Castle Combe Circuit has seen an increase in its Racing School Driving Experiences compared to the same period in 2013.

Christmas is always a strong period for the sale of driving experience gift vouchers at the Wiltshire race circuit but circuit managers hope their popularity will continue into 2014.

Jo Sparrow, marketing and events manager, said: "Very early reports are favourable and we're hoping that this early increase in sales shows a genuine turnaround in our Racing School Driving Experiences.

"The economic downturn of recent years has dented overall sales slightly but, with Christmas and early 2014 figures showing a positive return, we're hoping for this to be a sign of things to come.

"We have kept our rates constant for the last five years swallowing both the VAT rate increase and the increase in fuel prices.

"Sadly fuel prices are continuing on their upward trend and it has become necessary to put rates up from January 31."

Vouchers can be bought at the 2013 rate until January 30 and are valid for 12-months from date of purchase.

The Startline Young Driver Experiences for 12 to 16-year-olds offers the 'first drive' experience in a closed paddock environment. 

Startline even gives students the opportunity to drive on the international race circuit at Castle Combe, speed limit regulated.

For the more experienced driver with a current UK driving licence, visitors can try Racing School Driving Experiences.

The team of experienced Castle Combe instructors - many of who are current or ex-racing drivers themselves - will demonstrate how best to drive the circuit with the secret of racing lines, turn-in points and more explained.

It is then the turn of the novice race drivers to take to the track in one of the fleet of Racing School cars that the circuit provides.

Full details on driving experiences at Castle Combe Circuit can be found at www.castlecombecircuit.co.uk or call (01249) 782417.