ELECTRICAL problems sparked Matt Griffin’s retirement from the Grizedale Stages Rally.

Formula 1000 competitor Griffin, from Blackburn, was contesting the Cumbria-based event after winning a raffle organised by the F1000 Club.

With Shropshire Rallyschool instructor Chris Spilstead alongside, the 17-year-old Myerscough College student posted a competitive time on the opening test.

But on the second stage, the electrics on their Nissan Micra packed up, bringing the car to a halt.

After losing 15 minutes locating the problem, the pair finally got to the end of the stage to find they had been classified as a retirement.

Returning to the central service area in Coniston, their back-up crew of fellow Myerscough students set about making permanant repairs.

Under the ‘Super Rally’ rules, where retired cars can be re-scrutineered and rejoin, Griffin and Spilstead went out for the final two stages of the day in Grizedale Forest.

“Although we weren’t in the final classification, at least we were able to get some more experience of gravel rallying – and we posted a couple of decent times into the bargain!” said Matt.

“Thanks again must go to John Goff and the Rallyschool team for preparing the car, and to the Myerscough College students who volunteered to help me on this event as back up crew.”