A HOST of celebrities will be revving their engines on the starting grid at Brands Hatch before they set off on the world famous Beaujolais Driving Challenge 2004 (BDC) this Tuesday (November 16).

They include Vicki Butler-Henderson (5th Gear), Sophie Blake (Sky Sports), Jason Dawe (The Times), Mike Brewer (Wheeler Dealers), Lee McKenzie (ITV Speed Sunday) and Mark Evans (A Bike is Born).

Everyone is invited to take on the challenge to win the coveted BDC Trophy, from classic car owners to family saloon drivers, car enthusiasts, wine buffs and those with a "spirit of adventure".

The BDC is a test of navigation skills. The event sets competitors the task of driving to Mâcon, in the heart of Beaujolais country, in the shortest possible distance - rather than the fastest time - via a series of secret checkpoints, in time for the release of the latest Beaujolais Nouveau.

New for 2004 will be the inclusion of a celebrity leg, where the five celebrity cars will be driven from a central London landmark, before joining in with the other teams at Brands Hatch for the rest of the trip.

Mission accomplished, the teams are then wined and dined in true French style, before joining in the local celebrations and fireworks at the traditional Beaujolais Release Fete in Beaujeu.