Last updated at 12:43, Friday, 16 April 2010

YOUNG people are being offerred the chance to get behind the wheel in motorsport.

West Cumbria Motorsport Club is organising a series of events for all ages but specifically to encourage younger members to become involved in motorsport in a safe and controlled environment.

The club is giving free membership to 14-18-year-olds and staging production car autotests to help develop and improve car control skills.

All that’s needed is an adult prepared to loan the youngster a car - must be less than 1400cc - and to take part as co-driver.

There is also a chance for 12 and 13-year-olds to take part either as co-driver to a mum, dad or guardian or learn how to be a road rally navigator.

For the over-16s the club is also able to offer a few extras.

They can compete in autotests - which can be on asphalt or grass - without a co-driver - and in autosolos which are on asphalt and involve longer courses.

In these events entries may be accepted from drivers aged 16 at the date of the event, or 17 and over without an RTA Licence but they may only drive a four-seat saloon type car of less than 1400 cc. Forced induction is not permitted and cars must also be properly registered, taxed, MOT’d as required, and driven to the event.

All of these events have a special class and awards for members under 18.

The club is also big on training for adults and runs sessions for road rally navigation, stage rally navigation, timing and pace notes, marshalling and safety.

Events will take place throughout the summer and more details are available on the club website www.wcmcrallying.co.uk and on Facebook.

The club will also have stands at Distington Vintage Rally on July 4 and Cockermouth Show on July 31.

First published at 19:28, Thursday, 15 April 2010
Published by http://www.timesandstar.co.uk