More than 100 competitors from towns and villages across Ireland and beyond will battle it out for this year’s Donnelly Group Circuit of Ireland Rally.

The Rally will begin in Armagh at noon on Easter Saturday 23 April before competitors undertake 16 stages across five counties.

With a carnival atmosphere and family fun events across the weekend in Armagh this year’s Circuit promises to be bigger and better than ever!

One of many highlights is the Lisburn Power Stage which takes place at 18:00 on Easter Saturday when the city’s streets will close for the spectator event which will be broadcast live on UTV Drive.co.uk to fans across the globe.

 Rally Director, Bobby Willis is delighted with the entry field: “The excitement continues to build and our decision to combine the International and National classes in the current economic climate has been justified with the entries continuing to flood in.

 “The lure of driving before huge crowds at the Lisburn Power Stage seems to be the big pull for many drivers with extensive TV advertising guaranteeing big crowds for Armagh.

 “We have a very strong field with Derek McGarrity defending his crown but other favourites such as Steve Perez in the Lancia Stratos sure to thrill the crowds.

 “This year’s Rally will be un-missable for petrol-heads and families alike!”

Programmes for this year’s Rally with maps and timings are now on sale at www.circuitofireland.net