Will Rogers took his maiden rally victory on last Saturday's (24th March) Bulldog National Rally.

Rogers teamed up with the very talented North Walian Matthew Edwards for the first time in the Holton Homes/ RP Joinery/ Future Furniture Group Lancer Evo 9.

The National event offered 45 competitive miles in just five stages.

Warm sunny weather greeted crews although dust was a major worry.

The opening eight-mile Dyfi Main test saw the duo have a scare within the first mile with a big two-wheel moment, although they still set the fastest time.

Next was 15 miles in Gartheniog, where they increased their lead further to eight seconds at service.

A short five-mile Llangower stage was next, second fastest consolidated their lead. This was followed by nine miles of Penllyn.

Edwards really attacked in there, reaching speeds of 120 mph in places yet another fastest time saw them take a comfortable lead, into the final nine miles of Dyfnant forest.

Edwards eased his pace slightly but there was last minute drama when there were problems with a right front wheel, but it cost them little time and they arrived back at the Welshpool finish victorious by 27 seconds from Thomas Naughton in a similar car.

"Absolutely over the moon, Matt is some driver," said Rogers.

"We had a big push this afternoon and took a few risks. Apart from a few problems with dust and the wheel it was problem-free.

"It's really nice to win my first event outright, also a big thanks to my sponsors."

Also in the National rally were Daniel O'Brien and his Ross-based co-driver Paul Morris, who took eighth overall, fifth in class in the Willow Sign/ Design Focus WRC.

For more on this report, see page 29 of this week's Beacon (28th March)