A popular rally will return to Ledbury in September following the cancellation of last year’s event.

The 3 Shires Rally will have its ceremonial start in the town on Saturday, September 16.

The rally itself, which will start in Much Marcle and take in parts of Worcestershire and Gloucestershire as well as Herefordshire, takes place on Sunday, September 17.

Once again, the rally will be supported by Hills Ford, a dealership with branches in Kidderminster and Malvern.

Ledbury Reporter: Will Hill and Richard Crozier on their way to 6th overall on the recent Manx National Rally in the Hills Ford Fiesta 3 Will Hill and Richard Crozier on their way to 6th overall on the recent Manx National Rally in the Hills Ford Fiesta 3 (Image: Picture: Ben Lawrence)

Hills Ford, known for its significant motorsport heritage, has been an enthusiastic sponsor of the event since its inception.

It is expected that Tim, Richard and William Hill will compete on the rally. 

Richard and Tim started Hills after many years at Brooklyn Ford, which was run by their late father Mike, who was inspirational in getting them involved in rallying. 

It was Mike Hill and Brooklyn who helped launch the career of the twice British champion the late Russell Brookes, who went on to drive for Ford, Talbot, Vauxhall and Opel in an illustrious career, plus the likes of Gwyndaf Evans and Phil Collins who also drove the Brooklyn Sierra Cosworth.

The Cheltenham Motor Club is organising this year's rally with assistance from local motor clubs.

The rally route will span 60 competitive miles, comprising three loops of four special stages that traverse the lanes of the three counties.

Keith Richings will serve as the Clerk of the Course for the event. He will be supported by Dan Lister, Pete Henness, and Kevin Smith.

Keith emphasises the importance of teamwork in making the event a success and seeks to engage with the supportive community.

“This event is about teamwork from our end, but the event would not be possible without the enthusiastic support of the local community and authorities, our sponsors like Hills Ford,” he said.

“It’s about every single person who contributes to the event that will make it successful.” 

The event is looking for marshalls, so if you would like to get involved go to www.cheltmc.com or to check out the event sponsors Hills Ford www.hillsford.co.uk.