RALLY crews from across the county tested their skills and new partnerships ahead of competitive action resuming next season.

Four local crews joined the 45 car entry for the Santa's Sleigh Christmas Test event held last weekend on an old airfield at South Cerney.

With very little rallying anywhere in the UK these tests have proved very popular with competitors, the tests are run under full Covid-19 Government regulations.

The event offered competitors some 35 miles of asphalt roads around the airfield, with heavy overnight rain leaving the surface extremely slippery.

Tim Taylor took the opportunity to debut his new T2 Fabrication Ltd, Ian Evans Motorsport backed Peugeot 106.

This was the Hereford fabricators first introduction to rallying with the experienced Mike Jode in the co-drivers seat ahead of their competitive debut early next year.

"This was the first time I've driven the car in anger, and it was valuable seat time for me to learn the car and get used to Mike, the car ran faultlessly and its been a very good day so we can now look forward to our first event next year," Tim said.

Mini Cup front runner Ryan Taylor was another who used the day to get acquainted to a new co-driver in the shape of Leominster-based Lucy Wilding who brings vast experience to the team.

"We had a great day it allowed Lucy and myself valuable time together in the car which performed well, thanks to Tim and his team for organising this, our championship doesn't actually start until May so it gives me time to look for a bit of help with my budget," Ryan added.

Joining them was Ryan's dad Paul and sister Jemma in the other team Taylor Mini, these two also found the day a worthwhile exercise.

"That was great fun, it's just nice to be able to get back in the car once again." said Jemma

The test days have proved very popular and allowed people to get some much needed mileage under their belts ahead of a long awaited return to competitive motorsport at some point next year.