FEW of us could resist the chance of driving, wind rushing through our hair, through some of the country's most stunning countryside in a classic British sports car.

And now we can - thanks to a new company which is giving its customers the chance to do justice to the beauty of the Dales in a novel way.

Dales Classic Car Hire, based near Gargrave, has been started by Piers Leigh, who says he has been deeply interested in classic and vintage cars since he was a young boy helping out in his father's car workshop.

The firm has four original classic models from the 60s and 70s - an MGB Roadster Mk III, a Morgan Plus 4, MG Midget and a Triumph Stag, currently being restored - in which to indulge that desire for a stylish spin through stunning scenery.

Says Piers: "I have restored and sourced many classic and vintage cars over the last 30 years, especially for enthusiasts in Japan and the US, and raced them too, so have always had a professional interest allied to a wonderful hobby.

"The combination of cars of the highest quality and the beauty of the Dales is a very powerful one, and interest has far exceeded my original expectations.

"There is something about sports cars of this era which really excites people - one man told me he had always longed to drive an MGB sports because his maths teacher had one and he thought that made him really cool!

"One of my main reasons for starting Dales Classic Car Hire was that I constantly come across family, friends and friends of friends who know what I do and would really love to have a drive in a proper British sports car, but for various reasons they haven’t reached the stage of actually owning one yet. These are top quality cars but also very easy to drive."

Piers says that he was aware from the start that some of his customers would be familiar with the Dales and its most iconic spots, but that many more would not.

To that end, he has designed several routes which showcase the best of the area. There has already been interest from potential customers in Scandinavia and Japan.

He said: "Everyone is, of course, free to drive the cars wherever they want, but I thought people unfamiliar with the area would appreciate some helpful hints.

"I have designed several routes taking in the best of the Dales which I hope will give people all the ingredients of a perfect day out.

"I have started to build links with various local businesses by highlighting places of interest and also places to stop for a cup of tea, lunch and also places to stay along the routes."

Further information is available on Dales Classic Car Hire's website dalesclassiccarhire.com or by telephoning 01729 531228.