The North Devon Motor Club officially launched its 2026 Production Car Autotest Championship at Chivenor Airfield, marking an exciting start to the season. The inaugural round attracted competitors from across Devon, who faced challenging weather conditions, including strong winds and heavy rain.
The competition was fierce, with just two seconds separating the overall winner from the leading Front Wheel Drive contenders. Mark Batty took first place in his Ford Fiesta, narrowly edging out Nick Webber from Barnstaple, who drove a Ford Ka. Ben Goswell, representing Braunton, secured third overall and was the top Rear Wheel Drive competitor in his Mazda MX-5, finishing 16 seconds behind the leader. In the junior category, Kyan Neville from West Down claimed the award, driving his own Ford Ka.
Event Structure and Future Rounds
This event was made possible through the collaboration of course designer Ryan Neville and promoter Derek Drayton, along with the support of official marshals Jason Irwin and Howard Dark. The 2026 series will consist of events held on the last Sunday of most months, taking place on both the tarmac of Chivenor and the grass at the club’s 50-acre facility at Sugworthy, High Bickington.
Autotesting challenges drivers to navigate a memorised, low-speed course without hitting any markers, emphasizing car control and precision. Competitors tackle multiple tests, each with two attempts, and the winner is determined by the lowest accumulated time. Penalties apply for hitting cones, failing to stop on designated lines, or deviating from the correct route.
Affordability and Accessibility of Autotesting
Autotests represent an affordable entry point into motorsport. Club membership starts at just £10 per year, with typical entry fees around £20 per event. Participants need only a standard production car and must join their local motor club to apply for an RS Clubman Licence from Motorsport UK. Notably, events are held on private land, allowing young drivers to compete from the age of 16.
For those interested in learning more about Autotests and the activities of the North Devon Motor Club, further information is available on their website at www.ndmc.org.uk and on their Facebook page. The enthusiasm for motorsport in the region continues to grow, offering opportunities for both seasoned drivers and newcomers alike.
