Wilks launches bid for World Rally seat

8:52am Saturday 19th July 2008

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DARLINGTON rally driver Guy Wilks has launched an ambitious bid to land a seat with the crack Subaru World Rally team.

Wilks has launched the Wilks 500 Club in a bid to secure a deal for 2009 - but he needs Britain to back him.

The reigning British rally champion is appealing for all British rally fans, motor clubs, businesses to get involved in the investment and sponsorship scheme.

Wilks said: "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.

"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 have confirmed that Wilks would receive equal machinery to Petter Solberg and Chris Atkinson if the Wilks 500 Club can raise the finance to secure a third seat in the team next year.

Wilks added: "David Richards has talked about wanting a Brit back in his team in the near future - and I want to be that Brit.

"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, Urmo Aava, Jari-Matti Latvala - all guys I could beat - setting fastest times and taking podiums in the WRC."

In a direct plea to fans Wilks said: "Please back me by joining the Wilks 500 Club. I'll make Britain proud."

For more details on the scheme visit www.guywilks.com