Luke Pinder’s cautious approach paid dividends as he finished second in his category in the opening round of the British Rally Championship.

The Shipley driver had retired in the first event in each of the last three seasons and was determined to avoid a repeat at the Bulldog International Rally of North Wales.

“We have generally had to play catch-up all year as a result, so it was important to get some points on the board,” said Pinder.

He is competing in the Swift Sport Cup, a championship for 1600cc Suzuki Swifts in which the cars are all mechanically identical to place the emphasis on driver ability.

Pinder stuck a late deal to acquire one of the cars (pictured) and only collected it just over a week before the Bulldog.

He also had a new co-driver in experienced Leeds-based restaurateur Peter Scott.

Pinder said: “Peter was excellent. His pace-note delivery was spot on and this inspired confidence, allowing me to explore what the Swift could do.

“We managed to set three fastest times out of the six stages, so given some more time in the car I think we can refine it to suit my driving style.”

Several test sessions are planned before the next round of the championship, the Pirelli International on April 17-18.