Bradford rally enthusiast Barry Tottie will plaster his car with 100 advertising stickers so he can fulfill his dream of competing in a top competition.

The 28-year-old from Institute Road, Eccleshill has spent hours writing to scores of companies asking for sponsorship.

After gaining his rally licence from Silverstone, and with no experience behind him, the rookie driver is confident about making an impact when he makes his debut in the BTRDA Rally Championship in March, competing on the North Humberside Forest Stages, near Scarborough.

Tottie doesn't expect to make any headlines but at least he'll be in one of around 150 cars taking part.

"Four months ago I was no more than a keen enthusiast of the sport, always dreaming of having a go one day.

"Then I decided to give it a shot. I saw a car racing round Le Mans covered in stickers and I thought that is how I could raise £2,000.

"I am selling 100 names on the car for £20 each. That will include a photo of the car in action on the rally.

"Most rally drivers just have a couple of big company names on their vehicles. I'll have 100 names on mine." And Tottie is half way there already but he said: "It is a slow process which involves sending out hundreds of emails and letters and getting back a handful of positive responses."

Various firms, ranging from a removal firm to a restaurant, have agreed to be sponsors.

He added: "I am looking forward to the rally. I have no competitive experience at all but I have got to know the Silverstone course and learned new skills. This is nothing like road driving.

"I have to admit it is a massive step from being an enthusiast to actually taking part in a big competition.

"These days you have to obtain your rally licence before you are allowed to compete.

"I am not trying to be Colin McRae straight away. I will be competing against good, experienced drivers but I am confident I will be able to compete.

"You are up against the clock and obviously I will be competing in one of the lower classes."

Tottie will hire his rally car - probably a Vauxhall Astra - complete with co-driver from TI Motorsport of Henley on Thames.

Anyone interested in taking out a £20 advertisement on Barry Tottie's car can contact him on 07960 326144.