Barritt so excited by challenge of new car

The professional co-driver from Barrowford has spent the last few weeks testing the Ford Fiesta R5 alongside promising Welsh driver Elfyn Evans.

“It is a new generation of car and I’m really excited,” said Daniel.

“We’ve been involved in the testing and development of the car from the start, it was quite a vigorous testing programme but we are nearly there now.

“It is quite a responsibility taking a new car into a rally but we are both looking forward to the challenge.

“Hopefully, we can go really well.”

The pair made their World Rally Series debuts at the World Rally-2 Championships in Portugal in April, racing against Robert Kubica, the ex-Formula One star.

Barritt, a member of Clitheroe and District Motor Club, said: “With the development of the new car, the first half of the season has been quiet, but it is going to be really busy for the rest of the year.”

Barritt and Evans were running second to 2012 Finnish Rally Championship winner Esapekka Lappi in Portugal when they were unluckily forced to retire.

“We’ve no worries about competing against the big names, we are as good as our rivals,” he said.

“This is a big year and I’m working with one of the top young drivers in Britain so I think there are exciting times ahead.

“It is all about getting the recognition for what we do in the car, and gaining that experience.”

Barritt admits the Rally of Finland is one of the most difficult tests in the world.

“I’ve competed in the race before, and I’ve not got great memories of going there, but hopefully I can have a change of fortunes with a new car to race with,” added Daniel.

“Technically, it is a big test with a lot of blind crests and hidden jumps.

“You can be doing between 80 and 100 mph, and suddenly you can hit a crest, and your positioning and speed has to be perfect.

“There is no margin for error, but we are both looking forward to it.

“Hopefully we can get a win under our belt this year.”