TONY JARDINE and Amy Williams were delighted at finishing 26th overall and first in class at the Wales Rally GB.

The duo – backed by York-based ProSpeed – exceeded expectations on only their fifth outing together in the only British round of the World Rally Championship (WRC).

Driver Jardine, Sky Sports News’ F1 analyst, teamed up with former Olympic skeleton gold medallist Amy Williams, a newcomer to navigating only two months ago.

The pair had to complete four national rallies in order for Williams to gain the international navigators’ licence required to compete in Wales Rally GB.

Despite a string of problems, from an illness striking Williams, an intercom failure and a puncture, Jardine eclipsed his previous WRC best finish of 35th in 2002.

Williams said: “I loved it, it was really enjoyable but I feel like everything that could have gone wrong, went wrong. I’m gobsmacked at how well we’ve done. I’m was in shock and absolutely exhausted.

“The car has been fantastic, it’s been amazing. I have loved every minute of this experience. It’s been tough, probably one of the hardest things I’ve ever done, but I’ve really enjoyed it.

“I would love to have the opportunity to do this again, I feel genuinely sad that this could be the last time I’m in a rally car.

“I’ve caught the rallying bug. That need for speed, the thrill, and always being on the edge appeals to me.”

Jardine added: “I hardly slept all event because I’ve been wired, it’s such a big event with so much pressure.

“Amy has been fantastic, we’ve gelled really well. Her note calling, in fact everything she’s done has been brilliant. During all the stress, Amy was the one being totally positive, a true sporting star. I am privileged to have driven with her.”