Controversial rally begins - what you need to know

A two-day Hills Ford Stages Rally is set to begin in Shropshire on Saturday, bringing closed-road racing to the county after months of planning—and renewed backlash from nearby residents. Organizers say the event will feature top-level rally action, draw thousands of spectators and boost the local economy, but some residents, businesses and parish councils want it canceled or rerouted due to disruption. The festival starts in Shrewsbury town centre with about 150 rally cars around Claremont Street, then racing moves to Weston Park on the Staffordshire border. Friday’s centre viewing is free, while tickets to Weston Park cost £10 in advance or £15 on the gate, with under-16s free. On Sunday, five timed closed-road stages run in locations including Cressage and Clee Hill, with road closures and designated viewing areas.