A bumper grid of 49 cars thundered around the circuit during qualifying, however, with so many entered they were split into two separate qualifying sessions, to ensure each driver secured ample track time. 

With the times from the two sessions combined, it was Ben Winrow who came out on top, with Rob Smith and Tim Wilson breathing down his neck. Meanwhile, the quickest time from session two was awarded to Warren Gazzard, ahead of Andrew MacGregor. 

Again to guarantee each driver locked down sufficient track time, three races were in the offing, giving the crowds an extra thick PBMW experience.

The first race got underway, and to the delight of all a dry track and sunny skies made for an even stronger atmosphere. As the engines began to roar, the final red light disappeared to see Winrow get the jump on his rivals, as Smith slotted into second.

A 14 lap duration paved the way for thrills and spills, as Winrow fought off a charging Smith for another welcome victory. Regardless of his best efforts, Smith was forced to settle for second place, still pleased to secure a strong podium finish. The final spot on the rostrum went the way of Stuart Waite, who muscled his way through from fifth on the grid.

With just two events of the season finale to go race two soon got underway, with Rob Smith enjoying a pole position start this time out. Keen to go one better than the previous race, Smith was ready and waiting as the lights diminished, however it was Tim Wilson alongside him who sneaked ahead.

Unable to make much of an impression on the 320i pilot, Smith took up role of bridesmaid as he was again obliged to accept second place. Mike Tovey joined them in the winners’ circle, as Mike Dugdale transferred his fifth place grid slot into fourth at the chequered flag.

Further back a number of intense battles grasped the attention of the spectators, with James Cuthbert and Freddy Tatham finishing inches apart at the back end of the top ten. Echoing this fiery tussle, Mark Palmer and Nigel Olive-Jones swept passed the flag for 12^th and 13^th, separated by nothing but a whisker.

After nine rounds of the 2010 championship, everything came down to the third and final chase, with all attentions focused on who would walk away as the final victor. Tensions ran high up and down the grid, as the 33 similar machines took their place for the ultimate outing.

Replicating his earlier performance, Winrow slid into pole position, whilst race two winner Wilson piled on the pressure in second. With the two victors ready to do battle it was sure to be a thrilling finale, as everyone kept a close eye on the red lights.

The vanishing of the fifth red light saw Winrow and Wilson go head to head into Copse, with Winrow proving the man to beat. From here the race was on as Wilson harassed Winrow’s comparable machine, however as time ran out it was 2-1 to the latter.

After celebrations brought the season to a joyful end, attentions are now focused on a bit of a break before kicking off again in 2011. Watch this space.

Text: Leanne Fahy