Stalybridge rally driver Alex Allingham had the perfect build-up to the new Ancro season with victory in the Ludlow Gravel Sprint.

The 25-year-old had intended to use the competition as a warm-up for the first event in Bournemouth, the Rallye Sunseeker, but found himself top of the charts.

Extremely icy conditions meant the event was more suited to his GpN vehicle rather than some of the more powerful machines used by his opponents.

He finished 52 seconds ahead of two-time former winner Shaun Gardener, who was a minute and 13 seconds clear of Paul Walker.

Results: 1. Alex Allingham (27:25); 2. Shaun Gardener (28:17); 3. Paul Walker (29:31); 4. Rob Holloway (30:46); 5. Alan Walker (31:26); 6. Jay Stanley (31:51); 7. Martin Wyles (32:15); 8. Joe Price (32:29); 9. Jamie Coxhill (32:32); 10. Martin Davis (32:36).