DROITWICH’S Tom Delaney paired up with experienced co-driver Brynmor Pierce for the Plains Rally through Wales' Dyfnant and Gartheiniog forests.

The pair got off to a good start through the first stage by setting the 44th quickest time out of 125 entries.

But on stage two bad luck struck the pair with a damper canister giving way and intermittent boost issues which meant the car was unpredictable to drive.

Nevertheless they battled on to the end of stage two still lying in 50th overall despite the issues.

Stages three and four were cancelled due to an incident involving another competitor which meant they were given notional times and headed back for service hoping to resolve the morning’s issues.

As the pair turned up to stage five they were faced with yet another delay.

When they finally began it was clear the morning’s issues were unresolved but they continued to battle on through to the end of stage six and decided to retire the car early to save it from any further damage.

“Despite the issues we faced throughout the day I feel I’ve gained lots of valuable seat time in the car which puts me in a good stead for our next event, the Nicky Grist Stages on July 14,” said Delaney.

Anyone interested in helping support the driver this season is asked to email Tom@svpmotorsport.co.uk.