ZAK Hughes maintained his bright start to the season with success at the Malcolm Wilson Rally in Cumbria last weekend.

Hughes hailed his result the best of his career.

The teenage Welshpool rally ace celebrated glory with another win in the Fiesta ST Trophy at the Cumbrian based rally which formed the second round of the British Trial and Rally Drivers Association (BTRDA) Championships.

Hughes and the rest of the field had to contend with testing conditions following heavy overnight snow.

Despite the challenges Hughes arrived at first service second in the Fiesta ST Trophy and three seconds off the lead with four stages remaining.

Hughes pushed hard during the final stages and with one stage remaining boasted a 22 second lead.

Main rival Bobby Mitchell retired with a mechanical problem as Hughes cruised to his second win of the year so far.

“I was just relieved to be at the first service with no damage but the most amazing part of the weekend was arriving at the finish to find out we had actually finished second overall in the two wheel drive class and 13th overall in the whole rally.

“It was an amazing day and has to be the best result of my career so far.

“I really couldn’t believe it when I got called up to the two wheel drive podium at the end of the rally.

“I’m really happy to have the lead in the Fiesta ST Trophy now and with two wins to my name it takes the pressure ofas we have the early advantage.

“Hopefully we can keep this up all year.

“Once again just want to thank the sponsors, Philip Paul Car Centre and Powys Transport Ltd for their continued support.”