Former double British champion Jonny Milner’s decision to change to wider tyres for the second round of the MSA National Gravel Rally Championships paid off with a convincing win and an overall championship lead.

Leading from the opening stage of the 9 stage Pirelli Tour of Cumbria, Yorkshireman Milner and co-driver Ian Windress respected the challenging Kielder forest course and crossed the line a full minute ahead of Stephen Petch in his Hyundai Accent WRC.

Milner was delighted with the performance of his BFGoodrich tyres and 7 Lakes supported Toyota Corolla on the dry and dusty course that witnessed many mechanical dramas and accidents and said; “The decision to change to wider BFGoodrich  tyres paid dividends on the rough Kielder course that caused many punctures.  They performed superbly and the back up support from the BFGoodrich technicians was invaluable.”

Milner added; “It’s 5 years since I’ve driven this course, but you never forget it!  The pressure of leading from the opening stage was horrible.  Pace was critical and we drove a tactical race and just tried to keep out of trouble.  Fortunately it paid off and we’re thrilled to be back on top after a seven year break from championship rallying.”

Jianni Geras, BFGoodrich marketing manager said: “This victory in the harsh conditions of Kielder has highlighted the durability of our rally tyres. It shows that the testing and development that we do on the global stage, in events such as the IRC and on the Dakar rally, really benefit our customers whether on the road, off-road or in competition.”

Milner enters the next round of the championship at Builth Wells on 5th June looking to increase his four point lead over Stephen Petch.