AFTER a very slippery practice session, Welland driver Dave Nixon qualified third of 19 cars in the final round of the Rover Turbo Cup at Donington.

By Redgate corner Dave had made a good start to second place careering down Cramer Curves past pole man Martin Byford for the lead.

Byford went wide at the Old Hairpin, returning to the track pushing Dave on to the grass at Swantz curve. Dave retook the lead by the time they returned to the start line.

Phill Latchford pressed Dave for the lead throughout the 20 lap race at times side by side down Cramer Curves at 120mph but he held on to win the race and the overall Rover Turbo Cup championship.

Dave said: "I would like to thank my loyal sponsor, Brian Virgo, who is in hospital at this time. I could not have achieved my nine wins this year without it. Thanks also to Tom and Graham Moore who also helped in the pits all year."

Dave is hoping to defend his crown and is looking forward to the challenge.

He said: "We do need sponsorship for next season and more TV coverage has been guaranteed already."