Rookie is local first-timer at Woodpecker Rally

Dom Scott has just turned 18 and his rallying career is off to a flying start with success in the Junior Rally Championship.

He was the youngest ever competitor rallying in Latvia, and the youngest competitor in the BTRDA Rally Series last year.

The Woodpecker Rally will be another first for Scott – his first time competing in his local event. Co-driver Ludlow-based James Bailey will help find extra seconds over the competition.

"I can't wait to get out in the woods this weekend. Haye Park, Bringewood and Radnor all have such a reputation and I've loved growing up around the woods," Scott said.

"Being my home event will obviously be a big boost. I'll have a lot of friends and family out watching and I'll be hoping to put on a good show and bring home a great result.

"Obviously I'm not registered for championship points as budget has been the issue this year but learning as many of the stages as possible is the ultimate goal, with the intention to put a full championship campaign on next year."

Scott has been working with 2006 BTRDA 1400 Champion and Ludlow resident, Neil Weaver. His Weaver Motorsport outfit has been preparing the young driver's car for the season and has another two cars in the rally.

"I've competed in these forests quite a few times," said Weaver. "I'm helping all the guys to perfect their set up and driving style for the notoriously fast event. I wish I could get out there myself but helping youngster like Dom and Northern Irish driver Kris Farrell in his Proton Satria is the next best thing.

"If we could repeat our success on the Plains Rally a few months back and get two top-five results the team would be very happy".