Newsflash 3

Issued at 16:30  19-04-2008

The Pirelli International Rally is turning into a war of attrition with only 28 out of the 48 starters checking out of the service area to tackle the final three stages.  Mitsubishi crews continue to dominate with Guy Wilks in the lead, almost a minute ahead of Juho Hanninen with David Higgins now up to third following his brother Mark’s retirement, the MG S2000 reported parked up in stage 10.

Phillip Morrow (Mitsubishi) reported losing 4th gear in stage 10.  Also in trouble were Adam Gould (Renault Clio) who went off. Wyn Humphreys reported being baulked by James Wozencroft who was struggling along with a puncture.

Stage 11 again saw a Mitsubishi 1 & 2, Wilks leading Hanninen with the MG of Stuart Jones next quickest.  Rob Swan (Subaru) broke a shock absorber and Melis Charalambous went off briefly.  The abrasive surfaces caused numerous punctures in addition to Wozencroft, Swan, Charalambous, Ross Forde, Martin McCormack, Martin Roberts and Andrew Hockridge were all changing wheels at the stage finish.

Results after SS 11

1. Guy Wilkes / Phillip Pugh                Evo 9              1.10.58.2

2. Juho Hanninen / Mikko Markkula   Evo 9               1.11.56.0

3. David Higgins / Ieuan Thomas       Subaru N14    1.13.19.9