JASON Pritchard won the Manx Rally for the fourth time in his career last weekend

The 29 year old from Builth Wells was joined by co-driver Phil Clarke in banishing the disappointment of last year’s failure to finish to take top spot at the Bet on Aces Manx National, the second round of the Protyre MSA Asphalt Rally Championship.

Electrical failure ended his dreams of success in 2017.

However Pritchard was not to be denied and powered to glory in his North Road Garage Ford Focus WRC05.

“I can’t lie and say that last year’s electric fault with the car was on my mind at the start, especially as we were forced to miss the shakedown due to a small issue with the hydraulic system,” said Pritchard.

“However the car was in top form from the word go and we couldn’t be happier with how it went. “

Pritchard has become a real local favourite in the Isle of Man and began his weekend with a school visit.

“We are always made to feel so welcome when we come over to the island and it’s always a great experience,” said Pritchard.

From rain to thick fog, Pritchard kept pushing himself and the car and gradually extended his lead over the stages during day one.

Pritchard repeated his form on the second day as the weather conditions drastically improved.

“I didn’t change my approach and kept at a good pace with no risks,” said Pritchard. “We ended up setting the fastest time on all eight stages with a lead of over three minutes.”

Pritchard dedicated his success to his father Eian upon his birthday.

“It was probably the present he was hoping for,” said Pritchard who also thanked sponsors North Road Garage, Harkness competition tyres, Pirelli and Monaville Guesthouse for their ongoing support.