For immediate release 13/04/01

4x4 Festival of Wales

After a drought of off road motorsport caused by the continuing foot-and-mouth crisis competitors now have something to look forward to, thanks to the organisers of the Goodyear British Off Road Championship.

The 4x4 Festival of Wales, to be held on the May Bank Holiday weekend the 27^th and 28^th of May is a non-championship competitive safari organised by the promoters of the Goodyear British Off Road Championship.

The National B status event will be open to all teams with vehicles that comply with the appropriate MSA regulations. As a non-championship event the Goodyear control tyres will not be compulsory, but it envisaged that many of the teams will opt to use the rugged Wrangler MTR as a test for the start of the championship.

The extensive Seven Sisters complex will be used for the competition. This will allow a long challenging course, extensive pit area, and camping. Goodyear British Championship representative Henry Webster said, "This event is an excellent opportunity for crews to come out and have a bit of fun, blow away the cobwebs or to shakedown a new vehicle"

"It also gives everyone the opportunity to experience at first hand the standard of events that will comprise the Goodyear British Off Road Championship when it finally gets underway in July."

The site is the same as the one used for the final round of  Goodyear British Off Road Championship, and also gives teams the opportunity to familiarise themselves with the terrain before the postponed first round of the Goodyear Hillrally Championship, Y Rali Bryn Cymru in August.

The Seven Sisters complex is an ideal venue, it is currently in an area free from foot-and-mouth disease and as a former open cast coal mine there is no danger of contact with livestock.  On entering and leaving the site vehicles will be rigorously power washed to prevent any risk of spreading the disease.  Goodyear British Off Road Championship promoter and organiser of the festival said, "On the recommendation of MAFF we are liaising with the local environment agency, county council and the MSA to ensure that all sensible precautions are taken."

Goodyear will be bringing along their hospitality unit and will be exhibiting and fitting their extensive range of 4x4 tyres.

For more information please check the website www.britishoffroadchampionship.co.uk or contact the championship secretary.

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