By Paul Evans

Tom Cave is aiming to become British Rally Champion this year, when he contests all six rounds of the series in a Hyundai i20 R5, supplied and prepared by the PCRS team.

It’s a similar car to the one that Cave set some very impressive times in on last year’s Wales Rally GB, and he’ll start the series as one of the favourites for title success.

The 27-year old driver from Aberdyfi will be co-driven by Hirwaun’s Dale Bowen, and their campaign gets underway on the Visit Conwy Cambrian Rally on Saturday 16 February.

“We’ve been working hard behind the scenes to make this year happen, so I’m delighted that everything has come together just in time for the first round and I really have to thank everyone who is supporting me this season,” said Cave.

“Having been runner up in 2012 and 2016 and third in 2013, the British Championship is something I would really like to have on my CV, so it’s great to have the opportunity to challenge for the title this year.”

Support for the season comes from Trailhead Fine Foods, who teamed up Tom for last year’s Rally GB to launch their new Get Jerky range of snacks. Also continuing their backing from 2018 is HN Nuttall Foodservice, Atech Racing and Walero. Adding their names to the list of supporting partners are Michelin Motorsport and Hyundai Motorsport Customer Racing.

“Philip Case Rally Sport are supplying and running the car for the whole season. We worked very well together on Rally GB, so it makes complete sense to continue the association,” added Cave.

“I’m delighted to be back in a Hyundai and, after my previous outings in the i20, I feel very much at home in the car. With the upgrades that have been made to the car over the two years since I first drove it on the Pirelli Rally in 2017, I think we can really push for the title this year. I can’t wait to get started, especially as the first round is my home event!”