(1) The claimant may apply for an order extending the period within which a claim may be served.
(2) The period by which the time for serving a claim is extended may not be longer than 6 months on any one application.
(3) An application under paragraph (1) —
(a) must be made within the period —
(i) for serving a claim specified by rule 8.13, or
(ii) of any subsequent extension permitted by the court; and
(b) may be made without notice but must be supported by evidence on affidavit.
(4) The court may make an order under paragraph (1) only if it is satisfied that —
(a) the claimant has taken all reasonable steps to —
(i) trace the defendant; and
(ii) serve the claim;
but has been unable to do so; or
(b) there is some other special reason for extending the period.
(5) If an order is made extending the validity of the claim —
(a) the claim must be marked with an official stamp showing the period for which its validity has been extended; and
(b) a sealed copy of any order made must be served with the claim.
(6) No more than one extension may be allowed unless the court is satisfied that —
(a) the defendant is deliberately avoiding service; or
(b) there is some other compelling reason for so doing.