DARLINGTON'S Guy Wilks has been crowned the 2004 British Super 1600 Champion and British Junior Champion despite not competing in last weekend's Trackrod Rally, writes Matt Westcott.

Wilks' only challenger for the British titles, Jonnie Wigmore (Ford Puma) could only finish third in class in the Trackrod, giving Wilks an unassailable lead going into next month's final event, the Tempest Rally, in Aldershot.

Wilks, who drives a Suzuki Ignis for Dealer Team Suzuki, is also still firmly in contention for the Junior World Rally Championship after finishing second in class at this weekend's Rally Italia.

The 23-year-old goes into the final round, the Rally Catalunya, with a three point lead over Per-Gunnar Andersson (Suzuki Ignis). Wilks is now hoping to become a triple rally champion on the Spanish tarmac at the end of October but is, for now, delighted with his British success.

"I'm absolutely ecstatic at winning the two British Championships," he said. "Although to win it when not competing feels slightly strange!

"I am very pleased for Suzuki GB, because they have put faith in myself and co-driver Phil Pugh and money in British Rallying, and we've come up trumps. To be champions in our first year is very, very satisfying.

"I'm now really up for the challenge in the Junior World Rally Championship at the final round in Spain. I'll be giving it my best shot to win the title and finish what would be a terrific year for myself, Phil and Suzuki GB."

Published: 06/10/2004