Tour Britannia - 17th/19th June 2011

Congratulations to John Clark and Emma-Jane Gilbart-Smith who staved off strong opposition in their Porsche 911 to win the 2011 Tour Britannia. Among those hot on their heels was the well driven Porsche RSR of Chip Conner, co-driving for former F1 and Indy 500 winner Danny Sullivan , eventually finishing second, followed by former Tour winner Nick Whale co-driving in Phillip Walker's fixed head E Type Jaguar, just ahead of brothers Phil and Mick Squires in their Escort RS 1600 BDA.

In the Regularity Category, seasoned campaigners, John Ruston and Jeremy Haylock driving their ex works team Talbot 105 did well to resist a sustained three-day challenge from Tour first timers, Steve and Tony Graham in their pristine Lancia Fulvia 1300, finally taking victory by just over one minute.

As well as being a successful rally co-driver, Tony is of course honorary secretary of the IRDC.

Popular opinion rated the 2011 Tour Britannia as the toughest yet, following a well conceived route from its Celtic Manor base which combined such classic tarmac venues as Pembrey, Castle Combe, Prescott and Silverstone, with special stages on Epynt, Caerwent, Cwmcarn, Bryn Bach, Badminton, Weston Woods and Tusmore Park.

Attracting over 70 truly international quality cars and crews this year, the Tour continues to grow in stature and has well and truly established itself on the UK's motor sport calender. Plans for the 2012 event are already being eagerly awaited.

20th June, 2011