Cinderford’s Jason Morgan opened up his 2015 rally campaign with a fine second in class on the weekends Wyedean Rally based in Chepstow.

After overnight rain left the stages in treacherous slippery conditions, the new pairing of Jason and North Wales’ Dan Nieroda set off in the Winner Garage backed Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution with an aim of getting to the half way service with no problems.

“The stages were so slippery this morning, grip was so inconsistent we had a few moments including hitting a bump and landing in the ditch flat out in fifth. Luckily we were able to keep the power down and carry on.” Said Jason, lying 18th overall after four of the eight stages in the Forest of Dean.

With one of the best entries seen on a round of the BTRDA and Pirelli Welsh Rally Championship, Jason was keen for a strong showing and with conditions getting better a push was on for the afternoon to try and improve their positions.

More consistent grip was found in the afternoon loop, and finding a good rhythm with the car and the pace notes, the Lydbrook AutoSpray backed Evo found its way in the top 16 by the end of the day as the crew returned to Chepstow Race Course. “The afternoon went really well, and we had a great battle in class, luckily getting the second place after a close battle.” Said a jubilant Jason at the race course on Saturday evening.

Sadly for the Winner Garage Rally Team though, Bob Morgan retired at the half way stage after turbo issues hampered the performance of his and Adie Williams Skoda Fabia. Not wanting to cause more serious damage to the engine the crew retired after putting in a good performance, lying 17th at the halfway point.

Next up for Jason and Dan, is the second round of the Pirelli Welsh Rally Championship, the Mid-Wales Stages on March 1st.