Challenging end to Puegeot's 2001 BTCC campaign.

Peugeot 406 Coup? BTCC works drivers Dan Eaves and Steve Soper experienced a challenging end to www.theAA.com British Touring Car Championship on the famous Indy Circuit at Brands Hatch yesterday.

After making good headway in the Sprint Race, in a move that saw Bennett attempt to pass Eaves, Soper took advantage and slid up the inside of both cars. As he completed the move Bennett cut back across hitting the rear of Soper's car and knocking him hard into the barriers. Such was the impact that the engine mount was torn out of the engine block.

Soper was given immediate attention by on-track doctors and spent time in the Brands Hatch medical centre under observation due to the concussion incurred.

Damage was also done to Eaves' Coup? as Soper spun out of control clipping Eaves' car. Eaves commented, "Because of Bennett's manoeuvre Steve was forced into the side of me. It's frustrating as it's not the first time this year Phil Bennett has caused damage to the Coup?'s. I was able to finish the race but not where I would like to have finished."

After talks with Team Managers and race officials it was agreed that the final round (26) of the 2001 BTCC would go ahead despite the treacherous weather conditions. With Soper out of the race Dan Eaves moved up a place, starting the race from 6th position.

Eaves, who led the race for several laps prior to his pit stop, finished the Feature race in third - his second podium of the year. Eaves commented, "Holding the field felt great, but Plato and Bennett were on a charge. The track conditions were terrible this afternoon, so I am pleased with the result. It's a nice way to finish the year and good for the team after Steve's accident earlier."

Simon Harrison won the Production Class Championship for ecstatic Peugeot 306 team - HTML. Hopes of a Production Championship win for team-mate Roger Moen were shattered when on lap five he spun at Paddock bend. Moen managed to rejoin the field on lap nine - four laps down.