Rallying event held on Shropshire border and in Mid Wales nominated for tourism award
A major rallying event which was hosted at Chirk Castle and Newtown has been shortlisted for a national tourism award.
The Wales Rally GB has been selected as one of three finalists in the race to secure the "best event" prize in the large section of the National Tourism Awards for Wales.
The rally, which features some of the stars of world motor sport, attracted thousands of tourists to Chirk Castle for its "Rally Fest" and to Newtown town centre last November. To claim the award, which will be announced at The Vale Resort in Hensol, South Wales, on Wednesday, March 25, the rally will have to beat competition from Abergavenny Food Festival and The Long Course Weekend.
John Hignett, interpretation and programming officer at Chirk Castle, said they were thrilled to have played a part in the event. He said: "It was a fantastic event to have at the castle and it obviously gives us some regional and national exposure. It was great to have them here. It went really smoothly, which we were very happy with. Everyone had a great time and we are thrilled to have been part of it."
Rina Clarke, mayor of Newtown, said it had been superb to host the event in the town.
She said: "It is such a prestigious event for Newtown which helps put the town on the map. It is good for tourism and the economy of the town and because we are working more closely with the organisers we were able to have a big screen and bring the event more into town for local people and for tourists."
Ben Taylor, managing director of Wales Rally GB, said: "We are honoured to have been shortlisted for this coveted award. The rally makes a huge contribution to Wales."
