A ONE-EIGHTH of a mile strip of tarmac leading up to a stately home seems an unlikely motorsport venue.

But this Sunday, over 100 competitors from all over the country will contest the Hoghton Tower Sprint.

The annual event sees motorcycles of all ages, vintage, classic and modern, accelerating up the driveway of Hoghton Tower, the ancestral seat of the de Hoghton Family.

And due to the increasing popularity, organisers Marshals North West have decided to put on two Sprint meetings this year.

“Last year was a record-breaker, from the number of spectators to the times being set,” said Melissa Westwood, Hoghton Tower’s events manager.

“The entry list for Sunday filled within days and we’re already three-quarters full for our September 26 meeting.

“The sight, the smell and the sound of machines being tested to their limits makes it a competition like no other.”

The event sponsors, Kawasaki and MV dealers, Motorcycle Centre Orrell, will be on hand to show the latest range of machines. There is also a demonstration of the latest MV Superbike by former BSB rider Lee Longden, from Burnley.

l Hoghton Tower is located on the A675 between Preston and Blackburn. Practice starts from 10am and competitive runs from 1pm. Admission £8 adults, children free.