Driver Stuart Stapely, 26, from Hook Rd, Surbiton and his fiance and navigator, Helen Birkett, 28, won two stages of the annual rally organised by Carsport Events BV.

The couple, who are planning to marry, were driving a Downton Clubsport Mini in the race which was open to Mini enthusiasts.

Drawing from five European countries, 52 Minis took part, rallying in stages against the clock, over three days.

Starting in Zurich, the drivers passed through Germany, Belgium, France and Luxembourg, finishing in Maastricht, Holland, on Saturday April 1.

Simon estimated that the drivers covered around a thousand miles.

He said: "The most dangerous part was when we were up in the Alps.

"It was very snowy and icy and there were a few accidents. Luckily though, no one was seriously hurt."