Yes, motorsport is sodding expensive... But worth every penny IMHO!
Given your location, have you thought about the NW Sports & Saloons?
http://www.barc.net/regional_centres...west/champ.php
I have no connection, but used to do a similar championship called the NSSCC which is based around Croft. Friendly paddock, run whatever car you like, no big egos (generally) and minimal contact. Oh, one more piece of advice... Buy a pre-built car rather than preparing one yourself! It will be thousands cheaper and a lot less of a PITA in the long run, so long as you look at a few and get a good 'un. I picked up an ex-one make championship Rover 216 GTi a few months back for £1700, and with it now fettled and race ready it stands me in at less than £2500 - you couldn't built it for less if you ask me
