STEVE Entwistle heads for North Yorkshire this weekend in the chase for the HRCR Clubmans Championship.

The Rishton-based rallyman finished top Mini and seventh overall on the last month’s opener, The Tour of Cheshire.

But Entwistle and navigator Bob Hargreaves will be hoping the extra power – which comes courtesy of sponsors Mini Sport of Padiham – will be a key factor.

Mini Sport built a new 1293cc motor for the new season, boosting output from the 70bhp that his original 997cc engine gave, to 100 bhp.

“Most of the tests are long airfield tests, so hopefully, the extra grunt should make a difference,” said Entwistle.

“But like the Tour of Cheshire, we’ll be going for a top 10 finish and a bagful of points.”

The fifth running of the North Yorkshire Classic sees a capacity entry contesting a day of regularities and 12 special tests. The event starts from The Mercure Fairfield Manor Hotel, north of York (MR 105/570557) and crews will use Duncombe Park and Tholthorpe airfield as well as several new venues.

For more information visit www.yorkmotorclub.org.uk