Wilks appeals for support, eyes Subaru drive.

2007 Tesco 99 Octane MSA British Rally champion Guy Wilks launched the 'Wilks 500 Club' this week in a bid to try and secure himself a drive with the works Subaru World Rally Team next year.

In a statement on his personal website, the Englishman, who is competing on the Rally Russia this week, appealed to 'all British rally fans, motor clubs, businesses - everyone who shares our passion for the sport - to get involved in the investment/sponsorship scheme'.

"Driving for Subaru would be the realisation of a dream for me and I think it would really give British rally fans something to cheer. It would be fantastic," he noted.

"We have spent a long time working on the 'Wilks 500 Club', making sure there is something for everyone and it offers real value for money.

"And I would like to think British rallying, at every level, would get a lift from having a Brit back in a Subaru. Whether it's five pals clubbing together or a business who sees this as a big marketing opportunity, I would be very grateful for your support."

Subaru meanwhile have promised to give Wilks equal machinery to Petter Solberg and Chris Atkinson if he can raise the funds to compete in a third car.

"David Richards has talked about wanting a Brit back in his team in the near future - and I want to be that Brit," Guy continued. "He has achieved amazing things with Prodrive. He has made Subaru synonymous with rallying and he helped mould Colin McRae and Richard Burns into world champions.

"I know, given time, he could do the same with me. We share the same drive and determination to succeed.

"It's so frustrating to sit on the sidelines and watch my old JWRC rivals Dani Sordo, P-G [Andersson], Urmo Aava, Jari-Matti Latvala - all guys I could beat - setting fastest times and taking podiums in the WRC.

"Please back me by joining the Wilks 500 Club. I'll make Britain proud."

For more information on the Wilks 500 Club go to: http://www.guywilks.com/500Club.aspx