National Wyedean Rally

Sponsored for the first time by the Hyundai importers, the Forest of Dean MC’s Rally on February 7 was the first round of the BTRDA Gold Star Championship. This well-run event last year won the Bill Turner Trophy for being adjudged the best in a series of eight which counted towards the championship.

Large numbers of spectators watched, encouraged to use the official car parks in the forest, a ticket to all of which cost only £1.50 with proceeds going to charities. An entry of more than 150 cars was encouraging; they were competing over eleven interesting stages. one taken twice.

At Mallards Pike, with a long straight past the lake out of a right-hander, we were impressed by Stephenson’s Rover SD1, Ward’s noisy Ascona, and Richards’ powerslide in his 2.2-litre Sunbeam. Underhill’s Escort, running late, was also hurrying.

Callow’s RS2000, brakes squealing, was also quick; Davis’ Escort and Walls’ Lada displayed considerable tail-slides, and Lewis’ Astra GTE had minor rear-corner damage. Beddow’s Escort oversteered its way round and Stoneham’s Escort poured out noise, mud and smoke.

There was an interesting variety of cars for a well-supported rally. WB