HEREFORDSHIRE Motor Club members Darren and Sue Underwood took an outright victory in their car rally over the asphalt roads of the Epynt ranges in their 1,600cc yellow Nova.

A strong entry of 80 crews faced the 45 competitive miles in Powys, Wales, with several well capable of a win and a strong battle commenced from the first of the nine stages.

The Underwoods competed with Bryan Davies/Alun Lewis (Mitsubishi Evo 6), Nigel Gibbard/David Jones (Darrian T90), Richard Merriman/Kath Curzon (Darrian T90), George Mackey/Simon Hunter (Evo 6) and Wyn Hughes/Elgan Davies (Escort).

After stage five, 31 seconds separated the top five with a slender advantage from Gibbard and Jones, but the Underwoods were on a charge and eventually won by 30 seconds.

“My first rally win was brilliant,” said Darren as he dedicated the success to the memory of his father who passed away recently.

The winners clocked 42 minutes 51 seconds, ahead of Davies/Lewis (43.21) and Merriman/Curzon (43.45).

Due to event regulations, Rob and Laura Tout were not eligible for an overall position but won their class in 43.21.

Worcester’s John Read brought his Peugeot 205GTi home in 16th position, navigated by Rob Hansford from Bartestree. Phil Skipp, of Bromyard, finished 37th in his Astra.

Hereford’s Apex Motor Parts sponsored the event for the second consecutive year.