Motor rally enthusiasts are gearing up for a major event in Oxford after city councillors gave it the green light.

First Motorsport, based in Great Tew, near Chipping Norton, is planning the Oxford Rally for November, 2001, as part of the Rally Masters Series.

More than 120 customised cars will congregate on a starting grid in St Giles, before heading out for circuits at Blenheim, Cornbury, and Legoland at Windsor.

The event is expected to boost takings for local businesses and bring tourists and rally fans to the area.

Yesterday, councillors at the strategy and resources committee agreed to give the two-day event their backing, provided they didn't have to provide any funding.

First Motorsport's managing director Andy Moss said: "The Oxford Rally will be one of a number of rounds in the series which take in venues including Wrexham, Carlisle, Cardiff and Kent.

"There will be a rally show where the public can meet the drivers and meet the teams and we are looking for a suitable venue outside Oxford.

"We are trying to provide an event to suit manufacturers and their requirements and provide a platform for young talent.

"We also want to re-position rallying to make it an event for all the family."

Green councillor Mike Woodin warned that organising traffic regulation orders would eat into officers' time, but the event was approved.

Competitors will drive at normal speeds on 250 miles of the region's roads and then drive on 60 miles of circuits.