MORE than 10,000 people are expected to flock to the Colwyn Bay promenade this October to catch the "secret beasts" of world championship rally driving.

Bryn Williams Porth Eirias has been revealed as the centre piece of a special stage at the upcoming Wales Rally GB (WRGB).

Although the full competitive route for this year's rally is yet to be unveiled, the newly minted 3 km route has been unveiled as part of the 'A World Apart' rebrand, which aims to bring the sport out of the forest to a more spectator friendly setting and a whole new fanbase. Fans of the sport and newcomers alike can also gain a sneak peak of what's to come on Saturday, October 5 as part of the Prom Xtra weekend this Saturday, May 11.

Alun Pritchard, WRGB partnerships manger and former Eirias High School pupil, said: "Bringing the sport to Colwyn Bay is part and parcel with the 'A World Apart' idea, in that these secret beasts that roam about in the gravel will be fully visible on the coast at a world class event with world class stars.

"It's brilliant to bring rally home to Colwyn Bay, at such a fantastic location with incredible such an incredible backdrop showcasing the coast."

This latest coastal route for the tournament - which is one of up to 14 rounds worldwide in the FIA World Rally Championship - will feature chicanes, a hairpin bend near the old pier and a donut at Porth Eirias.

This year's event, which is supported by the Colwyn BID and Conwy County Borough Council, will see the event's HQ relocate from Deeside to Llandudno, adding to the unprecedented access for coastal petrolheads to experience the excitement of the turbo charged sport.

"It's great, this special stage will be the pride of Colwyn Bay and builds on years of great response in North Wales." added Mr Pritchard.

Competing in the October event will be fellow former Eirias pupil and reigning British Rally champion Matt Edwards.

Mr Edwards said: "It's a great way for the sport to appeal to a younger, wider audience and a great way to bring the rally to people without them having to go into the forests."

North Wales Pioneer:

Chef Bryn Williams, Cheryl Williams of Colwyn BID, C0olwyn Bay mayor cllr Steve Williams, Conwy County Borough Council corporate events and communication manager Rachael Gill and Matt Edwards. Picture: Kerry Roberts

Also thrilled to welcome the speed test to their doorstep is celebrity chef Bryn Williams, whose restaurant car park will be used for a 'donut' portion of the route.

Mr Williams said: "As a rally fan, to come in to our own car park on our own street is amazing.

"I don't think I'll be do much work that day, I'll mostly be watching it from the roof. It really puts North Wales and Colwyn Bay on the map."

Adults tickets are £15 in advance, with free admission for under 15s, and are expected to go on sale later this month at walesrallygb.com.

Attendees of this week's Prom Xtra will have an early opportunity to purchase before general sale opens.