A new competition aimed at discovering the next top female rally driver has been launched.

Silverstone Rally School's Rally W has a prize of a fully funded rally in one of the school’s fleet of Nissan Micras.

The winner will also be given three half-day training sessions and a free BARS test.

Dave Paveley, managing director, said: "Silverstone Rally School runs a successful arrive and drive rally team, and we would like to build on this foundation and attract more novice drivers through into the sport.

"The winner will be picked on a high level of driving skills alongside all of the attributes required to thrive in sport today, which include social media skills, a great aptitude and enthusiasm."

The competition requires entrants to hold a full driving licence and not have held a Motorsport UK Race or Rally competition licence before.

Izzie Holman, sales and marketing manager, added: "At Silverstone Rally School we’re all mad about rallying so any chance to get more people into our sport is a chance we leap at."

Jonathan Jackson, head of rallying at Motorsport UK, said: "It's great to see the launch of an initiative such as this - I’m looking forward to following the progress of all the applicants and welcoming them into our fantastic sport."

Selection days will occur during the summer months, culminating in finals in early autumn this year.