Colin out to sparkle

COLIN TURKINGTON plans to continue where he left off when the British Touring Car Championship returns at Snetterton tomorrow.

After a mid-season break, the championship is back with a bang as the East Anglian circuit hosts the motorsport’s 60th anniversary.

The landmark occasion will be marked by a special ‘Double Diamond’ race and that could have a major impact on the outcome of this year’s title race.

All cars start ballast free, it will be double the length of a normal BTCC race and it will carry double points.

Turkington (left), who ended the first half of the season leading the series by 19 points, needs no reminder of the importance of tomorrow’s races.

He said: “There’s a huge buzz about the diamond jubilee celebrations and the ‘Diamond Double’ race has been a hot topic throughout the summer.

“Going double the distance, 60 miles, in the third race of the day will be new territory for both the driver and car, but I’m going to embrace the challenge.

“I’ve done everything possible to prepare for it and feel fitter than ever.”

Ash Sutton won twice last time out to reignite his title defence but BMW’s double championship winner Turkington added: “I’ve never known a season like this one, in terms of just how close everyone is.

“But the fact that we’re in front in the points shows how well Team BMW are working together.

“There are so many elements outside of your control and so I need to remain focused on delivering.”

Britain’s biggest motorsport series began in 1958 and only Formula One and NASCAR have been running longer.

Series director Alan Gow said: “We’re immensely proud of the BTCC’s illustrious history.”