THE 1999 Philips Tour of Mull looks set to celebrate its 30th anniversary in style - with a showpiece spectator stage through the streets of Tobermory.

Approval for the unique one-mile long test in the rally's host town has been gained after a public meeting was held on the island between the organisers- the 2300 Club of Blackburn - and local residents.

"We've wanted to run a stage through Tobermory for years, and this seemed a perfect way to mark 30 years of the Tour of Mull," explained Nigel Worswick, clerk of the course.

"Although it's only a mile long, it should be a fantastic atmosphere. The section around the harbour will be like a mini Monte Carlo."

The legendary closed road stage rally, due to held held on October 15-17, will follow a similar night-day-night format as in previous years, but the Saturday afternoon section will break new ground.

The Gribun and Scridain stages will be run in daylight for the first time in the event's 30-year history. Sponsored again by Philips, this year's Tour of Mull boasts 180-stage miles, representing one of the toughest rally challenges in the UK. "The Mull is longer than any Mintex national rally and is equal to most British Championship events," added Worswick.

"It's an incredibly tough event to do, which in part explains its popularity.

"We have a maximum of 150 starters, and expect to be well-oversubscribed. There are several previous winners proposing to compete, including Mull legend George Hill, who won the inaugural rally.

"Last year's winner Callum Duffy is rumoured to be making the transition from his trusty Mk II Escort to four-wheel-drive turbocharged machinery to maintain his challenge to nine times winner Neil Mackinnon."

Regulations for the 1999 Tour of Mull are available from: Rally secretary Peter Kenyon, 21 Glendale Avenue, Mellor. 01254 813556.

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