PAUL Dobson retained his saloon car title following an action-packed meeting at Oulton Park.

The Newton driver secured the BARC North West Sports Saloon Championship in the same Mazda RX7 which brought him his first championship.

He is the first driver ever to retain the title.

Dobson said: “Last year’s victory was plain sailing in comparison with this year. I experienced a 100mph crash at Mallory Park early in the season it has been a constant battle to restore and maintain the car to racing standard since then.

“My engine blew up at the Anglesey meeting and I had to work through the night to replace the clutch to compete later in the season.”

Although the season is now over, Dobson has plenty of hard work to do. As mechanic and driver he will be busy through the winter, rebuilding and developing the car for next season.

He will benefit from the continued sponsorship of WGT Auto Development of Middlewich, who supply him with essential engine work. But Paul, who drives buses for the family firm Dobsons, based in Northwich, is looking for further company sponsorship to ensure the car is number one for a third year.