A CROSS-BORDERS driving trail has been created for visitors wanting to learn more about rallying icon, Jim Clark.

The 50-mile adventure trail will take drivers on a tour of the Borders with pit-stops showcasing regional beauty spots as well as locations steeped in motorsport history.

Launched by the Jim Clark Trust, the trail hopes to engage visitors and help them discover the places and stories behind the former double Formula One Champion, Clark.

The trail starts and ends at the Jim Clark Motorsport Museum, Duns, and is completely free of charge as it is designed to enhance the experience had at the museum.

From the museum, a trail map guides visitors to Chirnside, Jim Clark's hometown and final resting place, then to Berwick-Upon-Tweed where Jim began his racing career. After crossing back into the Borders over the Union Chain Bridge, towards Winfield Airfield, home of the first Scottish Motor Racing Meeting.

And before the final stop back at the Museum, the last featured destination is the Charterhall Airfield, where Jim saw his first Scottish motor race. Motorists can then refuel at the Jim Clark Café Bistro.

Ben Smith, chair of the Jim Clark Trust told us: “The Jim Clark Motorsport Museum is fast becoming a magnet for classic and sports car enthusiasts.

"The Jim Clark Trail is an exciting new adventure for all visitors, on a far more modest scale to the North Coast 500, a stunning driving tour celebrating the rich heritage and culture of the Borders.”

Jim Clark was a world-renowned racer, having won the Formula One World Championship in 1963 and 1965, as well as the Indianapolis 500 in '65. At heart he was a Borders farmer, working on his family's farm at Edington Mains.

Sir Jackie Stewart OBE, Honorary President of the Trust, recalled: “He was the best.

"Shy almost introverted, modest, he was a Borders farmer after all. And he never stopped being a Borders farmer.”

The trail map not only guides visitors to locations in the history of Jim Clark, but prompts tourists to visit other Borders market towns such as Coldstream, Kelso and Jedburgh.

The Jim Clark Trust have also collaborated with Scottish Borders Council, Live Borders, and the Midlothian Borders Tourist Group to support local tourism and businesses. They are encouraging local businesses to get in contact to help develop the trail further.

Any businesses wishing to join the trail should contact the Trust at info@jimclarktrust.com.

The Jim Clark Motorsport Museum will open for its new season on Sunday, March 1. For more information, visit www.jimclarktrust.com.