Higgins breaks IOM Rally record

Higgins is now the most successful driver in the event's 46-year history

Manx rally driver Mark Higgins claimed a record-breaking fifth Rally Isle of Man title on Saturday after an epic battle with Cork driver Keith Cronin.

Despite clutch problems on the second day Higgins and co-driver Bryan Thomas finished one minute and 26 seconds ahead of Cronin and Greg Shinnors.

Speaking after the event Higgins said: "It's been the most difficult and hard-fought event I can remember."

"Keith is a great opponent and I've been amazed at his pace on my island."

"It was great to win here last year and add Rory [Kennedy's] name to the trophy, but this is fantastic, especially as Bryan now has four wins, equal to Derek Ringer."

Alistair Fisher and Rory Kennedy brought their Mitsubishi Evo IX home five minutes behind Cronin in third.

Higgins' win not only makes him the most successful driver in the event's history but it moves him level on points with Cronin in the British Rally Championship standings.

Meanwhile Welshman Matt Edwards and Manx co-driver Rob Fagg completed back-to-back victories on the Isle of Man Ghallenge Rally.

Elsewhere, the island's George Collister completed a hat-trick of victories in the Isle of Man Trophy Rally with co-driver Janet Craine.

Results, 11 July

Rally Isle of Man - final overall positions

1. Mark Higgins / Bryan Thomas - Subaru Impreza N11 - 2:37:47.2

2. Keith Cronin / Greg Shinnors - Mitsubishi Evo IX - 2:39:13.6

3. Alistair Fisher / Rory Kennedy - Mitsubishi Evo IX - 2:44:12.5