MOTOR SPORT enthusiasts are being encouraged to test out their wheels this month - and get some top tips from former World Rally Championship winning co-driver Nicky Grist.

Chronicle reporter Hannah Mlatem caught up with Nicky in town this week to find out all about the up-coming event Cruise Control, which takes place at Abergavenny's Fairfield Carpark on Sunday, August 17 kicking off at 10am.

"The best way to sum this up is to say it's a great chance for over enthusiastic petrol-heads to come and show us what they can really do - for free.

"It's a great opportunity to introduce them to motor sport. A lot of people always think that motor sports are out of reach financially but the reality is you get to compete free of charge and speak to clubs in a safe environment."

As well as giving motors port lovers a chance to enjoy competitions, meet other British championship drivers, take a close look at real crash test dummies and see some spectacular cars the day aims to reduce anti social behaviour on the road and in car parks and to reduce road casualties."

The Cruise Control event has been organised by a partnership made up of the Bryn y Cwm Community Safety Action Team.

Drivers are encouraged to bring their own cars to take part in the autotest competition and try out the challenging stages to test against the clock, an on-road driving assessment with a professional, car competitions and the pitstop - working with another crew member to produce the fastest time. There are also motor sport prizes to be won.

Bryn y Cwm general manager Dale Roberts and the town's police inspector Fran Richley are among the driving forces behind the scheme, which is being funded by Nicky Grist as a result of his successful Borough Theatre show in June.

Other financial support comes from Get Connected, Motocare and the Inspector Richley, a keen artist who donated an original print of Nicky and Colin McRae, as well as funds from MCC youth service and other applications.

Anyone interested in entering any of the competitions must do so by Friday, August 8. Visit the One Stop Shop on Cross Street for more information or contact Dale Roberts on (01873) 735820.