Funding boost for 50th anniversary Mull Rally

Mull Rally has received a welcome funding boost ahead of its 50th anniversary event later this year.

Organisers of the Beatson's Building Supplies-sponsored event have received confirmation that their application for £15,000 to Argyll and Bute Council's strategic events and festivals (SEF) fund has been successful.

Gordon Milne, assistant clerk of the course, who made the application, said: ‘This is the 50th running of Mull Rally, and we are therefore trying to deliver an exceptional programme.

‘The event has enjoyed great support from the council over the years, which is an essential component to our delivery.

‘To receive financial aid is particularly appreciated as we endeavour as a team of amateurs to deliver the most professional event possible.'

Included in this year's plans are a stage in Tobermory itself on the Friday and what organisers believe to be the longest stage in the current era of the rally on Saturday night - a 30mile test.

Mr Milne added: ‘Key to our application this year was to enhance the online offering so that spectators and supporters who are unable to be on Mull can be fully engaged.

‘We hope that this offering, using a variety of channels, will increase our audience without overwhelming the island and also showcase Mull and Argyll as a destination.

‘If we can encourage our audience to visit Mull at other times of the year we will be supporting the island's industry and giving something back to the area.'

This year's Beatson's Building Supplies Mull Rally will take place on October 14-16.

Photograph courtesy of LindsayPhotoSport. Osian Pryce and Noel O’Sullivan celebrate their victory in the first Mull round of the British Rally Championship last year.