North West Stages gets 35 closed-road stage miles

The North West Stages was launched last week, confirming the event will feature 35-miles of closed-road stages in its new format.

The popular event, previously based in Blackpool, has taken advantage of new laws making it easier to obtain closedroad permits to compete on public roads.

Now based out of Myerscough College near Garstang, which will host service and scrutineering, the event will feature 50 stage miles in the Borough of Wyre to the east and west of the event base.

Event sponsor and Ford Fiesta RS WRC driver John Stone was among those offering passenger rides at the media day, with motorbike legend John Mcguinness on hand to provide his thoughts on the March 23 event’s new format.

“We have worked closely with Wyre Council having previously run Special Stages on the council-owned Fleetwood Waterfront,” said event director Dave Read.

“We are confident the rally will bring significant levels of income to the area at what is a relatively quiet time in tourism terms.’’