NO IMMEDIATE FUTURE SET FOR DOWN AMPNEY

There will be no rallying at Down Ampney in 2023 as the venue is destined to be lost to gravel extraction.

Despite ongoing negotiations, the three motor clubs that have run rallies at the Gloucestershire venue have not been able to extend the five-year contract that runs out at the end of this year.

Martin Saunders, chairman of the Cotswold Motor Sport Group said: “Whilst planning permission is expected to be granted in the first quarter of 2023, a start date has not been given for the extraction of gravel to begin so the door has been left open for further negotiation, but not for 2023.”

The three clubs, Cheltenham, Cirencester and EMCOS, will continue to work together and are now devising ideas to keep stage rallying alive in the Cotswolds.

Down Ampney has a long history of rallying dating back to Cirencester Car Club’s Arkell Rally in the mid-1970s.