COMPETITORS from across the country gathered in Worcestershire for the first round of the British Sporting Trials Championships.

Driver and passenger teams were faced with steep slopes and hills at the Geoff Taylor Sporting Trial at Hurtlehill Farm in Heightington near Stourport.

The duos had three attempts at each of the ten hills throughout the day and conditions ensured most ended up plastered in mud.

Julian Fack and Meg Marrion won the Hagley and District Light Car Club-hosted event, coming home ahead of 42 other pairings in their X-Facktor car.

Club secretary Dave Parr said the event was a huge success, particularly considering the weather had left the terrain extremely muddy.

Each round of the championships features courses over differing terrains, including forests.