Paul O'Neill admits he is delighted by the news that he will return to the HiQ MSA British Touring Car Championship for the 2009 season.

The popular Liverpudlian, who last raced a full BTCC season back in 2003 before being diagnosed with diabetes, will join forces with Martyn Bell in a two car Honda Integra team run by Tech-Speed under the banner of Team sunshine.co.uk.

It will see O'Neill return to the team with whom he made his BTCC debut in the production class back in 2001 and he admitted he was thrilled to have been given the opportunity to make a comeback.

"I really want to get back into the BTCC and Martyn is keen for me to bring my experience into the team to help him - and the team - move forwards," the former Vauxhall works driver said. "We want to progress as much as possible and we just need to get out on track, get our heads down and crack on with the job we have.

"I have to thank Martyn for this chance, as well as Marvin Humphries at Tech-Speed and Chris Brown from sunshine.co.uk. They all really wanted me to be involved and are giving me a fantastic opportunity.

"Tech-Speed is one of the best Independent teams in the BTCC paddock and has always turned out a fantastic car and I don't see it being any different with the Integra. It'll be good to be back!"

Team-mate Bell meanwhile said he was happy to have O'Neill onboard and was also happy to remain with Tech-Speed for a second season.

"Having Paul onboard is fantastic and he will really help push me on as a driver," he said. "I'm delighted to continue working with Tech-Speed, as it was fantastic to be able to work alongside them last year with the Astra."

O'Neill has two BTCC victories to his name from his career to date.