Although, as you are probably aware by now, I attend quite a few motorsport events, the opportunity to see a branch of the sport that I haven't already witnessed, was duly taken when we headed down to Gloucestershire, and the picturesque Chavenage Farm in Tetbury on March 16th. The event was organised by the Golden Valley Historic Light Car Club and although the entry wasn't huge it was a great fun event for all concerned.

The object of the Trial is to negotiate marked 'sections' with red markers on your right and blue markers on your left, with decreasing scores on the poles as you progress. You proceed through the section, not touching the poles or stopping, and the score is noted on the pole you are level with when you do grind to a halt, obviously the lowest score overall wins. Unlike most other forms of motorsport, time is not important but emphasis is on the skill of the crews.

Sunny weather was the order of the day, with a chilly breeze blowing to stop things overheating!

The Marshall keeping a beady eye on proceedings to make sure all is well!

The decreasing numbers on the poles can be seen as well as the ladies hair blowing in the breeze!

The hill expertly negotiated.

As you can see, some of the hills were quite steep, and best not to use your cupholders in such circumstances!

The passenger moves around much like a sidecar passenger on a motorbike to get the weight in the right place.

Teamwork is the order of the day.

Hopefully the team can find enough grip and momentum to crest the hill.

A selection of fetching hats were on display to protect the entrants from both the sun and the bite of the cool spring breeze.

Keeping the hat in place.

Getting a bit crossed up, but keeping forward momentum.

Concentrating on cresting the hill.

The co-driver giving directions.

All under control in the sunshine.

No garish teamware or sponsor adorned driving outfits here.

The strain on the mechanical components take their toll and a failed propshaft ends their day. Naturally other people's misfortune attracts photographers.

Not all the entrants were overly sporty in their appearance.

This BMW probably isn't the most obvious choice for a bit of off roading.

Negotiating the gate at the end of the event on their way back to the paddock.

The glorious Gloucestershire countryside, with one of the sections visible in the top left.

We had a thoroughly enjoyable day watching the skillful exploits of the crews battling the terrain, proper grassroots motorsport without the overpowering commercial elements that are so evident in so many types of sport. If you haven't been to a car trial I suggest you get out there and have a look at one of the more obscure branches of the sport.