When McRae became the toast of Britain

Britain celebrated its first world rally champion when Colin McRae took all that the forests of Kielder could throw at him to fend off title rival Carlos Sainz.

There was never any doubt who was going to be this year's World Rally Champion. A sticky gearbox on day one? Pah! A puncture on the longest stage of the championship? A mere hiccup and one which served only to keep the title race interesting.

Colin McRae's only rival for the crown, once Toyota had been kicked out of the championship for cheating in Spain, was team-mate Carlos Sainz.

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