent scenery."
She added: "This prestigious event brings so many benefits to the area and we are delighted the Wales Rally GB is coming to Powys. And as the event moves from stage to stage, there will be an opportunity for residents to see the rally go through their community."
Drivers on the A483 between Welshpool and Chirk may find themselves in illustrious company on the Friday evening as the cars head up the trunk road to the RallyFest stage, to be held at Chirk Castle on November 14.
"RallyFest is the perfect location for fans who are new to this exciting sport, and an excellent-value, family-oriented day out for everyone," said Ben Taylor, managing director of Wales Rally GB.
"Chirk Castle is a stunning backdrop to a fantastic day of epic entertainment, and we have a full day of thrilling action on offer that will be a treat for seasoned motor sport aficionados, curious observers and families looking for a fun day out."
To avoid traffic congestion around Chirk, a one-way system will operate into and out of the castle. The road leading to the car park will be closed at the A5 turn from 2pm, before the direction of travel is reversed to one-way only for exiting. It will not be possible to join the car park entrance route after 2pm.
Drivers are asked to approach only from the A5 two miles north of Chirk town and not through Chirk itself as all minor roads will be closed.
