THE Jim Clark Rally witnessed Martin Meadows' debut as a full works driver with the Proton Motorsport team.

And the West Bradford-based graphics designer rewarded his new employers with a solid performance, finishing fifth in the fiercely-competitive Super 1600 category and 23rd overall.

"I've really enjoyed the experience. I haven't competed on a Tarmac rally for three years, so making my works debut on an event as arduous as the Jim Clark was a real challenge," said a delighted Meadows after the rally.

Following his excellent showing on last month's Scottish Rally in his own Proton Compact, Meadows was drafted into the factory outfit to drive the second, ex-Jenny Davies car. With new co-driver Joanne Lockwood alongside, their role was to act as a 'safety net' to team leader Mat Andersson, and get the car to the finish line in one piece.

After a steady start on the opening leg, Meadows and Lockwood upped the pace on the gruelling second night section, overtaking three of their 1600cc rivals to take fifth by the time the weary crews reached the finish in Duns.

"I knew this was going to be tough, but in the car Joanne and I worked well together and we were getting quicker all the time," he added.

"I hope to be invited back to join the Proton team again, but now I'm preparing for the next round of the BTRDA championship and maintaining my lead in the series."

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