EAST LANCASHIRE’S Daniel Barritt and Elfyn Evans secured a career-best World Rally Championship result by finishing an outstanding second overall at the Tour de Corse in Corsica.

It was their first encounter with the island’s unique roads, but they performed superbly – securing their second podium of the season as well as M-Sport’s third top-three finish and best result of the year.

“We’re delighted with the result. Coming here for the first time and seeing how tough the conditions were going to be, I never imagined that we’d be leading the rally by such a strong margin,” said Evans. “It was a bit of a nice surprise to say the least, and I’m glad that we were able to bring home such a strong result for the team because they really do deserve it. We have done a lot of work since Germany and it’s just great to see that it all paid off.

“A big thanks to the team and also to the gravel crew who did a fantastic job all weekend. And thanks also to everyone who has been sending in their messages of support. I haven’t read them all yet, but I will certainly find time to do that before Spain.”

It was a coming-of-age performance from the young Welshman and his Barrowford co-driver who stormed into the lead of the rally on day one.

The speed tests had been hammered by heavy storms and the challenging conditions knocked the leading drivers off their rhythm – but not Evans. Hooking up the perfect stage, he claimed a stage victory some 30 seconds faster than his rivals.

The pairing continued to hold the lead at Saturday’s midday service, but a resurgent Jari-Matti Latvala could not be halted and the Brits were relegated to second – albeit a mere two seconds adrift of the lead.

Despite having to concede the victory, Evans and Barritt put in a stunning performance, proving that they have the credentials to challenge the best in the world.