A PRESTON couple are in pole position as they get on track to open a club for Scalextric enthusiasts.

Bernadette and Jim Brown, of Dodgson Road, Ribbleton, will be launching the club, complete with a track and a £2,000 computer system, on Saturday, April 12.

They are aiming to encourage people, young and old, able-bodied and disabled, to take part in the miniature car racing game and build up a community fan base.

Jim, 40, has played Scalextric since he was a nipper and these days travels to Pendle every week to compete in matches with other enthusiasts.

Now, with the support of Bernadette, he will be able to play closer to home at a ground floor venue in Brownhill Road, specially designed with access for the disabled people.

Bernadette said: "We are hoping to interest disabled people in the game. As long as they can use a finger and thumb they can play. Also it is suitable for those with learning disabilities as they really only have to pull the trigger. It's a lot of fun!"

South Ribble mayor, Councillor David Pownall, and his Preston equivalent Coun Jonathan Saksena, have already accepted an invite to attend the opening and compete in a head-to-head game. Coun Pownall said: "I'll easily beat Jonathan. I used to play as a boy and I'm looking to reacquaint myself with the handset. As long as I take the corners slowly I'll win."

Coun Saksena said: "He probably will beat me. I'm not confident but miracles can happen."

Bernadette, who has jointly funded the venture with her husband, said: "Jim has had a lot of pleasure from playing Scalextric over the years. He wants to put something back into the community."