Mid Wales to host four stages of the World Rally Championship

Thousands of rally fans are expected to flock to Powys between Thursday and Sunday (November 13 and 16) to see stars including Sebastien Ogier and former F1 star Robert Kubica, while former England cricketer and rallying rookie Graeme Swann will take part too.

With a maximum 160-car field, next week's event will see 72 teams competing in the international rally and 88 crews contesting the national event.

The dramatic high-speed action starts early on Friday morning at Machynlleth, featuring double runs through the Gartheiniog, Dyfi, Hafren Sweet Lamb and Maesnant stages, either side of a remote service in central Newtown.

The rally will then return on Saturday with runs through the Dyfnant.

Councillor Rosemarie Harris, Powys County Council cabinet member for regeneration, said: "We are thrilled that Wales Rally GB is hosting four stages here in Powys. The area lends itself so well to rallying as we have the forests, mountains and magnificent scenery.

"Wales Rally GB brings so many benefits to the area and we are delighted this prestigious event is coming to Powys."

As the event moves from stage to stage, there will be an opportunity for residents to see the rally go through their community.

On November 14, the event will be going through Carno, Llanidloes, Machynlleth and Carno and the following day it will be going through Llansantffraid-ym-Mechain.

The international rally will go through Machynlleth at 8.30am and 1.50pm while the national event will go through the town at 10.30am. Llanidloes will see the international competitors go through at 10.20am and 3.40pm with the national competitors going through at 12.20pm.

Newtown is hosting a remote service station on Friday morning and the international event is expected to go through at 10.45am and 4pm and 12.45pm for the national event. The international competitors will be going through Carno at 11.45am.

On Saturday, the international event will be going through Llansantffraid-ym-Mechain at 10.50am and 6.10pm and the national event will be going through at 12.50pm.