DAVID Bateson's debut run on the Jim Clark Rally was rewarded with a hat-trick of runner-up awards.

The 22-year-old Barrowford driver finished second in the Volkswagen Polo Challenge, the Memorial Trophy, and class C3.

"It's definitely our best result of the season, and we've never been on the rally before, even as spectators!" said a delighted Bateson, who had regular co-driver Daniel Barritt, from Hapton, alongside.

"We weren't really pushing that hard, but the stages are good. They are similar to the ones on the Tour of Mull, very technical and very fast, and they suited our car."

Although Neil Buckley dominated the Polo Challenge, Bateson and Barritt ran the Scotsman a very close second, with the PowerZone-prepared car finishing just 30 seconds behind at the Duns finish.

The pair completed an impressive Volkswagen 1-2 in the C3 class, well-ahead of some potentially much quicker cars.

And Bateson's team manager, PowerZone of Padiham boss Daniel Harper enjoyed his first outing of the year, teaming up with Brierfield's Chris Campbell to claim an excellent 13th overall and second in class on the National event.

With the top 12 monopolised by Audi Quattros, Metro 6R4s, and Mitsubishi Lancers, their 2-litre Vauxhall Astra finished five seconds down the Subaru Impreza of Barry Johnson.

"I think he just got fed up of chasing round after me and decided to get some practice in before the Tour of Mull!" said Bateson.