Drivers from across the country were set a tough challenge on historic Stroud climbs in the annual Cotswold Clouds car trial, writes Ben Falconer.

The Stroud & District Motor Club event has been running since 1950 and 80 cars set off from the Fromebridge Mill, Whitminster start, to tackle classic sections including Axe Lane at Waterley Bottom, Crooked Mustard in Dursley, Nailsworth Ladder, Ham Mill at Bagpath and Merve’s Swerve near Bisley.

As usual cars were split in to eight classes according to their suitability to ascend steep muddy climbs, and the overall winner was Chalford driver Ian Moss who lost only nine marks in his Hillman Imp, with Glenice Coventry co-driving.

Best Stroud & DMC members were Bill and Liz Bennett in their MGJ2 on 21 marks, and Rick and Tessa Neale from Stroud won class 7 in their Dutton Melos on 22 marks.

Crowds of spectators ranging from die-hard enthusiasts to interested locals who watch every year, lined many of the hills which were kept running safely and smoothly by volunteer marshals, and the trial finished at Minchinhampton Common Golf Club.

These spectacular pictures where taken by Gloucestershire Camera Club duo Mark Fletcher and Glyn Heskins.