2006 Ford FiestaSporting Trophy International shootout winner, Victor Henriksson continued his preparations for Wales Rally GB with an entry into the Malton Stages Rally last weekend.

New co-driver Mark Walker and the 19 year-old Swede were leading the two-wheel drive cars home until a differential failure forced the leaders out of the event just two stages from the finish.

“This event was more of a test session,” the teenager said, “but all through the stages the car felt good and we were able to push harder with some quick times.”

David Dobson, from sponsor's PPiK Leeds said he was pleased with the continued progress of the young driver and said plans were going well for Wales Rally GB early next month.

“We were looking forward to a repeat of Swansea Bay where Victor finished first in the two-wheel drive runners, but it was not to be,” he said. “We are pleased with progress however, and Victor is now extremely confident with the performance of the car and working relationship with new co-driver Mark.

“The PPiK Allfab team will now continue the hard work on preparation for our entry in the FSTi championship at Wales Rally GB at the end of November, where Henriksson will compete in his first WRC event and third competitive rally in this country.”