BTC Racing has announced the signing of Gareth Howell as its third driver for the 2008 HiQ MSA British Touring Car Championship season.
The former Team Halfords and Motorbase Performance driver will act as reserve and test driver for the Lexus team and will step in to race the Lexus IS200 when either Chris Stockton or Stuart Oliver are unavailable to compete.
Howell will also help the team with testing duties away from the track and will attend each of the ten rounds held during the year.
“I am really excited to be back in the British Touring Car Championship for 2008, especially as the series is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year,” he said. “Being a part of BTC Racing and the close knit team they have is great and I am looking forward to helping Chris and Stuart develop the cars and pass on the experience I gained in my previous drives in the BTCC.
“I am pleased to say that I will be attending every round of the BTCC along with any testing sessions that the team undertake.”
Team owner Bert Taylor was also delighted to welcome Howell into the team and said his experience could be key to BTC moving up the grid in 2008.
“We are very excited to have Gareth as part of BTC Racing team,” he said. “Having a third driver to stand in when one of our drivers isn't available can only benefit the team.
“Gareth has a wide experience in BTCC and this experience will help strengthen the team throughout the season. His knowledge will be invaluable in the setting up of the cars and Chris, Stuart and the team are really looking forward to working with him.”
