RALLYING in the north west has lost one of its most popular venues with the shock closure of the Leyland test track.

The venue, which was used for the Proflex Charity Stages, has been sold for re-development.

The 100-acre site, off Moss Side industrial estate in Leyland, was originally built by Leyland Trucks as a proving ground for their commercial vehicles.

The 12km of tarmac roads within the site incorporated high-speed banking, a watersplash, skid pan, a 'rough surface' road, and a gradient hill section - all perfect for motorsport use.

Following lengthy negotiations with motorsport enthusiast Allan Whittaker and Tim Foster, of Clitheroe and district motor club, the site owners agreed to allow limited use for single-venue rallying in 1998 - and the Proflex Charity Stages was born.

"We are very disappointed that the site is being re-developed, the news came as a bolt from the blue," said Foster.

"We tried everything in our power to get the decision overturned, even exploring the possibility of buying it ourselves, but to no avail.

"Motor clubs in Lancashire can ill-afford to lose venues of this calibre. When they are gone, they are very hard to replace."

The closure leaves several motorsport organisations desperately looking for new sites in order to save their own events.

The last 12 months have been the busiest ever for Leyland test track, which was used as the sole host for the Proflex Charity Stages, a major proportion of the multi-venue North West Stages, and as one of the stages for two new national events, the Revival Rally and the Roger Albert Clark Rally.

Added Foster: "It's ironic really, this year's Proflex Stages was the most popular in its seven-year history, thanks in part to the appearance of former World Champion Colin McRae.

"We were well ahead in the planning of the 2006 event, and there was even talk of allowing spectators in for the first time.

"However, we have to look ahead, and the search has started for a new venue.

"At the moment there is only Weeton army barracks and the Three Sisters kart track available on any sort of regular basis.

"We are desperate hear from anyone who could offer any sort of site for motorsport."