IT'S a little daunting being in a Range Rover teetering on the edge of a 45-degree hill -especially when you are behind the wheel.

The downhill view, stretching a few hundred yards, ended with rocks and trees and even a water jump for horses.

Slipping the Range Rover into first gear, I nudge it over the precipice, listening to the advice from instructor Barrie Garton.

He is secretary of the North of England All-Rover Rally, which will take place near Stanley, County Durham, this weekend.

He agreed to give me an insight into the increasingly popular pastime of off-roading, which will be ably demonstrated by hundreds of people expected at the event.

In four-wheel drive and in the lowest gear, I take my feet off the pedals and trundle down at 5mph, nudging the steering wheel slightly to maintain the direction.

The return journey is more exhilarating. I stick the vehicle in third and floor the accelerator, roaring back to the summit.

With my confidence up, I have a second go, but manage to stall it on my second upward journey, a bit of an off-road faux pas I should imagine.

Then the most difficult bit -looking over my shoulder as I reverse down the slope, the Range Rover feeling like it could tip over at any time.

It was a fantastic experience and, backwards or forwards, it beats my battered Vauxhall Cavalier anyday.

This weekend, the event hosts two off-road courses for 4x4 Land Rovers, and all Rover owners are invited, together with the public, to watch the off-road drivers and to see displays and trade stands.

There is a competition for the oldest vehicle, best car and the best off-roader.

The rally is held from 9am to 5pm today and tomorrow at West Hedley Farm, Tanfield, near Stanley.

Entry is £3 for adults and £1.50 for children.