WORCESTER'S leading rally driver, Jon Tainton, achieved his best result so far when finishing first in Group 'N' and eighth overall in the Wexford Stages Rally in Rosslare.

Only 83 finished from 143 starters and Tainton finished well ahead of anyone else in his own class -- his nearest opposition was four and a half minutes behind after the 130 stage miles.

Tainton's Mitsubishi Evo Five suffered no problems other than a minor off on the first stage of the rally which gave him worries when the steering was bent.

After the first day the Worcester driver was nearly three minutes ahead and, despite wet weather the following day, he increased his advantage to ensure his best result of the season.

Tainton's next event will be a club event based in Surrey on October 15t. When Jon's partner Joyce Uren takes to the co-driving seat.

"She has been a back seat driver all year, so I though it would be nice to give her the chance to see the action close up" said Tainton.

Meanwhile, Sixty & Worcestershire Motor Club's Off-Road Championship continued last weekend with a production car trial held at Callow End.

Dood Pearce was first overall, while Pete Yapp took the championship lead with a second place overall. He now leads the championship by 20 points from Alan Warburton who missed the latest round due to holidays.

First novice of the penultimate round of the championship was Michael Taylor who finished a creditable third overall.

Club members will also be busy this weekend with the penultimate round of the Heart of England Stage rally championship taking place at Chepstow.