IT WASN'T quite “Monte Carlo or bust” for Keaton Williams but the Ludlow driver admitted being involved in one of European rallying’s biggest events was a dream come true.

Williams received a late call from namesake Tom Williams to be part of his team for the opening World Rally Championship event of 2021, the Rallye Monte Carlo.

The 26-year-old was asked to do the ‘ice notes’ – a preparatory drive checking the route and any changes in conditions for the main drivers – for Tom and team-mate Georgia Ascalone.

“It was a lot of firsts for me,” said Keaton. “The first time doing ice note work, the first time in Monte Carlo and first time with (co-driver) Callum Black.

“I knew it was going to be a real challenge given that Monte is the trickiest round of the WRC with its ever-changing weather conditions but one I was certainly excited about.

“I prepared for the event as if I was competing myself and due to Covid-19 there was a lot of paperwork – we had four different versions of the itinerary and a Covid test – but I was ready.”

Williams was keen to impress his illustrious namesake after a breakthrough 2020 for the Ludlow driver that featured a host of European Rally Championship events alongside Josh McErlean.

Tom Williams is the son of David Williams, who helped guide the late Richard Burns to the top of the sport, ultimately becoming world champion.

Keaton quickly became aware how important his job was, with the conditions changing from one day to the next.

He added: “We were both amazed at how quickly the conditions changed from dry asphalt to fully compacted ice and snow.

“Monaco was very quiet compared to normal but what a place - the atmosphere was still electric.

“The Sunday stages were the most picturesque of the whole rally, just an hour drive from Monaco up in the Alps.”

Williams’ notes helped the team finish 31st overall from a field of 62 and he added: “The whole event was a fabulous experience for all of us.

“It was a new job, a new event, a new team, but the team was very happy with the result.

“I now understand why the top WRC drivers use some of the world's best drivers and co-drivers for this ice note work as the information is so important and it’s no easy job.”

Williams is still undecided about his plans for the 2021 season but is seeking new sponsors, who can email him at kwmotorsport@outlook.com.

He added: "There are a few things in the pipeline but until we know the outcome of the Covid scenario we're not sure in which direction we're going.”