Amateur drivers snap up Rally GB entries.

The organisers of the Wales Rally GB have announced that twenty of the forty places reserved for amateur drivers in September's event have already been filled - the first within hours of entries opening.

Ulsterman Christopher Boyce was the first of the twenty amateur drivers to submit his entry forms and claim one of the 40 guaranteed places. The 39 year old has entered in a 2000cc Honda Civic in the Production category.

Brothers Steve and Tony Graham were the first of four crews to take advantage of the reduced entry fee for drivers of 1400cc cars. Steve is a newcomer to Wales Rally GB but has the benefit of his older brother's considerable co-driving experience.

Drivers from New Zealand and Australia were also quick off the mark to secure their entries. Both Tony Green and James Gloster have opted for Production versions of the Subaru Impreza and - interestingly - chosen Welshmen as co-drivers. Namely for Green - Bill Robertson and Gloser - Darren Garrod.

The driver with the most Rally GB experience is Gavin Cox, who makes his 23rd appearance since 1982. The 45 year old motor engineer is partnered by his regular co-driver Tim Hobbs. Hobbs - who will celebrate his 49th birthday on the first full day of competition - first competed on the event in 1991 and has participated 11 times since. They are driving a Mitsubishi Lancer, prepared by Cox.

The 'elder statesman' and another long-distance traveller to the Cardiff-based event is 61 year old Harold Morley. Originally from Manchester, Harold is now living in Barbados. Like his New Zealand and Australian rivals, he is entered in a Production category Subaru Impreza.

The entry capacity for Wales Rally GB has been increased from the 2004 maximum of 90 to 120 cars.

Entries close on Wednesday August 10.