Motorsport UK's Resident Consultation Process Concludes
The resident consultation process for the Hills Ford Stages Rally has now concluded, and we’re delighted with the response.
We’d like to thank everyone who took the time to engage with the team and share their views, with nearly all of the responses recieved backing plans to bring the rally to the region.
Throughout the process, the team made a point of speaking directly with those most affected in each parish. Including householders, farmers and local businesses. Ensuring everyone had the opportunity to be heard, had access to advance information, and understood how organisers will work with residents throughout the rally weekend to keep them informed. The aim is to ensure residents feel they know what is happening, are supported, and are fully considered at every stage of the event.
This marks a key step in delivering an exciting motorsport festival for the region. One that not only showcases the sport at its best, but also provides a real boost to the local economy.
"We’d like to thank our team for their hard work on a daily basis to ensure the consultation process ran smoothly, and we’re incredibly grateful to local residents and businesses for their support and engagement. Your input has been invaluable in helping us plan an exciting and safe rally for the region." Dan, Clerk of the Course
Resident Information
Hills Ford Stages Rally Begins Resident & Business Liaison
The Hills Ford Stages Rally will soon will be going door to door visiting residents and businesses along the closed-road sections of our 19th -20th September 2026 event.
We’re also inviting parish councils and community groups in the areas hosting the rally to apply for charitable donations to support local community projects. We’re looking forward to highlighting the positives the rally brings to Shropshire — from extra trade for local pubs, cafés, and accommodation, to new opportunities for students and young people.
More info coming soon.
Eight Championships Confirmed for Hills Ford Stages 2026
The Hills Ford Stages is set for a strong 2026, with eight championships confirming support, from national contenders to historic and club-level series.
“The Hills Ford Stages will bring a wonderful new challenge and a fitting finale to the championship. Titles are up for grabs, making it an exciting showdown.”
“We’re delighted to finish our inaugural season on the Hills Ford Stages — it’s a very successful event in a new region.”
“Eight championships supporting the 2026 event is a real endorsement of the rally’s rebuild. We’re focused on delivering a challenging and rewarding rally for everyone involved.”
Watch the full videos
We’re delighted to welcome Damian Cole and Get Connected as a Stage Sponsor.
Watch the full videos
When Rally Touches Local People
Shrewsbury-based Lacey & Owen Architectural Services are joining the Hills Ford Stages Rally 2026 as a sponsor. Local support like this helps the rally connect with the community and inspire the next generation.
One of the most rewarding parts of organising the rally is when it reaches beyond motorsport and connects with local people. That’s exactly what happened when Mark Owen, MD, reached out, becoming one of the latest sponsors for 2026.
Mark said: “Rallying has always been a sport that I follow closely, I love the idea of rallying and the energy it brings. When I heard the news that the Hills Ford Stages where relocating to Shropshire it felt like a fantastic way to get involved in the event, and help provide a spectacle for the community I live and work in.”
The organisers are now working with Lacey & Owen to explore how their support can best fit within the rally’s wider outreach — whether that’s backing the Pathways and Get Involved programmes with local colleges and universities, or potentially sponsoring a stage. With so much happening behind the scenes, and Mark fully focused on running his practice, the team felt now was the right time to officially welcome them on board.
HAVE A LOOK AT THEIR SOCIAL MEDIA:
• www.laceyandowen.co.uk/
• www.instagram.com/laceyandowen
• www.facebook.com
Watch the full videos
Owen Motoring Club Supporting the Hills Ford Stages 2026
Cheltenham Motor Club is pleased to welcome Owen Motoring Club as part of the Hills Ford Stages team for 2026. With a history spanning more than six decades, OMC is a well-established and respected motor club, recognised for its involvement across a wide range of motorsport disciplines and its continued support of events at both club and national level.
Ludlow Castle Motor Club Joins Hills Ford Stages Rally
Cheltenham Motor Club is delighted to welcome Ludlow Castle Motor Club as a key supporter of the Hills Ford Stages Rally as the event moves into Shropshire for 2025. The LCMC are the first of a number of clubs they are talking, to join the rally’s team. Their local knowledge and behind-the-scenes support will play a vital role in ensuring the rally runs smoothly and safely in their area.
Cheltenham Motor Club Awarded Motorsport UK Sustainability Accreditation
Cheltenham Motor Club is proud to announce that the Hills Ford Stages Rally has been awarded Motorsport UK’s Sustainability Accreditation, recognising the Club’s ongoing commitment to environmental responsibility and innovation in event management.
This achievement also confirms that both the Club and the rally are now fully compliant with the Motorsport UK Sustainablity objectives, reinforcing our goal to lead by example in sustainable motorsport.
New Home, New Chapter: Hills Ford Stages Rally 2026
The Hills Ford Stages Rally is on the move! Backed by Hills Ford, the 2026 event will take place in Shropshire, featuring a ceremonial start in Shrewsbury, historic estate stages, and a route through the stunning Shropshire Hills. It’s a bold new chapter that combines top-level motorsport with community spirit and opportunity.
The Hills Ford Stages returns on 19–20 September 2026!
Two days of closed-road rally action, big plans for fans and volunteers, and plenty more news to come… 
Mark your calendars
More News Comming soon — you won’t want to miss it.
Hills Ford Continues as Title Sponsor for 2026 Hills Ford Stages
Hills Ford has confirmed its ongoing support as Naming Rights and Title Sponsor for the 2026 Hills Ford Stages, extending a partnership that has been central to the event’s success.
Organisers have been working hard on plans for 2026 (well in advance of this year’s postponed event) and have shared their exciting vision with Tim Hill, who is thrilled about the new stages, enhanced logistics, and expanded community programmes. ... Hills Ford’s continued backing ensures more challenging stages for competitors, increased support for marshals and volunteers, and ongoing promotion of careers and education in motorsport. The much-loved ceremonial start and finish, alongside planned fan experiences and opportunities for local businesses, are developing and evolving behind the scenes—shaping up to be something quite exciting that the organisers are looking forward to announcing very soon.
"The Hills Ford Stages has grown into an event that excites fans, supports volunteers, and benefits local communities," said Dan Lister, Clerk of the Course. "Having Hills Ford on board for 2026 gives us the confidence to expand the event further and build on our unique 'Get-Involved' programme, strengthening links with local communities and motorsport partners." This is backed by an experienced team of organisers who deliver safe, high-level championship rounds year after year.
Hills Ford’s support goes beyond providing vehicles and essential funding for this non-profit event, helping it run smoothly and safely. The dealership’s motorsport legacy stretches back to the 1970s, including connections with legends such as Ayrton Senna. Today, that legacy continues with Hills Ford’s active engagement in motorsport, supporting drivers, initiatives, and the wider community.
Tim Hill, MD of Hills Ford, added: "We’re thrilled to continue our support into 2026. The event is a highlight for us—not only for our passion for motorsport, but also for the positive impact it has on volunteers, local communities, and the regional economy. Each year, the organisers bring new challenges to competitors, testing their skills across spectacular and beautiful stages. We’re excited to be part of the next chapter as the event evolves and grows."
With Hills Ford’s partnership renewed, the Hills Ford Stages is set to build on its reputation as one of the UK’s premier closed-road events—driving tourism, supporting education and careers in motorsport, and inspiring the next generation.
