BS:
We got talking with [BRC boss] Mark Taylor and he was keen to have a platform to showcase some of the BRC teams in a spectator orientated event and outside of the normal BRC rounds. We then put a package together with some of the teams and the guys from the BRC are going to be running on the circuit in a separate rally stage with good spectator viewing points.
Crash.net:
What benefits will that link up have? Will it be good for the Rallyday show?
BS:
I think it is good for the Rallyday. I think the BRC is a good attraction for the spectators and for the BRC teams themselves' it is good for the sponsors to get exposure at what is a well attended event. It is good for the guys as well to be able to take the sponsors and any guests out in the cars. It is something that will work for both parties.
We have got a number of different names from the BRC - from Suzuki and Mitsubishi and some of the other independent guys as well outside of the ‘manufacturer' teams coming, so it should be very good.
Crash.net:
What other stars should people look out for, in addition to those two big names from the WRC and those in the BRC too?
BS:
We have got the likes of Tony Mason, [former British Rally champion] Russell Brookes, Nicky Grist - and also a few blasts from the past in John Taylor, Howard Davies and Phil Collins. We have got Phil Mills as well, who is of course Petter Solberg's co-driver. It is quite a nice spread and that is one of the things that we always try and do.
Crash.net:
What are the big ‘displays' this year? What cars will be at the show and demonstrated on the track?
BS:
We have got Rallycross Supercars - they are going to have a couple of dedicated demonstration sessions and that is a new thing. We have got a 50 strong entry on the feature rally stage, which will include the celebrity drivers' that are coming. We have Russ Swift doing his driving routine and another big one for us this year is the Aston Martin Rally GT. I managed to see that in action the other day – it is an incredible thing. There is also the awesome Audi Quattro S1 E2. I think there is quite a good mix of cars for people to see.
Crash.net:
What other things should people attending look out for in terms of competitions, rides and so on?
BS:
On the ‘Save the Children' stand people have got the opportunity to enter a raffle and win a ride in the Aston. We have got simulators from Pirelli and Castrol and rally car rides happening all day and also there will be interviews with the stars on the main stand throughout the day. Hannu will be signing some limited edition prints too, which is to do with the PIAA 21st anniversary.
Crash.net:
With
Colin McRae's tragic accident last weekend will anything be done to mark that?