Third place for David Higgins

Manxman David Higgins claimed third place in the opening round of British Rally Championship - the Pirelli International – in Carlisle.

Leading his own team driving a Subaru Impreza, he made it onto the podium behind winners, defending Champion Guy Wilks and Phil Pugh, and the Finnish duo of Juho Hanninen and Mikko Markkula, who produced a fine debut showing to take second place.

However, there was disappointment for David’s brother Mark who crashed out on stage 10 with engine problems.

Completing the Manx contingent was co-driver Rob Fagg who, along with Wynn Humphries, took ninth place.