#rally car experience days in wales

[neiljohnsblog]

The Benefits of Training with Experienced Rally Driving Instructors: Elevate Your Racing Experience

Rally driving is a thrilling motorsport that challenges drivers to navigate rugged terrain, sharp turns, and unpredictable weather conditions with precision and speed. Whether you're a beginner looking to step into rally driving or an experienced driver aiming to refine your skills, the role of experienced rally driving instructors in the UK cannot be overstated. These professionals provide the knowledge, guidance, and hands-on training required to transform an average driver into a master of the track.

This blog will explore the invaluable benefits of training with experienced rally-driving instructors and how they can elevate your racing journey.

1. Expert Guidance from Seasoned Professionals

Rally driving is not just about speed; it’s about control, precision, and the ability to read the terrain. Experienced rally driving instructors in the UK bring a wealth of knowledge from their years of training and competing. Their expertise allows them to tailor their teaching methods to suit your skill level, helping you learn faster and more effectively.

These instructors understand the nuances of rally racing, including advanced driving techniques like power sliding, left-foot braking, and trail braking. Learning from their real-world experience equips you with the tools to confidently tackle challenging rally stages.

2. Tailored Training Programs

Every driver is unique, with different strengths, weaknesses, and goals. Experienced rally driving instructors in the UK design bespoke training programs that cater to your individual needs. Whether you're focusing on improving cornering techniques, mastering car control, or building mental resilience, these instructors ensure that your training is as effective as possible.

For newcomers, they emphasize building a strong foundation by teaching the basics of rally driving. For advanced drivers, they offer insights and techniques to shave off precious seconds on competitive stages.

3. Safety First: Minimizing Risks on the Track

Rally driving can be dangerous if proper safety protocols are not followed. One of the most critical aspects of training with experienced instructors is learning to prioritize safety. They teach you how to handle high-performance vehicles, read terrain effectively, and anticipate potential hazards.

Additionally, they ensure that you are familiar with the safety equipment, such as helmets, harnesses, and roll cages, and understand emergency procedures. This focus on safety not only protects you but also builds your confidence as you navigate challenging courses.

4. Developing Mental and Physical Resilience

Rally driving is as much a mental game as it is a physical one. Experienced instructors in the UK help you develop the mental toughness required to stay focused under pressure. Whether you're dealing with the stress of competition or managing fatigue during a long stage, their guidance can help you stay sharp and perform at your best.

Moreover, rally driving demands physical stamina and quick reflexes. Instructors often incorporate exercises and drills to improve your reaction times, hand-eye coordination, and overall fitness, ensuring you're prepared for the physical demands of the sport.

5. Real-Time Feedback and Improvement

One of the greatest advantages of training with experienced instructors is the immediate feedback you receive. During training sessions, they observe your driving closely, identify areas for improvement, and provide actionable advice. This real-time feedback helps you correct mistakes and refine your technique on the spot, accelerating your progress.

For example, if you're struggling with understating tight corners, an instructor can analyze your approach and suggest adjustments in the throttle control or braking technique. Over time, this continuous feedback sharpens your skills and boosts your confidence.

6. Access to Professional-Grade Facilities and Equipment

Training with experienced rally driving instructors in the UK often means gaining access to professional-grade facilities and rally cars. These facilities are designed to replicate real-world rally conditions, providing a safe environment for you to practice and improve your skills.

From gravel tracks to forest stages, these training grounds allow you to experience a variety of terrains, enhancing your adaptability and preparing you for competitive events. Additionally, instructors ensure that you learn to handle different types of rally cars, from rear-wheel-drive classics to modern all-wheel-drive machines.

7. Building a Competitive Edge

If you aspire to compete in rally events, training with experienced instructors is a game-changer. They help you fine-tune your racing strategy, improve your stage times, and develop the skills needed to outperform competitors.

These instructors also provide valuable insights into race preparation, such as vehicle setup, tyre selection, and navigation techniques. Their mentorship ensures that you enter competitions with the knowledge and confidence to succeed.

8. Lifelong Learning and Passion for Rally Driving

Beyond the technical skills, training with experienced instructors ignites a lifelong passion for rally driving. Their enthusiasm for the sport is contagious, and their mentorship inspires you to continue pushing your limits and striving for excellence.

Whether you’re pursuing rally driving as a hobby or a professional career, their support and encouragement make the journey enjoyable and rewarding.

Conclusion

Training with experienced rally driving instructors in the UK is an investment in your growth as a driver. Their expertise, personalized approach, and emphasis on safety create an environment where you can thrive and reach your full potential.

From mastering advanced techniques to building confidence on challenging terrain, these instructors provide the tools and guidance needed to elevate your rally driving experience. So, if you're ready to take your skills to the next level, consider enrolling in a rally driving program with seasoned professionals who can transform your passion into performance.

Embark on your rally journey today, and let the expertise of the UK’s best rally driving instructors guide you to success on the track!

[johnalexcooper]

Exploring the World of Rally Experiences: What to Expect and How to Prepare

Rallying is one of the most exhilarating motorsports, combining skill, precision, and adrenaline in a high-octane environment. For those who have dreamed of taking the wheel of a rally car and navigating rough terrains and winding tracks, Rally Experiences UK offers the perfect opportunity. Whether you're a seasoned motorsport enthusiast or someone looking for an unforgettable adventure, rally experiences provide an immersive way to test your driving skills in unique conditions.

In this blog, we'll explore what you can expect from a rally experience, how to prepare for your day on the track, and why these experiences are becoming increasingly popular across the UK.

What is a Rally Experience?

A rally experience allows participants to step into the driver’s seat of a rally car and navigate courses that replicate the conditions faced by professional rally drivers. These experiences typically occur at dedicated rally venues across the UK, featuring various terrains like gravel, mud, tarmac, and even snow. Participants will have the opportunity to drive on tracks designed to challenge their abilities, learning how to control the car through tight corners, hairpin turns, and fast straights.

Rally experiences can last from a few hours to an entire day, depending on the package you choose. Most rally experiences begin with a briefing session where participants are introduced to the basics of rally driving, including the handling characteristics of rally cars, essential safety measures, and key techniques such as drifting and handbrake turns.

After the briefing, it’s time to hit the track. Under the supervision of experienced rally instructors, you'll get behind the wheel and put your skills to the test. The feeling of controlling a car at high speed on rough terrain is unlike any other form of driving, making rally experiences in the UK a unique way to push the limits of your driving abilities.

Why Choose Rally Experiences in the UK?

The UK has a long-standing history of rallying motorsport, with many iconic stages and events taking place throughout the country. This legacy makes it one of the best destinations for rally enthusiasts, offering a wide variety of tracks and venues where you can experience the thrills of rally driving.

Here are some reasons why rally experiences in the UK stand out:

1. Diverse Terrain

The UK's varied landscapes provide ideal rally conditions. Whether it’s gravel tracks in Wales, forest stages in Scotland, or tarmac circuits in England, each venue offers a different challenge. Rally experiences give drivers the chance to tackle these diverse terrains, allowing them to experience the dynamic handling and responsiveness of rally cars in real-world conditions.

2. Top-Notch Instruction

Rally experiences in the UK are typically led by highly trained instructors with vast experience in rally driving. These professionals guide participants through each stage of the experience, offering tips and feedback to help you improve your driving technique. With their expert guidance, even beginners can quickly learn how to master a rally car and enjoy a safe, yet thrilling experience.

3. Accessible to All Skill Levels

Rally experiences are designed for a wide range of drivers, from complete novices to those with prior motorsport experience. No matter your skill level, there’s a rally package that suits your needs. Whether you're a first-time driver looking for an adrenaline rush or an experienced driver hoping to fine-tune your skills, rally experiences in the UK are customizable to your abilities.

What to Expect on the Day

When you arrive at your rally experience venue, you’ll be greeted by professional staff who will ensure your safety and enjoyment throughout the day. After registration, the experience usually kicks off with a safety briefing and an introduction to the rally car you’ll be driving.

The Rally Car

Rally cars used in these experiences are typically modified to handle rough terrains and provide maximum control. They are equipped with roll cages, racing seats, harnesses, and rally tyres, ensuring a safe environment for participants. You’ll get a rundown on the controls of the car, how to handle the gears, brakes, and throttle, and how to use techniques like the Scandinavian flick, which is used for controlling the car in tight corners.

On the Track

Once you’re behind the wheel, the real fun begins. You’ll start with a practice lap or two to get a feel for the car and the track. Then, with your instructor guiding you from the passenger seat, you'll tackle more complex sections of the course. You'll learn how to navigate sharp turns, handle high-speed straights, and control the car in challenging terrain.

Rally driving is a test of concentration and coordination, requiring you to adapt quickly to ever-changing conditions. As you gain confidence, you'll push the limits, getting a true sense of what it’s like to drive on a rally stage. For many, this is the most exciting part of the experience, as they feel the raw power of the rally car and the intense focus needed to master each section of the track.

Instructor Feedback

At the end of your driving session, your instructor will provide detailed feedback on your performance, highlighting areas for improvement and offering tips for future driving. This feedback is invaluable for anyone who wants to take their rally driving skills to the next level.

Preparing for Your Rally Experience

To get the most out of your rally experience in the UK, it’s essential to come prepared. Here are a few tips to ensure you’re ready for the day:

1. Clothing

Rally experiences typically take place in outdoor environments, so dressing appropriately is crucial. Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and sturdy shoes suitable for driving. Some venues may provide racing suits, but it’s always good to check ahead of time.

2. Safety Gear

Safety is paramount in rally experiences. Helmets and other necessary protective equipment will be provided by the venue. Make sure to listen carefully to the safety briefing and follow the instructor’s advice throughout the day.

3. Driving License

A valid driving license is usually required for participation in rally experiences in the UK. Be sure to bring this with you on the day.

4. Mental Preparation

Rally driving is a physically and mentally demanding activity. You’ll need to focus intensely on the track, your car, and the instructions from your guide. Coming into the experience with a positive and focused mindset will help you get the most out of the day.

Why Rally Experiences Are a Must-Try

Rally experiences in the UK offer more than just the thrill of driving fast on rugged terrain. They provide a chance to develop your driving skills, push your limits, and experience motorsport in a way few other activities can offer. For motorsport fans, rally experiences are a dream come true. For those seeking an adrenaline-pumping adventure, they provide an unforgettable opportunity to break away from the everyday routine.

Whether you’re preparing for your first rally experience or are already a seasoned driver looking to hone your skills, rally experiences in the UK offer something for everyone. From the heart-pounding thrill of speeding through gravel tracks to the satisfaction of mastering advanced driving techniques, rally experiences are truly a one-of-a-kind adventure.

Ready to take the wheel? Rally Experiences UK is waiting to welcome you to the exciting world of rally driving, offering memories that will last a lifetime.

[bukmrksblgs]

Exploring the Thrills of Rally Driving in Wales: A Journey Through Adrenaline and Scenic Beauty

Wales, with its picturesque landscapes and challenging terrain, serves as a playground for rally enthusiasts seeking the ultimate driving experience. Nestled amidst rolling hills, dense forests, and winding country roads, Wales offers a unique blend of natural beauty and adrenaline-pumping excitement. Join me as we embark on a journey through the heart of Wales, exploring the thrills of rally driving against the backdrop of stunning scenery.

The Essence of Welsh Rallying: Wales is synonymous with rally racing, thanks in part to its inclusion in the World Rally Championship (WRC) calendar and its iconic event, Wales Rally GB. The rugged terrain, unpredictable weather, and technical stages make it a favorite among drivers and fans alike. From the fast-flowing gravel tracks of the Welsh forests to the narrow, winding roads of the countryside, each stage presents its own set of challenges, testing the skill and bravery of competitors to the limit.

Scenic Beauty Beyond Compare: Beyond the adrenaline-fueled excitement of rally driving, Wales offers a visual feast for the senses. Towering mountains, cascading waterfalls, and lush green valleys provide a stunning backdrop to the high-speed action unfolding on the rally stages. Whether you're navigating hairpin bends through dense woodland or tearing across open moorland against the backdrop of snow-capped peaks, the beauty of the Welsh countryside is impossible to ignore. Rally driving in Wales is not just about the thrill of speed—it's about immersing yourself in nature's majesty and experiencing the raw power of the landscape.

Challenges and Rewards: Rally driving in Wales is not for the faint of heart. The ever-changing weather conditions, narrow roads, and unforgiving terrain demand a high level of skill, concentration, and nerve from drivers. From navigating treacherous hairpins to tackling slippery gravel tracks, every twist and turn presents a new challenge to overcome. But for those brave enough to take on the challenge, the rewards are immense. The sense of accomplishment that comes from mastering a difficult stage, the camaraderie shared with fellow competitors, and the sheer exhilaration of pushing yourself and your machine to the limit—all of these make rally driving in Wales an experience like no other.

Preserving the Heritage: As we celebrate the thrills of rally driving in Wales, it's important to remember the rich heritage and history that make this region so special. From the early days of rallying on the muddy tracks of the Welsh forests to the modern-day spectacle of the WRC, Wales has always been at the forefront of motorsport innovation. Preserving this heritage means not only respecting the natural environment but also supporting local communities and businesses that rely on rallying for their livelihoods. By ensuring that the spirit of rally driving in Wales continues to thrive, we can ensure that future generations will have the opportunity to experience the same adrenaline-fueled excitement that has captivated enthusiasts for decades.

Conclusion: Rally driving in Wales is a truly unforgettable experience—one that combines the thrill of high-speed competition with the breathtaking beauty of the natural world. Whether you're a seasoned competitor or a first-time spectator, there's something magical about witnessing the raw power of rally cars tearing through the Welsh countryside. As we continue to explore the thrills of rally driving in Wales, let us also remember to cherish and preserve the heritage that makes this region so unique. For in the heart of Wales, amidst the roar of engines and the rustle of leaves, lies a world of adventure waiting to be discovered.

[terricompanies]

1920x1080 dirt rally

#1920X1080 DIRT RALLY 1080P#

#1920X1080 DIRT RALLY DRIVERS#

To adequately capture how it feels to race across changing surfaces, the Codemasters team has created brand new models for differential, suspension, engine mapping and turbo modelling.

CHALLENGING, UNCOMPROMISING HANDLING MODEL - To take off-road racing to a level of realism not reached before, Codemasters has completely rebuilt the physical simulation for DIRT Rally.

UPGRADES, REPAIRS, SETUP AND TUNING - DiRT Rally delivers depth in areas beyond driving – elements such as repairs, upgrades, and setup & tuning add a rich and strategic dimension to your rally experience.

OFFICIAL FIA WORLD RALLYCROSS CONTENT – Race at the Lydden Hill, Holjes and Hell tracks in six of the fastest off-road cars and take on your friends in high intensity, bumper-to-bumper multiplayer racing.

DiRT Rally has the iconic locations to test your nerve and delight your senses. Take on the legendary hillclimb of Pikes Peak, the snowy thrills of Sweden, and the epic scenery of Finland. Head to the muddy paths of Wales, the dusty trails of Greece and the icy tarmac of Monte Carlo.

SIX MASSIVE RALLIES WITH OVER 70 STAGES - Winding paths through forests, death defying drops off hillsides and narrow mountain paths are what this is all about, it’s you and your car versus the road ahead.

It boasts 39 of the most iconic and relevant cars from yesteryear through to modern day, representing the cars that the players want, and the ones that make the most sense for the surfaces they race on.

ICONIC RALLY CARS - Rally is about having the right tools, the right strategy and the right team.

#1920X1080 DIRT RALLY DRIVERS#

It captures the essence of what makes rally unique like no other game – that sense of trying to remain in control of your emotions, as you hurtle along dangerous, undulating roads at breakneck speed, aiming to squeeze everything out of your car whilst knowing that one crash could irreparably harm your stage time.ĭiRT Rally also includes officially licensed World Rallycross content, allowing you to experience the breathless, high-speed thrills of some of the world’s fastest off-road cars as you trade paint with other drivers at some of the series best-loved circuits, in both singleplayer and high-intensity multiplayer races. If you enjoy my videos please rate, comment and subscribe!īuilt by Codemasters and road tested over 60 million miles by the DiRT community, DiRT Rally is the ultimate rally experience.

#1920X1080 DIRT RALLY 1080P#

DiRT Rally | PC Gameplay | 1080p HD | Max Settings

[pinerlotus]

Wrc 9 cars list

#Wrc 9 cars list full#

#Wrc 9 cars list series#

Dressing it up in darkness, or reversing the direction, doesn’t hide the obvious. While it’s a big ask to demand all-new race tracks every year, it’s still a little disappointing to replay a WRC 9 course you know from memory or, even worse, drive through the same section three times in one rally. While the new rallies shine, the reuse of former courses is starting to grow old. Your team also joins you when you move teams. What’s more, morale is an in-game currency too far–it’s pointless, especially when it drops when you go for a manufacturer’s tryout with the same manufacturer you already race for. There’s no need to pay for repairs via email, or plan your calendar every two-to-three weeks, or having to kowtow to identical objectives (I’m looking at you, “no hard tires for two rallies”). The career mode still needs stripping down.

#Wrc 9 cars list full#

Dancing between trackside fans in an Audi Quattro on an icy Monte Carlo hairpin delivers a thrill like no other, though you’ll occasionally go full Carmageddon and add a good 15 seconds of penalties–a light punishment, given the vehicular manslaughter you’ll wreak.įor all its strengths and franchise-building maneuvers, KT Racing continues to ignore a number of issues that have rankled players in the last few years–often tiny issues that hold it back from delivering full immersion, or just a bit more fun. Luckily, it’s part of the fun, and the authenticity of these 80s and 90s events is made even tougher by the safety standards of the good old days when crash barriers were made of flesh and blood instead of wood and steel. WRC’s scaling difficulty setting, which seems more forgiving than ever before (if anything, you might find yourself pushing it above 100%), doesn’t appear to take anniversary races into account I barely scraped 80% of some stages, until fluking a Lancia Delta stage with two seconds to go. When these anniversary races are dropped into the career mode calendar, they’re quite the anomaly. The classic rally cars return, with better handling than ever. Some, like the Lancia Delta, Toyota Corolla, or Renault Alpine, are predictable–but there are hugely notable omissions locked behind DLC, like the Subaru Impreza and Mitsubishi Lancer. You just get a handful of “classic” stages that allow you to race a few legendary cars. Providing more new meat on WRC’s bones is its anniversary mode, though this element of the game is a little disappointing, not least because it feels like a glorified time-trial experience. No racing game should be without one, and it’s just nice to see WRC 10 has added one–it might be a bit too late, but it’s still appreciated. It’s a bit annoying and finicky, but it’s a start. I actively picked teams to avoid landing that one on my calendar, because it still feels utterly impossible to navigate. Wales sadly remains, despite not being on the 2022 calendar. The new rallies–Estonia, Spain, and Croatia–are all welcome additions, especially Estonia, which might well be the best rallying I’ve ever experienced from the WRC franchise.

#Wrc 9 cars list series#

However, WRC 10 still forces you to join either WRC3 or Junior WRC, rather than skip to the big leagues–something fans of the series will lament. The career mode remains largely intact, mostly for the better–no one wants to relearn its approach to team management, lest they face the wrath of the overly condescending tutorial voiceover (which is thankfully skippable). The menus have had a much-needed makeover, but the wheel hasn't exactly been reinvented.

[juststamp]

4k dirt rally image

4K DIRT RALLY IMAGE UPDATE

4K DIRT RALLY IMAGE CODE

4K DIRT RALLY IMAGE LICENSE

4K DIRT RALLY IMAGE WINDOWS

Expect some eSports through RaceNet (Codemaster’s online hub) and cross-platform leaderboards (although not cross-platform multiplayer, we believe).Happily, the answer with DiRT 4 is a resounding "yes!" Take the rally school, for example. Online? Too soon to say.As with all games these days, you can expect plenty of online and multiplayer features, but as we were playing DiRT 4 ahead of its release, most of these weren't active or accessible. "I can’t make any promises as to whether we will be supporting VR in DiRT 4, but we learned a whole lot by supporting it in DiRT Rally, and we are confident that, if the decision gets made, we will be able to give players an incredible VR experience one again," he told us. While Coleman says the team learned a lot developing VR for DiRT Rally, getting the latest game ready in time for its launch was an all-consuming effort. One thing that's missing from DiRT 4 is VR support. That means things like hiring engineers, planning R&D for upgrades, and satisfying sponsors. But once you've started amassing some credits, it's time to start buying cars and running a team for yourself. At first, you'll race for other teams, which supply the necessary cars and take a (hefty) cut of your winnings. You start off in some of the slowest, least-powerful vehicles, and the targets you're given by your team are realistic ones-drive sensibly ( i.e., not just flat out) and, even if you don't finish on the podium, you'll still meet the goals and progress to the next challenge.

4K DIRT RALLY IMAGE CODE

For what it’s worth, DiRT 4’s “unfinished” code got up to 60 FPS performance on our 4K machine (i7-4770k, 1080 Ti, 16GB RAM) with all settings maxed and driving in a rainy, particle-loaded course.The accessibility continues with Career mode.

4K DIRT RALLY IMAGE UPDATE

We’ll post an update here once we’ve put this PC update to the test. The dev promised further graphical optimizations, both in visuals and performance, in a day-one PC patch. PC race?Codemasters provided preview code for DiRT 4’s PC version, but we were asked not to review it. "They gave us as much data as they could, which was hugely important as they use a crossply tire, and that behaves very differently to the radial tires used in most other forms of motorsport," Coleman explained. The rallycross tire in particular is much improved, thanks to working closely with Cooper Tires (who supply the rubber used in the FIA World Rallycross Championship). "The key areas that have seen improvements are our aerodynamics, the way we model chassis geometry, and our tire and surface modeling," Coleman told Ars. But Coleman's team didn't just copy that stuff over to the new game. Underlying the game are the same physics that impressed us so much in DiRT Rally. There's also a driving school (the DirtFish Rally School in Washington state), where you can practice your craft and learn advanced car control, and finally a section called "Joyride," where the aim is to complete stunts and challenges.

4K DIRT RALLY IMAGE LICENSE

Rallycross is back as well, complete with an official license from the FIA's World Rallycross Championship and five rallycross tracks. But there's plenty more to race, like the Landrush events, where you race against other cars on short dirt tracks in the deserts of the US and Mexico. Point-to-point rallies are still on the menu in DiRT 4, with plenty of routes through the forests and over the hills of Wales, Michigan, Spain, Sweden, and Australia. DiRT Rally was also a departure from the DiRT franchise, which had always been more accessible and aimed beyond just rallying's infamous "bobble-hatted" fans. The game was also rather specialized, sticking very much to the discipline of rallying, with a little wheel-to-wheel rallycross thrown in for good measure. While we praised DiRT Rally for its fantastic simulation, describing it as "punishingly difficult" is not unfair. Enter DiRT 4, available starting June 6 on Playstation 4, Xbox One, and Steam. Now, Paul Coleman and his team at Codemasters have a new game for us that builds on the success of DiRT Rally, but it should entice a far wider audience. The achievement was all the more notable because-while I tend to stick almost exclusively to racing games-I haven't really enjoyed off-road or rally games very much in the past. Last year, UK studio Codemasters blew my nomex racing socks off with DiRT Rally. Release Date: J(Day One Edition), June 9, 2017

4K DIRT RALLY IMAGE WINDOWS

Platform: PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Windows PC (Steam)

[classyfoxdestiny]

Scottish minister demands investigation into nursery over alleged racism

Scottish minister demands investigation into nursery over alleged racism

A Scottish cabinet minister has called for an investigation into alleged racial discrimination at a nursery that refused a place for his young daughter.

Humza Yousaf, the devolved government’s health secretary, said a Dundee nursery had claimed there were no places available for his two-year-old daughter Amal.

But they said a white friend who called to check was told there were places available on three afternoons a week at the same establishment.

Mr Yousaf said applications had been tested by other family members and reporters, with “white-sounding” and “ethnic-sounding” names being accepted and rejected respectively on the same day.

A spokesperson for the owners of the Little Scholars Nursery in Broughty Ferry, Dundee, said they were “extremely proud of being open and inclusive to all” insisting that “any claim to the contrary is demonstrably false and an accusation that we would refute in the strongest possible terms”.

The spokesperson told The Daily Record newspaper, which first reported the claims: “In addition to our owners being of Asian heritage, across more than a decade we have regularly welcomed both children and staff from a range of different religious, cultural, ethnic and racial backgrounds, including two Muslim families currently.

“We have also regularly made arrangements to accommodate different lifestyles by, for example, providing a halal menu for those children who come from Muslim families.”

Mr Yousaf said he and his wife had contacted the Care Inspectorate and are also seeking legal advice on the issue.

Mr Yousaf said: “We are fooling ourselves if we believe discrimination doesn’t exist in Scotland. I believe evidence we have proves our case beyond doubt.

“As well as reporting the nursery to the Care Inspectorate we are also seeking legal advice.”

The minister, who has played a high profile role in Scotland’s response to the Covid pandemic, said that contacting the Care Inspectorate with their concerns was “not a step my wife and I have taken lightly”.

He tweeted: “After our nursery application for our daughter was refused a 2nd time, my wife asked her White Scottish friend to put in an application for a Child the same age. Within 24hrs of refusing our application my wife’s friend’s was accepted.”

UK news in pictures

Show all 50

1/50UK news in pictures

UK news in pictures

2 August 2021

Great Britain’s Charlotte Worthington competes during the Women’s BMX Freestyle Final at the Tokyo Olympics

PA

UK news in pictures

1 August 2021

EPA

UK news in pictures

31 July 2021

James Guy, Adam Peaty and Kathleen Dawson celebrate winning the gold medal in the mixed 4x100m medley relay final at the Tokyo Olympics

AP

UK news in pictures

30 July 2021

Great Britain’s Bethany Shriever and Kye Whyte celebrate their Gold and Silver medals respectively for the Cycling BMX Racing at the Ariake Urban Sports Park on the seventh day of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games in Japan

PA

UK news in pictures

29 July 2021

Team GB’s Mallory Franklin during the Women’s Canoe Slalom Final on day six of the Tokyo Olympic Games. She went on to win the silver medal

Getty

UK news in pictures

28 July 2021

Canoers on Llyn Padarn lake in Snowdonia, Gwynedd. It was announced that the north-west Wales slate landscape has been granted UNESCO World Heritage Status

PA

UK news in pictures

27 July 2021

A view of one of two areas now being used at a warehouse facility in Dover, Kent, for boats used by people thought to be migrants.

PA

UK news in pictures

26 July 2021

A woman is helped by Border Force officers as a group of people thought to be migrants are brought in to Dover, Kent, onboard a Border Force vessel, following a small boat incident in the Channel

PA

UK news in pictures

25 July 2021

Vehicles drive through deep water on a flooded road in Nine Elms, London

AFP/Getty

UK news in pictures

24 July 2021

Utilities workers inspect a 15x20ft sinkhole on Green Lane, Liverpool, which is suspected to have been caused by ruptured water main

PA

UK news in pictures

23 July 2021

Children interact with Mega Please Draw Freely by artist Ei Arakawa inside the Turbine Hall at the Tate Modern in London, part of UNIQLO Tate Play the gallery’s new free programme of art-inspired activities for families

PA

UK news in pictures

22 July 2021

Festivalgoers in the campsite at the Latitude festival in Henham Park, Southwold, Suffolk

PA

UK news in pictures

21 July 2021

A man walks past an artwork by Will Blood on the end of a property in Bedminster, Bristol, as the 75 murals project reaches the halfway point and various graffiti pieces are sprayed onto walls and buildings across the city over the Summer

PA

UK news in pictures

20 July 2021

People during morning prayer during Eid ul-Adha, or Festival of Sacrifice, in Southall Park, Uxbridge, London

PA

UK news in pictures

19 July 2021

Commuters, some not wearing facemasks, at Westminster Underground station, at 08:38 in London after the final legal Coronavirus restrictions were lifted in England

PA

UK news in pictures

18 July 2021

A view of spectators by the 2nd green during day four of The Open at The Royal St George’s Golf Club in Sandwich, Kent

PA

UK news in pictures

17 July 2021

Cyclists ride over the Hammersmith Bridge in London. The bridge was closed last year after cracks in it worsened during a heatwave

Getty

UK news in pictures

16 July 2021

The sun rises behind the Sefton Park Palm House, in Sefton Park, Liverpool

PA

UK news in pictures

15 July 2021

Sir Nicholas Serota watches a short film about sea monsters as he opens a £7.6 million, 360 immersive dome at Devonport’s Market Hall in Plymouth, which is the first of its type to be built in Europe

PA

UK news in pictures

14 July 2021

Heidi Street, playing a gothic character, looks at a brain suspended in glass at the world’s first attraction dedicated to the author of Frankenstein inside the ‘Mary Shelley’s House of Frankenstein’ experience, located in a Georgian terraced house in Bath, as it prepares to open to the public on 19 July

PA

UK news in pictures

13 July 2021

Rehearsals are held in a car park in Glasgow for a parade scene ahead of filming for what is thought to be the new Indiana Jones 5 movie starring Harrison Ford

PA

UK news in pictures

12 July 2021

A local resident puts love hearts and slogans on the plastic that covers offensive graffiti on the vandalised mural of Manchester United striker and England player Marcus Rashford on the wall of a cafe on Copson Street, Withington in Manchester

Getty Images

UK news in pictures

11 July 2021

England’s Bukayo Saka with manager Gareth Southgate after the match

Pool via Reuters

UK news in pictures

10 July 2021

Australia’s Ashleigh Barty holds the trophy after winning her final Wimbledon match against Czech Republic’s Karolina Pliskova

Reuters

UK news in pictures

9 July 2021

England 1966 World Cup winner Sir Geoff Hurst stands on top of a pod on the lastminute.com London Eye wearing a replica 1966 World Cup final kit and looking out towards Wembley Stadium in the north of the capital, where the England football team will play Italy in the Euro 2020 final on Sunday

PA

UK news in pictures

8 July 2021

Karolina Pliskova celebrates after defeating Aryna Sabalenka during the women’s singles semifinals match on day ten of the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London

AP

UK news in pictures

7 July 2021

The residents of Towfield Court in Feltham have transformed their estate with England flags for the Euro 2020 tournament

PA

UK news in pictures

6 July 2021

A couple are hit by a wave as they walk along the promenade in Dover, Kent, during strong winds

PA

UK news in pictures

5 July 2021

Alexander Zverev playing against Felix Auger-Aliassime in the fourth round of the Gentlemen’s Singles on Court 1 on day seven of Wimbledon at The All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club

PA

UK news in pictures

4 July 2021

Aaron Carty and the Beyoncé Experience perform on stage during UK Black Pride at The Roundhouse in London

Getty for UK Black Pride

UK news in pictures

3 July 2021

England’s Jordan Henderson celebrates after scoring his first international goal, his side’s fourth against Ukraine during the Euro 2020 quarter final match at the Olympic stadium in Rome

AP

UK news in pictures

2 July 2021

Dan Evans serves against Sebastian Korda during their men���s singles third round match at Wimbledon

Getty

UK news in pictures

1 July 2021

Prince William, left and Prince Harry unveil a statue they commissioned of their mother Princess Diana, on what would have been her 60th birthday, in the Sunken Garden at Kensington Palace, London

AP

UK news in pictures

30 June 2021

Dancers from the Billingham Festival and Balbir Singh Dance Company, during a preview for the The Two Fridas, UK Summer tour, presented by Billingham International Folklore Festival of World Dance in collaboration with Balbir Singh Dance Company, inspired by the life and times of female artists Frida Kahlo and Amrita Sher-Gil , which opens on July 10 at Ushaw Historic House, Chapel and Gardens in Durham

PA

UK news in pictures

29 June 2021

A boy kicks a soccer ball in front of the balconies and landings adorned with predominantly England flags at the Kirby housing estate in London

AP

UK news in pictures

28 June 2021

Emergency services attend a fire nearby the Elephant & Castle Rail Station in London

Getty

UK news in pictures

27 June 2021

People walk along Regent Street in central London during a #FreedomToDance march organised by Save Our Scene, in protest against the government’s perceived disregard for the live music industry throughout the coronavirus pandemic

PA

UK news in pictures

26 June 2021

A pair of marchers in a Trans Pride rally share a smile in Soho

Angela Christofilou/The Independent

UK news in pictures

25 June 2021

Tim Duckworth during the Long Jump in the decathlon during day one of the Muller British Athletics Championships at Manchester Regional Arena

PA

UK news in pictures

24 June 2021

A member of staff poses with the work ‘The Death of Cash’ by XCopy at the ‘CryptOGs: The Pioneers of NFT Art’ auction at Bonhams auction house in London

EPA

UK news in pictures

23 June 2021

Bank of England Chief Cashier Sarah John displays the new 50-pound banknote at Daunt Books in London

Bank of England via Reuters

UK news in pictures

22 June 2021

Actor Isaac Hampstead Wright sits on the newly unveiled Game of Throne’s “Iron Throne” statue, in Leicester Square, in London, Tuesday, June 22, 2021. The statue is the tenth to join the trail and commemorates 10 years since the TV show first aired, as well as in anticipation for HBO’s release of House of the Dragon set to be released in 2022

AP

UK news in pictures

21 June 2021

Scotland’s First Minister Nicola Sturgeon receives her second dose of the Oxford/AstraZeneca Covid-19 vaccine

AFP/Getty

UK news in pictures

20 June 2021

Joyce Paton, from Peterhead, on one of the remaining snow patches on Meall a’Bhuiridh in Glencoe during the Midsummer Ski. The event, organised by the Glencoe Mountain Resort, is held every year on the weekend closest to the Summer Solstice

PA

UK news in pictures

19 June 2021

England appeal LBW during day four of their Women’s International Test match against India at the Bristol County Ground

PA

UK news in pictures

18 June 2021

Scotland fans let off flares in Leicester Square after Scotland’s Euro 2020 match against England ended in a 0-0 draw

Getty

UK news in pictures

17 June 2021

Members of the Tootsie Rollers jazz band pose on the third day of the Royal Ascot horse racing meet

AFP/Getty

UK news in pictures

16 June 2021

A woman and child examine life-size sculptures of a herd of Asian elephants set up by the Elephant Family and The Real Elephant Collective to help educate the public on the elephants and the ways in which humans can better protect the planets biodiversity, in Green Park, central London

AFP/Getty

UK news in pictures

15 June 2021

Hydrotherapists with Dixie, a seven-year-old Dachshund who is being treated for back problems common with the breed, in the hydrotherapy pool during a facility at Battersea Dogs and Cats Home’s in Battersea, London, to view their new hydrotherapy centre

PA

UK news in pictures

14 June 2021

Scotland’s David Marshall in the net after Czech Republic’s Patrik Schick scored their second goal at Hampden Park

Reuters

Mr Yousaf went on to claim that “three White-Scottish applicants offered tours of nursery and spaces, often within less than 24hrs”, while at the same time that applicants with Muslim names were “being rejected, including application for my daughter”.

He added: “It doesn’t matter what my position or how senior in Govt I may be, some will always see me, my wife and children by our ethnicity or religion first.

“We have given Little Scholars nursery every opportunity for an explanation for the disparity in treatment, none has been forthcoming.”

“With no explanation from Little Scholars, we will pursue the truth and get answers we deserve.”

Source link

[stevetervet]

Tasmania

Marketing executives of Australia, I bring good news. Your advertisement campaigns are working on my five-year-old daughter. Ivy only needs to hear the words “Did someone say KFC?” and she’ll instantly launch into a chorus of I Love It by Icona Pop. When asked what she hoped would happen in 2021, she didn’t wish for anything existential or even material, but rather answered: “That I get to watch Holey Moley.” But there’s one brand which stands out among the rest. We’ll pull up behind a ute at the traffic lights and hear from the back seat those immortal words: “Oh, what a feeling - Toyota.”

And there were certainly plenty of those moments as we started the new year with a road trip around the island state of Tasmania - 240km south of the mainland across the heaving Bass Strait. Right until the last moment, it looked like the trip might be scuppered by COVID as clusters in Sydney and Melbourne prompted other states to shut their borders but on this occasion, we were in the right place at the right time and the Apple Isle lay before us.

Needless to say, there were a few raised eyebrows along the way when we declared we had travelled from New South Wales - at one point we were even removed from a queue and had to answer further questions from management before gaining entry - but Tassie’s welcome couldn’t have been warmer. The people we met were so friendly and as for the place: well, where do you start?

At the beginning, I suppose, and the absolutely stunning Cataract Gorge in Launceston. Photographs simply can’t do its forested cliffs, glassy lake and ancient boulders justice and the temperature of the public swimming pool in the centre of the gorge took our breath away for a second time as Rachel wisely watched on with the towels poolside. We emerged from the water shivering - and with fellow tourists peering down bemused from the chairlift above - but very much refreshed.

Launceston, the second-largest city in Tasmania, hadn’t been forecast as one of the trip’s highlights but it proved to have been rather under-sold. The macaque monkeys (behind glass) in City Park, the windswept Tamar Island Wetlands and the hands-on Queen Victoria Museum were free attractions you’d pay good money to see elsewhere and Riverbend Park, in the city centre, boasts the best children’s playground I’ve ever seen. It’s no exaggeration to say Ivy would have spent all day there, so vast and varied is the site. Peering down over the park are four huge grain silos, now converted into a plush hotel with a fancy restaurant on ground level. Pricey, yes, but quality grub.

When you’ve been to Peppa Pig World, the bar for any other ‘world’ is set pretty high but where Seahorse World in the Tamar Valley might have been lacking Grandpa Pig’s Little Train, it compensated with a genuinely interesting tour of the tanks and even a chance to hold a little seahorse. From this breeding centre on the banks of the Tamar, seahorses are shipped to aquariums all around the world so if you’ve ever seen one, it probably came from there.

Our four nights in town were spent above a pub - better than it sounds or than we thought when we first pulled up - but there was a change of pace when we hit the east coast.

We quickly realised the weather in Tasmania can change almost as quickly as Boris Johnson’s COVID response and so it was that we huddled on a beach somewhere along the Bay of Fires eating our picnic lunch wrapped in jumpers and waterproofs as some pretty mean waves pounded the white sand. Even us crazy northern hemisphere types weren’t about to try swimming here.

Conditions at our east coast base were more clement, and naturally we hit the pool hard but also made full use of the other sports facilities - putting green, table tennis and basketball court to name but a few. Ivy’s ping-pong skills have improved exponentially since the turn of the year and some of our rallies were even worthy of the name. But every now and then comes a wild shot from the other end of the table which forces you to take evasive action as if facing a Pat Cummins bouncer.

Down the coast we drove, into the spectacular Freycinet National Park where the views across to Wineglass Bay are postcard-perfect. Peer over the edge and it’s a sheer drop to the rocks and waves below, look down at your feet and lizards are scurrying for cover. Disaster was averted at the last minute when the family parked next to us managed to retrieve the stuffed toy whose temporary loss had sent a little girl into floods of tears. What looked like a little elephant had in fact only been dropped a few yards from the car park at the top of the cliffs.

Swansea was a handy stopping point after that - a bit different to its Welsh namesake - but it was now all about the long run into Hobart. Of all the driving we did in Tasmania, less than 5% would have been straight and flat at the same time and those sweeping bends and undulations were never more evident than on the Tasman Highway which hugged rock faces and followed the bends of the Prosser River on the challenging and invigorating approach to the state’s capital.

Hobart, with a population of 250,000 or so, must be the hilliest city I’ve ever visited. There were cars parked at angles that didn’t look natural and even a walk to the closest intersection could be enough to raise a sweat.

But on flat ground a stone’s throw from the waterfront, the Salamanca Market truly showcases Hobart in its best light every Saturday. From tourist tat and cuddly toys to ornate wood carvings and local farm produce, there’s something to lighten everyone’s wallet although by far the longest queues were at the coffee vans. Classic Australia. The pandemic has forced Salamanca to trim its stall numbers and patron capacity, although social distancing in a market is about as likely as it is on the London Underground. However, in a part of the world which is totally COVID-free at the time of writing, mingling in a Tasmanian crowd carries none of the worries it would elsewhere.

Our thoughts were constantly drawn back to the UK not only by the daily news bulletins - reporting daily infection rates higher than Australia has faced in 12 months - but also its role in shaping Tasmania as we know it today. Nowhere is that more evident than Port Arthur, the former penal settlement where thousands of convicts were shipped in the 1800s for crimes ranging from cheese theft to murder. The remains of the penitentiary and neighbouring prison buildings are beautiful; their stories by comparison quite chilling and utterly thought-provoking as to the physical treatment and mental disintegration of so many men, young and old, having been extracted from their homeland with no hope of ever returning. Walking around the site makes you acutely aware of your liberty, even more so in the current climate.

You see, for all the places we visited in Tasmania, for all the experiences, the food tasted and selfies taken, it was simply the freedom to choose and to move which we had to be most thankful for. With the majority of our friends and family locked down on the other side of the world, doing it tougher than ever, there was absolutely nothing about our trip to take for granted.

It’s said Australia is the lucky country, and that rings true to an extent, although political choices have more to do with the state of play around the world than luck. Australia’s consistently tough stance on international arrivals during the pandemic has been a huge factor in keeping the COVID numbers here so low. Two week in hotel quarantine, at your own expense, is mandatory. Around the corner from where we were staying in Hobart was one such hotel with two soldiers guarding each door. Rules are rules here and they don’t muck about. On the one hand, it’s reassuring that we are in such a safe corner of the world right now - but what about getting back to England to see those loved ones again? When will a journey of that nature be feasible and, more to the point, when will Australia relax its stance to the point where we know we can make a ‘normal’ re-entry to the place we now call home? Forget the quarantine, simply getting a plane ticket is like finding a needle in a haystack. We hope to see you all again soon, we really do, but it's just impossible to put a date on that happening.

Meanwhile, sun-kissed Hobart looked a picture from the top of Mount Wellington and equally from the water as we took a ferry to MONA (the Museum of Old and New Art). The exhibits here were all to an incredibly high specification but often weird for the sake of being weird. More rewarding was the time we spent outside in the grounds, watching a band on stage while chowing down on chicken burgers (in the case of the meat-eating members of the family).

Another ferry carried us and the car to Bruny Island, where the pendulum of Tasmanian weather swung like never before. One minute we were slithering along muddy unsealed roads in search of the Cape Bruny Lighthouse (where the winds were too strong to reach the top of the walking track), the next emerging into warm sunlight at the Truganini Memorial overlooking the ‘Neck’ - a narrow spit of land joining the north and south parts of the island.

After the best part of a week in and around Hobart, it was nice to put the hammer down and cruise through the straw-coloured Midlands on the way north. A long line of red bricks running the length of the high street in Campbell Town bore the names (and crimes) or convicts who had not even survived the epic voyage to Australia, dying in transit. There were reminders everywhere of Tasmania’s convict past; less so the treatment of its Indigenous people.

While we had already been exposed to the island’s varying landscapes and weather patterns, entering Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park can only be likened to walking through the wardrobe into Narnia. Gone was anything even resembling summer as harsh alpine vegetation stood out against steely skies, with a cold wind blowing down the back of the neck in the way that makes you instantly reach for hooded tops. The steep climbs and harpin bends were all worth it just to witness the spectacle at altitude approaching 1,000 metres above sea level. “It’s due to snow the day after tomorrow” said the girl behind the Visitor Centre counter as she handed over our shuttle bus tickets. You could spend days bushwalking around Cradle Mountain, if you like that sort of thing, whereas we chose the hop- on-hop-off approach and still copped a fair pasting from the wind, rain - and UV. The chance to see Tasmanian devils and quolls up close, as well as a wombat in the car park, further added to the experience.

Back through the wardrobe into summer, or at least a north coast variant of it, and the final stop on our tour at tiny-but-picturesque Boat Harbour Beach. With water so clear you could almost count the grains of sand on the bottom, and rock pools and caves to explore every time the tide flowed out, the beach in itself might have fully sustained our four-day stay had the temperature been a smidgen higher.

As it was, we ventured slightly further afield to The Nut at Stanley (where one of the information boards mused ‘when is a nut not a nut?’ - an important consideration for allergy sufferers), Sisters Beach (horizontal rain although not unpleasant) and to Burnie one night to see Little Penguins emerge from the sea and return to their burrows. In rather less salubrious surroundings than the corresponding experience on Phillip Island, the night sky was pierced by the luminescent green glow from a nearby BP filling station. David Attenborough meets Alan Partridge, if you will.

Soon enough, those penguins would be heading back into the Bass Strait and so it was for us, boarding the Spirit of Tasmania for our overnight crossing which marked the end of our Tassie adventure. Housed in a cabin at the extreme bow of the vessel, our plunging path through a sea that was even choppier than normal felt like taking a ride in a washing machine being hit with cannon fire, so loud was the metallic crash of the hull against the waves every few seconds.

So the mouth of Port Phillip Bay had never looked more welcoming and it was a relief to set foot - or rather, wheels - on terra firma back in Melbourne.

But what a journey. In the land that time forgot, the extraordinary diversity and natural beauty of this island have carved out unforgettable memories. The devil is in the detail and I’ve no doubt we’ve only scratched the surface.

Oh, what a feeling - Tasmania.

[neiljohnsblog]

The Joy of Rally Racing: Tips for an Exciting Rally Experience

Rally racing is an adrenaline-fueled sport that offers a thrilling combination of speed, skill, and rugged terrain. Wales, with its scenic landscapes and diverse tracks, has become a haven for motorsport enthusiasts seeking a memorable Rally Experience in Wales. Whether you're a seasoned driver or a first-time adventurer, rallying in Wales promises an experience like no other. In this blog, we’ll explore what makes Wales an exceptional destination for rally enthusiasts and share tips to make your rally experience truly unforgettable.

Why Choose Wales for a Rally Experience?

1. Unmatched Scenery and Terrain

Wales is home to some of the most breathtaking rally routes in the UK. The rugged mountains, dense forests, and coastal plains create an ideal backdrop for both beginners and professionals. The challenging terrains provide an authentic rally experience, making every twist and turn an exciting test of skill and endurance.

2. Variety of Tracks

Whether you prefer gravel, mud, or tarmac, Wales has it all. From forest tracks in Snowdonia to coastal trails in Pembrokeshire, the variety of rally stages allows you to explore different surfaces, honing your driving skills across multiple conditions.

3. Rich Rallying History

Wales has long been associated with the world of rallying, hosting prestigious events that attract drivers and fans from around the globe. This strong tradition has fostered a culture of rallying excellence, offering participants access to top-notch facilities and guidance.

Preparing for Your Rally Experience

To make the most of your Rally Experience in Wales, preparation is key. Here are some key suggestions to assist you in beginning your journey.

1. Choose the Right Gear

Investing in high-quality gear is crucial for safety and performance. This includes a well-fitted helmet, gloves, and sturdy footwear. If you’re participating in a full-day experience, ensure you wear comfortable clothing suited to the weather conditions.

2. Understand the Basics

Before hitting the track, familiarize yourself with basic rallying techniques. Learn about braking points, cornering techniques, and throttle control. Many rally experience providers in Wales offer introductory sessions to help you grasp these essentials.

3. Work with a Co-Driver

Rally racing is a team effort, with the co-driver playing a pivotal role in navigating the course. Building good communication and trust with your co-driver can significantly improve your performance on the track.

4. Start Small

If you’re new to rallying, start with beginner-friendly tracks to build confidence. Wales offers a variety of routes catering to different skill levels, so you can gradually progress to more challenging stages.

What to Expect During Your Rally Experience

A Rally Experience in Wales typically begins with a briefing session where instructors outline safety measures, vehicle controls, and track details. From there, you’ll step into a rally-prepped car and take on the course under the guidance of a professional.

Learning the Ropes

The initial laps are often about getting a feel for the car and the terrain. You’ll learn how to navigate tight corners, manage skids, and maintain control at high speeds.

The Thrill of Competition

For those seeking an added challenge, many rally experiences offer timed laps where you can compete against others or push yourself to set a personal best. The presence of competition enhances the thrill of the experience.

Post-Session Analysis

After your session, you’ll have the opportunity to review your performance. Instructors often provide feedback, highlighting areas for improvement and celebrating your progress.

Tips for an Unforgettable Rally Experience

Stay Hydrated: Driving on demanding tracks requires focus and stamina. Drink plenty of water to stay alert throughout the session.

Embrace the Adventure: Rallying is as much about enjoying the journey as it is about mastering the techniques. Soak in the stunning Welsh scenery and relish the experience.

Capture the Moment: Many rally experiences allow you to bring along a friend or family member to spectate. Don’t forget to capture some photos or videos of your adventure.

Practice Patience: Rallying is a skill that improves over time. Allow yourself the grace of patience and take time to acknowledge the small achievements you make throughout your journey.

Why Rallying in Wales is a Must-Try

The combination of natural beauty, challenging courses, and the thrill of high-speed driving makes Wales an unparalleled destination for rally racing. Whether you're looking to refine your driving skills or simply enjoy a heart-pounding adventure, a Rally Experience in Wales offers something for everyone.

Rallying is more than just a sport; it’s an exhilarating way to connect with nature, push your limits, and create lasting memories. So, gear up and get ready to experience the joy of rally racing in one of the most beautiful regions in the world.

Conclusion

A Rally Experience in Wales is a must for anyone seeking an unforgettable adventure. With its stunning landscapes, diverse tracks, and rich rallying heritage, Wales offers the perfect setting to unleash your inner racer. By following these tips and embracing the thrill of the ride, you’re sure to create memories that will last a lifetime.

Are you ready to rev up your engines and take on the Welsh rally tracks? The adventure of a lifetime awaits!

[johnalexcooper]

How to Choose the Best Rally Experiences for Your Next Adventure

Rally driving is an exhilarating activity that combines speed, skill, and the thrill of navigating rough terrain. If you’re looking for a high-octane adventure in the UK, rally experiences offer an opportunity to test your driving abilities while enjoying an adrenaline rush like no other. Whether you’re a seasoned driver or a beginner seeking an introduction to the world of rally racing, these experiences are designed to cater to all skill levels. But with so many options available, how do you choose the best rally experience for your next adventure? Here, we’ll explore key considerations to help you select the perfect Rally Experiences the UK has to offer.

1. Location and Venue

The location of a rally experience is one of the most important factors to consider when making your decision. The UK is home to a variety of rally courses, each offering unique challenges based on the terrain. From the gravel tracks of rural Wales to the rugged landscapes of Scotland, each venue provides a distinct driving experience. Before booking, research the venue's reputation, the type of terrain they offer, and whether they have challenging obstacles like tight corners, hairpin bends, and steep inclines that simulate real rally stages.

If you’re after an authentic rally driving experience, look for venues that are used for actual rally competitions. Many venues across the UK host events and offer rally courses tailored for drivers of all abilities. The venue should also have professional instructors who are well-versed in rally techniques and can guide you through the entire experience, from safety instructions to honing your driving skills.

Pro Tip:

For the best experience, choose a location that allows you to enjoy not only the thrill of rallying but also the beauty of the surrounding landscapes. Many rally experiences in the UK are set in picturesque locations, allowing you to combine adventure with a bit of sightseeing.

2. The Type of Rally Experience

Rally experiences in the UK come in various formats, so it’s important to choose one that aligns with your expectations. The two main types of experiences are single-day sessions and multi-day experiences.

Single-Day Rally Experience:

If you’re new to rally driving or simply looking to get a taste of what it's like to drive on challenging terrain, a single-day rally experience might be perfect. These typically include a briefing on the basics of rally driving, followed by several laps around a course with the guidance of an instructor. They’re ideal for those who want to experience the thrill of rallying without committing to an extended session.

Multi-Day Rally Experience:

For those who are serious about improving their skills or looking for a more immersive adventure, multi-day experiences are an excellent choice. These programs often include comprehensive training sessions, allowing participants to learn advanced rally techniques like handbrake turns, Scandinavian flicks, and high-speed cornering. By the end of the experience, you’ll feel confident driving at high speeds over rough terrain, making it perfect for thrill-seekers who want to master rally driving.

Some experiences also offer a rally co-driving option, where you can take on the role of a co-driver, navigating the route and learning how professional rally teams communicate during high-pressure situations.

3. Car Selection

Another key consideration when choosing the best Rally Experiences UK has to offer is the type of vehicle you’ll be driving. Rally cars are specifically designed for off-road racing, and the type of car can have a big impact on your overall experience. The best rally experiences often feature high-performance vehicles such as all-wheel-drive cars with advanced suspension systems that can handle uneven terrain, steep inclines, and sudden drops.

Manual vs. Automatic:

Most rally cars are manual, meaning you'll be responsible for gear changes. If you're not familiar with manual transmission, some rally experiences in the UK offer automatic cars, but these are rare. Being able to drive a manual car enhances the authenticity of the experience, as rally driving often involves making quick decisions about gear changes, especially when navigating tight turns and difficult terrain.

Before booking, make sure to check whether the rally experience provides vehicles with the specifications you’re comfortable driving or whether it includes some of the most iconic rally cars used in professional competitions.

 4. Instructor Expertise and Safety Measures

Safety is a top priority in any motorsport, and rally driving is no exception. When choosing a rally experience, ensure that the instructors are qualified professionals with extensive rally driving experience. Their expertise will not only make your experience more enjoyable but will also ensure that you are taught proper techniques and safety protocols.

Good instructors will tailor their teaching approach to suit your level of driving experience, whether you’re a novice or an advanced driver. You should feel confident in their ability to guide you safely through the entire experience, from the initial briefing to your time behind the wheel. A rally experience should also have robust safety measures in place, including roll cages in cars, appropriate safety gear such as helmets and fireproof suits, and clear communication throughout the session.

Pro Tip:

Look for reviews of the instructors and venues to see how previous participants rated the overall safety and instruction quality. A positive track record of safety and professionalism is essential for a worry-free adventure.

5. Duration and Group Size

The length of your rally experience is another important factor to consider. Some experiences last just a couple of hours, while others can take up an entire day or even span multiple days. The more time you spend on the track, the more you’ll improve your skills and feel confident driving under challenging conditions.

Group Size:

If you’re looking for more one-on-one instruction, it’s worth checking the maximum number of participants per session. Smaller groups usually mean more time behind the wheel for each participant and more personal instruction from the rally coaches. Conversely, larger groups may limit your driving time, though they can be a lot of fun if you’re planning to book with friends or family.

6. Gift Vouchers and Special Events

Rally experiences are not just for personal enjoyment; they also make fantastic gifts. Many rally experience providers in the UK offer gift vouchers that allow you to gift the opportunity to experience the thrill of rally driving to a friend or family member. If you intend to book a rally experience for someone as a gift, check if the provider offers flexible booking options or open-dated vouchers, which allow the recipient to book their preferred date.

Additionally, if you’re looking to celebrate a special event like a birthday, anniversary, or corporate event, some rally venues offer tailored packages that include group bookings, special accommodations, or even a fully customised rally day to make your event extra memorable.

Conclusion

Rally experiences in the UK offer the perfect mix of adrenaline, skill-building, and adventure. Whether you’re seeking a thrilling weekend activity or looking to develop your driving abilities, there’s a rally experience out there for you. By considering factors like location, vehicle type, safety, and the expertise of instructors, you can ensure that your next adventure is unforgettable.

So, gear up, hit the track, and experience the rush of rally driving in one of the most exciting motorsports available!

[nofuturezine-blog]

FESTIVAL GUIDE: WALES

“A definitive guide to this year’s Welsh Festivals” - Manon Williams, Founder

Manage to miss out on Glasto this year? Or didn’t go? Maybe you're scarred from watching your seemingly innocent friend douse themselves in Jagerbombs before throwing up mud and alcohol..and want to clear that memory from your head. Whatever your reason, here’s a complete guide to all the best festivals going on in Wales across the next 6 months.

Kaya Festival

Image by KAYA Festival

This is definitely the festival to be at if you’re into worldly music, it says that in the title. KAYA promotes a family friendly space with a reiteration on the importance of acceptance, peace and music. The holy trinity, for sure. Worldly music isn’t necessarily every genre of music, so if you’re looking for anarcho Punk, i’d probably steer clear of KAYA, it’s more on the level of Reggae, Dub, Ska and Soul music as mirrored in the lineup, legendary Lee Scratch Perry who is regarded as one of the most enduring reggae producers, a catalyst for sixties Reggae beats, he basically put together the whole Studio One sound that has been a reoccurrence throughout the entire Trojan Record label.

Whereas, Norman Jay MBE is at the heart of the Notting Hill Carnival, reading his rap-sheet, it’s more destiny that bought Norman Jay to achieve his DJ’ing status. Having been a DJ since the age of 8, scratching discs at his mate’s birthday party, he hasn’t stopped since. If you fancy listening to some of his mixes prior to KAYA Festival, Jay presents his Soul show every so often on Soho Radio.

“Festival of World Music and Arts”

Pencoed Campus, South Wales

4,5,6th August 2017.

Weekend Camping - £70

Notable acts include: Lee Scratch Perry & Norman Jay MBE

Monmouth Festival

Image by Monmouth Festival

Similar to Hay Festival, Monmouth Fest boasts 9 days of art, literature and music. Spread across different locations in Monmouth, to always keep you on your toes. This is perhaps, the most civilised festival, think more of fete setting as opposed to a traditional mud filled festival infused with the stench of alcohol and sweat, often sought out by the British youth. You probably won’t find too many young people at Monmouth Festival, more tweed jacket types with a refined palette for artisan wines and the latest food trend. 

Monmouth Festival does have several attractions surrounding the idyllic settings, including a Family Fun Day, Busking Festival and a growing Fringe Festival. The lineup is a complete dichotomy of sound ranging from Jazz, Funk, Soul, Rock, Pop and everything in between. You’ll find a rallying support for local talent amidst this lineup, drawing in musical artists from across Wales and England to entertain the Monmouth Festival Go-ers.

“Situated in the beautiful historic Welsh border town Monmouth Festival is a nine day free festival“

Spread across 10 different locations throughout Monmouth, including the Monmouth Museum, The Savoy and The Riverside.

28th July - 5th August

FREE for the duration.

Festival No.6

Image by Festival No.6

A rising addition to the Welsh Festival scene, Festival No.6 has by far the most picturesque of settings. If you’ve never visited Portmeirion Village, it’s looks akin to a cartoon village, i’m probably not too far saying that Willy Wonka’s Oompa Loompa’s could live there. You’ll be swamped by colourful houses and Art Deco esque fountains, statues and cobbled paths. The houses further located above the rocky mountain-face are sold for millions of pounds, adorned with whimsical gardens and cordoned . 

On the contrary, the 3 camping sites available are far from the aforementioned description. This is one festival we’ve had personal experience with..remember last year when Wales Online published a running feature on the terrible conditions at Festival No.6? Well, we’re caught up in it, the carparks had quickly become flooded leaving thousands of angry people stranded in puddles of water and their dignity. 

Not only was the car-parking situated horribly, but the camp sites are all located on hills, meaning that eventually water would churn up mud that had accumulated atop the hill prior to being washed down field. 

Image by WalesOnline

If you’re not afraid at this prospect then, Festival No.6 has quickly succeeded in drawing some of music’s biggest acts including Mogwai, Flaming Lips and Jarvis Cocker. There’s also a Sgt Pepper themed carnival celebrating the 50th anniversary of The Beatles’s seminal album and an entire stage curated for Welsh music with it’s own lineup of local talent including Ani Glass, ARGRPH and Yr Eira. 

“Be seeing you” 

Portmeirion

7,8,9,10 September 2017

Weekend Camping, Thursday Arrival: £195 

Friday Arrival: £180

HOYFEST

Image by HoyFest

We’ve only recently written about HoyFest’s lineup. This day festival has managed to transform the Grade II listed Gate Arts Centre Church into a music venue teaming with new and exciting music. If you’re looking to enrich your Spotify with new music then HoyFest is able to help you out. 12 bands over the course of one day featuring ESTRONS and Pretty Vicious, two acts that have drawn publicity from respective record labels, Virgin EMI and Domino Records. 

VIDA, another great band that has drawn from 90′s Britpop with their latest music being produced by Ocean Colour Scene guitarist Steve Cradock. If all this great talent isn’t enough to draw you to the fest, then revel in the fact that Brothers Cider is an official sponsor of the day festival, meaning that there’s endless amounts of cider on tap. Two things complete a festival, alcohol and good music..HoyFest has both!

The Gate Arts Centre, Cardiff 

Saturday 30th September 2017

Tickets - £16.50

Tafwyl Ffair

Image by Tafwyl Fair

If you’re not up for a day festival, then what about a day out. This family friendly fair located in the fields of Llandaff has a complete lineup of Welsh acts complimenting the secluded location. Including; Aled Rheon, Geraint Jarman and ARGRPH on the Saturday. With DJ Elan Evans, Cadno and Candelas headlining Sunday to bring a close to the festivals. 

Over the course of 48 hours you’ll have two busy days ahead! With a Yurt on site presenting “Hangover Yoga”, a Welsh Learners centre, a load of Carnival Stalls and an endless list of food stalls and bars, supporting local Welsh produce! The best part? FREE entry!

Llandaff

1st - 2nd July

FREE 

Bare in mind that there’s no on site car parking available. 

HUB Festival

Image by HUB Festival

Slowly progressing from HoyFest’s 1 day festival, before introducing Tafwyl’s 2 day-er, we now have the HUB Festival stretched throughout Womanby Street, Cardiff’s known area for music and art performances with the Moon Club and Clwb Ifor within the same vicinity, you won’t have to worry about travelling too far for this one! 

For £25, you’ll gain access to 3 days of music featuring 200 acts including CHROMA, The Chalk Outlines and Ani Glass! When Moon Club was nearing foreclosure earlier this year, there was a rally of people that protested against this, supporting the local music scene and the community that surrounds it. So, HUB Festival is a festival that’s repaying all the continued support by hosting a lineup of local Welsh talent, with all this talent being hosted in the heart of the Cardiff scene, hopefully HUB Festival will be a musical harbinger for better times to come!

“200 Acts . 12 Stages . 3 Days . 1 Wristband”

Womanby Street, Cardiff

25th - 27th August 2017

£25 Adult Advanced Purchase

Swn Festival

Image by Swn

Curated by BBC 1′s Huw Stephens, Swn Festival is a month long trail of music and art hosted throughout Cardiff and Swansea! 4 different venues; The Globe, Sin City, The Tramshed and Clwb Ifor Bach. Shows will include Songhoy Blues for their second visit to Cardiff. Jen Cloher will perform her debut show in Clwb Ifor Bach with special band member, Courtney Barnett. 

Hotly-tipped outfit The Amazons look set to sell out Tramshed and This Is The Kit a favourite of the festival’s, will headline The Globe.

John Rostron, fellow curator of Swn: “For a while I’d deliberated over Sŵn’s future, but we had an overwhelming response to last year’s event and a huge demand from the music scene in Wales that this festival is needed.”

“Sŵn: friends to the best new music in & out of Wales.”

22nd September - 10th October

Individual Ticket Prices for each concert.

Located around popular Cardiff venues including; The Tramshed, Sin City, Clwb Ifor Bach and The Globe

[samadparvez1]

Blog 13: Going The Distance

March 2019

Wales, Anglesey

Two days after flying back from Krakow it was full steam ahead again this time going to Wales due to Jet-lag and lack of sleep it was a lot to take with the journey. But it had to be covered though this time so sacrificing some rest would in the long run worth it this time and for good reason but that will be discussed on a future blog post.

I covered my third rally event with two rally drivers Craig Aston of Craig AstonRT and Ashleigh Morris of Ashleigh Morris Rally at their events competing as part of the MSN Rally Championship this time In Angelsey, Wales at penultimate round of their season Round 7 of the championship at Angelsey racing circuit. Which was once again done as a continuation of my work with them including work for my University work which would later be work added for my Final Major Project (F.M.P) as well as my portfolio throughout the whole event day being covered.

 With that it was another early morning start setting of at 3 or 4am due to the distance once again traveling so that I could not be later and get there on time. Continuing to expand my range of photography into commercial/events this has to be done. With travel to places I have never been to before which was worthwhile in the long run and the experience I was going to pick up and where it would lead to that made it so worth it. I started by capturing the work in the service area and while they were competing.

 I also documented the work that goes on behind the scenes such as when the drivers were preparing themselves and heading to the stages including the mechanics working on their cars when not competing on their intervals when they are on their breaks to also their interactions with their crew or people that come to speak to them such as fans and interviewers.

[numberplates4u-blog]

Every Healey has a story

Austin Healey 3000 MK I at the start of a 1960s Dubonnet Rally                                   (update Jan 2017) Please note that since writing this Blog this car has been Sold and off to create a new part in this story…..   Middle Aged or Classic? “Don’t regret getting older, it is a privilege denied to many”. Which it could be said is true of people and objects. The Healey has definitely stood the test of time and with age it has become more treasured, loved and desired. If a Healey was a human it would be classed as middle aged. According to the Oxford English Dictionary, middle age is 45-65. There is no shortage of sayings that poke fun at growing older. It is thought that after 45 your ‘get up and go’ gets up and goes”; you start making funny noises, creaking and moaning; you get out of shape; don’t keep up with technology, slow up and lag behind with the times. Some even say “life not only begins at 40, it begins to show”. With time, humans and Healeys become classic, a bit quirky and full of interesting stories. Forget the negative, cruel outlook on ageing. With passing time we gain experience, we have the chance to leave a positive legacy, an opportunity to touch many people’s lives, add enjoyment, enrichment and fulfilment; to make a difference. Just like an old classic car. So the story begins The story begins with the most iconic and easily recognised of all the Austin Healey models, the “3000” Early in 1959 the Austin Healey “100-6” (the six cylinder engine cars) finally came to the end of production and in its place was born the Austin Healey “3000” model. The legendary Big Healey was born and kept rolling off the production line until 1967. The car’s bodywork was made by Jensen Motors, and the vehicles were assembled by Austin-Healey at the Abingdon works. Who would have known at this time that it was the model which would go on to have the longest production life, the greatest marketing success and the largest number of sales. To begin with the changes from a “100/6” to the “3000” were small on the surface but over time improvements and modifications kept evolving and it became the car to have in its day and of course its popularity still remains today. The car went on to have MkI and MKII models and the final statement was in the creation of the MKIII.The 3-litre “3000” was (and still is) a highly successful car, which won its class in many European rallies in its heyday and is still raced in classic car competitions by enthusiasts today. The Austin Healey just goes on and on creating stories to be told and re-lived. Fast forward to today Austin Healey 3000 MK I YUC 276 in recent years has been maintained at Bill Rawles Classic Cars As a classic car garage we see many interesting people and their vehicles. However, it is not often that you have the opportunity or take the time to find out a little bit more of the events, journeys, exploits and ownership of the car. Sometimes it is because there is no documented history on the car and other times is because the stories, photos, letters and newspaper articles are hidden from the light of day. This July 2016, a car which has been maintained at Bill Rawles Classic Cars over a number of years was brought to us to be sold. After going through the numerous receipts, Invoices, MOT Certificates and DVLA related documents, a personal letter and some photos were revealed. This is what brought it to our attention that every car, when it has been on the road for more than half a century, must have some tales to tell. Rallying, racing drivers, marriage and children Colour change, conversion to wire wheels and a missing radio aerial                               This Austin Healey 3000 MK I, YUC 276, was registered in February 1960 making it a grand old age of 55 years. The current owner has cherished, looked after and enjoyed this Healey for 27 years. Which means it was already 28 years old when he took ownership in 1989. In 2007, out of the blue, the owner received a letter and this is what it said…. “Dear… I was delighted to receive your telephone call and to hear that YUC 276 had survived many years since it left me. When I saw your photograph yesterday I immediately noticed a couple of things apart from the colour. The major change was the conversion to wire wheels and secondly the radio aerial is no longer in the offside front wing. The spokes in wires had the reputation of coming loose in the rough and tumble of competition, especially rallying, and as I could not afford the luxury of two sets of wheels, steel rims it had to be, but it does look much nicer with wires. Unfortunately it never occurred to me that accurate records would be important some 44 years on but I can give you some information that may be of interest. I was in my mid-twenties, living in Bedfordshire, when I acquired the car in 1961 from an Austin Healey dealer in Brighton. I was the second owner but cannot recall the first. I had already been rallying for some while in an Austin Healey Sprite which I traded in for YUC 276. I competed with YUC 276 regularly in club and National rallies with my navigator/co-driver, Brian James, until our first baby arrived in 1963 at which time economics caused me to have to give up the big Healey. We were fairly successful but never hit the high spots. Enclosed are two photographs, one of which is at the start of the 1961 or 1962 Dubonnet Rally. During its time with me it only suffered minor damage to the nearside front wing and this was the result of a scary moment on a snow covered mountain section in Wales during one of the Dubonnet rallies. I passed the car on to Tony Hegbourne down in Middlesex so it seems likely that it spent most of its time in the South. Tony was well known in motor racing but unfortunately was killed in a racing accident in 1965 at Spa Francorchamps, driving an Alfa Romeo Giulia TZ and I am enclosing the motor sport memorial entry of his career. I had little contact with him after he acquired the car so have no knowledge of what use he made of it or how long he kept it. We were out the country for many years after 1966 so completely lost track of all my motor sport contacts. It would give me a lot of pleasure to see the car again if this could be arranged. Yours Sincerely……………” So who was Tony Hegbourne? (photo: Ford Motor Co.)Left to right: Tony Hegbourne, Frank Gardner, Peter Harper in dark glasses, Alan Mann, Sir John Whitmore. Roy Pierpoint is concealed behind Gardner and Hegbourne                           Anthony Victor Hegbourne, who lived in Kenley in Surrey, was a Director of Godfrey Lambert Automobiles Ltd. He started competing on motorcycles in1955 and 19656 racing 350 and 500 cc Norton motorcycles. In 1964 he won the Hartley Award for the best amateur rider, he finished 13th in the Junior Manx GP on the Isle of Man and retired on the last lap while lying 9th in the senior event. Hegbourne switched to motor racing in 1957, winning at Brands Hatch in the ex-Bristow Cooper T39 Bobtail. He also raced in the North Staffs Silverstone meeting on October 05th and, a week later, at the Lancs and Cheshire Oulton Park meeting. He continued racing in 1958 and 1959 and then took a break and resumed motorsport in 1962. Back on track in 1962, he won The Brooklands Memorial Trophy Championship with a MK I Lola Climax. In 1963 he raced a Lotus 23B for Normand Ltd, winning races and finishing well in the United Kingdom and in Europe. He took a second place overall behind Lorenzo Bandini, the 1960s Italian Formula One driver for Scuderia Centro Sud and Ferrari teams, in the Auvergne Trophy at the Circuit de Charade, Clermond-Ferrand. He set the fastest lap at 3:50,100 – 126.023 km/h in the Lotus 23B. In 1964 he was invited by Ian Walker to drive the first Lotus 30 ever built in one of the supporting races for the 1964 British Grand Prix at Brands Hatch. Unfortunately the race car broke in two at the bottom of Dingle Dell, completely destroying it, but luckily Tony walked away with only minor injuries. In 1965 Hegbourne was signed to race for two of the top privateer teams, John Willment in Formula 2 and Walker-Day Racing in sportscars. He competed in various races, with results, in the UK and internationally with these teams. In May 1965, Walker Day racing transported the TZ1s to the Circuit de Spa Francorchamps, Belgium. Only 26 cars showed up for the race. Hegbourne best lap in qualifying was 4min 36.49s, which was good enough to qualify 15th on the grid. It was overcast but dry for the start of the race. By lap 3 Tony was leading the class. After pitting for fuel he dropped to 3rd in class to Boley Pittard and Nicolas Koob. On lap 26 Hegbournes Afa Romeo TZ1 Zagato somersaulted going flat out down the Masta straight. The car landed in a field and Tony Hegbourne suffered multiple injuries including a fractured spine and a broken leg. He was taken to hospital in Verviers, Belgium. His prospects were looking better and he was transferred to hospital in Stanmore, Middlesex. Very sadly his condition deteriorated and he died six weeks after the accident, on 01st July 1965 (51 years ago) The current chapter It is quite astounding to think that one of the most promising British racing drivers of the 1960s once owned this Healey. Sat in it, enjoyed it and probably drove it to its limits and today we are offering this car for sale at Bill Rawles Classic Cars (Jan17 now sold since writing this Blog). As one chapter closes another one begins.  The car is ready for a new owner, a new life, new stories and more adventures.   For Sale (NowSold since writing this Blog) at Bill Rawles Classic Cars ready for a new owner and more adventures                         This             For Sale (Jan 2017 – Now SOLD since writing this Blog) Austin Healey 3000 MK I, YUC 276 was registered in February 1960 and has been with the present owner for the past 27 years. The vehicle has been well looked after and maintained regardless of cost and at present it is in a superb condition and ready to use straight away. It comes with a large history file and past invoices supporting the work that has been carried out. Over recent years our client has had the vehicle brought up to the condition you see today with the addition of the Old English White side panels. The car comes with an MOT certificate that does not expire until 08th June 2017. The MK I Healeys were the first model to have front disc brakes fitted as standard. The car comes with overdrive and all wet weather equipment is present. This Austin Healey 3000 MK I is a genuine UK right hand drive car supplied to the home market. If you are looking for a genuine RHD Healey with lots of history and originality and at a very competitive price this must be a strong contender. Please call Bill Rawles on 07763 362470 to arrange a viewing and test drive. Alternatively call the workshop on 01420 564343 Austin Healey 3000 MK I For Sale (now sold since writing this Blog) a well maintained car with a great history record                     The post Every Healey has a story appeared first on Bill Rawles Classic Cars.

https://www.rawlesclassiccars.co.uk/blog/every-healey-has-a-story/

[linuxgamenews]

DiRT Rally officially available on Linux

So Feral Interactive just announced that DiRT Rally, the world's most authentic rally game, is now available on Linux. So push yourself and your car to extremes of control in Hillclimb, Rallycross and Rally races. While you hurtle at breakneck speeds down the most dangerous tracks in the world on Linux. While DiRT Rally is the most authentic and thrilling rally game ever made for Linux. Hence road-tested over 80 million miles by the DiRT community. The game perfectly captures that white knuckle feeling of racing on the edge. While player hurtle along dangerous roads at breakneck speed, knowing that one crash could irreparably harm your stage time. The Linux release of DiRT Rally also includes officially licensed World Rallycross content. Since this allows players to experience the breathless, high-speed thrills of some of the world’s fastest off-road cars. While you trade paint with other drivers at some of the series’ best-loved circuits. Since game is available in both singleplayer and high-intensity multiplayer races. Hence the competition is fierce but worth the challenge.

DiRT Rally for Linux - Release trailer

Features available:

ICONIC RALLY CARS - DiRT Rally boasts over 40 of the most iconic and relevant cars from yesteryear through to modern day, representing the cars that the players want, and the ones that make the most sense for the surfaces they race on.

SIX MASSIVE RALLIES WITH OVER 70 STAGES - Head to the muddy paths of Wales, the dusty trails of Greece and the icy tarmac of Monte Carlo. Take on the legendary hillclimb of Pikes Peak, the snowy thrills of Sweden, and the epic scenery of Finland.

OFFICIAL FIA WORLD RALLYCROSS CONTENT – Race at the Lydden Hill, Holjes and Hell tracks in six of the fastest off-road cars and take on your friends in high intensity, bumper-to-bumper multiplayer racing.

CUSTOM RALLY EVENTS: Take any car on any track – configure and compete in single or multi-stage events.

RALLY CHAMPIONSHIPS: Start on the bottom rung of the rally ladder and compete in a succession of events, earning points and money on your way to promotion. Use skillful driving and manage your repair schedules as you work your way to the top division and earn the most lucrative rewards.

Management:

UPGRADES, REPAIRS, SETUP AND TUNING - DiRT Rally delivers depth in areas beyond driving – elements such as repairs, upgrades, and setup & tuning add a rich and strategic dimension to your rally experience.

CHALLENGING, UNCOMPROMISING HANDLING MODEL - Codemasters has completely rebuilt the physical simulation for DIRT Rally to adequately capture how it feels to race across changing surfaces and has created brand new models for differential, suspension, engine mapping and turbo modelling.

TEAM MANAGEMENT - Hire and fire your crew members each of whom which will have different skills, improving repair times for different parts of the car. Teach them new skills as they gain experience and work together as a team to improve your performance in events.

PLAYER LEAGUE SUPPORT - Get together with friends and run your very own racing league. Join or create unlimited leagues and run them how and when you want.

DAILY, WEEKLY AND MONTHLY ONLINE CHALLENGES - It’s you versus the entire DiRT community in a series of one-day, week-long and month-long challenges to earn in-game credits to improve your car and team.

DiRT Rally is available on Linux from the Feral Store and Steam for $59.99//£39.99/€49.99. A minisite containing key features, trailers and screenshots for DiRT Rally is available now.

[classyfoxdestiny]

UK could help fund jail in Albania for offenders transferred from British prisons

UK could help fund jail in Albania for offenders transferred from British prisons

The UK could help finance the construction of a prison in Albania to house offenders sent back to the country from British jails.

Albanians make up the largest foreign national group in UK jails, with more than 1,500 behind bars in England and Wales making up around 10 per cent of total inmates from overseas.

British and Albanian justice ministers Chris Philp and Etilda Gjonaj last week approved a prisoner transfer agreement that will allow offenders from either side to be sent back to their home countries to serve out their full sentences.

But Ms Gjonaj revealed in an interview with the west Balkan country’s media that the discussions also touched on the possibility of financial assistance from London to house returned felons – many of them convicted of involvement with criminal gangs active in drug-smuggling and people trafficking.

With very few UK nationals in Albanian prisons, the transfer of offenders is likely to be largely one-way, and Tirana is understood to be concerned about the additional financial burden that the arrangement could create.

Ms Gjonaj told an interviewer that British ministers “welcomed my proposal for the UK to build a prison in Albania or renovate an existing prison”.

UK news in pictures

Show all 50

1/50UK news in pictures

UK news in pictures

31 July 2021

James Guy, Adam Peaty and Kathleen Dawson celebrate winning the gold medal in the mixed 4x100m medley relay final at the Tokyo Olympics

AP

UK news in pictures

30 July 2021

Great Britain’s Bethany Shriever and Kye Whyte celebrate their Gold and Silver medals respectively for the Cycling BMX Racing at the Ariake Urban Sports Park on the seventh day of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games in Japan

PA

UK news in pictures

29 July 2021

Team GB’s Mallory Franklin during the Women’s Canoe Slalom Final on day six of the Tokyo Olympic Games. She went on to win the silver medal

Getty

UK news in pictures

28 July 2021

Canoers on Llyn Padarn lake in Snowdonia, Gwynedd. It was announced that the north-west Wales slate landscape has been granted UNESCO World Heritage Status

PA

UK news in pictures

27 July 2021

A view of one of two areas now being used at a warehouse facility in Dover, Kent, for boats used by people thought to be migrants.

PA

UK news in pictures

26 July 2021

A woman is helped by Border Force officers as a group of people thought to be migrants are brought in to Dover, Kent, onboard a Border Force vessel, following a small boat incident in the Channel

PA

UK news in pictures

25 July 2021

Vehicles drive through deep water on a flooded road in Nine Elms, London

AFP/Getty

UK news in pictures

24 July 2021

Utilities workers inspect a 15x20ft sinkhole on Green Lane, Liverpool, which is suspected to have been caused by ruptured water main

PA

UK news in pictures

23 July 2021

Children interact with Mega Please Draw Freely by artist Ei Arakawa inside the Turbine Hall at the Tate Modern in London, part of UNIQLO Tate Play the gallery’s new free programme of art-inspired activities for families

PA

UK news in pictures

22 July 2021

Festivalgoers in the campsite at the Latitude festival in Henham Park, Southwold, Suffolk

PA

UK news in pictures

21 July 2021

A man walks past an artwork by Will Blood on the end of a property in Bedminster, Bristol, as the 75 murals project reaches the halfway point and various graffiti pieces are sprayed onto walls and buildings across the city over the Summer

PA

UK news in pictures

20 July 2021

People during morning prayer during Eid ul-Adha, or Festival of Sacrifice, in Southall Park, Uxbridge, London

PA

UK news in pictures

19 July 2021

Commuters, some not wearing facemasks, at Westminster Underground station, at 08:38 in London after the final legal Coronavirus restrictions were lifted in England

PA

UK news in pictures

18 July 2021

A view of spectators by the 2nd green during day four of The Open at The Royal St George’s Golf Club in Sandwich, Kent

PA

UK news in pictures

17 July 2021

Cyclists ride over the Hammersmith Bridge in London. The bridge was closed last year after cracks in it worsened during a heatwave

Getty

UK news in pictures

16 July 2021

The sun rises behind the Sefton Park Palm House, in Sefton Park, Liverpool

PA

UK news in pictures

15 July 2021

Sir Nicholas Serota watches a short film about sea monsters as he opens a £7.6 million, 360 immersive dome at Devonport’s Market Hall in Plymouth, which is the first of its type to be built in Europe

PA

UK news in pictures

14 July 2021

Heidi Street, playing a gothic character, looks at a brain suspended in glass at the world’s first attraction dedicated to the author of Frankenstein inside the ‘Mary Shelley’s House of Frankenstein’ experience, located in a Georgian terraced house in Bath, as it prepares to open to the public on 19 July

PA

UK news in pictures

13 July 2021

Rehearsals are held in a car park in Glasgow for a parade scene ahead of filming for what is thought to be the new Indiana Jones 5 movie starring Harrison Ford

PA

UK news in pictures

12 July 2021

A local resident puts love hearts and slogans on the plastic that covers offensive graffiti on the vandalised mural of Manchester United striker and England player Marcus Rashford on the wall of a cafe on Copson Street, Withington in Manchester

Getty Images

UK news in pictures

11 July 2021

England’s Bukayo Saka with manager Gareth Southgate after the match

Pool via Reuters

UK news in pictures

10 July 2021

Australia’s Ashleigh Barty holds the trophy after winning her final Wimbledon match against Czech Republic’s Karolina Pliskova

Reuters

UK news in pictures

9 July 2021

England 1966 World Cup winner Sir Geoff Hurst stands on top of a pod on the lastminute.com London Eye wearing a replica 1966 World Cup final kit and looking out towards Wembley Stadium in the north of the capital, where the England football team will play Italy in the Euro 2020 final on Sunday

PA

UK news in pictures

8 July 2021

Karolina Pliskova celebrates after defeating Aryna Sabalenka during the women’s singles semifinals match on day ten of the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in London

AP

UK news in pictures

7 July 2021

The residents of Towfield Court in Feltham have transformed their estate with England flags for the Euro 2020 tournament

PA

UK news in pictures

6 July 2021

A couple are hit by a wave as they walk along the promenade in Dover, Kent, during strong winds

PA

UK news in pictures

5 July 2021

Alexander Zverev playing against Felix Auger-Aliassime in the fourth round of the Gentlemen’s Singles on Court 1 on day seven of Wimbledon at The All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club

PA

UK news in pictures

4 July 2021

Aaron Carty and the Beyoncé Experience perform on stage during UK Black Pride at The Roundhouse in London

Getty for UK Black Pride

UK news in pictures

3 July 2021

England’s Jordan Henderson celebrates after scoring his first international goal, his side’s fourth against Ukraine during the Euro 2020 quarter final match at the Olympic stadium in Rome

AP

UK news in pictures

2 July 2021

Dan Evans serves against Sebastian Korda during their men’s singles third round match at Wimbledon

Getty

UK news in pictures

1 July 2021

Prince William, left and Prince Harry unveil a statue they commissioned of their mother Princess Diana, on what would have been her 60th birthday, in the Sunken Garden at Kensington Palace, London

AP

UK news in pictures

30 June 2021

Dancers from the Billingham Festival and Balbir Singh Dance Company, during a preview for the The Two Fridas, UK Summer tour, presented by Billingham International Folklore Festival of World Dance in collaboration with Balbir Singh Dance Company, inspired by the life and times of female artists Frida Kahlo and Amrita Sher-Gil , which opens on July 10 at Ushaw Historic House, Chapel and Gardens in Durham

PA

UK news in pictures

29 June 2021

A boy kicks a soccer ball in front of the balconies and landings adorned with predominantly England flags at the Kirby housing estate in London

AP

UK news in pictures

28 June 2021

Emergency services attend a fire nearby the Elephant & Castle Rail Station in London

Getty

UK news in pictures

27 June 2021

People walk along Regent Street in central London during a #FreedomToDance march organised by Save Our Scene, in protest against the government’s perceived disregard for the live music industry throughout the coronavirus pandemic

PA

UK news in pictures

26 June 2021

A pair of marchers in a Trans Pride rally share a smile in Soho

Angela Christofilou/The Independent

UK news in pictures

25 June 2021

Tim Duckworth during the Long Jump in the decathlon during day one of the Muller British Athletics Championships at Manchester Regional Arena

PA

UK news in pictures

24 June 2021

A member of staff poses with the work ‘The Death of Cash’ by XCopy at the ‘CryptOGs: The Pioneers of NFT Art’ auction at Bonhams auction house in London

EPA

UK news in pictures

23 June 2021

Bank of England Chief Cashier Sarah John displays the new 50-pound banknote at Daunt Books in London

Bank of England via Reuters

UK news in pictures

22 June 2021

Actor Isaac Hampstead Wright sits on the newly unveiled Game of Throne’s “Iron Throne” statue, in Leicester Square, in London, Tuesday, June 22, 2021. The statue is the tenth to join the trail and commemorates 10 years since the TV show first aired, as well as in anticipation for HBO’s release of House of the Dragon set to be released in 2022

AP

UK news in pictures

21 June 2021

Scotland’s First Minister Nicola Sturgeon receives her second dose of the Oxford/AstraZeneca Covid-19 vaccine

AFP/Getty

UK news in pictures

20 June 2021

Joyce Paton, from Peterhead, on one of the remaining snow patches on Meall a’Bhuiridh in Glencoe during the Midsummer Ski. The event, organised by the Glencoe Mountain Resort, is held every year on the weekend closest to the Summer Solstice

PA

UK news in pictures

19 June 2021

England appeal LBW during day four of their Women’s International Test match against India at the Bristol County Ground

PA

UK news in pictures

18 June 2021

Scotland fans let off flares in Leicester Square after Scotland’s Euro 2020 match against England ended in a 0-0 draw

Getty

UK news in pictures

17 June 2021

Members of the Tootsie Rollers jazz band pose on the third day of the Royal Ascot horse racing meet

AFP/Getty

UK news in pictures

16 June 2021

A woman and child examine life-size sculptures of a herd of Asian elephants set up by the Elephant Family and The Real Elephant Collective to help educate the public on the elephants and the ways in which humans can better protect the planets biodiversity, in Green Park, central London

AFP/Getty

UK news in pictures

15 June 2021

Hydrotherapists with Dixie, a seven-year-old Dachshund who is being treated for back problems common with the breed, in the hydrotherapy pool during a facility at Battersea Dogs and Cats Home’s in Battersea, London, to view their new hydrotherapy centre

PA

UK news in pictures

14 June 2021

Scotland’s David Marshall in the net after Czech Republic’s Patrik Schick scored their second goal at Hampden Park

Reuters

UK news in pictures

13 June 2021

Raheem Sterling celebrates with Harry Kane after scoring England’s first goal of the Euro 2021 tournament in a match against Croatia at Wembley

Reuters

UK news in pictures

12 June 2021

Oxfam campaigners wearing costumes depicting G7 leaders pose for photographers on Swanpool Beach near Falmouth, Cornwall

EPA

Discussions are understood to be at an early stage, and the Ministry of Justice declined to confirm or deny whether the proposal was raised in last week’s talks.

But an offer of financial help would not be unprecedented.

In 2015, David Cameron offered Jamaica around £25m from the UK’s aid budget to part-fund a prison for offenders returned from Britain, though the deal was eventually rejected by the administration in Kingston. Since then, discussions have taken place with Nigeria about funding for a jail in Lagos, though again the proposal came to nothing.

Under the terms of last week’s agreement, Albanian authorities will have to foot the bill for housing returned offenders in its own jails, saving the UK taxpayer an average £44,600 per inmate.

Mr Philp, said: “We are committed to removing foreign criminals who have abused our hospitality and inflicted misery on our communities.

“Someone who commits a serious crime in the UK should be barred from returning so that the taxpayer no longer has to pay for them and victims can be confident justice has been done.”

No legislation is required to put the agreement into effect, and ministers expect transfers under the scheme to begin in the autumn.

Since January 2019, the UK has removed 7,985 foreign national offenders from prisons, immigration removal centres and the community.

The deal with Albania builds on an earlier agreement and means that offenders must spend at least the same amount of time in custody as they were sentenced to by a judge in the UK.

It also clarifies that prisoners can be transferred without their consent.

Source link

[artbymandymeow-blog]

There’s few things in life that get me excited more than a rally (think demonstration, not car racing). The collective atmosphere fills you with a sense of purpose and possibility you rarely get to experience in the world. Separate to the positive reinforcement I get as an individual, there are really good reasons to get off your backside and get out to a rally.

noun ral·ly 

a mass meeting intended to arouse group enthusiasm

Historically, rallies have been organised to successfully protest and/or highlight all kinds of issues – war, human rights, environmental issues, social change and workers rights etc, etc. The impacts of many historical rallies have been epic. The world we know today is shaped by the collective activism of the individuals of the past.

Australia was the first country in the world to legislate an 8 hour working day and this was due almost completely to the hundreds of workers who rallied for the cause in Sydney and Melbourne.

Eight-hour day procession by miners in Wyalong, New South Wales – late 1890s

This image (from wiki) is hard to relate today from our comfortable offices with OHS protections, sick leave, holidays – things we now call basic entitlements. The men in this photo worked in the mines. They were low paid and not only did they not have healthcare but the companies they worked for were not required to be compliant with any safety laws as they are today. They would not have been paid if they were sick, in fact, if they couldn’t come to work they would have lost their job all together. At the time they marched for an 8 hour working day, they were actually working up to 16 hours a day.

The Mud March – Suffragettes Rally in 1907 (source http://www.iusboverseas.wordpress.com)

In 1907, over 3000 English Suffragettes marched 2 kms in the rain for women’s right to vote. The rally became known as the Mud March because of the weather. It was a crucial moment in time as women from all walks of life marched together for a common cause. The march proved to law makers that women of all classes supported and demanded the right to vote and had a pivotal impact of the success of the Suffragette movement.

An estimated crowd of 35,000–50,000 gathers near the Washington Monument on February 17, 2013 to protest the Keystone XL pipeline and support action on climate change. By Jmcdaid – https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=24758743

In response to rallies across the country and solidarity protests across the world, in 2015 President Obama blocked construction on the Keystone Pipeline XL. This protest happened many times in many different places and encompassed so many issues from the pipeline itself to environmental, social, financial and Indigenous. Due to the wide reaching impacts of the construction, the protests were big and loud which obviously drove their success. It’s unfortunate to think that an oaf like Trump is attempting to take away this hard fought win.

When I think of successful rallies I think of the French. From the French Revolution to the modern day anti-terrorism rallies, the French know how solidarity is done. They demand to be represented by their elected leaders rather than ruled by them and this is something that Australians would do well to understand.

French people rallying against IR law reform in 2016 – (c) Reuters/J.-P. Pelissier

It’s easy to roll through life with little care about what goes on behind the political curtain. Unfortunately if you leave the job of decision making to the megalomaniacs who infest governments, misery ensues for the majority of the population. See also: USA.

It’s easy enough to do nothing and focus on the day to day. It’s easy to ignore what happens to the less fortunate, or even what’s happening to you if it means not having to actually do something. It’s easy to make do and get on with things. It’s so easy to have a whinge and then sit back down to watch some X-Factor.

This is why I rally.

It’s difficult to believe that you can do something. It’s nearly impossible to think that one person can make a difference. But even a sea of people is only made up of single individuals. This is why rallies are so powerful and have such an impact. In this day and age where activism is reduced to a click of the mouse, actually getting out and doing is so important. Democracy is important.

This is why I rally.

I have attended rallies in support of refugees, animals, labour laws and marriage equality. I have attended rallies against racism, fascism and political oppression. I have been proud and empowered and I have also been disappointed when the result has not gone in my favour. But democracy is important to me.

This is why I rally.

I am a citizen of the world and I have opinions. I have the ability to educate myself, I can have open discussions and can believe in a cause. I have emotions and empathy and a conscience.

This is why I rally.

Do you rally?

                Why I Rally There's few things in life that get me excited more than a rally (think demonstration, not car racing).