Radstock’s Ross Whittock finished the International Wales Rally GB, the final round of the World Rally Championship in a credible 24th position overall, co-driving the Ford Fiesta R5 for Jamie Anderson.
After struggling for the complete first day with no rear brakes, losing some six minutes in road penalties while carrying out roadside repairs, they fought back to mix times with fellow WRC2 international competitors during day two and three.
There were still surprises to come when they arrived at the finish podium in Llandudno, to be greeted by Rob Jones, Chief Executive of the Motor Sports Association, to be awarded with the ‘Best Newcomer Award’ for the highest placed crew in their first World Championship Rally, presented by the International Rally Drivers Club. Best Private Entrant Award and one other surprise, Ross picked up the Michael ‘Beef’ Park award for the highest placed British co-driver who was born on or after January 1991.