Darlington exhibition driver Paul Swift is already making his mark since his return to competition on the auto-testing circuit.

After a season in rallying in the Peugeot 206 Super Cup last year, Swift has decided to concentrate on his commitments as a showman.

In the past, he's played a part in stunts for TV's Top Gear, driven in displays at the Autosport International Show and the British Motor Show and, last year, was called to America to help with the launch of the remake of The Italian Job.

However, his schedule this year also allows him to return to auto-testing and, after a win in the opening round of the BTRDA Championships, he flew to Ireland last week to be part of the England team which took on drivers from both the Republic and Ulster.

After 16 demanding tests on the Saturday, the England A team finished third overall with Swift fifth in the driver standings.

In the finals the following day the Darlington driver finished third - four places ahead of twice British champion David Mosey.

Swift's next event is a double-header in Hereford on Sunday which comprises round one of MSA British Autotest Championship and round two of the BTRDA Championship.

* www.swiftsport.co