SPEEDWORKS have signed a driver to pilot a newly-built car for their next campaign in the British Touring Car Championship.

Matt Simpson will make his debut in the series in 2016 behind the wheel of a Honda Civic Type-R, the model that propelled Gordon Shedden to the title in 2015.

"We're delighted to be expanding our presence on the BTCC grid and we think that will make us a more potent force than before," said team principal Christian Dick.

"We've entered into an agreement with Team Dynamics, the most successful outfit in the paddock, for them to produce for us a car to the same specification as their title-winning one."

Simpson, a two-time European Hot Rod Champion, will hope to emulate the achievement of Tom Ingram last season.

He drove the Northwich team's other machine, a Toyota Avensis, to a first BTCC podium finish since Speedworks joined the series in 2010.

Dick said: "We've known Matt and his family for a while, and are glad to have him on board.

"We're confident we can get the best from him, and also deliver a solid package.

"The deal with Team Dynamics includes technical support too, so we're looking forward to forging a strong partnership with them in the next few years."

Simpson’s Honda will initially run under the Simpson Race Exhausts banner alongside Speedworks' Avensis, whose driver will be confirmed later.

The new recruit said: "Touring cars are heavier and more powerful than what I'm used to.

"I'll have to get used to dealing with a front-wheel drive machine, and I know it will be a steep learning cuve at first."