BOURNEMOUTH University student Ed Fossey got his season off to a flying start with a second-in-class finish at the Tour of Epynt in Wales.

The 19-year-old, driving his newly-acquired Peugeot 208 R2, was a creditable 21st overall in the MSA Asphalt Championship's opening round.

He said: “I was really happy with my first proper run in the car. I grew in confidence with every mile and while left-hand drive and more power took some getting used to, dry stages helped speed up the learning process.

“Peugeot have put a lot of effort and development into it and it’s a car which is urging you to drive faster, which is really reassuring. To come away from Wales with confidence so high is a great way to start the year."

The next round of the championship will be the Manx National Rally in May.

The Jerseyman added: "The Isle of Man is famous for TT racing and rallying and I can’t wait to drive the Peugeot on those roads.

"Some will be similar to Jersey with its tight-twisting nature but there will be fast and bumpy stuff thrown in as well.

"Hopefully, we can carry this pace into the next round and the rest of the season.”