Martin Stretton has etched his name into motorsport history by winning the classic Spa Six Hours for a record fifth time – a remarkable feat no other driver has achieved.

Staged for pre-1965 GT and Touring cars on one of the world’s greatest circuits, this spectacular annual endurance showdown is regarded as one of the standout highlights of the historic racing calendar, consistently attracting a packed grid of more than 75 much-loved icons from yesteryear.

Stretton previously claimed victory three times in a Jaguar E-type with fellow countrymen Jon and Jason Minshaw in 2002, 2008, and 2010. He added a fourth win in 2014, sharing a Ford GT40 with Portuguese partner Diogo Ferrão in atrocious conditions. Now, 11 years later – and in far better weather – Stretton and Ferrão have reunited to triumph once again.

“It’s been a brilliant day – this is a fantastic race and this original GT40 is a fantastic car, one you drive with a smile on your face,” grinned the 66-year-old after celebrating on the podium. “I’ve done this race many times and was joint holder of the most wins with four, so this fifth victory is particularly special.”

Although GT40s have dominated in recent years, Stretton and Ferrão were pushed hard after a late race splash-and-dash fuel stop by the formidable Ginetta G4R of Danish trio Palle Birkelund Pedersen, Alexander Weiss, and Nicolaj Kjaergaard.

As the flag fell in darkness at just before 10pm, the two leading protagonists were still on the lead lap with the Ford finishing little more than a minute ahead of the chasing Ginetta after six hours of gruelling competition.

Mechanical issues hampered many of the front-running GT40s – including the car of Martin and Alex Brundle – leaving the door open for the pursuing Lotus Elans to make their mark.

Last year Scottish BTCC stars Gordon Shedden and Rory Butcher caused a stir by stepping onto the overall podium. This time, joined by Andy Priaulx, they finished a fine fifth after a fierce battle with the similar machine of Shaun Lynn, Max Lynn, and Andrew Haddon.