New world rally champion Elfyn Evans received an enthusiastic welcome from hundreds of supporters during a celebration event in his home county. The driver, hailing from Dinas Mawddwy in Gwynedd, showcased his Toyota world rally car by driving through the village to a stage in Dolgellau, where he engaged with fans, signing autographs and posing for photographs.

The festivities culminated in an exciting driving exhibition, where Evans took First Minister Rhun ap Iorwerth for a spin around Dolgellau's main car park in his high-powered vehicle.

As the first Welsh driver to earn the title of world champion, Evans expressed gratitude to the fans who have supported him since his teenage years. He described feeling "very lucky and honoured" for the event's organization and hoped that his achievement would raise "some awareness of the sport."

Reflecting on the warm reception from local schoolchildren, he noted, "Of course we're used to it on events, but to have it at home is a bit surreal in a way." He acknowledged that while the community knows him personally, the younger generation primarily recognizes him from television.

Despite his newfound fame, Evans emphasized that becoming champion would not alter his daily life, stating, "Life at home is exactly the same." He remains committed to his family responsibilities and maintains a strong drive for further achievements in the sport, asserting, "I'm still hungry to try and achieve more in the sport and my approach won't change."