Weston rally driver Richard Bliss is the new Welsh Tarmac Rally champion.

RICHARD Bliss from Weston has been crowned the Welsh Tarmac Rally champion along with his co-driver, Jamie Vaughan from Abergavenny.

Richard competed in the Pembrey Stages Rally where he put in his best performance of the season to win his class and become the 1600cc class Welsh Tarmac Rally champion for 2013.

Having taken up rally driving just three years ago and following in his brother’s footsteps, Richard, who works for Gooding Disability Services, has spent many weekends this year competing in Wales, contesting the Welsh rally championship.

The championship battle began on a frosty March morning with the Tour of Epynt rally. Being seeded 107th demonstrated Richard was not an experienced driver and not a great deal was expected of him. However, finishing in 46th position overall and third in his class, Richard brought home his first piece of silverware of the year.

After a second in class finish at the Tour of Caerwent rally, Richard’s seeding began to climb to reflect his impressive start to the season.

Seeded at 18 in this only his third rally of the year, people began to take notice and by the end of the rally he was running second in the overall championship rankings. By mid-season, Richard achieved his first class win and took the championship lead.

Things took a dramatic turn when at the penultimate event of the championship, the cars suspension collapsed, relegating Richard to second in the series.

He went into the final round spurred on by his ever supportive service crew and family, Richard put in the drive of his life to win the rally and gain sufficient points to clinch the championship title.

Richard is now looking forward to next season, beginning with his local rally at Brean in January and then hopes to compete at a higher level.

However, this will only be possible with sponsorship and Richard is hoping that local businesses may be able to assist him.

Sponsorship can bring many benefits to a company and anyone wishing to know more about Richard and sponsorship opportunities, can contact him at rickbliss10@hotmail.com