IT'S that time of the year again, when drivers from across East Lancashire make the journey north of the border to the island of Mull.

Autumn leaves and debris will be swept clear of the roads from Tobermory by the high speed of passing rally cars thanks to Blackburn-based 2300 Club annual Tunnocks' Tour of Mull Rally.

Arguably the biggest event in the local motorsport calendar, this year's Rally, taking place from tomorrow through to Sunday, has attracted a full house entry of 140 cars and crews (plus reserves) from all corners of the British Isles, with many more unsuccessful applicants having to miss out in what has been described as "the most unique event in British motorsport".

And spokesman John Fife explained why it was so popular.

He said: "It represents the toughest, fastest challenge for amateur rally crews in the British rallying calendar. "Over two nights and one afternoon rally crews will have to drive flat-out over 19 timed-to-the-second Special Stages totalling almost 150 miles of competitive motoring.

"Adding to the challenge is the nature of the roads. Where 20mph might seem daring in daylight, these same narrow, twisting stretches will witness rally cars doing 100 mph at night!"

Heading this year's entry is 11 times winner Neil MacKinnon, but up against him is four times winner Callum Duffy and 2005 winner James MacGillivray. All three are from the island, so home' advantage is with them.

But East Lancashire have their fair share of competitors, who will be hoping to wrestle the title from the locals.

Among them is John Swinscoe, from Brinscall, who is a regular top 10 finisher at the event.

And Daniel Harper and Chris Campbell, in the Mini Sport of Padiham BMW Mini Cooper, will be looking to avenge last year's disappointing result.

The duo, who upset the odds in 2005 to take victory, put their car so far off the road it ended up on the beach!