TOURISM chiefs in Ryedale are hoping for a late-season boost to the economy with the return of top-class motor racing.

Cropton and Dalby Forests, near Pickering, last saw top action ten years ago when they played host to the Lombard RAC Rally.

But at the end of the month drivers will be tearing round the arduous circuit as the penultimate stage of the 2002 Pirelli British Rally Championship comes to North Yorkshire.

Thousands of spectators are expected to travel from across the United Kingdom to watch up to 80 cars competing - some from as far afield as Sweden and Finland.

Andrew Smith, forest district manager, said the Forestry Commission was delighted to play host to the prestigious rally.

"We are thrilled to have top rallying back in our forests," he said.

"Not only will it be a spectacular occasion, but the event will generate significant business for the local area.

"It also provides us with an extra source of income which will be ploughed back into visitor facilities in the North Riding Forest Park."

The North York Moors forest stages are acknowledged as some of the best in the country, with drivers reaching top speeds of more than 100mph.

Yorkshireman Jonny Milner, from Driffield, could clinch the British Championship title on home soil if results go his way.

Tourist information centre manager Les Clarke, who is based in Pickering, said staff had already received dozens of inquiries about the weekend's rallying, which takes place on Saturday, September 28, and Sunday, September 29.

"The rally is always a great help in bringing people to the area," he said.

"It's good for the accommodation providers in the towns with people wanting to make a weekend of it."

Mr Clarke added: "Even if it's only people calling in for the day, they do still get a flavour of the area.

"We also have a high percentage of repeat business which works to our advantage, because people come for the day and like it so much that they come back."

This year, for the first time, there will be special events at Pickering Showground, as well as the rally car drivers competing in the two forests.

Bar manager Faye Douglas, who works at the Bay Horse in Pickering, said she hoped to see extra visitors in the area over the rally weekend.

"I think there will be more people within the town, and it will bring more trade into the market place."

Updated: 11:52 Thursday, September 19, 2002