RALLY ace Elfyn Evans is pushing to close the 2015 FIA World Rally Championship with a strong result at this weekend’s Wales Rally GB.

The M-Sport driver grew up on the Welsh stages, and the Gartheinog test runs just five miles from his home.

At his side, co-driver Daniel Barritt has more than a decade’s worth of experience in Wales, and the pairing will be looking to make the most of that knowledge.

“It’s always nice to end the season at home and Wales Rally GB has a fantastic atmosphere,” said Evans.

“The crowd really gets behind us and I’m really looking forward to experiencing some of the best stages in the world for the second time driving in a World Rally car.

“We had a good run to fifth place last year and I want to at least equal that this year.

“The competition will be strong, with a lot of drivers all gunning for the podium positions - but if everything is perfect then I think we’re more than capable of challenging for a strong result.”

After the ceremonial start in Llandudno on Thursday, the focus will be firmly on the driving from Friday.

There are three stages in the legendary forests of mid-Wales to the east of Aberystwyth, each tackled twice, with a regroup in Newtown.

The demanding 20-mile timed section through the renowned Hafren Forest is followed by the shorter Sweet Lamb stage, and the third of Friday’s tests sees the return of the famous Myherin stage, rated by many as one of their favourites on the entire WRC calendar.

At midday Evans, who was lying in fifth position, said that the wet conditions were proving to be very challenging.

"The conditions are really tricky but it’s been an okay morning from us," said Evans.

"It’s not perfect as I’ve been a little hesitant in places but still a fairly solid run. The car has been okay – I have a bit of understeer but I think a lot of people are having the same issue in these conditions.

"It’s going well so far and we’ll see what we can do over the second pass."