The fourth edition of the Brecon Motor Club’s Old Forge Garage Gremlin Rally proved a significant event, attracting motorsport enthusiasts from across the UK.

The rally, which takes place in the picturesque surroundings of Mid Wales, saw competitors tackle some of the region’s most challenging routes, including the iconic Epynt Ranges, a long-standing draw for motorsport fans.

Despite being a regularity event with special tests, the competition was intense.

After two regularity sections on Saturday evening, which covered Talgarth, Llanfilo, and Llangors, it was Steve Head from Carnforth, co-driven by Iain Tullie of Wigton, who held a slender lead. The pair, driving an Escort RS2000, were pursued closely by two other northern crews: Peter Higton and Phil Savage in a Mazda MX5, and two-time winners Dan Willan and Niall Frost, navigating a Volvo PV544.

Sunday marked the crucial day of the rally, starting with a 30-mile regularity section that included challenging routes through Llandefalle and Battle Hill. The pressure increased as the rally moved onto the Epynt Ranges, with the section concluding at the notorious Deer’s Leap. Competitors then tackled three special tests before taking a well-earned break at Fedw Farm near Llywel, where rally-goers were treated to coffee and cake.

At this point, Head and Tullie lost their lead to Willan and Frost, who edged ahead by eight seconds. However, the lead was short-lived, as Head and Tullie fought back to reclaim the top spot, arriving at North Road Garage in Builth just one second ahead by lunchtime.

The afternoon saw Head and Tullie gradually extend their lead, aided by an uncharacteristic error from Willan and Frost, who picked up a minute penalty for missing a code board. With this setback, the race was effectively sealed, and Head and Tullie emerged victorious, securing a hard-fought win.

In terms of local achievements, James Chappelle and Liam Griffiths proved to be the surprise performers, finishing as top novices in their Mini. Their consistent performance throughout the rally earned them well-deserved recognition. Meanwhile, Dai ‘Block’ Jones and Glyn Price, taking part in their ‘spare’ BMW E30, were regretting it from the start as they had minimal equipment in the car to help them to a good result. It has however given them plenty to talk about in the bar!

The rally organisers expressed their gratitude to the local residents who graciously accommodated the event as it passed through their communities. Many locals were seen enjoying the spectacle, sitting outside in the warm spring sunshine to watch the cars as they made their way through the scenic routes.