ED Fossey is preparing to tackle the MSA Asphalt Championship after enjoying title success last year.

The Bournemouth University student, who won the British Trial & Rally Drivers’ Association Championship crown in 2017, has swapped gravel for Tarmac.

Fossey, 19, will be behind the wheel of a Peugeot 208 R2 when the Asphalt Championship heads to Wales for the season-opening Tour of Epynt from March 10-11.

He said: “After two years with the Yaris, we were looking for the next step and the R2 category is one of the most popular and competitive.

“The Peugeot 208 is successful around the world and a car I can see myself rallying in for the next few years as I work towards the British Rally Championship.

“It’s a well-built car and I’m looking forward to having a sequential gearbox and a little more power.

“Last year the focus was on the gravel as I had never driven on the surface before.

"Now I want to gather as much experience on Tarmac as possible with a bit of gravel in between to keep me sharp.

"I have done the Jersey Rally a few times but I wanted to broaden my experience on all types of Tarmac."