DRIVERS are rallying round to support a good cause on this weekend's North West Stages event in Preston.

Marie Curie Cancer Care will be the main beneficiary when 90 cars and crews from all over the UK contest Lancashire's top road event.

Organised by leading motor clubs in the region, the event is one of the most popular asphalt rallies in the country.

"Our aim is to offer a challenge to the competitor, an exciting day for spectators and also raise funds for Marie Curie," said spokesman Marco Toni.

"All profits from competitors' entry fees and contributions go to charity. Our efforts have resulted in more than £20,000 going to cancer charities from past events and we aim to continue this."

Voted the best rally in the 2002 Welsh and ANWCC championships, it is the best chance for local rally crews to tackle a proper asphalt event that takes in five separate venues in one day

The action gets underway on Friday evening with the scrutineering of all 90 cars at the Arnold Clark Motorstore in Leyland.

The safety check session is open to the public and gives spectators the chance to meet the drivers and see the cars close up.

Competitors will then make their way to the rally headquarters at the Novotel at Walton Summit to make their final preparations for Saturday's event.

The cars will be flagged off at one minute intervals, starting at 8am, from the Novotel, to tackle 80 miles of special stages before returning to Walton Summit around 7pm.