Yes, it does seem hard to believe. However, whilst the event has turned a corner, and is a success - let's be blunt, it's still pretty much invisible. If the organisers want to attract more people to the sport ( and gain greater exposure for associated sponsors, etc) , then they need to move the event around the country. It's not exactly rocket science. Where the sponsorship/ funding comes from is another matter.
And Fast Eddie is right; a stage in Liverpool could be great. This year has seen RedBull Drifters which pulled in a massive crowd - and this weekend' The Giants', which brought the city to a standstill (so I'm told, I was at RallyGB). Back in 1986 on the RAC, there was an overnight halt at the Albert Dock.