The former Dursley baker, David Stokes, passed away following a short illness in February, 2016, after a rallying career spanning over 45 years. He was BTRDA National Rally Champion in 1975 and finished second overall to Graham Elsmore on the very first Wyedean in October, 1975. Stokes was then crowned Castrol Autosport Champion in 1976, and was a Ford supported driver from then on.

He formed part of the famous team, Avon Tyres, with Graham Elsmore and the late Gordon Batchelor. From then on, he was a strong title contender each year in the Autosport series, until a huge accident on the Gwynedd Rally, in 1980. After sustaining horrific injuries, Stokes took a sabbatical to build up his bakery business. He returned only for the odd event, until 2002 when his brother, Andy, persuaded him to return.

It will be the 4 British Historic titles Stokes will be fondly remembered for, as well has his enthusiasm for the sport he loved.

Paul Willets said: “David and I were friends for many years. He was one of the old school, who rallied in the golden era first time around. Even when he wasn’t competing, he’d be down to watch the Wyedean with friends. When we started our Wyedean press days, not only would he bring his car to give people rides, but he would supply all the rolls, bread, and cakes for everyone. He was a very good friend to the Motor Club.

There was so much more to David; he had so much enthusiasm for rallying and he was the first big name to return to the historics. He raised the bar to make the championship what it is today and his passing has left a huge hole that will never be filled.

We want to get as many Historic crews as possible out, old and new, to celebrate David’s car rallying career.

I would like to thank David’s long time co-driver, Guy Weaver, and Pauline and Brian Nash from Calico, for sponsoring the challenge. Thank you to Christophe Jacob, Malcolm Wilson, Steve Harkness, and Peter Wood, for donating items for the draw.See the full story in this week’s edition of the Ross Gazette, or subscribe to our online edition here