A popular Lake District rally is extending its hours later this month when 100 cars and 5,000 spectators are expected at an epic forest spectacular.
For the first time, Grizedale Stages Rally will be held on the Saturday evening, 26 November, as well as all day on Sunday, 27 November. The Rally attracts top competitors, including world championship contenders and British title holders.
Rights of way will be closed from 4.00pm on the Saturday as drivers battle it out through Grizedale Forest and Broughton Moor.
All footpaths, bridleways and trails between Coniston Water and the Hawkshead-Satterthwaite Road, and two others at Broughton Moor, will be out of bounds during the event. The Forestry Commission will also be closing most permitted paths, cycle routes and open access land around the route.
Signs will outline path closures and the Lake District National Park’s Countryside Access Adviser, Nick Thorne, apologised for any inconvenience.
He said: "We really have no option but to put public safety first. It would present a serious risk if people were to carry on using the rights of way during the rally."
Recreation ranger for the Forestry Commission, Katie Jarvis, said: "The rally is a great event to watch, but for those who would rather walk or mountain bike there are alternate routes east of the Hawkshead to Satterthwaite road.
"Although the North Face trail is closed for the day, a mapped alternative taking in Claife is available from our visitor centre and bike shop."
Closed paths and tracks will be marked with notices. They will re-open as soon as possible after the event.
Spectator car parks will be signposted from Hawkshead. Visitors should avoid using roads in the Nibthwaite area on the day.