Ruairi Bell and Aberystwyth co-driver Gareth Parry bounced back from disappointment in Round One of the Junior British Rally Championship to storm to a win in the Round Two Nicky Grist Stages.

The pair didn’t enjoy the best of results at the Neil Howard Stages in Oulton Park for a number of reasons, including a puncture, but produced a dominating performance to secure their maiden victory in the series.

The London driver with Welshman Parry sat next to him led the way for seven out of the eight stages to record their first ever win in the Championship to close the gap on leaders Kyle White and Sean Topping to eight points with five rounds remaining.

Motorsport UK Academy Co-driver Parry said: “First British Rally Championship win for us at the Nicky Grist Stages. Such a mature drive from Ruairi Bell Rally Team throughout the day, using everything we learnt from testing and having a great battle with William Creighton.

“A massive thanks to Matt Edwards – professional rally driver/coach and the fantastic team that we have around us this year. Faultless.

“Also a massive thanks to our sponsors this year, marshals and Quinton Motorclub for running such a great event.”

Bell said: “I’m extremely happy to be working with a fantastic team who have risen to the challenges already this year and continue to perform.

“My partners, especially Protec Temporary Protection, are fundamental in facilitating our fast progression and I’m grateful to everyone on this journey with me.”

The next event is the Grampian Forest Stages in Scotland on 14 August.