Think of Britain's most famous racing tracks and the likes of Silverstone and Brands Hatch spring to mind.

But if motor sport enthusiasts have their way Keighley could soon be added to the list, albeit on a much smaller scale.

Model stock car racers in this area are looking to create one of the finest miniature racing tracks in the country at Marley, and bring back the roar of engines and smell of burning rubber back to the pit lane.

The move also marks a return to where it all began for members of Keighley and District Model Engineers Northern Oval Racing Affiliation (NORA), which has a 30-year history as chequered as a finishing flag.

Long standing member Richard Sagar, from Barnoldswick, explains: "We originally started off at Marley and developed the racing circuit inside the railway track used by Keighley Model Railway Engineers.

"The club then moved to Barnoldswick, and after a couple of years we were offered the chance to develop a track at the Michelin factory in Burnley. We spent £11,500 on making it one of the best tracks in the country, but when the factory closed we lost everything.

"With the demise of Michelin we decided to come home last year, and we have begged, stolen and borrowed to get the track at Marley back to a racing standard.

"We are trying to bring the track up to European and world-class standard and to make it the best in the country, even if it might take a few thousands pounds and three or four years of work."

Creating a circuit fit for champions would be apt for NORA, which already has a genuine champion in its ranks.

At the tender age of 15, Steve Woodend is already the current junior British and world champion.

The cars raced are one-eighth scale models fitted with 3.5cc engines that put out 2.3bhp, accelerating the mini rockets to their top speed of 60mph faster than a Ferrari and enabling them to lap the 72m Marley circuit in a matter of seconds.

Sutton-based club chairman Mike Mellor says the sport appeals to both young and old of both sexes because of the friendliness between racers and the relatively low costs involved.

He says: "The racing is as competitive as real stock car racing, but we have a family orientated atmosphere and our motto is never be afraid to ask because people are always willing to help you out."

The club is holding an open day on April 6 at Marley, where it will welcome Silsden's Formula 1 stock car champs Frank Wainman and his son Frankie, who will be bringing along their full size 700bhp machines.

Members of the public with their own radio controlled cars are welcome to come along and use the track on the day.

The club has also expressed its thanks to Bront Models, Keighley Model Engineers, Skipton Ford, Anderson Aggregates, Aire Valley Tarmacing, Frank Barrett's and Doughty Brooks.

For more information phone Richard Sagar on 01282 817240 or Mike Mellor on 01535 636662.