A WRC co-driver will launch a new rally school scheme for teenagers at Autosport International next month. Co-driver Gemma Price devised the scheme, designed to give teens a head start in rallying, when she noticed a distinct lack of opportunities for young people to experience rallying hands-on, and develop their skills.

Aimed at youths aged 14-17, the three-year programme will comprise of a series of mental and physical training exercises, car handling skills and actual rally competitions. It will also be held during the school holiday period so as not to interfere with the youngsters' usual education.

Teenagers will begin learning the techniques at the Sweet Lamb Rally Complex in Powys, Wales and eventually compete in a Latvian rally. Hopes are high that the scheme will spawn new drivers for the British or even World Rally Championships.

Former British Rally Champion Gwyndaf Evans is the patron of the programme. He believes that there is no greater way than hard experience for young people to acquire rallying skills: 'there is no better way of developing the skills required to succeed than actual competition and at present, that's simply not possible. I am confident that the scheme will be a great success.'

For more information visit www.juniorrallying.co.uk.