PETROL heads are heading for the forests around Dorset and Hampshire today as the Rallye Sunseeker gets underway in earnest.

Following scrutineering at the BIC yesterday and a ceremonial start at Poole Quay last night, the cars turn their wheels in anger today, with 11 gravel stages in the countryside around Ringwood, Wareham and Ferndown.

For the second year running the event, organised by Southern Car Club, is the opening round of the 2012 MSA British Rally Champion-ship, and there are more miles of stages to enjoy this time around.

One big highlight for spectators today will be visits to Somerley Park near Ringwood for morning and afternoon runs.

As well as being a great place to watch the cars at high speed, there will also be attractions including a motor fair, live commentary and big screen TVs.

Somerley will host two high-speed special stages, scheduled for 10.49am and 2.29pm, and afterwards it will be the venue for the finish and awards ceremony of the Historique category, in which classic rally cars will compete.

Rally director Rick Smith said: “It’s a perfect setting for an event like this with its natural beauty and access. The motor fair has grown into a vital part of Rallye Sunseeker and this year’s Vale Motors Experience will, I am sure, prove to be a huge hit.”

The rally’s winners will be crowned on Bournemouth seafront at around 5.30pm.

Yesterday fans got their chance to see the rally crews and cars up close at the BIC.