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Racing car drivers will perform doughnuts while tackling a high speed course in a new event at Wales Rally GB.

Organisers have today revealed that a dramatic new speed test will take place along Colwyn Bay prom at this year's event.

The seaside resort is set to to host the FIA World Rally Championship this autumn from October 3-6.

The spectacular new Colwyn Bay speed test will take place at prime time on early Saturday evening (October 5) and will feature chicanes, donuts, and a hairpin with competitors racing individually against the clock.

With a turbocharged 380+ horsepower engine under the bonnet, equipped with high-tech four-wheel-drive systems and driven by the world’s most versatile drivers, the astonishing pace and precision of the latest generation of World Rally Cars will provide a memorable spectacle – a far cry from everyday life on the promenade.

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It will be the headline of a packed programme of activities on the day with further funding secured in principle from the Bay of Colwyn Town Council for simultaneous entertainment in both Colwyn Bay and Rhos-on-Sea town centres.

“The Saturday evening seafront spectacular will be different from anything Colwyn Bay has seen before; and a real contrast to the forests of rural Wales where most of the rally action takes place,” said Hugh Chambers, chief executive of Motorsport UK, organiser and promoter of Wales Rally GB.

“Part of what we are doing with this year’s rally is to bring the raw excitement of the sport to places where many more fans can enjoy this excitement. Hopefully a good number of those gripped by what they experience in Colwyn Bay will then venture out to the forests to view world championship rallying in the wilds of Wales.”



(Image: Wales Rally GB)



Set behind a beautiful sweeping beach, the promenade has recently undergone a multi-million pound redevelopment creating a major attractions.

Additional waterfront draws include a state-of-the-art watersports centre and the acclaimed Porth Eirias Bistro run by renowned celebrity chef Bryn Williams.

Now the arrival of the World Rally Championship will bring further prestige to Colwyn Bay and the entire Conwy region with a special two mile (three kilometre) course planned, say organisers.

Cheryl Williams, Colwyn BID Manager, said the rally will bring thousands of visitors to the area and showcase the very best of the Bay.

(Image: Wales Rally GB)

She said: “We are delighted to be in partnership with the WRC and for the Bay of Colwyn to play its part in supporting one of the highlights of the North Wales calendar.



“Colwyn Bay, Rhos on Sea and Old Colwyn already hosts some of the top events in the region ­– including Access all Eirias, the Forties Festival, Rhos Pirate Weekend and Prom Xtra – so this is another opportunity to showcase what we have to offer.





“The speed test will be an exciting addition to what’s already a very popular rally, and the promenade itself is the perfect setting. There will also be a programme of entertainment and activities, so there’s something for everyone. We encourage people to book their place as soon as possible so they don’t miss out on this incredible occasion.”

(Image: Ian Cooper/North Wales Live)

The announcement comes after organisers decided to move the Rally HQ and central service park from Deeside back into the heart of Llandudno.

It also comes ahead of this weekend’s Prom Xtra family event in Colwyn Bay at which Wales Rally GB will have a significant presence.



Adult tickets for the Colwyn Bay special stage are priced at just £15 in advance with free admission for those aged 15 and under. Those attending Prom Xtra will be given an early opportunity to purchase before Wales Rally GB tickets go on general sale later this month when the full route is announced.