LUDLOW crew Henri Grehan and Dan Petrie narrowly missed out on a podium spot after battling wintry weather in the opening round of the Fuchs British Historic Rally Championship.

Rain, sleet, snow and high winds resulted in tough conditions for the Riponian Stages in North Yorkshire.

Newly-formed duo Grehan and Petrie might have finished higher in their Plaslime Escort RS1800 but for an argument with a large straw bale in stage three.

“We are very happy with fourth, said Petrie.

“The stages were very tricky, slippery and it was our first time together so there is more to come.”