Rally GB slashes entry fees for amateurs.

The organisers of the Wales Rally GB have announced that amateur drivers will benefit from substantial reductions in entry fees for September's running of the event - especially those driving cars with an engine capacity up to 1400cc.

The reduction means some drivers can save as much as ?550.

An official statement explained:

"The entry fee for the majority has been reduced from the 2004 level of ?1800 + vat to ?1750 + vat, with drivers of cars eligible for classes N1 and A5 being offered the opportunity of participating in Britain's round of the World Rally Championship for ?1200 + vat.

"This incentive is further boosted by an offer from the organisers to guarantee 40 of the available 120 places - on a first-come-first-served basis - to amateur drivers of all nationalities who submit a completed entry form and the appropriate fee by the closing date.

"Entries open on June 22 and close on August 10."

"We believe the stars of the future are drivers from these classes, so we need to encourage them all we can," said clerk of the course, Fred Gallagher.

"Both Colin McRae and Richard Burns started their careers in cars with a small engine capacity."

In addition to reducing entry fees, rally organisers International Motor Sports have also absorbed a 15 per cent increase in Forestry Commission charges for the use and preparation of their gravel roads for special stages.

All amateur drivers can participate in the two-day route reconnaissance and will be allocated a reserved area in the service park at the Swansea Rally Centre. They will also enjoy a comprehensive package of event documentation, including official programmes and guest passes.