David Stokes signalled his intentions for the 2004 Armajaro MSA British Historic Rally Championship with a storming drive to fourth overall amongst the modern machinery on the Riponian Stages on Sunday (1 February).

Stokes was using the Yorkshire event as a shakedown for his Mk1 Ford Escort ahead of the opening round of the BHRC and stunned spectators with his pace on the forest stages. Partnered for the first time by Den Goulding, Stokes humbled many four wheel-drive turbo cars with his speed and ended the day fourth overall.

Going into his second full season of rallying after ending a 25-year break from the sport, Stokes is determined to challenge for the BHRC title and Sunday's result will be a major boost to his plans for the coming season.

The BHRC kicks off with the Alternative Sign Centre Robin Hood Historic Forest Stages on 6/7 March. Last year, Stokes was an early retirement with suspension damage on the opening pair of stages on Saturday evening, but will start the 2004 event amongst the favourites.