Dave Brick heads Chris Powell for 1400 victory

Despite a significant fall off in numbers over the past two seasons, the 1400 category still throws up close competition and at the Woodpecker Rally, Dave/toby Brick (Vauxhall Nova) fought out a classic duel with Chris Powell/ Jim Lewis (Talbot Sunbeam), winning by six seconds.

Despite both drivers having nonfinishes during the season their machines stayed reliable and were well-matched throughout the six stages. Powell drew first blood and opened a three-second gap on the opening loop. At first service he announced that with only a fourspeed gearbox he had been on the rev limiter for most of both stages.

Brick immediately fought back through Wigmore and Haye Park, taking a two-second lead into the final loop on a rally where he can see the service park from his farm. He settled the issue by going 11s faster through Hopton, helped when Powell’s starter motor began to play up and ultimately forced the crew to push their car over the Ludlow finish ramp.

Third place went to Ed Fossey, who made the long trip from Jersey very worthwhile. Co-driven by Chris Sharpe-simkiss, the Toyota Yaris pairing felt they were off the pace of the leaders but nevertheless stuck to the task and now lead the 1400 standings. Brick took the 1400S class win, while Rob and Michael Evett took 1400C in their MG ZR, and still have a score to take and could take the class title on the Trackrod Rally.