ST Neots driver Simon Green was fifth in his class in the seventh round of the Ford Saloon Car Championship at Donnington on Saturday, after rain ended his hopes of a win. Green, who races a MK3 Fiesta in Class C of the championship, had an excellent qual

ST Neots driver Simon Green was fifth in his class in the seventh round of the Ford Saloon Car Championship at Donnington on Saturday, after rain ended his hopes of a win.

Green, who races a MK3 Fiesta in Class C of the championship, had an excellent qualifying session, beating main rival and class leader Rob Wells to pole position by 0.3 of a second.

Not owning any wet tyres, however, Green was forced to start the race with slicks when the rain began to fall, unlike the majority of his competitors.

Contact at the first corner and a spin midway through the race slowed Green's progress, but he still manged to finish fifth in his class after a determined drive.

"Qualifying was brilliant and showed the changes I've made to the car are making a difference," he said.

"To take pole was a big step in the right direction, but it's disappointing to have my race ruined by budget restrictions".

Finishing in the points ensures that Green remains in second place in his class, a position he will attempt to consolidate at his next outing, at Mallory Park on July 2.