A DOLLAR woman is eager to make up for lost time as the rally driver gets back behind the wheel once again.

Ashleigh Morris has spoken of her excitement for the upcoming championship after coronavirus caused a long lay-off from the sport.

She had just completed the MotorSport News (MSN) circuit rally championship in March when the country went into lockdown.

But, with some changes in place, the sport was able to return – though the experience is a far departure from the pre-Covid era.

"It's very different," Ashleigh told the Advertiser. "Obviously, we've now got to have face coverings on in the car because there's two of us in the car – driver and co-driver – so you've got to have your balaclava over your mouth and nose or wear your mask while you're in the car.

"Also, a lot of the events are non-spectator because there's quite big crowds usually and we're also limited to the number of people we can bring.

"Previously you might bring some friends and family along whereas now a lot of events are limiting you to four people so you have driver, co-driver and then two mechanics or service crew to run the car and that's it."

Before lockdown the Clacks driver had been in fine form, with an impressive showing in last year's MSN championship.

She said: "We finished second in our class so that was brilliant. Obviously because of coronavirus, there was a six-month lull because we couldn't get out.

"I did an event a few weeks back and I've got another one on October 31, which are both non-championship rounds.

"Then, from November 1, I'll be doing the first few rounds of MotorSport News circuit championship again.

"I just can't wait, really," she added. "Over the winter last year we were doing events every second weekend, so to not do one for six months was tough,

"It's just great to be back doing what I love."

With the new season just a few weeks away, Ashleigh is confident of reaching the same heights as last time, if not better.

She's also looking ahead and hopes that there will be more opportunity to compete in 2021.

Ashleigh said: "An event was planned in France, but with quarantine restrictions in place it makes things more difficult.

"We're hoping next year things get a bit easier and we can get back to normal."