By Isle of Wight Observer
The Island is revving up for an adrenaline-filled Sunday on November 3 as rallying enthusiasts prepare for the inaugural Weaver Brothers Island Stages 2024.
Featuring up to eight exhilarating special stages and covering an intense 28 miles, there will be plenty of speed and driving skill on display, with cars setting off just 30 seconds apart.
Top-tier teams, from both the Island and the mainland, will be based at Newport Quay, where they will prepare their cards before driving on non-competitive road sections to and from the rally stages.
Havenstreet will be the centre of the action for enthusiasts and others wanting to experience the thrill of watching a rally close up. Spectating is free but watch safely and follow instructions or guidance from the marshals.
A dedicated spectator viewing area will be set up at The Cow Shed, Havenstreet with a free shuttle bus running to free parking at the Isle of Wight Steam Railway at the other end of the village. The vantage point will provide excellent viewing of an exciting junction, as well as panoramic views along Firestone Copse Road and Rowlands Lane from the steep hill opposite.
For more intrepid fans, Firestone Copse will be accessible on foot via the footpath close to the White Hart Inn, and via Newnham Lane. Viewing along Rowlands Lane is inadvisable as the adjacent land is private with tall hedges.
“The pace is sure to be high from the start,” said competitor, Richard Weaver on behalf of main sponsor Weaver Brothers. “This is quite an achievement by the Isle of Wight Car Club and the event will provide a fantastic free-of-charge spectacle for anyone wishing to watch the rally.
‘It will also give the Island’s economy a boost bringing in off-season trade to our hotels, pubs and restaurants.
“My family has a long history in motorsport and we are very proud to be supporting and participating in the rally.”
More information can be found at iowcc.co.uk/rally.