KNOCKHILL are preparing for what they say will be its "biggest single venue rally in years" when the Motorsport News Circuit Rally Championship arrives next month.

The event, which is in its third year, will visit Scotland for the first time on Sunday December 3 and will see 60 top-line crews from across the UK compete over 35 miles of challenging rally stages based within the confines of the circuit.

Devised by the Bolton Le-Moors Car Club and MotorSport Vision Racing, the championship runs on circuits across the country and features up to 100 cars competing against the clock across a variety of bespoke rally stages incorporating different parts of the race circuit, including paddocks and perimeter roads.

Organisers Dunfermline Car Club can deliver 10 stages – some of which over five miles long – and it is anticipated that the last stages will run in darkness, adding another level and drama to an already exciting format.

Stuart Gray, Knockhill director of events, said: "The Beatsons Building Supplies Knockhill Stages Rally will bring top crews, top teams and top rally action to adoring and knowledgeable Scottish rally fans for the first time in years.

"We are delighted to be joining this prestigious championship, which visits the best race tracks in the UK and allows the fans to get up close to the action in the safe environment of a circuit venue.

"We are thrilled to have Beatsons Building Supplies on board as our event day sponsor as they are already a high-profile company within the Scottish rally scene."

Ross Marshall, director of Beatsons Building Supplies, added: "The Motorsport News Rally Championship has become a high-profile series for all rally crews to try and win within the UK and it is great to see that a round in Scotland is happening this year.

"We have competed in a few rounds and there is no doubt it is a serious challenge for all the crews and, being based at tracks, it gives unparalleled access for the public to see cars up close and also interact with the drivers and navigators.

"We are pleased to be on board for this event as it will be one of the biggest rally events in Scotland this year."

Entries are being taken now by Dunfermline Car Club and, for tickets and full event details, visit www.knockhill.com.