ORGANISERS of the Jim Clark Rally say there has been a “sensational response” to this month’s event.

Around 270 cars are expected to be involved across the three-day closed road motorsport weekend in the Borders.

An application was made to governing body Motorsport UK after both the Jim Clark and Reivers rallies reached capacity.

Now around 140 cars will tackle the former, with about 130 contenders in the mix for the latter.

Dan Wright, chairman of rally organisers the Jim Clark Memorial Motor Club, is delighted with the reaction.

“The response to entries opening has been fantastic,” he said. “Entries for both the Jim Clark Rally and the Reivers Rally were filled within 24 hours with a substantial reserve list, even though we increased the number of competitors this year. 

“This confirms the popularity of closed-road rallying and the Jim Clark Rally events in particular. We never take our popularity for granted and are always striving to give competitors and the public something fresh every year. We will be thrilled to welcome everyone to Duns later this month.”

Steeped in history, the Jim Clark Rally first ran in 1970 and has remained one of the most prestigious stage rallies in the country.

This year’s race will see a “reinvigorated format”, with an extended Friday night route. It includes the addition of the fan-favourite Langton stage and famous water splash, plus an extended leg under the cover of darkness.

The Reivers Rally route has also been revised, with a longer day set to round off the weekend.

The prestigious event kicks off with the two-day Jim Clark Rally from Friday, May 24, followed by the Reivers Rally on Sunday.