The North Devon Motor Club launched its 2026 Production Car Autotest Championship with the first round held at Chivenor Airfield. Competitors from across Devon faced challenging weather conditions, including strong winds and heavy rain, as they navigated the course.
Mark Batty claimed victory in his Ford Fiesta, finishing just two seconds ahead of Nick Webber, who drove a Ford Ka from Barnstaple. Ben Goswell, driving a Mazda MX-5, secured third place overall and was the top Rear Wheel Drive competitor, finishing 16 seconds behind the leader. In the junior category, Kyan Neville from West Down won while driving his own Ford Ka.
Event Overview and Format
The event was a collaborative effort between course designer Ryan Neville and promoter Derek Drayton, with the support of official marshals Jason Irwin and Howard Dark. The championship series is set to unfold over the last Sunday of most months throughout the year, with events taking place on the tarmac of Chivenor Airfield and on grass at the club’s 50-acre facility in Sugworthy, High Bickington.
Autotesting involves competing on a memorised, low-speed course that must be navigated without hitting any markers. Drivers tackle multiple tests marked by plastic pylons or cones, making two attempts at each. The winner is determined by the lowest accumulated time, with penalties applied for hitting cones or failing to adhere to course rules.
Affordability and Accessibility
Autotests provide an affordable entry point into motorsport, with events held regularly throughout the year. Membership for the North Devon Motor Club starts at just £10 per year, while entry fees for individual events are typically around £20. Participants need only a standard production car, club membership, and an RS Clubman Licence from Motorsport UK. Notably, young drivers can participate from the age of 16, as events are conducted on private land.
For more information about Autotests and the activities of the North Devon Motor Club, visit their official website at www.ndmc.org.uk or find them on Facebook. The event was captured in photographs by Paul Morris Motorsport Photography, highlighting the excitement of the day and the skills of the competitors.
